Visual creativity is a valuable skill for students today. Whether designing a poster, editing images, or illustrating a digital masterpiece, the right tools can make a huge difference. Luckily, there are plenty of apps that make graphic design fun, accessible, and professional-looking—even for beginners.
This guide explores some of the best graphic design apps for students. From easy-to-use sketching tools to advanced design software, these apps cater to different needs, skill levels, and budgets. Let’s explore which one is right for you!
How to Choose the Right Graphic App
Before downloading an app, consider:
Skill Level – Some apps are beginner-friendly, while others require practice.
Design Purpose – Do you need a tool for sketching, painting, or professional design?
Device Compatibility – Check if the app works on your tablet, phone, or computer.
Cost – Some apps are free, while others require a subscription or one-time fee.
Features – Look for tools like custom brushes, layers, animation, or photo editing.
Best Apps for Student Designers
Procreate (Ages 12+ | $12.99 One-time purchase)
A professional drawing and painting app for iPads.
Features over 200 customizable brushes and animation tools.
Supports time-lapse recording for creative process playback.
One-time purchase with no subscription fees.
Only available for iPads.
- Download Procreate
Adobe Illustrator (Ages 13+ | Subscription-based: $19.99/month)
A powerful vector-based design tool used by professionals.
Ideal for logos, icons, and digital illustrations.
Works with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps.
Requires a paid subscription (free trial available).
Best for students who want advanced design features.
- Download Adobe Illustrator
Sketchbook (Ages 10+ | Free, subscription for advanced tools)
A beginner-friendly digital sketching app.
Available on Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS.
Free to use, but some advanced tools require a subscription.
Simple and easy to learn but not ideal for complex animations.
- Download Stetchbook
Krita (Ages 12+ | Free)
A free, open-source painting program for concept art, illustrations, and animation.
Available on Windows, macOS, Linux, and some tablets.
Features advanced brushes and digital painting tools.
Not compatible with iPads.
- Download Krita
Inkscape (Ages 13+ | Free)
A free vector design tool for creating logos, web graphics, and technical diagrams.
Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux (not for iPads).
Includes templates for flyers, invitations, and brochures.
Steep learning curve for beginners.
- Download Inkscape
GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) (Ages 13+ | Free)
A free, open-source image editing tool.
Works on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Offers cropping, filters, color adjustments, and basic vector editing.
Not available for iPads or iPhones.
- Download GIMP
ArtRage (Ages 10+ | $79 One-time purchase for desktop, $4.99 mobile app)
Simulates real-world painting tools like oil paints and watercolors.
Best for students who enjoy traditional art styles.
Available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
- Download ArtRage
Affinity Designer (Ages 13+ | $69.99 One-time purchase)
A powerful vector and raster design tool.
Great alternative to Adobe Illustrator with no subscription.
Works on Windows, macOS, and iPads.
- Download Affinity Designer
Corel Painter (Ages 13+ | $429 One-time purchase, or $199/year subscription)
Designed for professional digital painting.
Mimics real paint textures with high customization.
Available for Windows and macOS.
- Download Corel Painter
Clip Studio Paint (Ages 12+ | $49.99 One-time or $4.49/month)
Popular among digital artists and comic creators.
Advanced brush and layer tools for detailed illustrations.
Available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
- Download Clip Studio Paint
Canva (Ages 10+ | Free, Pro version $12.99/month)
A drag-and-drop design tool for presentations, posters, and social media graphics.
Includes free templates, icons, and fonts.
Available on web, iOS, and Android.
- Download Canva
MediBang Paint (Ages 10+ | Free, in-app purchases available)
A lightweight digital painting app for beginners.
Offers free cloud storage and comic creation tools.
Available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
- Download MediBang Paint
Why Graphic Design is a Great Skill for Students
Graphic design isn’t just about making art—it builds valuable skills like:
Creative Expression – Helps students bring their ideas to life.
Communication – Visuals are a powerful way to share information.
Problem-Solving – Design requires thinking about layout, colors, and message.
Career Opportunities – Graphic design skills are useful in many fields.
Encouraging students to explore these tools can boost their confidence and even open doors to future careers in design, marketing, or digital media.
Final Thoughts
With so many amazing graphic design apps available, students can explore different artistic styles and enhance their creativity. Whether you’re interested in sketching, painting, or creating professional designs, there’s an app to match your needs.
Encourage your child to experiment with these tools—not just for fun, but as a way to build lifelong artistic and digital skills.