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Journalism of Courage
Popular dating app Tinder has launched a new feature, Tinder U, to help university and college students connect and meet. The launch of Tinder U in India, which is an in-app feature, allows users to make the first move. According to the company, Tinder U has been exclusively designed for university students who can opt in with their valid college email address to unlock a fresh, personal and authentic space where they can connect with other students.
“University life is all about new experiences, and with Tinder U as your trusty sidekick—whether you’re looking for a study buddy, concert partner, or something a little more special—you can truly thrive. It offers Gen Z a safe and inclusive space where genuine connections happen as naturally as bumping into someone interesting in the library or in the corridor. We’re thrilled to empower university and college students to connect safely, authentically, and on their own terms,” said Aditi Shorewal, Communications Lead for Tinder in India.
Once a user is verified, they can later personalise their Tinder profile with their college details, clubs, and interests, making it easier for them to find matches. Tinder is ensuring that the connections feel closer to home by focusing on their discovery experience, making it easier for them to expand their circle.
A recent survey by OnePoll found that 57 per cent of young adults in India (18-25) have formed meaningful relationships through dating apps. The same report revealed that 67 per cent of respondents admitted to having dated someone they met on a dating app, while 55 per cent said they became friends with someone they met on it. When asked how people most commonly meet, 45 per cent cited online dating apps, followed by work and educational institutions at 34 per cent.
The in-app feature is tailored for students, as they can share their graduation year and major to start conversations. It allows them to highlight their involvement in college clubs and societies to connect over shared interests. Besides, it allows students to meet their campus crew by connecting them with their peers from university and nearby colleges. Tinder has said that the new feature eliminates awkward DMs, as one can simply give a ‘Super Like’ and skip the awkward messages. The company said that it is safe, authentic and fun, as the feature is just not about meeting new people but nurturing a ‘safe space for real connections.’
To apply for Tinder U, one needs to tap on the profile icon, then tap on the Edit Info icon. Later, they need to scroll down to School or College and add their relevant information and hit Apply for Tinder U. They would need to enter and verify their student email address. Once enrolled, they can update the app icon to the special Tinder U icon – either from App Icons in Settings or by following the prompt that appears upon completing the onboarding (for iOS users).
