Snapchat isn't all about streaks and filters anymore. It might just be the way you find your next bae.
Students Swipe Right on Snapchat
In Student Beans' Sex 'N Education survey of 989 US students aged 16–24, we found that 76% of students have used Snapchat to organise a hook-up or date. That's a huge number — and it makes a lot of sense when you think about how the app works.
Snapchat came in first among social media apps used for dating, with Instagram in second place at 59%. What's really interesting is that students are reaching for social media before they even think about dedicated dating apps — only 47% said they'd used something like Tinder or Bumble to find a date. Hinge has grown massively since then, but Snapchat is still holding its own as the go-to for students navigating college social life for the first time.
Why Snapchat Wins for Dating
So why is Snapchat the go-to for getting dates? It comes down to privacy. Unlike Instagram or TikTok, where your interactions can be visible to your whole followers list, Snapchat is built around one-on-one messaging. You choose exactly who sees your Snaps, your Story only sticks around for 24 hours, and the app notifies you if someone screenshots your content. That's a level of control you just don't get elsewhere.
It also just feels lower stakes. Sliding into someone's DMs on Instagram can feel like a whole thing. Sending a snap feels casual, throwaway even — which ironically makes it easier to make a move.
A Word on Replays
One thing to keep in mind: Snapchat does allow replays. Free users can replay one Snap per day, while Snapchat+ subscribers can replay any Snap twice using the Replay Again feature. So be wary about what you're sending — just because it disappears doesn't mean it's completely gone.
And Yes, Sexts Are a Thing
Let's not pretend we don't know why Snapchat was built in the first place. Our survey found that 76% of respondents had received a sext and 73% had sent one. Only 33% had had phone sex — because why would you when Snapchat exists?
The Verdict
If you're single and scrolling through dating apps feeling underwhelmed, it might be worth sliding into someone's Snapchat instead. With 483 million daily active users globally and 55% of US teens on the platform every day, your next date is probably already in your contacts list.
Just maybe think twice before you send that Snap. And if you're still getting to grips with college life in general, our complete college advice guide has everything you need — plus don't forget to check out the best student discounts to make your money go further while you're at it.
Unlock even more with Student Beans
All your favourite brands at your fingertips, from fashion and beauty to food and drink, available to college and uni students aged 16 and over. Dive into our blog to find tips and advice to help you navigate student life, from applying to college to life after graduation.
- Sign up for a Student Beans account or log in to start saving on the biggest and best brands.
- Download the Student Beans app to unlock exclusive app-only discounts.
