Apple is not usually one for special discounts, but the company announced Wednesday that it will offer a free iPod to students or teachers who purchase a Mac. The promotion, which runs from May 27 to September 8, will provide a rebate of up to $229 for academics who buy an iPod at the same time they purchase a MacBook, a MacBook Pro, a MacBook Air, or an iMac--which range in price from $949 to $1900.

Eligible music players include the iPod touch, the iPod classic 120GB, the iPod nano 16GB, the iPod nano 8GB, and the iPod shuffle 4GB, which range from $229 to $79.

Once you purchase both devices, you'll have to fill out a rebate form online and Apple will provide you with the credit. If you buy in Rhode Island or Connecticut, you will get an instant rebate. You have to buy the iPod and Mac at the same time. Unfortunately, if you just bought an iPod, you are not eligible for the rebate if you go in today and purchase a Mac.

Who is eligible? The deal is open to any student, faculty, or staff members from a college or university, including students who have been accepted to college for the fall. The promotion is also open to K-12 employees, school board members, as well as PTA or PTO executives and parents purchasing the items for their college student children.

The company did not provide immediate information on how you will have to prove that you are a student or teacher on the rebate form.

Apple will allow up to five rebates per receipt and per household.