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.
Key Takeaways
A laptop that can last you years can cost around $1,200, so getting a free device means money you can put towards other expenses.
EWhile owning a personal laptop isn't strictly mandatory, using shared computers can severely decrease your productivity, and some majors may require a personal device.
Even if your school of choice doesn't provide a free or lower-cost laptop, there are many organizations and grants that you may be able to use.
Whether you study in person or online, a laptop is an essential college tool. However, the best devices can be expensive, ranging from $600 to $2,500 or more. Add the cost of required software, and the total can really add up.
To help students succeed, some colleges provide laptops, usually as a gift or through a loaner program. Some, like Full Sail University, may include the cost of the computer in tuition. Read on for a quick look at some institutions offering this benefit and their eligibility criteria.
Where Can I Get a Free Laptop for College?
Below is a list of colleges that offer free laptops or loaner programs to help students complete their coursework. Eligibility may be limited to certain students, such as undergraduates or those with financial need.
Dakota State University
Dakota State University gives all full-time, first-year students a Dell Latitude 7440 2-in-1 laptop. The laptop comes pre-configured with the software required for classes, so students can use it right away without additional setup.
It also includes warranty protection, replacement batteries, and on-campus repair services.
Full Sail University
Full Sail University folds laptop costs into students' tuition as part of the school's Project LaunchBox. The exact model you get depends on the degree program you enroll in.
Each laptop comes equipped with software tailored to that major. For instance, if you enroll in audio production, your laptop will include software like Pro Tools and Logic. Some are distributed during the student's second year, and others are downloadable items.
Moravian University
Moravian provides all incoming undergraduate students with a MacBook Pro and an iPad. Incoming undergraduates for Fall 2026 also receive an Apple Watch after accepting their admission offer, to be distributed in August.
The laptop has a pre-installed app called "Self Service" that you can use to download software such as Microsoft Office 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud, as well as access campus resources.
And if the device ever needs servicing, you can get it repaired through the campus IT Help Desk or directly through Apple.
The Ohio State University
At The Ohio State University, you can get a Microsoft Surface or iPad, as part of a loaner program, so you will likely not get to keep the device for your entire time at the school or after graduation. Loans can be short or long term and must be renewed or returned at the end of each semester.
Note that this program is only available to students with limited technology access who qualify for financial aid, so you have to submit your FAFSA to be considered. Should you want to purchase a device, you can do so at Tech Hub, which offers academically priced laptops, iPads and more.
Rasmussen University
Students enrolled after Nov. 12, 2025, may be eligible to receive a 14" Lenovo® V14 AMD Ryzen 5 laptop preloaded with the Microsoft Office Suite of products and Acrobat Reader. The program is only available for certain programs in business, health sciences, justice studies, education and nursing.
The offer may be combined with other grants and scholarships, except for the Professional Achievement Grant. Rasmussen or American Public Education, Inc. IT (Rasmussen's parent company) do not provide service and maintenance.
Seton Hall University
Seton Hall's Mobile Computing Program provides all incoming full-time undergraduate students free laptops before starting their fall semester.
The current laptop being offered to students is a 14" Lenovo ThinkPad T14S 2-in-1, but which one you get depends on availability. Whichever model you get, it will come equipped with standard software needed to complete your coursework, including Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud.
University of Arkansas Grantham
UA Grantham gives a Lenovo Windows 11 laptop or similar device to both new and returning students admitted to an associate, bachelor's or master's program (certificate and non-degree seeking programs and courses are excluded).
Note that students on a full scholarship may not be eligible for the program, and it is available for students within the continental U.S. International shipping, including to military posts, may be unavailable.
Wake Forest University
Undergraduate students receiving financial awards and some athletic scholarships may be eligible for Wake Forest's technology grant, which covers the cost of a WakeWare laptop (Apple or Microsoft devices bought online or in person at the Wake Forest Taylor Bookstore). While you must cover any upgrade, the school still covers damage and repairs.
Since the computer is being bought as part of your financial aid package, it's considered a personal purchase, and you can keep it after graduation. Any WFU-licensed software must be removed from the laptop upon graduation or before leaving the university.
How to Get a Free Laptop for College
These are the usual requirements to qualify for a free laptop as a college student:
Enroll in a college or university that has a free laptop program: Not all schools offer this benefit, so it's important to check the school website or contact the institution directly. Some, like Full Sail University, include the cost of the computer in their tuition.
Understand what's being offered: Some schools provide laptops that you can keep after graduation, while others offer loaner devices that must be returned. Wake Forest University's technology grant allows students to buy a laptop as part of their financial aid package, so they get to keep them.
Review the school's qualification criteria: Most schools limit free laptops to incoming undergraduate students, meaning returning students or graduates don't qualify. Loaner programs are usually more flexible and available to all students. Some programs may also require you to maintain a minimum GPA or remain enrolled for a certain period.
File the required forms: To qualify, you typically need to complete an application form and submit supporting documents such as proof of enrollment, identification, and financial aid information by the stated deadline. Availability may be limited, so applying early is important.
Be ready to show proof of financial need: Schools often limit free laptops to students who demonstrate financial need, such as Pell Grant recipients.
Explore additional programs beyond your school: If the college you're interested in doesn't offer free laptops, you may still qualify for one through nonprofit organizations (more on this below).
Requirements and availability vary by school and program, so it's important to review details carefully and apply as early as possible.
Other Programs That Offer Free or Low-Cost Laptops for College Students
Here are several nonprofits and scholarships available for students who need a free or low-cost laptop:
Compudopt
Compudopt sets up giveaways for refurbished laptops. Availability is limited, and you'll likely need to show that your household doesn't already have a working computer.
Computers 4 People
This organization collects donated laptops, desktops and tablets and provides them for free to lower income applicants. To receive a device, you'll have to fill out a form, have an endorsement from a nominating nonprofit, and live in New Jersey, New York City, or Massachusetts.
Computers With Causes
Computers With Causes has a free laptop program that provides students with refurbished laptops at no cost. The program doesn't have specific eligibility criteria. To apply, fill out the application form explaining your need and mail it to the address listed.
Dell Scholars
Each year, the Dell Scholars program awards 500 college undergraduates a $20,000 scholarship and a free Dell laptop with a four-year warranty. To qualify, you need a minimum 2.4 high school GPA, and plan to enroll full-time at an accredited four-year college or university after graduating. You must also qualify for a federal Pell Grant during your first year of college.
FAFSA and Pell Grants
Any financial aid you receive after filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) — such as a Pell Grant — can typically be used for education-related expenses like a laptop or table.
Human I-T
Like several others on our list, Human I-T provides individuals and organizations low-cost new and refurbished laptops, desktops and tablets, with a 1-year warranty on each device and one year of free tech support. Further, Human I-T Gold Members may qualify for an additional discount.
The On It Foundation
If you're a high school student planning to attend college, you may qualify for a Walmart-Restored free laptop from The On It Foundation. The program is intended for K-12 students from low-income families, so students who have already graduated typically aren't eligible.
PCs For People
Customers must be participants in a government-based assistance program or have a qualifying income. To place an order, applicants need to provide a photo ID and relevant income documentation. While the refurbished devices provided by PCs For People aren't completely free, they do cost considerably less than a new computer.
The Silicon Project
To be eligible for a free computer, the student must provide income statements showing a family income below the federal poverty level and verification that they are a New York City public school (K-12) student. The organization also offers low-cost computers on its online store.
Virginia Veterans Laptop Project
Active duty service members, veterans, and military spouses enrolled at participating schools in the Virginia Community College System may receive refurbished laptops via the VVLP. Adult dependents may also qualify if they're enrolled at Virginia Commonwealth University or Brightpoint Community College.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges That Offer Free Laptops
Not all online colleges have free laptop programs, and those that do typically limit the benefit to students with specific eligibility criteria. These might include being a full-time, first-time student or financial aid recipient.
