Colleges That Offer Free Laptops

Disclosure: The webpage may mention the possibility of free laptop programs offered by various educational institutions. However, it is important to note that the inclusion of any school or educational institution on this website does not guarantee or imply a free laptop offer. The availability and terms of any such programs are subject to change and may vary from one institution to another. For the most accurate information please confirm with our partner institution directly.

Access to technology is essential for college students today. Yet, according to a 2021 report from the Midwestern Higher Education Compact, around 19% of college students report technology barriers that prevent online learning, like inadequate computer hardware or internet connection.

For online students, a high-performing computer is essential to participate in virtual learning. If that’s you, there are many online colleges with free laptops that encourage students to enroll.

More and more colleges are creating programs to help students bridge the digital divide. We’ve compiled a list of resources that provide free laptops for college students. Whether they’re loaned from the university library or gifted by an online degree program.

The majority of colleges, at the very least, will connect you to student laptop discounts with tech companies like Apple and Dell. Some universities will offer incoming students a free laptop they can keep even after graduating. And some colleges loan students a laptop for a semester at a time. Check out the laptop policies at these 45 colleges.

When choosing a laptop for college, it’s important to make sure the device meets all of your program’s hardware requirements. Check with your school to get the exact specifications, including the recommended hard drive size, processor speed, and software compatibility.

For example, if you’re a computer science major, you’ll likely need a specific device to support your computing coursework. Your personal budget can influence the ideal laptop for you, too.

We’ve rounded up some top picks from our guide on the 11 best laptops for college students.

Many college classes include coursework that must be completed or submitted using software on a computer. Students may need Microsoft Office to write a paper or complete a PowerPoint presentation, for example. Even students in nontech programs may need to complete assignments on a computer. Although colleges typically give students access to computer labs, these may not always be convenient or accessible.

If you attend an online college that offers free laptops, you may qualify for a free laptop or tablet through your school. Other options to get a free laptop include contacting a nonprofit organization that gives refurbished laptops to students in need or asking around to see if anyone you know has a used laptop they don’t need anymore. Some people may be happy to help out a struggling student.

If you receive more FAFSA aid than you need to cover your tuition and fees, you may be able to use the rest to buy supplies, including a computer or tablet. Some schools issue a rebate check for the FAFSA funds’ balance once student accounts are settled.

Many students use a Chromebook or other inexpensive laptop. However, some academic programs require an Apple computer, such as a MacBook Pro. Regardless of what everyone else uses, you should make sure your laptop meets the requirements for the program you’re enrolling in.

Most students look for a laptop that is affordable. However, you should check your school’s requirements to make sure the computer you choose has the right operating system and possesses enough processor speed and hard drive space to run the software you need for your classes.