Aug 2, 2011 06:21 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft has a few special back-to-school deals set up for students buying Windows 7, Windows 7 PCs and Office 2010.

In all fairness, customers might have already come across some of the offerings from the Redmond company, some of which aren’t exactly new.

Still, free goodies and free upgrades are up for grabs for back-to-school shoppers, and it would be a real shame not to take advantage of the special deals that the software giant introduced for students.

One of the most recent offerings from the Redmond company, and without a doubt a great deal, involves free Xbox 360 consoles with every purchase of a Windows 7 PC that costs over $699.

“This year when students buy a PC over $699 at any of our participating retailers (on select PCs) they’ll walk out with a free Xbox,” revealed Microsoft’s Kristina Libby.

Microsoft and the retailers it has partnered with for the deal will verify student status for those taking advantage of this special deal. Students with a valid .edu email address can purchase their $699 or more Windows 7 PC right from Microsoft Store, Dell.com or HP.com and get a free Xbox 360 4GB console.

At the same time, there are additional deals involving not only Windows 7, but also Office 2010:

“• Save on Windows 7 & Office 2010 bundle: When you buy a new Windows 7 PC, you’re eligible for a discounted price on Office 2010 Home & Student. And you don’t need to be a registered student to cash in! The whole family benefits. (Offer available at participating retailers.)

• The Ultimate Steal: College students can buy Microsoft Office Professional Academic 2010 at a special price of $99.95. Find out if you’re eligible?

• Free upgrade: College students who have recently bought Office 2010 Home & Students can upgrade to Office 2010 Academic Professional for FREE. That’s 3 free apps: Publisher, Access, and Outlook,” Libby added.