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The Top Digital Learning Apps for Students

By Charlotte Bolton | Updated 18 Sept 2023

The Top Digital Learning Apps for Students

The Top Digital Learning Apps for Students

With a new school year underway, it’s the perfect time to refresh your learning tools and start strong. Today, studying isn’t limited to classrooms or textbooks — digital learning has exploded over the past few years, with thousands of education apps now available across the app stores. The only problem? Knowing which ones are actually worth using.

To make things easier, we’ve rounded up some of the most effective learning apps across different categories — from studying and writing to languages, maths and primary school learning. These apps work brilliantly whether you're studying at home or on the go.

If you’re also considering upgrading your device for school or uni, the refurbished smartphone range includes great study-friendly options.

Best Study Apps

Study apps help turn revision into something more engaging. Many include gamified features, reminders and interactive activities that keep students motivated, whether they’re prepping for exams or learning new topics.

  • EdPlace – Aligns work with school curriculums and exam boards. Offers video tutorials, practice tests and interactive activities. Available on iOS and Google Play.
  • StudySmarter – Creates mind maps, flashcards and summaries from uploaded materials. A free iOS app packed with personalised learning content.
  • Tassomai – An adaptive learning tool designed to reduce exam stress and build subject knowledge. Free on iOS and Google Play.

Best Writing Apps

Writing apps encourage students to improve their grammar, clarity and creativity. They’re a fantastic addition to traditional classroom tools, offering real-time help and structure.

  • Grammarly – Helps correct grammar, punctuation and spelling. Premium features offer deeper writing insights. Available free on iOS.
  • Evernote – Perfect for organising notes, saving research and syncing across devices. Free on iOS and Android.
  • ChatGPT – The AI-powered writing assistant available on iOS and Android, helping refine ideas, explain topics and support assignments.

Best Language Apps

Language apps are a brilliant way to build reading, listening and speaking skills. Many use mini-lessons, stories and quizzes to keep learning fun.

  • Duolingo – A free iOS and Google Play app loved for its fun, gamified lessons.
  • Babbel – A subscription-based app that focuses on practical, everyday language skills across reading, writing and speaking.
  • Busuu – Helps learners become conversational with speaking practice, pronunciation tools and grammar exercises.

Best Flashcard Apps

Flashcard apps are ideal for revision — especially for students who lose paper notes or prefer digital studying. They’re portable, customisable and perfect for active recall.

  • Brainscape – Turns any topic into bite-sized flashcards with spaced repetition. Free on iOS and Google Play (premium available).
  • Quizlet – Uses AI to convert notes into flashcards and quizzes. Subscription-based on iOS and Google Play.
  • Memrise – Helps learners remember words and phrases using gamified features like leaderboards and points.

Best Maths Apps

Maths apps can transform tricky topics into something much more approachable. They allow students to learn at their own pace — perfect for boosting confidence.

  • Photomath – Simply take a photo of a maths problem and the app works through the solution. Free on iOS and Android.
  • DoodleMaths – A personalised maths programme for children, packed with fun, interactive tasks. Free on iOS and Google Play.
  • Khan Academy – A huge library of free video lessons covering maths for all ages. Available on iOS and Google Play.

Best Primary School Learning Apps

Younger learners often benefit most from interactive, game-style apps. These tools help build fundamental skills while keeping learning fun and rewarding.

  • ScratchJr – Lets children create simple stories and games while learning problem-solving and design basics. Free on iOS and Google Play.
  • Quick Math Jr. – A fun iOS maths app covering counting, place value and number writing.
  • Elevate – Brain Training – Improves vocabulary, memory and mental maths through daily game-based exercises. Free trial available on Google Play and iOS.

Whether you’re learning languages, tackling homework, improving writing skills or brushing up on maths, these apps make studying more interactive and flexible — no matter where you are.

If you want to streamline your learning setup with a new device, our refurbished phones and tablets are great for school, college or uni.

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