Technology transforms education. Online colleges equip students with laptops, granting mobility. Select schools loan laptops, facilitating weekend studying. Others discount laptops, easing financial burdens. Some even gift laptops, eliminating costs entirely.
Laptops prove necessary for online learners. In 2021-22, technology purchases dominated college spending. Schools realize unconnected students struggle. Thus, certain colleges supply laptops, reducing student stress. Successful students reflect well on their schools. Institutions providing laptops prepare students to excel.
Online Colleges that Offer Laptops
Multiple online colleges offer laptops.
Carefully inspect program details before applying. Some schools gift laptop ownership, yet withdrawals prompt returns. Certain colleges cover costs via fees, not truly gifting laptops.
American National University
Average Net Price: $21,500
Laptop Program: Free laptops and software for all domestic students.
Bethel University–Tennessee
Average Net Price: $15,717
Laptop Program: Laptop or Google Chromebook.
California State University–Bakersfield
Average Net Price: $7,454
Laptop Program: Free loaner laptops through STEP Program for students with demonstrated financial need.
California State University–East Bay
Average Net Price: $7,454
Laptop Program: Free loaner laptops can be checked out every semester.
California State University–Fullerton
Average Net Price: $7,454
Laptop Program: Free loaner laptops can be checked out every semester.
Chatham University
Average Net Price: $27,830
Laptop Program: Free 13-inch MacBook Air laptops, cases, and backpacks for all first-year and some transfer students.
Dakota State University
Average Net Price: $18,619
Laptop Program: Fujitsu laptops or Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga 2-in-1 laptops specifically configured for DSU’s programs.
Dakota State University supplies first-year students laptops since 2004. Their Fujitsu laptops come preconfigured for DSU programs and include software, network access, batteries, and warranty coverage. The helpdesk and repair shop serve students on-campus.
After earning 59 credits, students can buy their laptops at market price or opt-out. Learners using personal devices need comparable computers.
Full Sail University
Average Net Price: $27,454
Laptop Program: Apple MacBook Pro or MSI gaming laptop (depends on major) and degree-specific software.
Full Sail University grants Apple MacBooks through Apple’s Project LaunchBox. Software development, game development, and simulation students instead receive HP laptops with customized software.
Indiana State University
Laptop Program: To be eligible, students must be admitted to ISU, be Pell-eligible, enroll full-time, be a resident of Indiana or another state, and not be an online-only or returning ISU student. Students do not need to apply for the free laptop program.
Moravian University
Average Net Price: $27,801
Laptop Program: Moravian University gifts all incoming students MacBooks and iPads.
IT staff assist device setup. Pre-installed software grants access to campus resources and downloads like Office 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud.
AppleCare+ warranties protect hardware and software, excluding accidental damage. The IT help desk tackles technical issues.
Northwest Missouri State University
Average Net Price: $12,925
Laptop Program: Free laptop that must be returned upon graduation for all students.
Saint Leo University
Average Net Price: $18,455
Laptop Program: Laptop rental with a $250 deposit.
San Diego State University
Average Net Price: $13,845
Laptop Program: Free loaner laptops can be checked out from the library.
Strayer University – Online
Average Net Price: $21,585
Laptop Program: Free laptops with Microsoft software for new and readmitted bachelor’s students.
University of California–Irvine
Average Net Price: $12,209
Laptop Program: A one-time budget increase of $2,000 can be requested for a new laptop for undergraduate students receiving financial aid.
University of Minnesota–Crookston
Average Net Price: $11,593
Laptop Program: New and returning students are issued free laptop computers at the beginning of each semester.
The University of Minnesota Crookston has supplied students and faculty laptops since 1993, now providing convertible HP EliteBooks. Their Campus Notebook Program issues university-owned laptops each semester. Withdrawing students must return laptops or pay fees, then the market value.
Wake Forest University
Average Net Price: $29,214
Laptop Program: Laptop discounts for all students
Through WakeWare, Wake Forest University students buy discounted laptops. Financial aid covers costs for eligible students. Laptops include academic software, extended warranties, and accidental damage insurance. Personal laptops must meet minimum requirements.
Laptops for College Students
Consider your academic plans when selecting a laptop. Technical needs fluctuate by major. Compute-heavy majors demand increased processing power. Budget-conscious students should avoid overspending on unnecessary features.
Processing speed and RAM capacity affect performance. Non-majors surpass needs with basic tasks. Large files challenge art and engineering students, requiring ample storage. Review reputable sources to confirm potential laptops’ battery lives.
Light, small laptops provide affordability and portability, but limit power. Bulky, 17-inch models tout strength at the cost of mobility. Most students select mid-size 15-inch screens. Prioritize features that serve your anticipated usage.
With a carefully chosen laptop, technology can transform learning, allowing students to access education anywhere. However, cost may inhibit purchases. Economically disadvantaged students can explore alternative options, like nonprofit groups and grants, to obtain computers and immerse themselves in academics.
Programs for Free or Low-Cost College Laptops for Students
Educational nonprofits and programs provide budget-friendly options for financially burdened students.
Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program discounts laptops, desktops, tablets, and internet service. Eligible households save $100 on devices and $30 monthly on internet.
Dell Scholars Program
The Dell Scholars Program grants incoming freshmen $20,000 scholarships, free laptops, and textbook credits. A 2.4 high school GPA and Pell Grant eligibility prove mandatory.
FAFSA and Pell Grants
Federal student aid and Pell Grants can cover laptop costs. Remaining aid converts to refund checks for qualifying school expenses like computer purchases.
Laptops 4 Learning
The Laptops 4 Learning program allows disadvantaged students to solicit donations from loved ones. Once reaching the laptop value through contributions, students receive computers gratis. L4L also sells warranted laptops starting at $145.
PCs for People
PCs for People sells discounted, refurbished laptops and desktops from Dell, HP, and Lenovo for only $135-$185 to low-income families and students.