Krispy Kreme reveals truth behind viral free doughnut rumour

These days, many of us turn to social media for tips on eating out, whether it’s little-known gems for our next city break or hacks on how to save money.

Sometimes, we could never predict when something might go viral – as is the case with the humble old Krispy Kreme doughnut, which has been HUGE on TikTok recently for a very specific reason.

It all stems from a bit of an urban myth that the chain gives out free glazed doughnuts to students who get any As on their report cards.

Sounds like a good trade, right?

Do students really get free Krispy Kreme doughnuts for good grades? (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Over the past few months, the rumour has morphed into a huge viral trend, with Forbes reporting how the hashtag #KrispyKremeFreeDonutReportCard racked up 115,000 posts and more than 181 million views in one week alone – a number that will have since only increased.

"This is more than just a free treat,” journalist Stephanie Gravalese writes.

“It taps into something bigger - our love for rewards, our craving for nostalgia, and the thrill of a well-worn rumor.”

But is there actually any truth to the hashtag?

People reached out to Krispy Kreme in the hopes of clearing things up once and for all, and we’re happy to report that the company confirmed the deal to the outlet.

It told People that, to claim the deal, the student must be in grades K-12, and be present at the store – so you can’t have mum or dad popping in to grab you one as a congratulations.

“It's a national program, and Krispy Kreme reminds and encourages all its locations to take part to promote studiousness and good grades,” the website said, adding that the ‘deal is one A on a report card, one free Original Glazed doughnut’, and that students can walk away with ‘up to six’.

A downside to graduating... (X)

“Despite some claims on TikTok, the bakery brand also states that report cards must be for the current term - past report cards, as well as current progress reports and mid-term report cards, won't be eligible for free doughnuts."

According to Forbes, the report card stunt has ‘been around since at least 2011’, but it’s never been a company-wise tradition.

“Instead, it's a store-level tradition - some locations keep it going, while others have quietly phased it out,” Gravalese explains.

If in doubt, your best bet is to check with your local store before heading in to grab one.