Best Online Colleges That Offer Laptops 2023

Online schools offer free laptops and other technology perks to help students afford the essential technology for online learning.

Free laptop requirements vary among college students, and cost plays a significant role in their decision-making process for acquiring one.

Utilizing laptops for note-taking, accessing web-based resources, and communicating with faculty and fellow students inside and beyond the classroom contributes to a more organized and efficient educational experience.

Online Schools that Provide Laptops Overview

Laptops are essential for online learning. They can be expensive, but some online schools offer free laptops or other technology perks to help enrollees save money.
The average cost of a new laptop is between $450 and $1,200.
Some online schools offer free laptops to all students, while others offer student discounts on laptops or other technology products.
Consider attending an online school that offers free laptops or other technology perks. This can help learners save money on the cost of their education.

Featured Online Colleges

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According to a 2022 article by the New York Times, learners must spend at least $450 to $500 for a laptop usable for most schoolwork. Nonetheless, the typical price of a college laptop varies between $450 and $1,200 or more, contingent upon factors such as brand, technical specifications, and performance demands.

A graphic design or video editing major may need a higher-performing laptop, while an English or history major can opt for a budget-friendly model. Besides the laptop expense, learners may need to purchase software and accessories for given courses.

Many colleges that give free laptops offer essential software at no extra cost or discounted rates. If a college doesn’t provide the required software, learners may need to spend $100 to $500+ on software. Accessories like a bag, mouse, keyboard, and headphones can add another $100 to $300+ to the overall cost.

A reliable college laptop costs around $450 to $1,200+, depending on the learner’s preferences. Additional expenses like software and accessories can add $100 to $300. To budget for a laptop, research current market prices, check for discounts, and consider the software and accessories you need. Investing in a reliable laptop can enhance the academic experience, and budgeting can help learners get the best deal.

When schools provide the needed technology, they remove a barrier so that no student falls behind simply because they lack the financial means to get a computer and keep up with demand.

EDsmart believes that the world of higher education is becoming more tech-savvy. Schools realize that it’s necessary to provide the technology needed for their students to keep up. One could say that it is both creative and admirable for schools to help their students go to college or university by offering a loaner or free laptop for college.

We have assembled a list for students to help you find a college that provides laptop options complimentary to their students, organized and ranked according to expense.

Typical Technology Needs for College Students

According to Staples, college students need a variety of tech, including a laptop, tablet, stylus, chargers, backup battery, data storage, Bluetooth speakers, noise-canceling headphones, a digital audio recorder, Ethernet cable, video games, and a smartphone.

Students should consider their major and budget when choosing technology.

Best Online Colleges That Offer Laptops to Students in 2023

Below is a list of 13 online universities that provide free 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
Tuition (in-state): $7,637
Tuition (out-of-state): $19,571
Net Price: $6,821
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Graduation Rate: 58%
Median Earnings: $55,530
Retention Rate: 79%
Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 89%
Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 65%

Most Popular Majors at California State University, Bakersfield

Business: 373 graduates
Liberal Arts and Humanities: 287 graduates
Psychology: 234 graduates
Criminal Justice and Safety Studies: 159 graduates
Biology: 145 graduates
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching: 117 graduates
Early Childhood Education: 114 graduates
Sociology: 110 graduates
Nursing: 102 graduates
Communications: 98 graduates

CSU Bakersfield STEP Program Offers Free Technology to Students

The California State University Bakersfield (CSUB) STEP Program is a bold initiative to enhance learner achievement and create more equitable opportunities for the CSUB community by providing industry-leading technology.

The program adheres to a first-come, first served policy in furnishing students with complimentary laptops, tablets, and additional equipment. The devices are available to all learners, regardless of financial need.

The STEP Program has been a huge success, with over 2,000 learners receiving devices since its inception in 2021. Learners who have received devices through the program have reported improved academic performance, increased engagement in online learning, and greater access to resources through its online courses with free laptops.

The STEP Program is a valuable resource for CSUB learners. This approach equalizes opportunities and guarantees that every student is equipped with the necessary resources to thrive academically.

2. University of Minnesota-Crookston

#2 in Online Colleges That Offer Laptops

New and returning students are issued free laptop computers at the beginning of each semester.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition (in-state): $13,010
Tuition (out-of-state):
Net $13,010Price: $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%

Most Popular Majors

Accounting: 55 graduates
Business: 55 graduates
Liberal Arts and Humanities: 34 graduates
Healthcare Management: 33 graduates
Finance: 28 graduates
Natural Resources Conservation and Management: 26 graduates
Operations Management: 24 graduates
Communications: 23 graduates
Animal Sciences and Husbandry: 20 graduates
Computer Software Engineering: 17 graduates

University of Minnesota Crookston Offers Free Laptops to On-Campus Learners

UMC offers free laptops to all on-campus learners. The free laptop for college program is designed to help learners succeed in their studies by providing them with access to the latest technology.

The laptops that are provided to learners are HP laptops that are preloaded with all of the software that learners need for their classes. Learners are also given a one-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365.

The free laptop program has been very successful. Learners who have received laptops through the program have reported improved academic performance, increased engagement in online learning, and greater access to resources.

The free laptop program is a valuable resource for UMC learners.

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
Tuition (in-state): $13,939
Tuition (out-of-state): $44,011
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%

Most Popular Majors

Biology: 832 Graduates
Computer Science: 805 Graduates
Managerial Economics: 696 Graduates
Social Psychology: 581 Graduates
Public Health: 501 Graduates
Economics: 441 Graduates
Criminology: 429 Graduates
Education: 367 Graduates
Political Science and Government: 307 Graduates
Business: 306 Graduates

UC Irvine Offers Free Laptops to All Students

UCI students, especially those in the Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences (ICS), need a laptop to complete their coursework. To ensure that all learners have access to the necessary digital tools for their studies, financial aid to purchase a laptop is available for all who qualify.

If UCI students receive financial aid during the fall semester, they may seek a one time budget expansion of up to $2,000 to acquire a new computer.

This allowance is designated for hardware, software, monitor, printer, and extended warranty expenses. Funding is limited to student and/or parent loans, subject to eligibility and borrowing limits.

UCI has outlined minimum laptop requirements for learners to ensure the best possible learning experience. These requirements exclude Chromebooks and tablets and include:

A Windows 10 or recent Mac OS X operating system
A Core i5 processor or higher
At least 8 GB of RAM
A 256 GB solid-state drive or larger
A built-in webcam
On-board video for graphics
Warranty and Accidental Damage Protection

Warranty and accidental damage protection are not mandatory but strongly recommended.

UCI’s laptop program is designed to help learners reach their academic goals and stay connected throughout their academic journey. By providing financial aid and guidance on laptop standards, UCI aims to ensure all students have the tools they need to succeed.

Engineering Students

Engineering students have specific laptop requirements, which can be found on the Engineering website. Additionally, Mac laptops are not suitable for engineering students, so please make sure to choose a device that meets the standards for your specific major.

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)
Tuition (in-state): $9,502
Tuition (out-of-state): $15,569
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%

Most Popular Majors

Elementary Education: 148 graduates
Business: 113 graduates
Marketing: 70 graduates
Psychology: 66 graduates
Agricultural Business: 64 graduates
Communications: 63 graduates
Biology: 48 graduates
Social Psychology: 46 graduates
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies: 43 graduates
Information Science: 39 graduates

Northwest University Free Laptop Program

Northwest University provides free laptops for all undergraduate and graduate students with its free laptop computer program. Laptop models may vary depending on availability and enrollment status. Online professional program students are not eligible for this program.

Northwest will repair any hardware or software failure that is due to normal wear and tear for free. However, Northwest owns the laptop and its software, so they have the right to format and reload the hard drive without the user’s permission. Users are encouraged to back up their important personal files on a weekly basis.

Students must return their free laptop to the Northwest Technology Service Center (NTSC) before or on the last day of finals week or within five business days of withdrawing from the University. In most cases, students are not charged for minor damage, such as a broken screen or a lost AC adapter. However, students will be charged for major damage, such as vandalism or theft.

Students can add decorative or personal stickers to their laptops, but they must remove them before returning the free laptop to Northwest. The Northwest ID sticker must remain intact and not damaged.

Students are financially responsible for any major damage, loss, or theft of their laptops up to $1,500.

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
Tuition (in-state): $8,174
Tuition (out-of-state): $20,054
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%

Most Popular Majors

Business: 1,682 graduates
Liberal Arts and Humanities: 524 graduates
Psychology: 524 graduates
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching: 386 graduates
Criminal Justice and Safety Studies: 317 graduates
Mechanical Engineering: 306 graduates
Biology: 284 graduates
Economics: 236 graduates
Nursing: 224 graduates
Communications: 221 graduates

San Diego State University Instructional Technology Services (ITS)

ITS provides a variety of computer and audio/visual equipment for checkout to SDSU faculty and staff. This equipment includes laptops, projectors, cameras, and more. ITS staff can also provide training on proper usage, tips, and techniques to get the most out of your equipment reservation.

How to Checkout Equipment

To checkout equipment, you can either reserve it in person or by phone. Equipment can be borrowed for 7-10 working days. There is no fee for checkout if the equipment is to support an academic course.

Equipment Available

Laptops: Mac and Windows laptops are available for checkout.
Projectors: Portable and stationary projectors are available for checkout.
Cameras: Digital still and video cameras are available for checkout.
Other equipment: Audio/visual equipment, such as microphones and speakers, is also available for checkout.

6. Indiana State University

#6 in Online Schools That Provide 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)
Tuition (in-state): $9,732
Tuition (out-of-state): $21,160
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%

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)
Tuition (in-state): $17,482
Tuition (out-of-state): $17,482
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%

Most Popular Majors

Business: 282 graduates
Criminal Justice and Safety Studies: 168 graduates
Liberal Arts and Humanities: 23 graduates
Nursing: 23 graduates
Homeland Security and Disaster Management: 18 graduates
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching: 16 graduates
Biology: 13 graduates
Psychology: 11 graduates
Accounting: 9 graduates
Human Services: 7 graduates

Bethel University’s Laptop Program For First-Year Students

At Bethel University’s orientation, all incoming first-year students who will be residing on campus are provided with computers to facilitate their academic pursuits. These laptops are already included in the standard tuition fees, ensuring that students do not face any additional financial burden for this essential tool.

Students have a flexible window up until the conclusion of their initial semester to acquire their laptops. It is crucial for them to claim their devices within this timeframe, as failure to do so would result in forfeiting the offer. This arrangement ensures that students have adequate time to settle in and obtain their laptops at a convenient moment during their initial semester.

The provided laptops are Chromebooks, specifically designed to operate using Google’s internet-based Chrome OS. This streamlined and easy-to-use system is especially advantageous for teaching professionals, as it facilitates effective and prompt management of their tasks. Chromebooks easily merge with Google’s wide-ranging assortment of productivity software, featuring Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides. This integration empowers both instructors and students to generate, disseminate, and cooperate on various materials such as documents, presentations, and spreadsheets effortlessly.

https://www.bethelu.edu/search-results?q=chromebook

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)
Tuition (in-state): $27,050
Tuition (out-of-state): $27,050
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 Laptop Program For All Students

Saint Leo University is dedicated to providing all students with the necessary technology to facilitate their academic success. To achieve this, the Department of Information Technology offers a Laptop Rental Program for various categories of students at the University Campus. This includes transfer students, part-time students, and commuters, ensuring that a wide range of learners can benefit from the initiative.

The eligibility criteria for the DoIT Laptop Rental Program are as follows:

The student must be enrolled in an undergraduate program at Saint Leo University’s main campus.
The student must be registered for at least a part-time course load.

Operating on a first-come, first-served principle, the Laptop Rental Program necessitates that students who are interested submit their applications promptly. To secure a rental laptop a deposit of $250 is required. This deposit demonstrates the student’s commitment to the program and helps ensure the availability of laptops for future students.

By offering this Laptop Rental Program, Saint Leo University supports its students in their educational journey, allowing them to access essential technological resources for their studies.

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)
Tuition (in-state): $10,856
Tuition (out-of-state): $10,856
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%

Most Popular Programs

Health Professions and Related Programs
Business
Management
Marketing
Related Support Services
Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services.

American National University Laptop Program For All Students

American National University, a reputable online college, is a college that provides laptop options for all new students from the United States with complimentary laptops and academic software to support their educational journey. These laptops are shipped to the students approximately one week prior to the commencement of the semester ensuring they have the necessary resources before online courses with their free laptops begin.

ANU’s academic offerings focus primarily on three key areas up to the master’s level: business, medicine, and technology. This targeted approach allows students to develop specialized skills and knowledge in their chosen fields. To stay relevant and cater to the evolving needs of students ANU is continuously working on expanding its program offerings by developing new courses and degree options.

By providing students with essential technological resources and a variety of academic programs, American National University demonstrates its commitment to fostering supportive and accessible learning environment for its online student community.

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)
Tuition (in-state): $13,515 (Alexandria, VA campus)
Tuition (out-of-state): $13,515 (Alexandria, VA campus)
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%

Most Popular Majors

Business: 665 graduates
Information Technology: 40 graduates
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration: 39 graduates
Nursing: 35 graduates
Computer Systems Technician: 28 graduates
Accounting: 19 graduates
Information Science: 12 graduates
Accounting Technician and Bookkeeping: 5 graduates
Marketing: 2 graduates
Economics: 0 graduates

Strayer University Online Laptop Program For New Students

Strayer University demonstrates its dedication to the academic and professional growth of its students by providing all newly admitted or readmitted undergraduate students with a brand new free laptop. Upon registering for any online bachelors degree programs provided by SU, students qualify to obtain a free laptop equipped with Microsoft software which serves to enrich their educational journey.

Strayer University allows students to keep the free laptop permanently once they have successfully completed the first three quarters of their enrolled classes. This acts as a motivation for students to maintain their dedication and involvement in their academic pursuits. However, to avoid incurring a $350 charge for the free laptop students must either complete three of the first four quarters of their enrollment or return the device.

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
Tuition (in-state): $16,912
Tuition (out-of-state): $16,912
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%

Most Popular Majors

Human-Computer Interaction: 617 graduates
Radio and Television Broadcasting Technician: 616 graduates
Communications: 529 graduates
Graphic Design: 399 graduates
Design and Visual Communications: 351 graduates
Communications Technicians: 320 graduates
Film and Video Studies: 308 graduates
Music Technology: 293 graduates
Multimedia: 282 graduates
Rhetoric and Composition: 253 graduates

Full Sail University Laptop Program For All Students

Under their “Project Launchbox” initiative, Full Sail University has collaborated with Apple to give each student a free laptop computer of the most recent version of the MacBook Pro as well as the essential software applications for the student to be successful in their chosen field of study. When it comes to establishing and constructing their portfolios, Project LaunchBox is intended to provide students with everything they require to do so successfully. LaunchBoxes are unique to each degree program. This ensures that students obtain hardware and software that is up to date with the constantly shifting requirements of the business.

Digital arts degrees like as Game Development, Software Development, and Simulation & Visualization are examples of the types of programs that receive an MSI laptop rather than a MacBook Pro for its students. The Launchbox is priced at $3,000, but students who keep their grade point average at or above 1.0 are eligible for a scholarship worth the same amount.

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
Tuition (in-state): $18,504
Tuition (out-of-state): $18,504
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%

Most Popular Majors

Nursing: 118 graduates
Business: 59 graduates
Health Service Preparatory Studies: 44 graduates
Psychology: 41 graduates
Sociology: 26 graduates
Economics: 23 graduates
Accounting: 22 graduates
Arts: 20 graduates
Biology: 20 graduates
Liberal Arts and Humanities: 20 graduates

Moravian University Laptop Program For All Students

Upon admission acceptance to Moravian University as a freshman undergraduate, you will be furnished with an Apple MacBook Pro, an iPad, and an Apple Pencil to facilitate your academic pursuits. These cutting-edge technological tools are yours to keep even after completing your studies at Moravian, allowing you to continue leveraging them in your professional endeavors.

Since 2018, Moravian College has earned the prestigious title of “Distinguished School” from Apple Inc. This acknowledgment underscores the university’s steadfast dedication to continuous innovation across multiple facets of education, encompassing student education, faculty growth, and the comprehensive campus atmosphere. The university’s partnership with Apple Inc. and its distinguished status reflects its dedication to embracing cutting-edge technology in the pursuit of academic excellence.

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)
Tuition (in-state): $19,458
Tuition (out-of-state): $19,458
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%

Most Popular Majors

Psychology: 34 graduates
Biology: 32 graduates
Nursing: 30 graduates
Communications: 22 graduates
Interior Architecture: 16 graduates
Sustainability Studies: 16 graduates
Kinesiology and Exercise Science: 11 graduates
Criminology: 10 graduates
Elementary Education: 9 graduates
Marketing: 8 graduates

Chatham University Undergraduate Laptop Program

As part of the Chatham Universities undergraduate 1:1 Laptop Program, a 13-inch MacBook Air laptop will be provided to each and every first-year undergraduate student who is enrolling at the university. In addition to receiving a laptop, students will also receive a backpack and a sleeve to keep it in. Transfer students may or may not be given a 13-inch MacBook or MacBook Air. This all depends on how many credits are being transferred over to Chatham University.

The Technology Fee accounts for all of the expenses related to the computer and the services. When students complete their education, ownership of the equipment is transferred to them in accordance with the terms of the Student Technology Program Computing Agreement (Student Contract). Chatham University offers a wide variety of online bachelor’s degrees and online graduate degrees.

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 colleges that give free laptops allow students to borrow school laptops to be returned to the school upon graduation. Both of these options allow students to take online courses with free laptops. 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.

Criteria to Receive a Laptop from Online Schools

The criteria for receiving a laptop can vary from school to school, but generally, institutions consider:

Financial Need: Schools often prioritize students with demonstrated financial need.
Academic Excellence: Some schools reward high-performing students with laptops to aid their studies.
Full-Time Status: Many schools offer laptops to full-time students who are enrolled in certain programs.

The Application Process for Schools that Provide Laptops

The process usually involves filling out an application form, which may require you to provide information about your financial situation, academic records, and the program you’re enrolled in. Some schools automatically consider all their students for a laptop, while others require a separate application.

Benefits of Online Schools Providing Laptops

Schools that provide laptops offer students several advantages:

Reduced Financial Burden: By providing laptops, schools alleviate the financial burden of acquiring a computer.
Enhanced Learning Experience: Laptops can improve students’ learning experience by offering access to digital resources, virtual classrooms, and educational software.
Increased Preparedness for Digital Careers: Providing laptops equips students with skills and familiarity with technology, making them more competitive in the digital job market.

Laptop Program Types

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

Loaner Laptops

While students are attending the school, they receive laptops for their use. 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 free laptop while enrolled. If the student completes the program, then the school gives ownership to the student. The free laptop for college 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.

Related Programs That Might Interest You

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

Ways to Get a Free or Discounted Laptop from an Online College

Online Schools Offering Deep Discounts on Laptops

Most colleges that give free laptops offer some discount for student’s to purchase both the software and hardware needed for online courses with free laptops. Your faorite academic institution might not be included in our list. Consider contacting your preferred school or searching their website for keywords like “computers” or “laptops.”

Online Schools That Give Refund Checks

FAFSA may provide a refund check to students if they have any remaining financial aid funds. However, only after all tuition and fees have been settled will the reimbursements be issued.

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.

It may be beneficial to acquaint yourself with a knowledge of how their service operates. 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, 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.

Online Schools That Provide Laptops & iPads FAQs

What Are the Best Laptops for College Students?

A basic, entry-level free 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.

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.

Other Resources to Get Free or Discounted Laptops for College

The National Cristina Foundation provides free laptops to individuals with disabilities, students in need, and veterans.
PCs for People provides low-cost or free computers and internet to individuals and families in need.
The On It Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides free computers and internet access to K through 12 students in need.
The National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO) provides information about college costs such as laptops and other technology needs.
The World Computer Exchange provides refurbished computers to schools, libraries, and youth centers in developing countries. They also offer inexpensive computers to individuals and families in the United States.
The Free Geek is a non-profit organization that provides free and low-cost computers and computer education to people in need.
The Komputers 4 R Kids Program is a program that provides free refurbished computers to children and families in need in the San Francisco Bay Area.
The National Digital Inclusion Alliance provides resources and advocacy to promote digital equity and inclusion.