5 Best VPNs to Bypass School Wi-Fi in 2024 

If you’re a student, you might have noticed that school Wi-Fi networks block access to some content. Websites and services like YouTube, Netflix, and Instagram, as well as games like Roblox, are restricted to ensure students remain focused. The public Wi-Fi networks at school are also generally vulnerable to surveillance.

Subscribing to the best VPN for school helps you solve these challenges. With a VPN, you can bypass any restrictions and use your favorite services at school. Plus, premium VPN providers offer high-end security and privacy, so you can use a VPN on school Wi-Fi without being detected. They are also fast and provide reliable connections.

In this guide, we present our 5 choices for the best VPN for college students. Then we explain why you need one and how to choose the right VPN. We also have a troubleshooting section if you can't unblock a VPN at school for some reason. Finally, we answer some FAQs and much more.

Best School VPNs - Our Shortlist

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for School Wi-Fi 
2. Surfshark – Best School VPN for Unblocking Any Content
3. ExpressVPN – VPN That Works on School Wi-Fi Consistently
4. CyberGhost VPN – VPN for School Computer with Huge Server Network
5. Private Internet Access – Secure and Private VPN for Advanced Users

How to Get a VPN on a School Computer

To get a VPN on a school computer, you’ll have to download and set up a premium VPN capable of bypassing school Wi-Fi restrictions. You can follow these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a VPN for school computer devices (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install a VPN on a school computer.
3. Open and log in to your VPN.
4. Connect to a VPN server where the content you want to access is available.
5. That’s it! You can now bypass school restrictions and surf the Web in privacy.

The Best VPNs for School and College

To find the best VPN for school and college, we'll follow the set of criteria we created in our guide on the best VPN services. This provider must be able to unblock geo-restricted or censored content at school. Moreover, an ideal VPN will have a no logs-policy, AES encryption, split tunneling, and a kill switch to keep you secure and completely private.

We focused on providers with large server networks that cover many locations. They should utilize advanced VPN protocols and provide obfuscation to hide the fact that you are using a VPN in school. An ideal service will provide excellent speeds and reliable performance on every server you connect to.

It's also important that your VPN is compatible with a wide range of modern devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones. Look for a VPN that allows many simultaneous connections, so you can use it on multiple devices with a single subscription. Finally, the best VPN will come with a lenient refund policy and offer 24/7 live chat customer support.

According to all of these criteria, here are the top 5 school VPN providers:

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for School Wi-Fi

NordVPN is the best VPN for school Wi-Fi currently on the market. It can effortlessly unblock restricted and censored content, including websites and services like Roblox, Spotify, Netflix, and YouTube. By subscribing, you'll get access to 5,800+ servers situated in 60 countries. 

This VPN has a no-logs policy, so none of your data will be stored. Outgoing traffic is protected by AES 256-bit encryption, making it unreadable to outsiders. To further improve your security, there's split tunneling, which lets you decide what apps can use a VPN connection. NordVPN also has a kill switch that prevents your identity from leaking in case something goes wrong.

NordVPN has many protocols at its disposal, including OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and NordLynx. With them, it provides stable performance and impressive speeds. We recommend enabling obfuscation, as it will hide the fact you use a VPN on a school Wi-Fi network. The VPN supports numerous devices, so you can get it on your computer, tablet, and smartphone.

With a single subscription, NordVPN lets you hold up to 6 simultaneous connections. If you have issues installing it, just contact its customer support available 24/7 through live chat. It also comes with a 30-day refund policy, letting you get your money back if you aren't impressed.

2. Surfshark – Best School VPN for Unblocking Any Content

Surfshark is an affordable school VPN that can bypass school firewall restrictions to unblock censored and geo-blocked content. You can easily access websites and platforms like YouTube, Netflix, Roblox, and Spotify. This VPN has 3,200+ servers located in 100 countries, so you can quickly find an optimized connection.

Surfshark lets you choose between multiple VPN protocols: IKEv2, OpenVPN, and WireGuard. It provides super-fast speeds and consistent performance on remote and close servers. There's also obfuscation (Camouflage Mode), so you can use it and remain undetected. 

Advanced users will find split tunneling useful, as it gives you control over which apps can use VPN traffic. Moreover, this is a no-logs VPN, so your search history will always remain private. Surfshark uses AES 256-bit encryption to scramble your data and make it inaccessible to third parties. Along with this, you get a strong kill switch that will cut your Internet if the VPN fails.

Surfshark is available on every modern device with VPN support, like computers, tablets, and smartphones. It also allows unlimited simultaneous connections. If it's hard for you to set up a VPN on a school Wi-Fi network, you can contact its 24/7 live chat support. Lastly, this VPN has a 30-day refund policy, so you risk nothing by subscribing.

3. ExpressVPN – VPN That Works on School Wi-Fi Consistently

ExpressVPN is exactly what students need: a premium VPN that works on school Wi-Fi. It consistently provides access to geo-blocked and censored content like Netflix, Roblox, YouTube, Spotify, and restricted websites. With this VPN, you'll be able to access 3,000+ servers in 105 countries.

Most servers provide obfuscation, making it look like you’re not using a VPN. They also support a wide range of VPN protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPSec, and Lightway. ExpressVPN gives you dependable performance and ultra-high speeds, making it perfect for streaming and even gaming. Plus, it adheres to a no-logs policy and doesn't store user data at any point.

ExpressVPN uses a combination of AES 256-bit encryption and a powerful kill switch for security, along with various leak protection features. It also has split tunneling, giving you complete control of which apps can connect to its servers. You can use it to download a VPN on a school computer, tablet, or smartphone, as it's compatible with most modern devices.

Furthermore, ExpressVPN lets you make 8 simultaneous connections. However, in case it doesn’t match your expectations, you can get a refund within 30 days. If you're having trouble with setting it up, simply contact its 24/7 support via live chat to get some help.

4. CyberGhost VPN – VPN for School Computer with Huge Server Network

CyberGhostVPN is another affordable and optimized VPN for school computers. It can bypass censorship and unblock all content usually restricted in schools, allowing you to use Spotify, YouTube, Netflix, Roblox, and more. The VPN has a massive server network with over 10,000 servers located in 100 countries.

Since CyberGhost doesn't offer obfuscation, it’s possible that your VPN usage will be detected. Still, this service has reliable performance, although its speeds are medium-fast, falling behind our first 3 VPNs. It employs multiple advanced VPN protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec) for the best connections possible.

CyberGhost is a no-logs VPN with AES 256-bit encryption, so your data will remain secure and private. If your VPN connection drops, its kill switch will prevent information from leaking online. Split tunneling is fully available on Android and in a limited capacity on computers. Speaking of which, the VPN is compatible with smartphones, tablets, desktops, and laptops.

This provider allows 7 simultaneous connections, which should be more than enough for the needs of one person. CyberGhost offers a generous 45-day refund period, giving you a lot of time to decide if it suits your needs. In case you have any problems, you can contact its live chat customer service 24/7.

5. Private Internet Access – Secure and Private VPN for Advanced Users

Private Internet Access (PIA) is our final recommendation for a VPN to use at school. It easily unblocks restricted content, which includes services such as YouTube, Roblox, Netflix, and Spotify. Thanks to its thousands of servers in 84 countries, you can easily find ones with optimized connections. 

This is another no-logs VPN with obfuscated servers, so it is easy to hide the fact that you are using PIA in school. You will be well secured, as the VPN uses AES 256-bit encryption and a kill switch. Split tunneling is also present, so you can control which apps can connect to this VPN, further improving your security.

PIA's servers run on advanced VPN protocols, such as WireGuard, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN. Although this provider delivers steady performance, its speeds can be below average, which is disappointing. Nevertheless, it allows you to create unlimited simultaneous connections—an excellent perk if you want to share protection with your friends at school. 

You can use this VPN for school Wi-Fi on Android and iOS smartphones, computers, tablets, and more. If you get stuck, rest assured that you can contact PIA's 24/7 customer support via live chat. It also has a 30-day refund policy, so you can test it out without risking your hard-earned money.

Why Do You Need a VPN for School?

You need a VPN for school because it will remove various online restrictions and enhance your security and privacy. Here's a list of all the benefits:

• Bypass School/College Restrictions – With a VPN, you’ll be able to bypass restrictive filters and access websites or services that may be blocked on your school's network. This includes games like Roblox and streaming services like Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube.
• Access Blocked Content at School – By subscribing to a premium service that can bypass school VPN block issues, you'll also be able to access sites that are blocked due to government censorship or licensing laws.
• Hide Your Browsing Activity – A VPN encrypts your Internet connection, keeping your browsing activity hidden from anyone monitoring your school network, as well as ISPs, governments, or hackers.
• Mask Your IP Address – By connecting to a VPN, you will get a new IP address. This will prevent websites and online services from tracking your location.
• Connect Safely on Public School Wi-Fi – If you use a VPN on a school Wi-Fi network, you can significantly improve your privacy and protect yourself from cyberattacks.
• Avoid Bandwidth Throttling – School Internet frequently limits students' speeds, making it unsuitable for streaming or gaming. With a VPN, no one will know how much data you consume, so your speed won't be affected.
• Secure Torrent Downloads – Using a VPN will secure your torrent downloads and prevent monitoring of your file-sharing activities.
• Improve Gaming Experience – A VPN can stabilize latency and reduce ping, providing a more stable connection and enhancing your gaming experience on the school network.

How to Choose the Best VPN for School?

To choose the best VPN for school, look for a service with strong unblocking capabilities and privacy features. Of course, there are many more criteria you should look for:

• Ability to Unblock Censored/Restricted Content at School – Ensure that your VPN can bypass school restrictions, granting you access to streaming services like YouTube and gaming platforms like Roblox.
• No-Logs Policy – A no-logs school VPN will make sure that your online activities remain private at all times.
• VPN Protocols and Encryption – Look for a service with AES 256-bit encryption, as this prevents third parties from accessing your outgoing data. It should also support advanced VPN protocols, such as WireGuard and OpenVPN.
• Obfuscated Servers – Choose a VPN with obfuscation, as this will give you the option to unblock a VPN at school and remain undetected while using it.
• Kill Switch and Split Tunneling – A kill switch ensures that if the VPN connection drops, your Internet connection is immediately cut off, maintaining your privacy. Split tunneling allows you to choose what traffic goes through your VPN and can improve your privacy.
• Server Network Size – Subscribe to a provider that has a huge worldwide server network so you can always find an optimized connection.
• Performance and Speed – Look for a VPN app with blazing speeds and consistent performance on both close and remote servers.
• Simultaneous Connections and Supported Devices – You should be able to use VPN for school Wi-Fi on iPad devices, tablets, smartphones, computers, and other modern platforms. It has to offer many simultaneous connections, allowing you to protect all your devices with a single subscription.
• Money-Back Guarantee – Look for a VPN that offers a money-back guarantee. This ensures you can try the service risk-free and get a refund if it doesn't meet your expectations.
• Customer Support – An ideal VPN will give you 24/7 access to live chat customer service to help you troubleshoot issues.

Why Do Schools Block Access to Certain Websites and Services?

Schools block access to certain websites and services in order to keep students focused on their tasks at hand. Here are some of the most common reasons for restrictions on school networks:

• Improve Student Engagement – To eliminate distractions, schools block numerous websites and streaming platforms. The problem is that sites like YouTube are filled with educational videos that can help students with learning.
• Limit Bandwidth Usage – To save money and reduce traffic congestion, schools regularly block access to torrenting, gaming, and streaming platforms, as they consume a lot of data. This includes sites like Netflix and games like Roblox.
• Strengthen Security – Plenty of restricted websites may contain malware that could easily spread through the entire school network.
• Eliminate Bullying – To ensure the safety of its students, many schools restrict access to social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram, since they can be used for bullying.

VPN Not Working on a School Wi-Fi - How to Fix?

If you find your VPN not working on school Wi-Fi, it could be for various reasons like blocked servers or outdated applications. So, it's time to start troubleshooting. Here are some actionable steps you can take to resolve your issue:

• Restart Your Device/VPN – Sometimes a simple reboot is all you need to unblock VPNs at school and resolve your connectivity issues.
• Check Your Internet Connection – Make sure that your Wi-Fi connection is stable and provides a strong signal.
• Update Your VPN Application – Make sure that you have the latest version of your VPN, as this can solve various bugs and let you bypass school firewall restrictions.
• Switch to Another VPN Server – It's likely that your school Wi-Fi blocks VPN apps by blocking IP addresses associated with VPN servers. Connecting to a different location may bypass any restrictions.
• Switch to Another VPN Protocol – Some protocols may not be compatible with your device, so try using different ones.
• Temporarily Disable Your Device’s Firewall – Firewalls can prevent VPNs from functioning properly, so try turning yours off and see if that makes a difference.
• Uninstall Other VPN Applications – Since VPNs can clash with one another and disrupt your connection, we recommend relying on a single provider and removing the rest.
• Contact Your VPN Provider’s Support – If you can't bypass school VPN block issues, it's time to get in touch with your VPN’s customer service. Every provider on this list has 24/7 live chat support, so your problems will be attended to quickly.

Can You Use a Free VPN for School? 

Yes, you can use free VPNs for school, although we don't think that's such a good idea. That's because a free VPN will provide subpar encryption and have far fewer servers, which leads to traffic congestion. Basically, you'll get a much slower connection. 

Additionally, these services also have monthly bandwidth limits, so you can't really use them regularly. And if you manage to find a free VPN that works on school Wi-Fi, don't expect to get advanced features like kill switch, obfuscation, or split tunneling. 

Most importantly, freebies often carry malware that extracts sensitive user info. This data is then passed to ad agencies, which can pay a lot of money for this information. While this may not be true in every case, are you really willing to risk it?

Instead, we highly recommend that you get a trial of a premium school VPN. If you're looking for some suggestions, check out our article on the top VPNs.

Final Thoughts 

School networks block students from accessing various sites and platforms, like YouTube, Spotify, and Roblox. Even worse, such public networks can undermine your privacy. This is why you need to use a VPN, but to unblock a VPN at school, you'll need to subscribe to a premium service.

We recommend NordVPN since it is the best VPN for school. It can easily unblock all your favorite games, sites, and platforms. This VPN is a no-logs service with obfuscation and AES 256-bit encryption, so you'll be completely safe, and nobody will know that you use a VPN on a school Wi-Fi network.

And that’s all there is to know about the best VPN for school. If you still have any questions, leave a comment below. Thank you for reading.