Instagram and UNiDAYS announce new partnership to transform student experience online

New York, August 26th 2025 - UNiDAYS, a world leading verification-enabled platform for students, has announced a strategic partnership with Instagram to enhance the student experience on the platform. 

Starting today, eligible college students in the US can choose to display their school or university affiliation on their Instagram profile through a dedicated banner. 

This new feature, supported by UNiDAYS’ verification technology, aims to foster a deeper sense of belonging and trust among fellow classmates on Instagram. It is designed to ensure that college students can easily and confidently connect with real peers from their own educational institutions digitally. 

Launching in the US, this partnership between Instagram and UNiDAYS not only enhances the student experience and allows access to exclusive features, but also bolsters digital trust. 

The new feature is available exclusively to US college students who have a live email address affiliated with their institution, verified by UNiDAYS, who meet eligibility criteria for the program. Students have the flexibility to add or remove their school on Instagram at any time, giving them complete control over how they share their affiliation.

This new partnership will give up to 18 million students* access to an online student network of classmates at their school, and lay the groundwork for future student-focused features. 

Jon Hawley, CEO of UNiDAYS said: “At UNiDAYS, we're committed to creating safer, more rewarding digital experiences for the next generation. We do this by making verification and digital identity a foundation, not a barrier for young people. We're proud to partner with Instagram to champion digital trust and social connection. This new feature, underpinned by our world-leading verification technology, enables students to build more authentic, meaningful, and secure connections online.”

“We’re excited to launch the new schools experience on Instagram for college students in the United States,” said Blake Cutler, Director of Product Management at Instagram. “Working with trusted partners like UNiDAYS allows us to help verified students better connect with their friends and fellow classmates in a private, dedicated space that’s just for them.”

ENDS

About UNiDAYS
 
UNiDAYS is a world-leading student verification platform. Founded in 2011, it has over 23 million members globally, with over 7.1 million students in the US. UNiDAYS enables students, graduates, and young professionals to save, learn and earn through its trusted partner network of over 800 brands.

Notes

*National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, Current Term Enrolment Estimates, Spring 2025; all US higher education students that meet eligibility requirements can seek to verify their student status on Instagram.