UCI Launches AWS Credits Portal, Offering Free Cloud Computing Resources to Students and Faculty
Vice Chancellor and Chief Digital Officer Tom Andriola introduces AWS Credits Portal at launch party event at the ANTrepreneur Center. Photo credit: Ryan Foland
March 11, 2025
The Office of Data and Information Technology has announced the launch of its new AWS Credits Portal, providing students and faculty with free access to Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud computing resources. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities, support research, and foster innovation across the campus.
The AWS Credits Portal, which launched in February 2025, allows eligible UCI community members to access sandbox AWS accounts pre-loaded with $25 in credits. These accounts offer a wide range of cloud services, including computing power, storage solutions, and advanced tools for machine learning and data analytics.
"This new portal democratizes access to cutting-edge cloud technology," said Chief Digital Officer Tom Andriola."We're equipping our students and researchers with the tools they need to excel in an increasingly cloud-centric world."
How It Works
Accessing the AWS Credits Portal is straightforward. UCI students and faculty can log in using their existing UCI credentials. Upon login, users are automatically provisioned with a delegated AWS account containing the free credits.
These credits can be applied to a variety of AWS services, enabling users to:
- Launch virtual servers for computing tasks
- Store and analyze large datasets
- Develop and test software applications
- Explore machine learning and artificial intelligence capabilities
The credits are valid for 12 weeks, providing ample time for users to engage in coursework, research projects, or personal experimentation. Users can request an extension and more funds if necessary.
Impact of the Portal
Students across various disciplines will now have hands-on experience with industry-standard cloud technologies, enhancing their coursework and providing valuable career experiences.
"Cloud computing skills are in high demand across industries, especially with the popularity of AI. AWS is the most popular cloud provider, so most likely your company will be using AWS" noted AWS student ambassador Tyler Yu, a fourth year computer science student. "This portal can help students gain a competitive edge in the job market by allowing them to work with the same tools used by leading tech companies."
Additionally, the portal is expected to catalyze innovation on campus. Startups incubated at UCI and student entrepreneurs can now leverage professional-grade cloud infrastructure to develop and test their ideas without significant upfront costs.
Usage Guidelines and Support
While the AWS Credits Portal offers considerable flexibility, users should be aware of certain limitations. The credits are restricted to the delegated AWS accounts and cannot be transferred to personal AWS accounts. Some high-cost or specialized services may also have usage restrictions.
To help users navigate the platform, UCI's Office of Information Technology (OIT) has prepared a comprehensive FAQ and a beginner's guide to AWS services. Technical support for the portal is available through OIT, while AWS provides extensive documentation for its individual services.
"We encourage all eligible members of the UCI community to take advantage of this resource," said Ryan Foland, Director of the ANTrepreneur Center. "Whether you're building a start-up, creating a side hustle, or working on a class project, the AWS Credits Portal is an excellent starting point."
Looking Ahead
As cloud computing continues to shape the future of technology, initiatives like UCI's AWS Credits Portal play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of innovators and researchers.
For more information, including sign-up instructions and usage guidelines, visit the AWS Credits Portal website. The UCI community is encouraged to log in and start exploring the possibilities of cloud computing today.uci.edu.