OpenAI and Anthropic are going after just one thing: to win over college students. Why? Because today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders. This week, the two AI companies released new education campaigns, and they did it one day apart.
Anthropic announced their news on Wednesday, while OpenAI followed up with their own launch on Thursday. The timing wasn’t a coincidence. Both companies are offering free tools, plus exclusive features.
Why Students?
College students are under continued pressure. They juggle classes, homework, jobs, and internships. However, AI tools can make things easier by helping students organize notes, understand hard topics, write papers faster, and save time.
That’s why OpenAI and Anthropic are targeting schools. If students start using their tools now, they may stick with them long after graduation. These companies are working with big-name schools too. Northeastern, LSE (London School of Economics), and Champlain College are already on board.
Anthropic also teamed up with Internet2 and Instructure. That means better access for more students. Especially at schools with limited tech budgets.
Anthropic’s Approach: Claude Wants You to Think
Anthropic just launched Claude for Education. It’s a special version of their chatbot made for schools.
Here’s what makes it different:
- Learning Mode: Claude doesn’t just give answers. It asks questions like, “How would you solve this?”
- Socratic Style: Instead of doing the work, it teaches you how to think through problems.
- Better Learning: The goal is to help students build critical thinking skills.
OpenAI’s Move: ChatGPT Plus, Free for Students
The day after Anthropic’s news, OpenAI clapped back. They announced that ChatGPT Plus, normally $20/month, is now free. But only for college students in the U.S. and Canada. And only through May, which is right on time for finals.
ChatGPT Plus offers:
- Larger file uploads
- Deep Research mode
- Voice features for natural chatting
Leah Belsky, OpenAI’s VP of Education, summed it up:
“Students face huge challenges. We want AI to help—not replace—their learning.”
OpenAI’s been working with schools for a while. In 2024, they launched ChatGPT Edu. They also created a $50 million research fund for 15 universities. And in February, they partnered with the entire California State University system.
Quick Comparison: Claude vs. ChatGPT
| Feature | ChatGPT (OpenAI) | Claude (Anthropic) |
| Free for Students | Yes, through May | Not yet announced |
| Focus | Answers + research tools | Critical thinking, learning |
| Notable Features | File uploads, voice, deep search | Socratic questioning, Learning Mode |
| Partners | CSU, 15 universities | LSE, Northeastern, Champlain |
| Tech Collaborators | N/A | Internet2, Instructure (Canvas) |
