Best Online Colleges That Offer Free Laptops 2023

As more and more classes go online, some colleges have provided laptops for their students. If you need a laptop for college, check out our guide to online schools with free laptops and other tech perks.

College students have a variety of needs when it comes to laptops, and it is clear that price is a major factor when it comes to making the purchase.

Featured Online Colleges With Free Laptops

According to a survey conducted by PCMag, 81 percent of students depend on a laptop for school and are willing to spend an average of $761.32. Overall, 27 percent of students prioritize price, while only 4 percent consider screen size, 11 percent weigh in on the laptop’s weight, and 14 percent prioritize capacity. Additionally, 20 percent are loyal to certain brands, while 22 percent care about speed.

The survey also found that the majority of students shop in the price range of $300 to $600, with 24 percent of them willing to spend less than $300 on a laptop. 8 percent of students consider products priced at $1,500 or more, while 13 percent look at laptops in the range between $1,200 and $1,500. 22 percent of students are willing to search for laptops priced between $900 and $1,200, and 13 percent are interested in devices in the range from $600 to $900.

Many college students find it difficult to engage in remote learning due to issues with their internet connection and access to a reliable computer.

According to a recent survey by EDUCAUSE, 10 percent of students reported that their primary learning device was not equipped to perform a task needed for a course. This emphasizes the importance of having a reliable laptop with the required capacity to deliver the best academic performance.

When schools provide the needed technology, they remove a barrier and level the playing field so that no student falls behind simply because they lack the financial means to keep up.

EDsmart believes that the world of higher education is moving forward, and schools realize that it’s necessary to provide the technology needed for their students to succeed in today’s society. One could say that it is both creative and admirable for schools to help their students go to college or university in this way.

Below, we’ve compiled a list of a few of the schools that offer free laptops to their students.

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Best Online Colleges Offering Laptops to Students in 2023

Below is a list of 13 online universities that provide laptop programs, in order of the lowest to the highest net price. (Verified February 2023)

Rank	School Name	Average Net Price
1	California State University–Bakersfield, East Bay, Fullerton	$7,454
2	University of Minnesota–Crookston	$11,593
3	University of California–Irvine	$12,209
4	Northwest Missouri State University	$12,925
5	San Diego State University	$13,845
6	Indiana State University	$14,270
7	Bethel University–Tennessee	$15,717
8	Saint Leo University	$18,455
9	American National University	$21,500
10	Strayer University	$21,585
11	Full Sail University	$27,454
12	Moravian University	$27,801
13	Chatham University	$27,830

1. California State University, Bakersfield, East Bay, Fullerton

#1 in Online Colleges That Offer Laptops

Free loaner laptops through STEP Program for students with demonstrated financial need (Bakersfield)
Free loaner laptops can be checked out every semester (all students) (East Bay, Fullerton)
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Net Price: $7,454
Acceptance Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 56%
Median Earnings: $52,606
Retention Rate: 80%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 89%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 65%

California State University – Bakersfield is a public university located in Bakersfield, California. With an acceptance rate of 78%, the university is moderately selective. The university recommends submitting SAT or ACT scores as part of the application process, and high school GPA is required.

The student-faculty ratio at California State University – Bakersfield is 20:1, which provides students with ample opportunities for individual attention and guidance from professors. The university offers a wide variety of majors, with the most popular being Business, Liberal Arts and Humanities, and Psychology. The university’s faculty is committed to helping students achieve their academic and professional goals, and the campus provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.

After graduating from California State University – Bakersfield, alumni have excellent job prospects, with 89% of graduates employed two years after graduation. The median earnings of alumni six years after graduation are $47,800, which is significantly higher than the national average of $33,028. The university’s focus on providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen careers is reflected in these impressive outcomes.

Despite a graduation rate of 46%, slightly lower than the national average of 49%, California State University – Bakersfield remains a top choice for students seeking a high-quality education and excellent career prospects. With a commitment to providing students with individual attention and support, as well as access to world-class facilities and resources, the university is well-positioned to continue producing successful graduates who make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

*Data is for Bakersfield campus only

2. University of Minnesota-Crookston

#2 in Online Colleges That Offer Laptops

New and returning students are issued laptop computers at the beginning of each semester.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Net Price: $11,593
Acceptance Rate: 72%
Graduation Rate: 55%
Median Earnings: $47,869
Retention Rate: 68%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 90%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 79%

U of M Crookston offers every college student a laptop from day one. The University of Minnesota-Crookston offers on-campus students an HP laptop computer. In 2022, This school was ranked the #1 Top Public School and #25 Regional Colleges in the Midwest by U.S. News.

The University of Minnesota-Crookston was the first university to provide laptops to students; since the beginning of this program, hundreds of colleges and universities have followed their example. This program is exclusive to all on-campus students. You’ll be issued your free laptop for college on your first day but must return the laptop to the university upon graduation.

3. University of California, Irvine

#3 in Online Colleges That Offer Laptops

A one-time budget increase of $2,000 can be requested for a new laptop for undergraduate students receiving financial aid
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Net Price: $12,209
Acceptance Rate: 30%
Graduation Rate: 87%
Median Earnings: $71,961
Retention Rate: 94%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 90%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 77%

The University of California – Irvine is ranked #16 in Top Public Universities in America, offering a competitive academic environment with an acceptance rate of 30%. The application deadline is November 30, and applicants are required to submit their high school GPA, although submitting SAT or ACT scores is not mandatory.

The student-faculty ratio at the University of California – Irvine is 13:1, which provides students with ample opportunities for individual attention and mentoring from professors. The university offers a wide range of majors, with the most popular being Biology, Computer Science, and Managerial Economics. The faculty members are dedicated to helping students achieve their academic and career goals, and the campus provides students with access to world-class resources and facilities.

After graduating from the University of California – Irvine, alumni enjoy impressive career prospects, with 90% of graduates employed two years after graduation. The median earnings of alumni six years after graduation are $58,400, which is significantly higher than the national average of $33,028. The university’s focus on providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their chosen careers is reflected in these excellent outcomes.

Despite a graduation rate of 85%, slightly lower than the national average of 89%, the University of California – Irvine remains a highly regarded institution for students seeking a top-notch education and excellent career prospects. With a commitment to providing each online student with individual attention and access to cutting-edge resources and facilities, the university is well-positioned to continue producing successful graduates who make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

4. Northwest Missouri State University

#4 in Online Colleges That Offer Free Laptops

Free laptop that must be returned upon graduation for all students
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Net Price: $12,925
Acceptance Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 51%
Median Earnings: $43,505
Retention Rate: 76%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 95%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 65%

Northwest Missouri State University is a public university ranked #31 in Top Public Schools in the 2022 edition of U.S News and World Report. Popular majors include Elementary Education, Communications, Business Administration, and Management. Students praise NMSU for friendly, genuine professors that push their students to excel.

Undergraduate students taking at least 12 credits and graduate students taking at least nine credits will receive a laptop for their studies included in tuition. This free laptop program has saved students over $6,800 over four years. Students attending Northwest Missouri State University explicitly online do not qualify for this program.

5. San Diego State University

#5 in Online Colleges That Offer Free Laptops

Free loaner laptops can be checked out from the library
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Net Price: $13,845
Acceptance Rate: 37%
Graduation Rate: 79%
Median Earnings: $59,027
Retention Rate: 89%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 92%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 74%

San Diego State University is a public university located in San Diego, California, and is ranked #70 in Top Public Universities in America by Niche.com. The university has a moderately selective acceptance rate of 37%. The application deadline is November 30. While SAT and ACT scores are considered, they are not required, although a high school GPA is a requirement.

With a student-faculty ratio of 23:1, San Diego State University provides students with ample opportunities to engage with professors and receive individualized attention. The university offers a range of majors, with the most popular being Business, Liberal Arts and Humanities, and Psychology. Students at San Diego State University benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including cutting-edge research opportunities, internships, and hands-on learning experiences.

San Diego State University graduates enjoy excellent career prospects, with 92% of graduates employed two years after graduation. The median earnings of alumni six years after graduation are $51,000, which is significantly higher than the national average of $33,028. The university’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers is evident in these impressive outcomes.

With a graduation rate of 76%, significantly higher than the national average of 49%, San Diego State University is a top choice for students seeking a high-quality education and excellent career prospects.

While SDSU does not offer early decision or early action admissions, it provides students with a supportive and challenging learning environment that prepares them for success in their chosen fields. With a commitment to academic excellence and a focus on real-world learning, San Diego State University is poised to continue producing successful graduates who make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

6. Indiana State University

#6 in Online Schools That Offer Laptops

Microsoft Surface Laptop Go via Sycamore Technology Award for freshmen who are admitted and are Pell-eligible as determined by the FAFSA
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Net Price: $14,270
Acceptance Rate: 92%
Graduation Rate: 44%
Median Earnings: $42,877
Retention Rate: 67%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 93%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 62%

Indiana State University offers the Sycamore Technology Award, which covers full laptop costs to students who are admitted and are Pell-eligible, as determined by the FAFSA. This scholarship is open to both in and out-of-state residents but not available to international, returning Indiana State, or online-only students.

All incoming freshmen are automatically considered for the award, while transfer students must apply for the scholarship.

7. Bethel University-Tennessee

#7 in Online Schools That Offer Laptops

Laptop or Google Chromebook
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Net Price: $15,717
Acceptance Rate: 76%
Graduation Rate: 44%
Median Earnings: $40,767
Retention Rate: 62%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 90%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 62%

Bethel University ranked #22 pick in Top Performers on Social Mobility and tied for Regional Universities South according to the U.S. News and World Report. Bethel offers various undergraduate, graduate, and seminary online degree programs. Depending on the program and concentration, Bethel offers fully online or hybrid options for students making classes more flexible.

Bethel University offers free laptops to students who are a part of the College of Arts and Sciences or students in the College of Professional Studies. For faculty, Chromebooks make it convenient to work more effectively since the system is web-based. For students, they come with more sharing and collaboration options.

8. Saint Leo University

#8 in Online Schools That Offer Laptops

Laptop rental, $250 deposit
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Net Price: $18,455
Acceptance Rate: 73%
Graduation Rate: 44%
Median Earnings: $46,070
Retention Rate: 66%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 88%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 63%

Saint Leo University offers a rental laptop with a $250 security deposit. This laptop rental program is available to qualifying full- and part-time students, transfer students, and commuters. Saint Leo was recently ranked 39th nationally in Top Performers in Social Mobility by US News and 51st in Most Diverse Colleges in America by Niche.

Saint Leo University, located in Saint Leo, Florida, is a four-year university with a 73% acceptance rate and rolling admissions. The university considers SAT and ACT scores but does not require them, although a high school GPA is required for admission. With a student-faculty ratio of 17:1, students receive personalized attention and support from their professors.

The university offers evening degree programs, allowing students to balance work and family responsibilities while pursuing their education. Saint Leo University is known for its excellent programs in Business, Liberal Arts and Humanities, and Criminal Justice and Safety Studies, with graduates from these programs making up the majority of the student body. The university also offers programs in Psychology, Accounting, Healthcare Management, Elementary Education, and Social Work and Youth Services, among others.

Saint Leo University is committed to making education affordable for all students, with an average aid award of $19,156 per year. 100% of students receive financial aid, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to pursue their academic and career goals. After graduating from Saint Leo University, alumni have excellent career prospects, with 88% of graduates employed two years after graduation. The median earnings of alumni six years after graduation are $43,800, which is higher than the national average of $33,028.

Despite a 50% graduation rate, slightly higher than the national average of 49%, Saint Leo University continues to attract students from across the country who are seeking a high-quality education and excellent career prospects. With a commitment to personalized attention and support for students, affordable education, and excellent career outcomes for graduates, Saint Leo University is well-positioned to continue producing successful alumni who make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

9. American National University

#9 in Online Schools That Offer Free Laptops

Free laptops and software for all domestic students
Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
Net Price: $21,500
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Graduation Rate: 32%
Median Earnings: $24,951
Retention Rate: N/A
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 78%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 28%

American National University – Roanoke Valley is a private university located in Salem, Virginia. With a 100% acceptance rate and no application fee, the university offers an accessible and affordable education to students seeking to further their careers. SAT and ACT scores are considered but not required, and the university operates on rolling admissions.

The student-faculty ratio at American National University – Roanoke Valley is 38:1, providing students with ample opportunities for guidance and support from their professors. The university offers a variety of majors, with the most popular being Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy Technician, and Medical Insurance Billing and Claims. The university also caters to non-traditional students, with 68% of undergraduates over the age of 25.

Despite a graduation rate of 30%, which is lower than the national average of 49%, American National University – Roanoke Valley is committed to providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen careers. With a focus on healthcare-related fields, the university prepares students for the demands of the job market and provides them with access to financial aid, with 96% of students receiving aid.

After graduation, alumni have a median earning of $21,000 per year, which is lower than the national average of $33,028. However, 78% of graduates are employed two years after graduation, demonstrating the university’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers. With its accessible admissions policies, career-focused majors, and commitment to supporting students from all backgrounds, American National University – Roanoke Valley is a top choice for students seeking a practical education that leads to employment opportunities.

10. Strayer University – Online

#10 in Online Colleges With Free Laptops

Free laptops with Microsoft software for new and readmitted bachelor’s students
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Net Price: $21,585
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Graduation Rate: 50%
Median Earnings: $43,590
Retention Rate: 52%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 85%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 49%

Strayer University – Online is a four-year institution located in Washington, DC that offers online education. With an acceptance rate of 100% and rolling admissions, the university is accessible to students from all backgrounds. Neither SAT nor ACT scores are required for admission, and the application fee is $0.

The student-faculty ratio at Strayer University – Online is an impressive 7:1, which means that students have a unique opportunity to receive individualized attention and guidance from their professors. The university offers a range of popular majors, with Business being the most sought-after major among students. Other popular majors include Information Technology, Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration, and Nursing.

Graduates of Strayer University – Online are well-prepared for successful careers, with 85% employed two years after graduation. The median earnings of alumni six years after graduation are $45,900, which is higher than the national average of $33,028. These impressive outcomes reflect the university’s commitment to providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in today’s competitive job market.

Despite a graduation rate of 50%, which is slightly higher than the national average of 49%, Strayer University – Online remains a top choice for students seeking an affordable, flexible, and high-quality online education. With a focus on personalized attention, career readiness, and cutting-edge programs in business and technology, the university is well-positioned to continue producing successful graduates who make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

11. Full Sail University

#11 in Online Colleges With Free Laptops

Apple MacBook Pro or MSI gaming laptop (depends on major) and degree-specific software
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
Net Price: $27,454
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Graduation Rate: 33%
Median Earnings: $44,344
Retention Rate: 67%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 87%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 45%

Project Launchbox: Full Sail University has teamed up with Apple to provide students with a current-generation MacBook Pro laptop and the software programs needed for students to have success in their chosen degree through their “Project Launchbox.”

Certain programs that receive an MSI laptop instead of a MacBook Pro include digital arts such as Game Development, Software Development, and Simulation & Visualization degrees. The Launchbox costs $3,000 but students who maintain above a 1.0 GPA receive a $3,000 scholarship to cover the cost. Click here to request more information about the Launchbox program.

12. Moravian University

#12 in Colleges With Free Laptops

Free MacBook Pro laptops and iPads for first-year students
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Net Price: $27,801
Acceptance Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 66%
Median Earnings: $61,264
Retention Rate: 83%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 93%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 77%

Moravian University is a private institution located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and is ranked #56 in the Best Value Colleges in Pennsylvania. With an acceptance rate of 80%, the university is moderately selective, and the application deadline is March 15. The university recommends submitting SAT or ACT scores as part of the application process, and a high school GPA is also recommended.

Moravian University offers a range of majors, with Nursing, Business, and Health Service Preparatory Studies being the most popular. The university provides students with access to excellent resources, including state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive faculty committed to helping students achieve their academic and professional goals.

One of the standout features of Moravian University is the generous financial aid package available to students, with an average total aid award of $29,709 per year. This is significantly higher than the national average of $7,535, and with 100% of students receiving financial aid, the university is committed to making higher education accessible to all.

Graduates of Moravian University have excellent job prospects, with 93% employed two years after graduation. The median earnings of alumni six years after graduation are $51,100, significantly higher than the national average of $33,028. Despite a graduation rate of 69%, slightly higher than the national average of 49%, Moravian University remains an excellent choice for students seeking a high-quality education and excellent career prospects.

Overall, Moravian University offers students an outstanding educational experience, with a commitment to individual attention, world-class resources, and generous financial aid packages. The university’s focus on helping students achieve their academic and professional goals is reflected in the impressive outcomes of its graduates, who go on to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

13. Chatham University

#13 Online College With Free Laptops

Free 13-inch MacBook Air laptops, cases, and backpacks for all first-year and some transfer students
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Net Price: $27,830
Acceptance Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 66%
Median Earnings: $42,808
Retention Rate: 78%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 91%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 66%

All incoming first-year undergraduate students will receive a 13-inch MacBook Air laptop as a part of the Undergraduate 1:1 Laptop Program.

Students will also receive a backpack and case to protect the laptop.

Transfer students, depending on the number of credits transferring, will receive a 13-inch MacBook or MacBook Air.

As part of the program, students will receive the following equipment and services:

13″ MacBook
Chatham University logo backpack and Speck Case
4-year AppleCare Warranty coverage
4-year SafeWare Accidental Damage Protection
4-year SafeWare Theft Protection
Helpdesk Repair Services

The Technology Fee covers costs for the computer and services. Ownership of the equipment is transferred to the Student upon graduation as detailed in the Student Technology Program Computer Agreement (Student Contract).

Chatham University offers online bachelor’s degrees and online graduate degrees.

Online Colleges With Free Laptops FAQs

How can I get a free laptop for college with little or no money?

There are a few ways to get a free laptop for college.

Free Laptops – There are organizations like The On It Foundation, Computers with Causes, Notebooks for Students, and Alliance for Technology Refurbishing & Reuse that offer free laptops to eligible students.
Scholarships and Grants – the Dell Scholars Program offers money, a free laptop, and textbook credits through Chegg.
Discounted Laptops for College Students – some companies and organizations will offer laptop discounts to college students. Refurbished computers can be purchased at a discount too from organizations like Notebooks for Students.
Tech Perk Programs – Dell, Microsoft, Apple, and Samsung all offer discounts to college students.
Local Library Laptops – Some local libraries will lend laptops to students. Most will not allow you to keep them for very long or take the laptop out of the library. Check with your local library.

Do Colleges Supply Laptops?

Not all colleges supply laptops to their students. Most require laptops, but students are expected to provide their own. Some online colleges provide laptops for their students with free laptops, laptop discounts, or loaner laptops to eligible students.

Do online schools give you a laptop?

Many accredited online schools offer students laptops and other benefits like discounted software, IT support, and discounts to first-year students. Transfer students may not qualify for free college laptop programs, but they sometimes do.

Some online schools offer loaner laptops that must be returned or bought upon graduation. As shown in our school list above, there are a handful of online schools with free laptops for their students.

What Online Colleges Offer Laptops for Students?

Thanks to the colleges listed below, needing a laptop should no longer deter you from attending college. Whether online colleges are offering financial aid through a discounted laptop, laptops for free, or for rent, you shouldn’t let the cost of a new laptop stop you from improving your life via a college education.

#1 Wake Forest University – free laptop must be returned upon graduation
#2 Northwest Missouri State University – free laptop must be returned upon graduation
#3 Bethel University – Google Chromebook
#4 Centenary College
#5 Widener University
#6 Full Sail University –Apple MacBook Pro
#7 Indiana State University
#8 University of Minnesota-Crookston
#9 Saint Leo University
#10 Rochester College – free Apple MacBook or iPad
#11 Colorado Technical University
#12 Wentworth Institute of Technology
#13 Chatham University – Free 13-inch MacBook Air laptops, cases, and backpacks for all first-year students and some transfer students.

If your college is not on the list above, they still might offer laptops or iPads. Students should contact potential colleges to ask about eligibility and contract terms. Students can also contact their advisors to ask about your school’s laptop program.

Does FAFSA Cover Laptops?

You can use the financial aid you receive through FAFSA to cover educational expenses. This means that if you need a laptop for college, you can use your financial aid to purchase a laptop for your schooling.

Online Schools Free Laptops Q&A

A1: Laptops are typically given to new students the day they officially enroll in the online college.

Q2: Do you get to keep the laptop?

A2: The laptop is usually the university’s property, but this varies by school. Some universities allow students to keep their laptops upon graduation or transfer, while others would require the laptop to be returned. Many online colleges that offer laptops allow students to keep the laptop upon successful graduation from their college.

Q3: What if the laptop gets lost or stolen?

A3: Generally, if a student loses the laptop or it is stolen, the student pays for it at a reduced rate and must report the theft to the police. Once the police file the report, a replacement laptop may be purchased, often also at a reduced rate.

What Are the Best Laptops for College Students?

Not sure which laptop will be best for college? One thing to keep in mind is that not every student will need the same laptop. For example, students studying or majoring in visual arts will need much more powerful laptops than those studying, say, English. Some schools even require students to have or use an Apple device.

A basic, entry-level laptop with a long battery life will suffice for most students.

Factors to consider when choosing a laptop for college:

Battery life
Weight and portability
Performance
Price
Operating system
Screen size and resolution
Keyboard and touchpad
Storage and RAM
Connectivity options
Durability and warranty

Top 5 Laptops for College Students

MacBook Air M1 – Best MacBook for students with its long battery life, fast performance, and lightweight design.
HP Pavilion Aero 13 – Best lightweight laptop for students under $800
Gateway GWTN141 – Best laptop for college for around $500
Acer Chromebook Spin 513 – Best Chromebook for students
Lenovo Yoga 7i – Best Windows 2-in-1 laptop for students

For more information on each laptop, see CNET’s article.

How Do Online College Laptop Programs Work?

To help qualify for classes and save money, many colleges are now offering free laptops for online students. The cost of the laptop is often packaged with the tuition payment or assessed as a one-time or ongoing fee. Some schools allow students to borrow school laptops to be returned to the school upon graduation. Both of these options allow students to have a laptop so they can take college courses online. Whatever the agreement, students can enjoy cost savings because of student laptop discounts, running from $300-$2,000, by choosing a university that offers laptops.

Laptop Program Types

There are several laptop program options that colleges offer their students. Here are the three most common types with their explanations:

Loaner Laptops

Students are given laptops to use while they are enrolled at the school. The laptops must be returned upon graduation, transfer, or school leave. The laptop is not technically free to own but free to use.

Early Graduation Gifts

A school will allow a student to use the laptop while enrolled. If the student completes the program, then the school gives ownership to the student. If the student leaves the school, it must be returned. The free computer belongs to the school until the student graduates. This is an added incentive to graduate.

Payment Plans

Some colleges set up payment plans through which the student gradually pays off the laptop’s price. This allows students to spread their spending throughout their college years. The payments may be tacked on as a school fee or as a separate bill. This option is more like a rent-to-own laptop program. When the student graduates, the laptop will belong to him or her.

What Colleges Offer iPads?

iPads offer portability that most laptops don’t. Just as online schools give free laptops, the iPad might be a loaner iPad for an enrolled student and become “free” upon graduation.

Duke University Global Health Institute – discounted iPad
Long Island University – iPad mini discount to $250 for sophomores and upperclassmen
Bethel University – free iPad 24hr checkout
Illinois Institute of Technology – iPad
Seton Hill University – Macbook Air for specific majors
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota – free for students with select majors
Johnson C Smith University – Johnson C. Smith University offers free iPads for students through a joint program with Apple.

Affordable Online Programs That Might Interest You

Learn about affordability, availability of financial aid, start dates, transferring credits, and more by contacting the online schools below.

Online Schools offering deep discounts on laptops for students

Most colleges and universities offer some discount for students to purchase both the software and hardware needed for classes. If you do not see your school listed here, contact your school or search their website for “computers” or “laptops.”

Why Do Online Schools Give Free Laptops?

A student with a laptop is a student that can study and do homework wherever they may be.

Online schools know that students need a computer to do any online work. Since all the classes are online, it only makes sense that the school provides this needed technology. Offering a free laptop to their students allows them not to worry about another big, out-of-pocket expense to enroll.

By removing this barrier to entry, online colleges give students a chance to enroll when they may not have before–all because the student could not afford a laptop. There is also the monetary benefit to both colleges and students. In essence, if a laptop is the only thing holding you back from attending a specific university, they are happy to oblige you as a full tuition-paying student.

Typical Technology Needs for College Students

It has become commonplace for teachers to require technology to be used in and out of the classroom. The technology needs for each online course, type of major, or program differ. For example, graphic design courses require a laptop with a good graphics card, while music production classes will require a good sound card and a lot of RAM to handle memory usage, while a business course may require nothing more than a basic laptop with Excel and Word.

Online Schools That Give Refund Checks

If a student has leftover financial aid money, FAFSA may send a refund check. Refunds are not issued until all tuition and fees are paid first.

Purdue University Global
University of Phoenix
Capella University
Saint Leo University
Walden University

Online Schools That Give Refund Checks and Laptops Fast

Many online schools that give refund checks and laptops will disburse refunds through BankMobile Disbursements.

You may want to familiarize yourself with their service to know how it works. See https://bankmobiledisbursements.com/refundchoicessso/

Walden University – paper check or through direct deposit. Refunds are distributed between the third and fourth week of every semester.
University of Phoenix- paper checks or as a direct deposit.
Saint Leo University – paper check, a direct deposit, or payment into the student’s BankMobile account.
Strayer University – refund check.
Capella University – paper check or direct deposit.
Liberty University – 21 days after classes start. Delivered with BankMobile Disbursements.
Bethel University – paper check or direct deposit.
Moravian College – refund check.
Valley City State University – refund check.
Independence University – paper check or direct deposit.