Online Colleges That Offer Free Laptops in 2026

Updated: October 2026 by EDsmart Staff.

Several online colleges offer free laptops or laptop programs in 2026. Examples include University of Arkansas Grantham, Full Sail University (Project LaunchBox), and Rasmussen University (select nursing and health programs). But “free laptop” does not always mean that the student automatically owns the provided laptop or iPad. This guide compares who qualifies, who keeps the device, and how financial aid can still help pay for a laptop when a school has no free device.

Disclosure: This search tool may show schools that do not offer laptop programs. Being matched or listed does not guarantee a device, discount, or bundle. Offers change by term and program; confirm terms for your major and start date.

Which Online Colleges Offer Free Laptops in 2026?

What does “free laptop” mean?

We use the word “free” broadly in this guide because college laptop programs work in different ways. A school may provide you a laptop at no extra charge, include the cost in tuition or fees, or lend you a computer while you are enrolled. Some schools only offer student discounts for tech and software.

Online schools that provide laptops usually do it in one of four ways. In the list below, we label each program so you can see what you actually pay and whether or not the laptop is yours to keep:

• Free or school-covered: You do not pay a separate charge if you meet any program requirements.
• Included in tuition or fees: The cost of the device is included in what you already pay the school (sometimes called a technology fee).
• Loaner: You use a school laptop for a term or year and you return it later.
• Discount only: You buy the device at a discounted student price; the school does not provide the laptop for free.

Three checks before you treat any offer as “free” laptop:

• Tuition vs free: Is the cost included in tuition or a technology fee?
• Keep vs return: Do you own the device after graduation or withdrawal from the school/program, or do you have to send it back?
• Program requirements: Does the offer require you to choose a specific major, be enrolled full-time, have a certain start date, or attend classes on campus, fully online, or a combination of the two?

Programs worth comparing first include University of Arkansas Grantham, Full Sail University (Project LaunchBox), and Rasmussen University (select nursing and health programs). Seton Hill University (Mobile Learning @ The Hill) and Moravian University offer Apple tech packages but mainly for traditional or on-campus undergraduates. Check the program details online before you assume the laptop or device is included for sure.

Other types of laptop programs are available. Some colleges only offer laptops to full-time freshmen, while others offer loaner laptops, student discounts, or devices based on financial need.

At a glance

• Is it really free? Check whether the school covers the cost, includes it in tuition or fees, lends you the device, or only offers a discount.
• Keep vs. return: Some programs let you keep the laptop, while others require you to return it if you graduate, withdraw, or leave the program.
• Online vs. campus: Some laptop programs are only available to on-campus students, so check whether fully online students qualify.
• Financial aid refunds: Money left over from financial aid after school charges are paid may be used for a laptop. See refunds and laptops.
• Programs by state: See laptop programs in Texas, California, Florida, New York, Georgia, and Illinois.

Top 5 Online Colleges With Laptop Programs

These programs stand out for clear laptop details, eligibility requirements, and ownership rules. Use the table below to see our quick picks.

1

University of Arkansas Grantham

University of Arkansas Grantham is fully online.

What do you get? Eligible associate, bachelor’s, and master’s students receive a Lenovo Windows laptop with Microsoft 365 for coursework.

Who qualifies? Students enrolled in eligible degree programs. Certificate programs are not included, and you need a U.S. shipping address.

Is it really free? You don’t have to buy the laptop separately if you qualify, but the offer has conditions tied to enrollment.

Do you keep it? That depends on how long you stay enrolled. Check the laptop agreement for the rules if you leave during your first or second term. Because ordering may not open until after classes start, plan to have a working computer on day one.

Best for: Online students who want a laptop included with their degree program and clear eligibility requirements.

More details

Official laptop program: Student laptop offer (UAGrantham.edu)

UA Grantham’s published FAQ explains who qualifies, when ordering emails go out, U.S. shipping rules, what happens if you withdraw during your first or second term, and how accidental damage differs from a defective shipment.

Average Net Price

$9,940

Graduation Rate

49.9%

Retention Rate

30.3%

Median Earnings

$53,614

2

Full Sail University

Full Sail University pairs its degree programs with Project LaunchBox™.

What do you get? A laptop plus software and other tools selected for your degree program. The exact equipment varies by major.

Who qualifies? Students enrolled in programs that include Project LaunchBox™.

Is it really free? Not exactly. Full Sail says the cost of the computer and software is included in tuition. Some items may arrive later in the program or be provided as downloads, so compare the full program cost rather than the laptop alone.

Do you keep it? Full Sail’s LaunchBox overview does not say who owns the equipment, so ask admissions before enrolling.

Best for: Design, gaming, film, audio, and other technology-heavy majors that benefit from program-specific hardware and software.

More details

Program: Project LaunchBox overview

Average Net Price

$37,401

Graduation Rate

41.8%

Retention Rate

53.1%

Median Earnings

$42,386

3

Seton Hill University

Seton Hill University offers Apple devices through Mobile Learning @ The Hill.

What do you get? Apple hardware for many full-time undergraduates, including MacBook Air models for qualifying groups, along with campus Apple support.

Who qualifies? Traditional full-time undergraduates and some graduate groups listed by the university. Part-time and online-only students may not qualify.

Is it really free? Check how the technology package is covered for the year you enroll. Do not assume every online student receives a device.

Do you keep it? Yes. Seton Hill’s FAQ says students keep their Apple tech after they graduate.

Best for: Full-time students who want Apple hardware plus university-supported setup and service.

More details

Program: Mobile Learning @ The Hill

Average Net Price

$25,519

Graduation Rate

66.7%

Retention Rate

80.9%

Median Earnings

$56,803

4

Moravian University

Moravian University provides a large Apple technology package to eligible campus students.

What do you get? A MacBook Pro, iPad, and Apple Pencil for eligible full-time first-year and transfer undergraduates. Moravian also lists an Apple Watch for Fall 2026.

Who qualifies? Full-time first-year and transfer undergraduates studying on campus. Graduate students and online-only undergraduates are not eligible.

Is it really free? The technology package is provided to eligible campus students, but it is not a free-laptop program for fully online students nationwide.

Do you keep it? Yes. Moravian says the technology is yours to keep throughout your education and beyond.

Best for: Campus students who want a MacBook Pro and iPad as part of their college technology package.

More details

Program: Apple Technology at Moravian

Average Net Price

$35,264

Graduation Rate

74.2%

Retention Rate

79.2%

Median Earnings

$68,965

5

Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University offers a new laptop to students who start select nursing and health programs on or after November 12, 2026.

What do you get? A Lenovo V14 laptop (AMD Ryzen 5, 14-inch display, 8 GB of RAM) with Microsoft Office and Acrobat Reader preloaded.

Who qualifies? Students who start a listed nursing or health program on or after November 12, 2026, opt in by the sixth business day of the quarter, and complete the laptop agreement. Rasmussen’s page does not say whether online, campus, or both versions of these programs qualify, so ask admissions.

Is it really free? Not exactly. Rasmussen includes the laptop’s cost in your financial aid package as other financial assistance, and only one laptop is provided per student, with no replacement if it is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Do you keep it? Complete at least three quarters of enrollment to keep the laptop. If you leave earlier, you must return it to Microtek within the required return window.

Best for: Nursing and health students starting an eligible Rasmussen program on or after November 12, 2026.

More details

Program: Rasmussen laptop program · Cost of attendance

Rasmussen’s page lists eligible-program changes effective November 12, 2026. Rasmussen became part of American Public University System on August 4, 2026. Check your exact program and start date before enrolling.

Device

Lenovo

Ownership

After 3 Quarters

Accreditation

HLC

Disclosure: This tool may show schools that do not advertise laptop programs. Being matched or listed does not guarantee a device, discount, or bundle. Offers change by term and program; confirm terms for your major and start date.

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Complete List: 22 Online Colleges That Offer Laptops, Plus 10 We Checked (2026)

Browse Online College Laptop Programs by State

Explore laptop programs, technology packages, discounts, and device assistance available to students in these states:

• Texas: online colleges that offer free laptops, bundled laptops, and technology programs for Texas students
• California: online colleges that offer laptops, free laptop programs, and technology benefits for California students
• Florida: Florida online colleges that offer laptops, computers, and technology packages for online students
• New York: online colleges that offer laptops in New York, plus student computer programs and technology discounts
• Georgia: Georgia online colleges that offer laptops, free laptop programs, and other technology assistance
• Illinois: online colleges that offer laptops for Illinois students, including laptop programs, discounts, and technology benefits

Laptop offers can vary by program, enrollment type, and start term. Confirm eligibility, ownership, and total cost for your major and start date before you enroll.

Online Schools That Give Refund Checks and Laptops: How That Really Works

Many students search for online schools that give refund checks and laptops, but those are usually two different things. A laptop program is specific to a given school, degree program, or a group of eligible students. A refund check is leftover money from your own financial aid.

Your financial aid first pays what you owe the college, such as tuition and fees. This is called disbursement. If money is left over, the college sends it to you, usually by direct deposit or a check. That leftover money is called a credit balance or financial aid refund. People often call it a “refund check.”

Colleges that participate in federal student aid programs can send you a refund when your financial aid is more than what you owe the school. This is not a special perk from only a few colleges. Schools also estimate your total education expenses using what is called your cost of attendance.

You may not get your refund right away. Colleges often wait until classes begin and confirm that you are attending. Check your school’s financial aid calendar to see when refunds are sent. If you plan to buy a laptop with the refund, you may need access to a computer for the first few weeks of class.

Also remember: much of that refund can be loan money. Loan money must be repaid with interest. A larger refund can mean larger loans. Using a refund to buy a laptop can make sense. It is still your aid money, not free cash.

When you compare “refund check and laptop” schools, you usually have two options. Some schools provide or bundle a laptop through a published program (see the five schools above). Other schools do not provide a laptop, but you may have enough financial aid left over to buy one that meets your program’s computer requirements. Some students may use both: a school laptop for class and a financial aid refund for other education expenses.

Using FAFSA and financial aid to get a laptop

People also search for “online colleges that accept FAFSA free laptop.” FAFSA and laptop programs are two very different things. The FAFSA is the form you complete to apply for federal student aid. A college that accepts financial aid doesn't always offer a free laptop.

If your school doesn't offer a laptop program, you can still talk with your financial aid office about aid for purchasing a computer or laptop. Ask your financial aid office two questions: Is a computer included in your estimated costs, and do I need to request it? When would I receive any leftover aid? Our FAQ on using FAFSA funds for a college laptop has more detail.

Accreditation check before you chase a free-laptop offer

Accreditation means a recognized accrediting agency has reviewed a college or university. It can affect financial aid, credit transfers, and how other schools and employers view your degree. Accreditation alone does not guarantee that a school participates in federal student aid programs.

Every school in our top five lists its accreditor in its directory entry below (such as DEAC, ACCSC, MSCHE, or HLC). You can check any college in the U.S. Department of Education’s accreditation database or on College Navigator. A free laptop isn't worth choosing a school that doesn't have the accreditation you need.

Why Location and Total Cost Matter for Laptop Offers

Your location can affect which laptop programs are available to you. Some schools have rules about where they ship devices or which students qualify. If you know where you will study, use our shortlists for Texas, California, Florida, New York, Georgia, and Illinois.

A laptop offer also does not replace your full college bill. Compare the value of the laptop with the total price on your financial aid offer and what you are likely to pay after aid. Look at the full price, not only the word “free.”

How to Choose an Online College Laptop Program

Before choosing a school, ask these three questions:

• Do you get to keep the laptop? Check when ownership transfers. Some programs require you to return the laptop if you leave school early.
• What happens if you withdraw? Check return deadlines and whether you could be charged for the laptop.
• Is the “free” laptop included in tuition or fees? Compare the school’s total cost with other colleges. A free laptop may not save you money if tuition is higher.

Buying A Laptop Vs. A School Device Bundle For Online College

If your school doesn't offer a laptop, buying your own setup may be the best option. Chromebooks are a great low-cost option for browser-based coursework. Windows and Mac laptops may be required for programs that use specific software.

Before buying, check your program's requirements and what your school offers in terms of discounts and tech perks. Fields such as engineering, computer science, data science, gaming, and media programs may require more powerful tech setups.

See Student Discount and Campus Technology Stores below for education pricing and other computer discounts.

How Online College Laptop Programs Work

Online college laptop programs generally fall into four categories:

Free laptops you can keep

Some colleges give eligible students a laptop they can keep, either immediately or after meeting enrollment requirements.

Laptops included with tuition

Some colleges include a laptop and software with tuition or program fees, so the device may not actually be free.

Student laptop discounts

Some colleges offer student discounts on laptops from brands such as Apple, Dell, and Lenovo.

Laptop loans and rentals

Some colleges loan or rent laptops to students. The school owns the device, so you usually have to return it.

Disclosure: This tool may show schools that do not advertise laptop programs. Being matched or listed does not guarantee a device, discount, or bundle. Offers change by term and program; confirm terms for your major and start date.

Online Colleges That Offer iPads & Tablets

Some colleges offer iPads or tablets instead of, or in addition to, laptops. For example, Moravian University provides eligible full-time first-year and transfer undergraduates with a MacBook Pro and iPad, although online-only students are not eligible.

Tablet programs, eligibility, and device packages can change by program and start term. Check the school’s current technology requirements before enrolling.

School Laptop Specs for Online College: What You May Receive

Laptop specs vary by school and degree program. Always compare a school-provided laptop with your program's current computer requirements.

Key Laptop Specs for Online Coursework

• Processor: Check your program's minimum processor requirements, especially for engineering, computer science, data science, and creative programs.
• RAM: 8GB may be enough for basic coursework, while more demanding programs may require 16GB or more.
• Storage: 256GB SSD may be enough for general coursework. Programs with large files or specialized software may require more.
• Operating system: Some programs require Windows or macOS because of the software used in class.
• Webcam and internet: Make sure the laptop supports video classes and your school's online learning platform.

How To Choose The Best Laptop For Online College Classes

The best laptop for online college depends on your degree program, required software, and how you study.

1. Match the Laptop to Your Coursework

General tasks such as writing, web research, email, and video conferencing usually don't require high-end hardware. Engineering, computer science, graphic design, video production, and similar programs may require faster processors, more memory, additional storage, or dedicated graphics.

2. Check Your Program's Required Software

Check your department's computer requirements before buying a laptop. Programs may require software such as AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Cloud, or other specialized applications that have their own hardware and operating-system requirements.

Don't check only the courses you're taking now. Look at requirements for upper-level courses, labs, and capstones you may take later.

3. Consider Where You Study

If you carry your laptop between work, home, and other locations, weight and battery life matter. If you primarily study at a desk, a larger display or more powerful laptop may be worth the extra weight.

4. Decide Whether a Tablet Is Enough

An iPad or tablet can be useful for digital textbooks, notes, and some online coursework. It may not run all the software required by your degree, so check program requirements before using a tablet as your only computer.

Buying a Laptop for Online College

If your college doesn't provide a laptop, check your degree program's computer requirements before buying one. Your major may have minimum requirements for the operating system, processor, RAM, storage, or specialized software.

Student Laptop Discounts

Before paying retail price, check whether your college offers student computer discounts. Apple, Dell, Lenovo, and other manufacturers also offer education pricing to eligible college students.

When to Buy a Laptop for College

Back-to-school sales, manufacturer education stores, and refurbished or open-box laptops can lower the cost. If you plan to use financial aid, check your school's disbursement schedule before buying. See our FAQ on using FAFSA funds for a college laptop.

Student Discount and Campus Technology Stores

If your college does not offer free laptops or devices, check these sites for computer discounts. Many colleges have technology or bookstore portals with education pricing from manufacturers such as Apple, Dell, Microsoft, Lenovo, and HP.

• Apple Education Store: education pricing on Macs and iPads
• Dell University / student programs: student pricing on Dell laptops
• Microsoft Education Store: student pricing on Surface devices and software
• Lenovo education discounts: student pricing on Lenovo laptops
• HP education store: education pricing on HP computers
• Best Buy student deals: student deals on laptops and technology
• Notebooks for Students: discounted computers for students

Check your school's IT department or bookstore for “laptop,” “computer purchase,” or “student technology discounts” before paying full retail.

Who Qualifies for a Free or Discounted College Laptop?

Laptop eligibility varies by school and program. Requirements may include:

• Full-time enrollment
• First-year or incoming student status
• Enrollment in an eligible degree program
• Financial need or FAFSA eligibility
• Satisfactory academic progress
• On-campus or hybrid enrollment
• Participation in an eligible scholarship or technology program

Check the school's current laptop program for eligibility requirements before enrolling.

FAQ: Free Laptops, iPads & Online College Tech Programs

Do online colleges really give free laptops? ▼

Yes. Online colleges that provide laptops usually do it for eligible students through school-funded programs, technology packages, grants, or other benefits. Other schools offer laptop loans, rentals, or student discounts instead.

Always check whether the laptop is truly provided at no additional cost, included in tuition or fees, or only available to certain students or degree programs.

Are the laptops really free, or is the cost included in tuition? ▼

It depends on the program. Some colleges cover the cost of a laptop through school funds, grants, or a student technology benefit. Others include the device as part of tuition or program fees.

Compare the school's total cost instead of looking only at the word "free." A laptop offer may not save you money if the overall degree costs more.

What are the best online colleges that offer laptops? ▼

Programs worth comparing include University of Arkansas Grantham, Full Sail University, Seton Hill University, Moravian University, and Rasmussen University (select nursing and health programs).

These schools have published laptop or technology programs, but eligibility differs. Some programs are designed for online students, while others are limited to full-time campus students or certain degree programs.

The best choice depends on your degree, total cost, eligibility, ownership rules, and whether you need a laptop you can keep or only borrow.

Are online students eligible for laptop programs? ▼

Some laptop programs include fully online students, while others require full-time campus or hybrid enrollment.

Check the eligibility rules for your exact degree program and how you plan to attend. Do not assume a school-wide laptop program applies to online-only students.

Can you keep the laptop after graduation? ▼

Sometimes. Some programs let students keep the laptop after meeting enrollment requirements or completing the school's written agreement.

Other colleges only loan or rent laptops. In those programs, the school owns the device and you usually have to return it.

When do colleges send laptops to online students? ▼

Timing varies by school. Some colleges send or allow students to order a laptop after enrollment is confirmed. Others wait until classes begin.

University of Arkansas Grantham says eligible students receive laptop ordering instructions by email at the beginning of the second week of classes, then should allow 1–2 weeks for delivery. Students should still have access to a working computer and internet when classes begin.

How do I get a laptop from my college? ▼

Start by checking whether your college has a published laptop, computer, or technology program for your degree and enrollment type.

Some benefits are automatic. Others require you to opt in, complete a form, provide financial aid information, or sign a technology agreement. Ask admissions, financial aid, or IT what steps apply to you.

Can you use FAFSA or financial aid to buy a laptop? ▼

A computer may be included in the education expenses your school uses when calculating your cost of attendance. If your college does not offer a laptop program, talk with the financial aid office about aid for purchasing a computer.

Ask whether a computer is included in your estimated costs, whether you need to request it, and when you would receive any leftover aid. See our guide to using financial aid for a college laptop.

Which online schools give refund checks and laptops? ▼

Refund checks and laptop programs are usually separate. Colleges that participate in federal student aid programs may send you a refund when your financial aid is more than what you owe the school. That refund is leftover aid, not a special bonus.

Schools such as University of Arkansas Grantham, Full Sail University, and Rasmussen University also publish laptop programs. See how refund checks and laptop offers work before comparing schools.

Can you rent or borrow a laptop for college? ▼

Yes. Some colleges loan or rent laptops through their IT departments, libraries, or student technology programs.

You usually have to return the device when the loan ends or if you leave the school. Check return deadlines, damage rules, and whether the program is available to online students.

Which colleges give MacBooks to students? ▼

Seton Hill University has an Apple technology program for eligible full-time undergraduate students and some graduate groups.

Moravian University also provides eligible full-time first-year and transfer undergraduates with Apple devices, including a MacBook Pro and iPad. Online-only students are not eligible under the published program.

Device models and eligibility rules can change, so confirm the current program before enrolling.

What online colleges offer iPads? ▼

Moravian University is one example of a college with a published iPad program. Eligible full-time first-year and transfer undergraduates receive an Apple technology package that includes an iPad.

The published program is primarily for campus students, and online-only students are not eligible. Other colleges may offer tablets through loans, discounts, or program-specific technology packages.

Do online college laptop programs depend on your major? ▼

Sometimes. A college may offer different laptop packages by degree program, or limit a technology benefit to certain majors or start terms.

Technical and creative programs may also have different computer requirements than business, education, or general studies. Check the rules for your exact degree rather than assuming one laptop policy applies to every student.

Do college students get discounts on laptops? ▼

Yes. Many colleges provide student technology discounts through campus bookstores, IT departments, or manufacturer education programs.

Apple, Dell, Microsoft, Lenovo, HP, and other companies offer education pricing or student discounts. Check your school's technology or bookstore page before paying full retail price.

Free & Discounted Laptops for College: Nonprofits & Extra Resources

If your college doesn't provide a laptop, some scholarship programs and nonprofits may offer free or low-cost computers. Eligibility, availability, and location restrictions vary, so check each program before applying.

1. Dell Scholars: Provides scholarship support that includes a laptop for selected students who meet the program's eligibility requirements.
   
2. PCs for People: Provides low-cost computers and internet services to eligible individuals and families.
   
3. Free Geek: Provides free or low-cost computers and technology support. Programs and availability may depend on location.
   
4. Compudopt: Runs computer giveaways and digital-skills programs for under-resourced communities. Availability depends on location, eligibility, events, and inventory.
   
5. National Digital Inclusion Alliance: Offers digital-inclusion resources that can help you find organizations and programs working to improve access to computers, internet service, and digital skills.
   

Sources and Methodology

EDsmart uses official college program, admissions, financial aid, IT, and library pages as primary sources for laptop offers, eligibility requirements, ownership rules, and device information. College cost and outcomes data come primarily from U.S. Department of Education sources.

Laptop programs can change by degree program, enrollment status, and start term. Check the linked school source for the current offer before enrolling.

View sources

Federal, Financial Aid, Accreditation & College Data Sources

• U.S. Department of Education data documentation. Institution-level college cost and outcomes data.
• NCES College Navigator. U.S. Department of Education resource for researching colleges, programs, enrollment, costs, and institutional characteristics.
• CHEA-Recognized Accrediting Organizations. Reference for recognized institutional and programmatic accrediting organizations.
• Federal Student Aid: Cost of Attendance. Federal guidance on education expenses and financial aid.
• EDsmart: Using FAFSA Funds for a College Laptop

College Laptop Program Sources

• University of Arkansas Grantham: Laptop Offer
• Full Sail University: Project LaunchBox
• Seton Hill University: Mobile Learning @ The Hill
• Moravian University: Apple Technology at Moravian
• Rasmussen University: Laptop Program
• University of Minnesota Crookston: Laptop Computer Program
• Dakota State University: Laptop Program
• Indiana State University: Sycamore Technology Award Laptop Support
• Chatham University: Laptop Requirements
• Northwest Missouri State University: Laptop Program
• Saint Leo University: Laptop Rental Program
• San Diego State University: Loanable Laptops and Tablets
• University of California, Irvine: Engineering Laptops
• California State University, Bakersfield: Technology Program
• Wake Forest University: WakeWare
• Wake Forest University: Technology Grant
• American National University: Online Learning FAQs
• St. John’s University: Technology Webstores