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Online Colleges With Free Laptops and iPads

Are colleges really giving away laptops and iPads for free?!

Yes, they are!

Many higher education institutions are recognizing the importance of technology in today’s world and are making it easier for their students to access the tools they need to succeed.

Some schools have laptop loaner programs, where students can borrow laptops for the duration of their studies. Others include laptops in the cost of tuition or charging a technology fee to cover the cost of providing students with the latest technology.

online colleges with free laptops

If you’re interested in finding online colleges that offer free laptops, iPads, or tablets, there are several accredited institutions that you can choose from. While not all of these colleges offer completely free laptops, they often have flexible payment arrangements, and some allow students to pay for their technology needs with student loans or roll it into their tuition costs.

Regardless of how it’s offered, having access to technology can be a game-changer for college students, making it easier to stay organized, connect with classmates, and access course materials. So, if you’re looking for an online college that can help you succeed, consider one that offers free laptops, iPads, or tablets to its students.

Online Programs That Might Interest You

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Jump To:

FAQ | Online Colleges That Offer Laptops | Online Colleges that Offer iPads | Free Laptops from the Government for College Students | Online Colleges that Offer Laptop Discounts

Online Colleges That Offer Laptops FAQ

What Online Colleges Give You A Laptop?

  • Strayer University
  • Southern Nazarene University – Choice of 3 laptops. Dell Latitude 3380, 13″ MacBook Pro, 15″ MacBook Pro
  • Wake Forest University – free laptop must be returned upon graduation
  • Northwest Missouri State University – free laptop must be returned upon graduation
  • St. John’s University – choice of 3 laptops – Apple MacBook Pro, Lenovo ThinkPad L380, Lenovo ThinkPad L380 Yoga
  • Independence University Online – iPad and/or laptop program
  • Bethel University – Google Chromebook
  • Centenary College
  • Widener University
  • CollegeAmerica – free laptop
  • Stevens-Henager College – laptop
  • Azusa Pacific
  • Full Sail University –Apple MacBook Pro
  • Indiana State University
  • University of Minnesota-Crookston
  • Colorado Technical University
  • Saint Leo University
  • Rochester College – free Apple MacBook or iPad
  • Wentworth Institute of Technology

Does Strayer University offer free laptops?

Strayer University provides laptops to students enrolled in select bachelor’s degree programs as part of their “Strayer Tech Pack”. The laptops, supplied by vendor Mikrotik, come pre-equipped with Microsoft software. Upon completion of three-quarters of their coursework, students are allowed to keep their laptop as a reward. However, failure to return the laptop within the designated timeframe will result in a fee.

Does the University of Phoenix offer laptops?

No. The University of Phoenix does not offer laptops to its students.

Does Penn Foster give you a Laptop?

Penn Foster does not provide students with laptops or tablets; therefore, having your own laptop or access to one is essential.

Which laptop is best for online classes?

No laptop can be deemed “best” for all online classes. For basic classes that don’t require photo or video editing, any laptop that can hook up to WiFi will work. For photo and/or video editing, you’ll need a more powerful laptop with a heftier price tag.

As a college student, finding the perfect laptop to meet your academic and personal needs can be quite a challenge. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one that fits your budget, has the necessary features, and lasts throughout your entire college career.

From lightweight and portable models to powerhouse machines with impressive processing power, these 10 laptops cover a wide range of needs and budgets.

According to Heavy.com (Feb 7, 2022), here are the best laptops for online college students:

Apple MacBook Air (2020)

Processor: Intel Core i5 | RAM: 8GB | Display: 13 inches | GPU: Intel Iris Plus Graphics | Hard drive: 256GB SSD | Dimensions: 11.9 x 8.3 x 0.6 inches | Weight: 2.8 pounds

The Apple MacBook Air is a popular choice among college students for its sleek design, lightweight portability, and powerful performance. With an Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, the MacBook Air can handle multitasking and demanding applications with ease.

Dell XPS 15 7590

Processor: Core i7-9750H | RAM: 16GB | Display: 15.6 inches | GPU: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 | Hard drive: 256GB SSD | Dimensions: 9.3 x 14 x 0.7 inches | Weight: 5.5 pounds

The Dell XPS 15 7590 is a high-performance laptop ideal for students pursuing graphics-intensive courses or gaming enthusiasts. Its powerful Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM, and Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 GPU ensures smooth performance and stunning visuals.

ASUS Chromebook Flip C434

Processor: Intel Core M3-8100Y | RAM: 4GB | Display: 14 inches | GPU: Intel HD Graphics 615 | Hard drive: 64GB SSD | Dimensions: 12.6 x 8 x 0.6 inches | Weight: 3.3 pounds

The ASUS Chromebook Flip C434 is an affordable, versatile option for college students. With its Intel Core M3 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 14-inch display, this Chromebook offers a lightweight, portable, and budget-friendly solution for everyday tasks and browsing.

Apple MacBook Pro (2020)

Processor: Intel Core i5 | RAM: 8GB | Display: 13 inches | GPU: Intel Iris Plus Graphics | Hard drive: 512GB SSD | Dimensions: 12 x 8.4 x 0.6 inches | Weight: 3.1 pounds

For students seeking a powerful, feature-rich laptop, the Apple MacBook Pro offers an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. This laptop is perfect for running demanding applications, multitasking, and content creation.

Google Pixelbook Go M3 Chromebook

Processor: Intel Core M3 | RAM: 8GB | Display: 13.3 inches | Hard drive: 64GB SSD | Dimensions: 12.2 x 8.1 x 0.5 inches | Weight: 2.3 pounds

The Google Pixelbook Go M3 Chromebook offers a sleek design, lightweight portability, and impressive battery life. With its Intel Core M3 processor and 8GB of RAM, this laptop provides smooth performance for everyday tasks and browsing.

HP Chromebook

Processor: AMD A4-9120 | RAM: 4GB | Display: 14 inches | Hard drive: 32GB SSD | Dimensions: 8.9 x 13.3 x 0.7 inches | Weight: 3 pounds

The HP Chromebook is an affordable, portable option for college students on a budget. Its AMD A4-9120 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 14-inch display make it suitable for basic productivity tasks and web browsing.

Lenovo ThinkPad E595

Processor: AMD Ryzen 5-3500U | RAM: 16GB | Display: 15.6 inches | GPU: AMD Radeon Vega 8 Graphics | Hard drive: 256GB SSD | Dimensions: 14.5 x 9.9 x 0.8 inches | Weight: 4.7 pounds

The Lenovo ThinkPad E595 is a reliable and durable laptop designed for college students who require a balance between performance and portability. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5-3500U processor, 16GB of RAM, and AMD Radeon Vega 8 Graphics, this laptop is perfect for handling a range of tasks, from document editing to multimedia projects.

Microsoft Surface Go 2

Processor: Intel Core m3 | RAM: 4GB | Display: 10.5 inches | GPU: Intel UHD Graphics 615 | Hard drive: 64GB SSD | Dimensions: 9.7×6.9x.3 inches | Weight: 1.2 pounds

The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is an ultra-portable 2-in-1 laptop ideal for college students who need a compact device for note-taking, browsing, and basic tasks. With its Intel Core m3 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 10.5-inch touchscreen display, the Surface Go 2 offers flexibility and convenience for students on the move.

Razer Blade 15

Processor: Intel Core i7-8750H | RAM: 16GB | Display: 15.6 inches | GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q | Hard drive: 512GB SSD | Dimensions: 9.3 x 14 x 0.7 inches | Weight: 4.6 pounds

The Razer Blade 15 is a high-performance laptop designed for college students who require advanced graphics capabilities for tasks such as gaming, video editing, and 3D modeling. Powered by an Intel Core i7-8750H processor, 16GB of RAM, and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q GPU, this laptop ensures smooth and efficient performance in demanding applications.

Does FAFSA cover laptops?

If a student needs a laptop for their enrollment or attendance at a qualifying college, they may use FAFSA funds to cover the cost. However, FAFSA itself does not provide laptops. To determine if a laptop qualifies as an education expense, students should inquire with their financial aid office. If the expense is approved, the cost will be included in their financial aid package, and they can use the funds to purchase a laptop. It is crucial to note that FAFSA funds can only be used for expenses directly related to higher education, and any other expenses must be covered by other means.

Can you buy a laptop with Pell Grant or student loans?

Yes. Pell Grants and student loans help students cover their education expenses. A laptop can qualify as an education expense if it’s needed for schooling.

Pell Grants and student loans can be used to pay for education-related expenses, including the cost of a laptop if it is required for a student’s enrollment or attendance at an eligible online school.

Can you buy a laptop with scholarship money?

Winning a scholarship is a great accomplishment and can provide you with essential resources to aid in your educational journey. However, it is important to note that scholarships usually cover tuition, fees, and other school-related costs. Depending on the terms and conditions of your scholarship, you may be able to use the funds to purchase a laptop.

If this is the case, it is best to consult your school’s scholarship provider or financial aid office for advice. They will be able to confirm whether the laptop meets the requirements for a qualified education expense and guide you through the process of using your scholarship funds for the purchase.

Ultimately, it’s good to consider all of your options before spending your scholarship money on a laptop.

Can I choose which free laptop I get?

Technology policies for laptop programs vary significantly among colleges. While some offer students a selection of laptops to choose from at discounted prices, others provide only a single model and do not allow customization. Before making a purchase, students should research the laptop programs offered by their college and understand the requirements regarding minimum hardware specifications such as RAM and storage capacity. 

Many colleges have laptop programs that offer discounts on specific laptop models, or discounts that can be applied to any laptop purchased. Additionally, students may be able to customize their laptops with additional RAM or storage and the choice of operating system. However, it is important to check the college’s policy to see what customizations are allowed. 

In conclusion, laptop programs can vary greatly depending on the college. Before making any purchases, students should research the laptop policy of their college and take advantage of any discounts offered. Moreover, they should also check the policy to see what customizations are allowed. With this information in hand, students can make informed decisions and get the best value for their money.

Can I keep the free laptop?

Some colleges let students keep their laptops after graduation, scot-free. Some schools give students the option to buy the laptop, while others just ask students to bring the laptop back when they leave. Check with your school’s office of technology for specifics on laptop policies.

Do Colleges Give Out Free Computers?

Generally, colleges aren’t giving out free computers per se, but a few on our list above offer free laptops to their students. Laptops tend to be better than PCs for college students due to portability and usability within the classroom itself.

What Colleges Give Apple Products?

Many colleges and universities offer Apple products to students, faculty, and staff. Some schools have partnerships with Apple and offer discounts on Apple products as part of their campus technology programs. Others may provide Apple products as part of a tech loan program or an online learning initiative.

Here are a few examples of colleges and universities that offer Apple products:

  • The University of Pennsylvania provides Apple laptops to all incoming undergraduate students as part of its Penn Laptop Program.
  • Duke University has a partnership with Apple and offers discounts on Apple products to students, faculty, and staff through its Duke University Stores.
  • Boston College offers its students an Apple laptop program, including a discounted price on a new Apple laptop.
  • The University of Notre Dame provides Apple laptops to its students as part of its Technology Loan Program.
  • The Georgia Institute of Technology offers discounts on Apple products to its students, faculty, and staff through its Technology Product Center.

38 Accredited Online Colleges That Offer Laptops in 2023

Many colleges and universities offer technology perks like a free laptop if you are enrolled in an online course. Check out these schools below for more information.

In addition to lower prices for software, we list dozens of schools with other technology incentives, such as discounts on hardware.

College/UniversityOfferingEligibility
Alabama State UniversityAlabama State loans MacBook Pro laptops to students through the Apple Loan Program.Current and future students
Amridge UniversityAmridge students can purchase laptops at a discounted price through the university.All students can receive discounts.
Auburn UniversityAmridge students can purchase laptops at a discounted price through the university.All students can receive discounts.
Auburn UniversityStudents at Auburn University can get discounts on laptops from Apple, HP, Dell, and IBM.All students can receive discounts.
Azusa Pacific UniversityAPU’s IMT Computer Store offers discounts for students, faculty, staff, and alumni on peripherals for Macs and PCs.All students can receive discounts.
California State University, BakersfieldStudents that don’t have access to technology can receive a free loaner laptop, Chromebook, or Wi-Fi hotspot–limited supply.Students who receive financial aid may apply for a loan increase to receive an allowance for purchasing a laptop. They may also borrow a university laptop annually.
California State University, East BayOn a first come, first serve basis, the Library Learning Commons has a limited supply of laptop computers available to check out for one semester.All students are eligible.
California State University, FullertonThe Center for Equitable Digital Access has a semester-long loaner program for laptops, iPads, MiFi (portable hotspots), headsets, webcams, monitors, and eGPUs.All students are eligible.
California State University, SacramentoThe Hornet Laptop Discount provided HEERF emergency grants to new and transfer students to offset the cost of purchasing an eligible laptop through the Hornet Bookstore.The program Ended March 1, 2022
Davenport UniversityStudents can receive various discounts through vendors, including Apple, Best Buy, Logitech, Lenovo, and Microsoft.All students can receive discounts from approved vendors.
Drexel UniversityDrexel students can get discounted rates on laptops at four vendors’ sites.All students can receive discounts.
Eastern Kentucky UniversityThe Barnes & Noble bookstore offers EKU students laptop discounts.All students can receive discounts.
Harvard UniversityHarvard students can receive free and discounted software and hardware from approved vendors on their site.All students can receive discounts.
Northwest Missouri State UniversityAll full and part-time students get a laptop they can keep until graduation. Students can return the laptop via mail too.All students are eligible.
Oklahoma State UniversityStudents can receive technology discounts at OrangeTech. Deeply discounted laptop bundles are individually customized based on your field of study.Incoming students can receive discounts.
Park UniversityStudents can get special prices on hardware and software at CDW, Dell, and ThinkEDU.Open to all at Park students, including alumni.
Purdue UniversityThe ITaP Shopping Program allows students, faculty, and alumni to get discounts on Apple and Dell laptops.All Purdue students can receive discounts.
San Diego State UniversityStudents can check laptops out from the library.All students can borrow the laptops on a first-come, first-served basis.
Seattle Pacific UniversitySPU’s Computer and Information Services facility offers discounted refurbished laptops to students.All students can purchase discounted laptops.
Seattle UniversityStudents get up to 30% discounts to purchase products from Dell.All students can receive discounts.
Southern Nazarene UniversityStudents can receive laptop discounts through Dell plus a free Microsoft Office license.Undergraduate students can receive discounts.
Stony Brook UniversityDell offers discounts on equipment to Stony Brook students.All students can receive discounts.
Ohio State UniversityOSU students can get discounts on laptop purchases at the university’s technology store.All students can receive discounts.
The University of Texas at AustinUT-Austin bookstore offers discounts on hardware, software, and accessories.All students can receive discounts.
The University of Texas at DallasUT-Dallas students get discounts from Apple, Dell, and Lenovo.All students can receive discounts.
The University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyStudents can receive discounts on Apple products at UT-Rio Grande Valley Tech Centers.All students enrolled in a degree or certificate program at UTRGV can receive discounts.
The University of Texas at San AntonioUTSA partners with Dell to provide discounts on technology products, and the campus technology store also provides discounts on Dell, Lenovo, and Apple products.All students can receive discounts.
The University of Texas at TylerUT-Tyler students can receive discounts on Dell laptops.All students can receive discounts.
University of ArizonaCampus stores offer discounts on laptop purchases.All students can receive discounts.
University of California, BerkeleyStudents can receive discounts on technology purchases from Apple, Microsoft, HP, Best Buy, and Lenovo.All students can receive discounts.
University of California, DavisStudents at UC Davis can receive discounts on Apple products at TechHUB and the UC Davis Bookstore.All UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education students can receive discounts.
University of California, IrvineStudents are eligible for a $2,000 budget increase if they get financial aid. Furthermore, UCI offers discounts from several partners.Students receiving financial aid can get a $2,000 allowance for a new computer. All students can receive discounts.
University of Central FloridaUCF’s computer store offers students discounts on Apple and Dell products.All students can receive discounts.
University of MichiganAt UM’s tech shop, students can get discounts on hardware.All students and alumni can receive discounts.
University of Nevada, Las VegasDell, Apple, Lenovo, Microsoft, and HP offer discounts to UNLV students.All students can receive discounts.
Villanova UniversityVillanova students can get laptop discounts through Connection and Apple.All students can receive discounts.
Washington State UniversityCORETECH offers students discounts on technology purchases.All students can receive discounts.
Western Washington UniversityStudents can receive discounts from the following companies: Apple, Dell, Lenovo, HP, and Microsoft.All students can receive discounts.

List of Online Colleges Offering Laptops

  1. Seton Hill University – MacBook Air or iPad: Seton Hill University students have the option to select either a 13-inch MacBook Air or an iPad Mini. The MacBook Air features 8 GB of RAM, a 256 GB hard drive, and a 1.7 GHz processor, while the iPad Mini offers 32 GB of storage. Graduates can keep their devices, but the university charges a $1,000 technology fee in addition to standard tuition.
  2. Stevens-Henager College – Laptop Included: The cost of a laptop is integrated into the standard tuition and fees at Stevens-Henager College. After graduation, students are allowed to keep their laptops.
  3. Southern Nazarene University – Multiple Laptop Options: Online students at Southern Nazarene University receive a 14-inch Fujitsu Lifebook E555, a 13-inch MacBook Pro, or a 15-inch MacBook Pro. After completing one semester, students own the laptop outright.
  4. Wake Forest University – Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Ultrabook: Students receive a “free” 14-inch Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Ultrabook, pre-loaded with educational software and cloud-based tools. The laptop must be returned upon graduation or can be purchased for approximately $300. There is no direct charge for using the laptop.
  5. Northwest Missouri State University – HP EliteBook 840 G1: Students are provided a free 14-inch HP EliteBook 840 G1 laptop, which is included in the standard tuition. The laptop must be returned upon graduation, and a $50 fee is charged for using it during summer breaks.
  6. St. John’s University – Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga or MacBook Pro: St. John’s University students can choose between a 12-inch Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga and a 13-inch MacBook Pro. The school charges a one-time $49 fee for the Lenovo and $400 for the MacBook Pro. Graduates are allowed to keep their laptops.
  7. Bethel University – Laptops for Freshmen: Bethel University provides laptops to all incoming, on-campus freshmen during orientation. The cost of the laptop is included in the normal tuition, but students must pick up the laptop during their first semester or forfeit the offer.
  8. American National University (ANU) – Laptop and Academic Software: ANU, an accredited online college, offers free laptops and academic software to all new U.S. students. These are mailed approximately one week before the start of classes. ANU’s academic programs focus on business, healthcare, and technology up to the master’s level, with new programs in development.
  9. Centenary College: Centenary College provides laptops to students, included in the tuition fees.
  10. Widener University – For Engineering Students Only: Widener University offers laptops to engineering students as a part of their tuition fees.
  11. Everest University – Laptop Loaner Program (Currently unavailable as of 02/17): Everest University had a Laptop Loaner Program, which is currently not available.
  12. Full Sail University – Project Launchbox: Full Sail University offers laptops through their Project Launchbox initiative.
  13. CollegeAmerica – Laptop for Undergraduate Students: CollegeAmerica provides free laptops to undergraduate students, which they can keep upon graduation. Each laptop comes with software specific to the student’s undergraduate or graduate degree program. The cost of the laptop and software is included in the normal tuition, with no extra fees.
  14. Independence University Online – Laptop and Tablet: Independence University Online offers free laptops and tablets to its students. Students receive a tablet during their first “module” and a laptop during their fourth module. Both devices come fully equipped with all the necessary software for their academic program. Graduates are allowed to keep
  15. both the tablet and laptop after graduation. If you’re seeking an online college that provides laptops to its students while maximizing their chances of graduating, Independence University is an excellent choice.
  16. Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) – Laptop for Online Executive MBA Students: RIT provides a laptop to students enrolled in their online Executive MBA program. The laptop is included in the program’s tuition and fees and comes pre-loaded with the necessary software for the coursework.
  17. Wentworth Institute of Technology – Laptop for All Students: Wentworth Institute of Technology offers a laptop to all students, with the cost included in their tuition fees. The laptop comes pre-loaded with the necessary software for their academic program, and students can keep the laptop upon graduation.
  18. Chatham University – Laptop for Undergraduate Students: Chatham University provides a laptop to undergraduate students, with the cost included in their tuition fees. The laptop comes equipped with software tailored to the student’s academic program, and students are allowed to keep the laptop after graduation.
  19. Indiana State University – Laptop for Online Students: Indiana State University offers a laptop to online students, with the cost incorporated into their tuition fees. The laptop comes with pre-installed software specific to the student’s academic program.
  20. University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) – Laptop for Online Students: UMGC provides a laptop to online students, with the cost included in their tuition fees. The laptop comes pre-loaded with the necessary software for their academic program, and students can keep the laptop upon graduation.
  21. Ohio Christian University (OCU) – Laptop for All Students: OCU offers a laptop to all students, with the cost integrated into their tuition fees. The laptop comes equipped with software tailored to the student’s academic program, and students are allowed to keep the laptop after graduation.

If your college is not on this list, they still might offer laptops or iPads. Contact your advisor to ask about your school’s laptop program.

Online Colleges that Offer iPads

The University of Florida, American Public University, Ashworth College, Grand Canyon University, and Strayer University all offer iPad programs to their online students at no additional cost. Through these programs, students are provided with a new iPad, a case, and sometimes a stylus pen, depending on the university. This is a great opportunity for students to obtain the latest technology and keep up with their studies easily.

Each university has different terms and conditions when it comes to the iPad program, so it is important to read through them carefully before obtaining the iPad. By doing so, students can make sure they are aware of all the expectations and requirements of the program.

Duke University Global Health Institute – free iPad

Long Island University – free iPad mini

Bethel University – iPads Only

Illinois Institute of Technology – iPads Only

Seton Hill University – Macbook or iPad

Regis College – iPad Only

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota – iPad Only

Further Reading: Best Online Schools

Online Colleges With Free Laptops and iPads

COLLEGE AMERICA – This school offers all of its students laptop rentals. If for some reason, you are unable to complete your courses and graduate, they must be returned to the school immediately. The laptops are considered rentals until you graduate. After graduation, however, it becomes yours! ALL yours! Master’s students do not qualify for this program at all. This is not something publicized by the school.

STEVENS-HENAGER COLLEGE – When students sign up for this college’s online, hybrid course programs, they get a laptop. Make sure your intentions are to graduate, however, or it’s labeled as a loaner. If you graduate from their courses, you can keep it as a graduation gift! How cool is that?

BETHEL UNIVERSITY: This college offers iPads to each and every online and full-time student who enrolls. Rumor has it that you can hang on to your iPad after you graduate, but I’d want to check this out with the school before you start believing something that could be nothing more than a barrel of monkeys kind of story! They also do not advertise what their tuition costs cover, so we are not sure if this is free. The point is, they do have them, and you can get your own!

ILLINOIS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY – Sure, they give away iPads to all incoming freshmen—if you can afford their tuition rates! (Ranges between $250,000 and $300,000!) It’s crazy how they can charge that much and make statements that imply these big-buck tuition rates DO NOT include the cost of your brand-new iPad. Does that make it a gift?

LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY – As a full-time undergrad, you can take classes through this university’s CW Post campus. They have a great variety of online courses, and each student gets a mini iPad to stay up-to-date and use the information they’ve learned even after graduating. Can’t afford full-time classes? This university has a great solution: those who qualify can get a whopping $250 discount.

EVEREST UNIVERSITY ONLINE: This college is recognized nationwide. They offer loaner laptops to students who take ONLY online courses! They have courses for a variety of majors. Their program has helped thousands of students succeed by making it possible for them to stay connected to the classroom virtually.

FULL SAIL UNIVERSITY: Students who attend Full Sail University are required to have a computer for their studies. The school provides this free laptop. The school does charge you a fee, which is taken out of your student loans, and the cost depends on which computer you intend to purchase and, of course, what courses you plan on taking. They also provide their necessary software suite, which they call “Project Launch Box.”

Last but not least, we will include a community college. We have seen a lot of lists with big-wig colleges and universities, but none with online colleges that offer laptops or iPads for just your average community college student who cannot afford Harvard-priced tuition, so here it goes. Last, on the list, we have:

FORT WAYNE COMMUNITY COLLEGE: This college has many campuses all over Indiana. They also have online courses available. They offer a variety of laptops, iPads, and Android tablets. You have to go inside one of their bookstores to purchase one with your student loans, but after you make the purchase, you can use it for strictly online course use!

Free Laptops for College Students from the Government

No matter your circumstances, you can’t call the government and request a free laptop if you’re a college student.

That said, some government-funded programs provide loaner or affordable laptops to college students in need.

In your local area, you can connect with the following:

  • Department of Social Health Services – they’ll connect students and potential students with programs and non-profit organizations that can assist in getting a free laptop for college students or at least point them in the right direction.
  • Benefits.gov – This site will help you find government benefits you qualify for.
  • DisasterAssistance.gov – If you’ve been a victim of hurricanes or other natural disasters, you may qualify for help from the government, maybe not in the form of a free laptop for college students from the government, but there may be other help.

While we wish that the government would step in and provide laptops for low-income or need-based students, they currently don’t have a program in place.

If the government won’t give you a free laptop and the schools above don’t fit what you need, you won’t be stranded without a laptop.

A handful of organizations offer free or heavily discounted laptops for low-income families who can’t afford them on their own.

Comparing Laptops for College Students

Laptops can be very cheap and still get a decent job done for basic tasks that students are required to complete during their college years, while some are super expensive if you’re looking for one with all the bells and whistles.

Below is a list of our recommended laptops for an online undergraduate or graduate students.

PRODUCTTECHSCOREPRICESCREEN SIZEWEIGHTRAM
Asus Chromebook Flip (C100PA-DB02)Chrome OSN/A$23910.1 Inches1.96 Lbs.4 GB
Lenovo ThinkPad T450sMicrosoft WindowsN/A$1,254.9914 Inches3.5 Lbs.8 GB
Acer Aspire E5-573G-57HRMicrosoft WindowsN/A$554.9915. 6inches5.29 Lbs.8 GB
Alienware 15Microsoft WindowsN/A$1,899.9915.6 Inches7.1 Lbs.16 GB
Apple MacBook Air 13-InchMac OS XN/A$894.7813.3 Inches2.96 Lbs.4 GB
Apple MacBook Pro 13-Inch, Retina DisplayMac OS XN/A$1,234.9913.3 Inches3.48 Lbs.8 GB
Dell Latitude 13 7000 Series 2-In-1 (7350)Microsoft WindowsN/A$1,54913.3 Inches1.92 Lbs.8 GB
Dell Latitude 14 7000 Series (E7450)Microsoft WindowsN/A$1,368.3014 Inches3.59 Lbs.8 GB
Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga 12Microsoft WindowsN/A$1,572.9912.5 Inches3.48 Lbs.8 GB
MSI GT72 Dominator Pro G-1438Microsoft WindowsN/A$2,09917. 3 Inches8.5 Pounds16 GB

Comparing Tablets and Readers for College Students

Here are some of the top-performing tablets for college students.

PRODUCTTECHSCOREPRICEDIMENSIONSWEIGHTSTORAGE CAPACITY
Apple IPad AirApple IOSN/A$3399.7 Inches16.86 Oz16 GB
Apple IPad Air 2Apple IOS 8N/A$449.889.7 Inches0.96 Lb16, 64, 128 GB
Asus Transformer Book T100TA (64GB)Microsoft WindowsN/A$25610.1 Inches1.44/2.4 Lb64 GB
Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4Android 4.4N/A$3998.4 Inches11.68 Oz16 GB
Apple IPad Mini 2Apple IOSN/A$2597.9 Inches11.68 Oz16, 32 GB
Asus VivoTab Note 8Microsoft WindowsN/A$289.998 Inches0.85 Lb32 GB
Dell Venue 11 Pro 7000 Series (7140)Microsoft WindowsN/A$79910.8 Inches1.6 Lb128 GB
Microsoft Surface 3Microsoft Windows 8.1N/A$599.9910.8 Inches1.37 Lb128 GB
Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5Android 4.4N/A$448.9910.5 Inches16.47 Oz16 GB
Google Nexus 9Android 5.0N/A$305.378.9 Inches14.99 Oz16, 32 GB

Further Reading: Cheapest Online College

Online Colleges that Offer Laptop Discounts

Online Programs That Might Interest You

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.