However, Apple changed this as they implemented a verification system using UniDays that would check your credentials to see if you are really a student or staff member, but now according to reports, it looks like that verification system has disappeared. It is unclear if this rollback is temporary or if Apple has ultimately decided against it.
However, what it means is that if you do wish to take advantage of Apple’s education discount, you can do so while the loophole is open. Do keep in mind that there are some limitations to this discount where users can only order one product per year, presumably to prevent it from being abused by resellers who might take the discount and resell it at full price.
Apple does still rely on UniDays for verification for users who want to take part in the Apple Music discounted student plan, so it’s not as if the company has gotten rid of the system for good.