Want a Free Laptop? Go to College!

**This webpage may mention free laptop programs offered by various educational institutions. However, please note that the inclusion of any school on this page does not imply or guarantee a free laptop offer. Laptop availability, eligibility requirements, and program details can differ by institution and are subject to change. For the most reliable and current information, please verify directly with the school.**

College can get really pricey, really fast. With expensive tuition and so many additional costs, students on a budget are always looking for ways to save money on their education.

More and more students are studying online, which means they need to have a reliable laptop. Did you know that you may be able to get a laptop for free or at a discount through your school?

Read on to learn more about how to get a free laptop for going to college.

Do Colleges Give Free Laptops to Students?

Many schools recognize the increasing financial pressure placed upon college students and their families.

A laptop is just one expense among many, but it can be a critical piece of equipment for any college student in this age of technology.

With that in mind, some schools provide laptops to students free of charge.

These laptops may be given on a loan basis until graduation, at which point students may be allowed to keep the laptops or asked to return them.

Other schools provide technology discounts for incoming students, allowing them to purchase a laptop at a greatly reduced price.

Still other schools offer temporary laptop loans through their libraries or technology departments.

If you're not sure whether your school offers free laptops, check with their technology department. You should be able to find information on available laptop loans or how to obtain a free computer.

Some of the schools that give all incoming students a free laptop include:

• Chatham University (13-inch MacBook Air laptop)
• Indiana State University (Microsoft Surface Go)
• Dakota State University (Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga)

Can Online Students Get Free Laptops?

You may be wondering if these laptops are available only for students attending on campus. Are online students also eligible to receive a free laptop?

In many cases, yes. Many schools offer free laptops to all incoming students, whether they plan to study traditionally or online.

This is an excellent benefit for online students in particular, who rely on technology to complete assignments and attend classes. Often, having their own personal laptop enables them to attend college when they otherwise wouldn't be able to.

Even if your school doesn't offer free laptops, you may still be able to take advantage of technology discounts and rentals just as in-person students can do.

Check with your school's technology department to find out if they offer free or discounted laptops to incoming freshmen. They may also have information about laptop loans or rental programs.

In addition to the schools outlined above, some additional schools offering free or discounted laptops to online students include:

• Full Sail University (free laptop through Project Launchbox)
• Moravian University (MacBook Pro and iPad)
• Strayer University (laptop loaner program)

How Else Can Students Get Free Laptops for College?

Even if your school doesn't offer free or discounted laptops for students, you may still be able to get a free laptop for attending college. Let's talk about how.

Non-Profit Organizations

Various non-profit organizations provide free laptops to students and low-income individuals.

The requirements to obtain a free laptop vary by organization, but you will usually have to fill out an application form. You may also need to demonstrate financial need.

Additionally, students may have to meet GPA minimums and be enrolled full-time in a four-year degree program.

Let's take a look at some organizations offering free laptop programs.

• On It Foundation: This non-profit organization provides free computers to needy students in grades K-12. If you are still in high school, a parent or guardian can request a computer for you and provide proof of financial need. You will then be able to keep this computer and use it for college.
• Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse: This organization refurbishes old computers, then provides them to students or low-income families at little or no cost. Participating refurbishers can be found throughout the United States.
• Computers with Causes: This non-profit provides over 20,000 computers annually to people who apply through their website. They prioritize students and teachers, though anyone is welcome to apply.

Grants and Scholarships

Additionally, you may be able to use scholarship money or federal grants to cover the cost of a laptop.

Money received through the FAFSA can be applied to education-related expenses if there are funds left over after covering your tuition.

Other grants and scholarships may be applied toward your education in whatever way you see fit. You can use the money from these finds to buy a laptop.

Get a Free Laptop When You Go to College

Don't let technology costs keep you from your dreams. As you can see, there are many different ways to obtain a free or discounted laptop when you attend college.