Instagram Launches College Profiles for US Students to Connect on Campus

Instagram has launched a new feature for student networking. This tool allows US students to add their university to their profile. The goal is to help them connect with classmates more easily.

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Students can now display their school as a banner on their profile. This creates a verified campus directory. The feature supports finding peers by graduation year.

How Instagram’s New College Feature Works

Students must verify their enrollment status to use the feature. This is done through the UNiDAYS verification platform. This step confirms the user is a current student.

After verification, a school banner appears on the user’s profile. They can then browse other verified students from the same school. This directory is only accessible to confirmed students.

According to Reuters, this move is part of a larger trend. Social platforms are increasingly focusing on authenticated communities. This aims to foster more genuine connections.

Instagram’s Strategy Behind Student Profiles

The launch follows a similar move by TikTok just one week prior. Instagram has been developing this feature for some time. It represents a strategic effort to engage younger users.

The feature mirrors the original purpose of Facebook. It helps students build a network when they arrive on campus. It can also help them find old classmates from their past.

Analysts see this as a play for a highly valuable demographic. Student users are often early adopters of new trends. Their engagement is crucial for long-term platform growth.

Instagram’s college profiles offer a new way for students to connect. This feature emphasizes verified and authentic interactions. It could reshape how new students build their campus networks.

Must Know (FAQ Section)

How do I add my school to my Instagram profile?

Go to your profile edit section. Select the option to add your school. You will then be guided through UNiDAYS verification.

Is the Instagram college feature available worldwide?

No. Currently, this feature is only available for students in the United States. Instagram may expand it to other regions later.

Can anyone see my school information on Instagram?

Your school banner is public on your profile. However, the student directory is only visible to other verified students from your same school.

What is UNiDAYS verification?

UNiDAYS is a platform that confirms student status. It requires a valid university email address or other proof to verify enrollment.

Why is Instagram launching this feature now?

The launch follows a similar feature from TikTok. It is part of a broader effort to create more authentic, community-focused spaces on the app.

References: Information verified through official Instagram announcement and reporting from Reuters.