Online Colleges That Offer Laptops
Updated: April 7, 2025, by EDsmart Staff
Many online colleges now offer free or discounted laptops to help students succeed in virtual learning—schools like Cal State Bakersfield, University of Arkansas Grantham, and Strayer University lead the way, though eligibility and ownership rules vary.
Disclosure: This webpage may mention the possibility of free laptop programs offered by various educational institutions. However, please note that the inclusion of any school on this page does not guarantee or imply a free laptop offer. The availability and terms of free laptop programs are subject to change and may vary between institutions. For the most accurate information, please consult with schools directly.
Whether you’re pursuing a degree in business, nursing, or IT, these laptops—ranging from Chromebooks to MacBook Pros—ensure you have the tools to succeed.
A reliable laptop is essential for online learning, yet nearly 20% of college students lack access to adequate devices. With quality computers often costing over $1,000, this guide explores accredited online colleges offering free or discounted laptops, details eligibility, and provides tips to choose the right device for your studies.
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Why Tech Matters for Online Students
Without a dependable laptop, online students risk missing classes or falling behind on assignments. A good device—equipped with at least 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, and a webcam—bridges this gap. Fortunately, many online colleges now include laptops in tuition or offer them through need-based programs, ensuring access for all.
Bonus Stat: Over 1 million U.S. students face tech barriers—don’t be one of them! Take control of your education with these options.
Stop letting the lack of a laptop hinder your online education journey. Let's find your perfect solution!
Top 20 Online Colleges Offering Free Laptops
Below is a verified list of accredited colleges providing free or discounted laptops for online students in 2025. Each entry includes device details, eligibility, and ownership terms.
| School | Laptop Policy | Eligibility |
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| California State University-Bakersfield |
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| University of Arkansas Grantham |
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| University of Minnesota-Crookston |
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| University of California-Irvine |
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| San Diego State University |
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| Indiana State University |
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| Bethel University-Tennessee |
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| Northwest Missouri State University |
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| American National University |
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| Dakota State University |
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| Saint Leo University |
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| Full Sail University |
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| Chatham University |
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| Moravian University |
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| Strayer University |
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| Wake Forest University |
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| Seton Hill University |
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| Purdue University Global |
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| University of the People |
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| Liberty University |
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Free Laptops for College? Yes, and Here's Where to Get One
Interested in a free or discounted laptop for your online studies? Below is a list of accredited colleges offering laptops and technology benefits. Review each college’s eligibility, fees, and laptop ownership terms carefully—note whether the device is a loan or a purchase requirement if you withdraw. Many schools also provide downloadable software and virtual IT support.
1. California State University-Bakersfield
Device: Free loaner laptops (STEP Program)
Eligibility: Financial need (Bakersfield); all students (East Bay, Fullerton)
Ownership: Loan, return each semester
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Tuition: $7,696 (in-state), $19,576 (out-of-state)
The STEP Program at CSU-Bakersfield provides free loaner laptops, tablets, and hotspots to students, ensuring access to essential tech for online learning. It’s particularly valuable for liberal arts and nursing majors who need reliable devices for virtual classes and research. Check availability through the university’s IT services. Get more details here
2. University of Arkansas Grantham
Device: Free laptop
Eligibility: All degree-seeking students
Ownership: Yours to keep after graduation
Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
Tuition: $8,280
As a fully online university, Grantham offers every degree-seeking student a free laptop loaded with software tailored for business and IT programs. Students keep the device after graduating, making it a standout perk for long-term value. It’s shipped upon enrollment to kickstart your studies. Get more details here
3. University of Minnesota-Crookston
Device: HP EliteBook 14"
Eligibility: New/returning students
Ownership: Loan, return required
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $13,120
UMN-Crookston equips new and returning students with HP EliteBook 14" laptops, pre-loaded with Office 365 for online business and healthcare courses. These are loaned devices, requiring return upon leaving, ensuring all students have tech access during their studies. The program supports both on-campus and online learners seamlessly. Get more details here
4. University of California-Irvine
Device: $2,000 laptop budget
Eligibility: Undergrads on financial aid
Ownership: Purchase, keep
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Tuition: $14,237 (in-state), $45,014 (out-of-state)
UC-Irvine offers undergrads on financial aid up to $2,000 to purchase a laptop meeting specs like i5 processors and 8GB RAM, ideal for online STEM courses. Students keep the device, providing flexibility to choose a model suited to their needs. It’s a practical solution for tech-savvy learners. Get more details here
5. San Diego State University
Device: Loaner laptops
Eligibility: All students (library checkout)
Ownership: Loan, return required
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Tuition: $8,290 (in-state), $20,170 (out-of-state)
SDSU’s library provides short-term loaner laptops to all students, supporting online coursework with flexible checkout options. These devices must be returned, making it a temporary but accessible solution for those without personal tech. It’s especially useful for hybrid learners needing occasional support. Get more details here
6. Indiana State University
Device: Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
Eligibility: Pell-eligible freshmen
Ownership: Keep
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $9,992 (in-state), $21,734 (out-of-state)
Indiana State gifts Pell-eligible freshmen a Microsoft Surface Laptop Go, a lightweight device perfect for hybrid learning environments. Students keep it permanently, supporting their studies in programs like education or nursing. The program targets full-time students, not online-only learners. Get more details here
7. Bethel University-Tennessee
Device: Chromebook or laptop
Eligibility: All students
Ownership: Keep
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $18,168
Bethel University provides all students with a Chromebook or laptop, which they keep, enhancing access for online business and nursing programs. The initiative ensures every learner has the tools needed for virtual classes and assignments. It’s a straightforward perk with broad applicability. Get more details here
8. Northwest Missouri State University
Device: Free laptop
Eligibility: All students (excl. online-only)
Ownership: Loan, return required
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $10,181 (in-state), $16,623 (out-of-state)
Northwest Missouri loans free laptops with pre-installed software to all students except those fully online, supporting hybrid learning needs. Devices must be returned upon leaving, ensuring equitable tech access during enrollment. It’s a robust program for on-campus and hybrid learners. Get more details here
9. American National University
Device: Free laptop + software
Eligibility: All domestic students
Ownership: Keep
Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
Tuition: $10,735
ANU ships a free laptop with academic software to all domestic students before classes start, ideal for online health and business degrees. Students keep the device, offering lasting value for their education. It’s a key perk for this fully online institution. Get more details here
10. Dakota State University
Device: Fujitsu or Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga
Eligibility: Full-time freshmen
Ownership: Keep
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $9,633 (in-state), $12,735 (out-of-state)
Dakota State provides full-time freshmen with a Fujitsu or Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga, pre-loaded for IT and cybersecurity majors, which they keep. The high-performance laptops support online and on-campus coursework with advanced specs. It’s a top-tier perk for tech-focused students. Get more details here
11. Saint Leo University
Device: Laptop rental ($250 deposit)
Eligibility: Undergrads (first-come, first-served)
Ownership: Rental, return required
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $28,360
Saint Leo’s DoIT program rents laptops to undergrads for a $250 deposit, supporting online students on a first-come, first-served basis. Devices must be returned, offering a cost-effective option for temporary tech needs. It’s ideal for those balancing online and on-campus study. Get more details here
12. Full Sail University
Device: MacBook Pro or MSI laptop
Eligibility: All students (major-specific)
Ownership: Keep
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
Tuition: $26,417
Full Sail’s Project LaunchBox provides all students with a MacBook Pro or MSI laptop, tailored to majors like design or gaming, which they keep. Pre-loaded with Adobe Suite, these devices empower online creative coursework. It’s a premium offering for career-focused learners. Get more details here
13. Chatham University
Device: 13" MacBook Air + case
Eligibility: First-year/transfer students
Ownership: Keep
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $43,810
Chatham’s 1:1 Laptop Program gives first-year and transfer students a 13" MacBook Air with a case, which they keep for online or on-campus use. It’s designed to support academic success across disciplines like nursing and sustainability. The program ensures tech readiness from day one. Get more details here
14. Moravian University
Device: MacBook Pro + iPad
Eligibility: First-year undergrads
Ownership: Keep
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $52,000
Moravian equips first-year undergrads with a MacBook Pro and iPad, including an Apple Pencil, all of which they keep for online or in-person study. The dual-device setup enhances flexibility for note-taking and creative projects. It’s a generous perk for new students. Get more details here
15. Strayer University
Device: Free laptop
Eligibility: New students (first term)
Ownership: Keep
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $13,920
Strayer gifts new students a free laptop in their first term, which they keep, supporting online business and IT degrees. The device arrives ready for coursework, streamlining the transition to virtual learning. It’s a practical incentive for new enrollees. Get more details here
16. Wake Forest University
Device: Free laptop
Eligibility: Financial aid recipients
Ownership: Keep
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $64,758
Wake Forest provides free laptops to financial aid recipients, which they keep, boosting online access for underserved students. The program targets equity, ensuring all learners can engage in virtual classes effectively. Details are available through student computing resources. Get more details here
17. Seton Hill University
Device: MacBook Air
Eligibility: Full-time undergrads
Ownership: Keep
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $41,658
Seton Hill’s Technology Advantage program gives full-time undergrads a MacBook Air, which they keep, supporting online and on-campus coursework. It’s ideal for programs like education and health sciences, offering a sleek, reliable device. The initiative enhances student success across modalities. Get more details here
18. Purdue University Global
Device: Discounted laptops
Eligibility: All students (via partnerships)
Ownership: Purchase, keep
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $14,358
Purdue Global offers discounted laptops through partnerships, allowing all online students to purchase and keep devices tailored to their needs. It’s a flexible option for virtual learners in business or IT programs. Details are accessible via student services. Get more details here
19. University of the People
Device: Loaner laptops (limited)
Eligibility: Financial need, online students
Ownership: Loan, return required
Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
Tuition: $1,200 (fees)
UoPeople provides limited loaner laptops to online students with financial need, which must be returned, supporting its low-cost model. The program aids access to fully online degrees in fields like computer science. Availability is restricted, so early application is key. Get more details here
20. Liberty University
Device: Discounted laptops
Eligibility: All online students
Ownership: Purchase, keep
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $11,700
Liberty partners with vendors to offer discounted laptops to all online students, who purchase and keep them for virtual studies. It’s a cost-effective way to secure tech for programs like theology or education. Check tech resources for current deals. Get more details here
All data comes from the National Center for Education Statistics and CollegeScorecard
How Free College Laptop Programs Work
Eligibility
- Enrollment: Full-time, first-year, or degree-seeking students often qualify.
- Financial Need: Programs like STEP (CSU-Bakersfield) or Wake Forest prioritize aid recipients.
- Program-Specific: Full Sail ties laptops to majors (e.g., MSI for gaming design).
Ownership
- Keep Permanently: Strayer, Grantham, and Seton Hill gift laptops.
- Conditional: Keep after graduation (e.g., Dakota State).
- Loaner: Return required (e.g., UMN-Crookston, Northwest Missouri).
Tip: Always check program pages—terms vary!
How to Choose the Right Laptop for Online Learning
Your program dictates your tech needs. Here’s how the listed colleges align:
- Business/IT (Grantham, Dakota State): Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga (16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) handles coding and data analysis.
- Creative Majors (Full Sail): MacBook Pro with Adobe Suite suits design and media.
- General Studies (Bethel, Strayer): Chromebooks or Surface Go suffice for docs and Zoom.
Key Specs
- Processor: Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 (min.).
- RAM: 8–16GB for multitasking.
- Storage: 256GB SSD (512GB+ for large files).
- Battery: 10+ hours (e.g., MacBook Air M3: 18 hours).
Top Picks
- MacBook Air M3: Lightweight, 18-hour battery—ideal for Chatham students.
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga: Durable, 2-in-1 for Dakota State IT majors.
FAQ: Online Colleges and Free Laptops
What online colleges offer free laptops to all students?
- Answer: Several online colleges provide free laptops to all enrolled students, such as University of Arkansas Grantham, Bethel University-Tennessee, and American National University. These schools ship devices upon enrollment, often pre-loaded with software, and students typically keep them after graduation, making them ideal for fully online learners.
Can I keep the laptop from an online college after I graduate?
- Answer: Yes, many colleges allow you to keep the laptop, including University of Arkansas Grantham, Dakota State University, and Strayer University, provided you meet eligibility (e.g., completing a degree or enrolling as a new student). Others, like University of Minnesota-Crookston and Northwest Missouri State, require returning loaned devices upon leaving.
Are there online colleges that offer discounted laptops instead of free ones?
- Answer: Yes, Purdue University Global and Liberty University partner with vendors to offer discounted laptops for online students to purchase and keep. These options provide flexibility to choose a device that fits your needs at a reduced cost, unlike fully free programs.
Do I need to be on financial aid to get a free laptop from an online college?
- Answer: Not always—schools like Bethel University-Tennessee and American National University offer laptops to all students regardless of financial status. However, some, like Wake Forest University and University of California-Irvine, limit free or budgeted laptops to financial aid recipients to support equitable access.
What kind of laptops do online colleges provide?
- Answer: The laptops vary by school: Dakota State University offers Fujitsu or Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga for tech majors, Full Sail University provides MacBook Pros or MSI laptops for creative programs, and Indiana State University gives a Microsoft Surface Laptop Go to freshmen. Specs and brands depend on the institution and program needs.
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.
- Texas Online Colleges that Offer Free Laptops - these colleges offer tech perks and discounts to Texas students.
- New York Online Colleges that Offer Free Laptops - these colleges offer tech perks and discounts to students who attend colleges in New York.
- California Online Colleges that Offer Laptops - colleges offer tech perks and discounts to online students who attend colleges in New York.
- Online Colleges that Offer Laptops in Florida - colleges offer tech perks and discounts to online students who attend colleges in Florida--no free laptops provided though.
- Online Colleges that Offer Laptops to Illinois Students - free college laptops for students in Illinois or attending Illinois online colleges. Online colleges that provide laptops for Illinois.
Popular Online Schools
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Further Resources
- Online Colleges That Pay You To Attend
- Best Laptops on LaptopBlogger.com
- Best College Laptop Guide on LaptopNinja.com
- Online Schools that Offer Free Laptops & iPads to Students | Best Universities
- NCES College Navigator
- CHEA-recognized agencies
- College Rankings
- US News Best Colleges Rankings
- Computer Music Production
Sources
- https://newstudents.wfu.edu/computing/https://www.nwmissouri.edu/
- https://www.apple.com/finalcutpro/in-action/full-sail
- https://www.independence.edu
- https://www.setonhill.edu
- https://www.stjohns.edu
- https://www.stjohns.edu/about/leadership-and-administration/administrative-offices/information-technology/laptop-program
- https://www.payscale.com/college-roi
- https://www.csub.edu/its/step/csuccess.shtml
- https://www.uagrantham.edu/student-support/laptop-offer/
- https://crk.umn.edu/computer-help-desk/laptop-computer-program
- https://laptops.eng.uci.edu/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/UCI/comments/14agpxg/laptop_requirementrecommendation/
- https://library.sdsu.edu/technology/loanable-technology/laptops-tablets
- https://indstate.teamdynamix.com/TDClient/1851/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=94140
- https://www.mckenzietn.org/mckenzie-101/community/schools-education/bethel-university
- https://www.nwmissouri.edu/admissions/laptop/
- https://an.edu/frequently-asked-questions-about-online-learning/
- https://dsu.edu/academics/academic-support-advising/laptop-program.html
- https://www.saintleo.edu/student-experience/support/department-of-information-technology/laptop-rental-program
- https://hub.fullsail.edu/articles/take-off-with-project-launchbox
- https://services.chatham.edu/TDClient/78/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=14654
- https://www.moravian.edu/macbook-ipad-enrollment
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