Are colleges really giving away laptops and iPads for free?!
Yes, they are!
As the digital era progresses, more students are embracing online education, enabling them to learn independently and conveniently from their homes. Laptops have evolved into indispensable instruments for students to engage in online discussions, access learning materials, and accomplish assignments, as technology maintains a critical function in the educational terrain.
To support this shift in education and help reduce the financial burden on students, several online schools have started providing laptops to their enrolled students. This comprehensive guide discusses online schools that offer laptops, the benefits of attending an online school, eligibility requirements, and the application process for obtaining a free or discounted laptop. By understanding the various options available, prospective students can make informed decisions about their educational paths and take advantage of these laptop programs to enhance their learning experience.
College learners can experience a significant transformation in their academic performance when equipped with technology, enabling them to efficiently organize their tasks, communicate with peers, and readily obtain course materials, irrespective of the mode of delivery. When searching for a successful online college, contemplate choosing an institution that provides complimentary 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.Online Schools That Offer Free Laptops
- Free loaner laptops through STEP Program for students with demonstrated financial need (Bakersfield)
- Free loaner laptops can be checked out every semester (all students) (East Bay, Fullerton)
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Net Price: $7,454
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
- Median Earnings: $52,606
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 89%
- Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 65%
Most Popular Majors at California State University, Bakersfield
- Business: 373 graduates
- Liberal Arts and Humanities: 287 graduates
- Psychology: 234 graduates
- Criminal Justice and Safety Studies: 159 graduates
- Biology: 145 graduates
- Physical Education Teaching and Coaching: 117 graduates
- Early Childhood Education: 114 graduates
- Sociology: 110 graduates
- Nursing: 102 graduates
- Communications: 98 graduates
CSU Bakersfield STEP Program Offers Free Technology to Students
The California State University Bakersfield (CSUB) STEP Program is a bold initiative to enhance learner achievement and create more equitable opportunities for the CSUB community by providing industry-leading technology.
The program adheres to a first-come, first served policy in furnishing students with complimentary laptops, tablets, and additional equipment. The devices are available to all learners, regardless of financial need.
The STEP Program has been a huge success, with over 2,000 learners receiving devices since its inception in 2021. Learners who have received devices through the program have reported improved academic performance, increased engagement in online learning, and greater access to resources through its online courses with free laptops.
The STEP Program is a valuable resource for CSUB learners. This approach equalizes opportunities and guarantees that every student is equipped with the necessary resources to thrive academically.
Here are some of the benefits of the STEP Program:
- Improved academic performance
- Increased engagement in online learning
- Greater access to resources
- Reduced financial burden on learners
- Increased equity and opportunity for all learners
- New and returning students are issued free laptop computers at the beginning of each semester.
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Net Price: $11,593
- Acceptance Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Median Earnings: $47,869
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 90%
- Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 79%
Most Popular Majors
- Accounting: 55 graduates
- Business: 55 graduates
- Liberal Arts and Humanities: 34 graduates
- Healthcare Management: 33 graduates
- Finance: 28 graduates
- Natural Resources Conservation and Management: 26 graduates
- Operations Management: 24 graduates
- Communications: 23 graduates
- Animal Sciences and Husbandry: 20 graduates
- Computer Software Engineering: 17 graduates
University of Minnesota Crookston Offers Free Laptops to On-Campus Learners
UMC offers free laptops to all on-campus learners. The free laptop for college program is designed to help learners succeed in their studies by providing them with access to the latest technology.
The laptops that are provided to learners are HP laptops that are preloaded with all of the software that learners need for their classes. Learners are also given a one-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365.
The free laptop program has been very successful. Learners who have received laptops through the program have reported improved academic performance, increased engagement in online learning, and greater access to resources.
The free laptop program is a valuable resource for UMC learners.
Here are some of the benefits of the free laptop program:
- Improved academic performance
- Increased engagement in online learning
- Greater access to resources
- Reduced financial burden on learners
- Increased equity and opportunity for all learners
- A one-time budget increase of $2,000 can be requested for a new laptop for undergraduate students receiving financial aid
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Net Price: $12,209
- Acceptance Rate: 30%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
- Median Earnings: $71,961
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 90%
- Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 77%
Most Popular Majors
- Biology: 832 Graduates
- Computer Science: 805 Graduates
- Managerial Economics: 696 Graduates
- Social Psychology: 581 Graduates
- Public Health: 501 Graduates
- Economics: 441 Graduates
- Criminology: 429 Graduates
- Education: 367 Graduates
- Political Science and Government: 307 Graduates
- Business: 306 Graduates
UC Irvine Offers Free Laptops to All Students
UCI students, especially those in the Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences (ICS), need a laptop to complete their coursework. To ensure that all learners have access to the necessary digital tools for their studies, financial aid to purchase a laptop is available for all who qualify.
If UCI students receive financial aid during the fall semester, they may seek a one time budget expansion of up to $2,000 to acquire a new computer.
This allowance is designated for hardware, software, monitor, printer, and extended warranty expenses. Funding is limited to student and/or parent loans, subject to eligibility and borrowing limits.
UCI has outlined minimum laptop requirements for learners to ensure the best possible learning experience. These requirements exclude Chromebooks and tablets and include:
- A Windows 10 or recent Mac OS X operating system
- A Core i5 processor or higher
- At least 8 GB of RAM
- A 256 GB solid-state drive or larger
- A built-in webcam
- On-board video for graphics
- Warranty and Accidental Damage Protection
Warranty and accidental damage protection are not mandatory but strongly recommended.
UCI’s laptop program is designed to help learners reach their academic goals and stay connected throughout their academic journey. By providing financial aid and guidance on laptop standards, UCI aims to ensure all students have the tools they need to succeed.
Engineering Students
Engineering students have specific laptop requirements, which can be found on the Engineering website. Additionally, Mac laptops are not suitable for engineering students, so please make sure to choose a device that meets the standards for your specific major.
- Free laptop that must be returned upon graduation for all students
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Net Price: $12,925
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
- Median Earnings: $43,505
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 95%
- Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 65%
Most Popular Majors
- Elementary Education: 148 graduates
- Business: 113 graduates
- Marketing: 70 graduates
- Psychology: 66 graduates
- Agricultural Business: 64 graduates
- Communications: 63 graduates
- Biology: 48 graduates
- Social Psychology: 46 graduates
- Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies: 43 graduates
- Information Science: 39 graduates
Northwest University Laptop Program
Northwest University is a college that provides laptop options for all undergraduate and graduate students with its free laptop computer program. Laptop models may vary depending on availability and enrollment status. Online professional program students are not eligible for this program.
Northwest will repair any hardware or software failure that is due to normal wear and tear for free. However, Northwest owns the laptop and its software, so they have the right to format and reload the hard drive without the user’s permission. Users are encouraged to back up their important personal files on a weekly basis.
Students must return their free laptop to the Northwest Technology Service Center (NTSC) before or on the last day of finals week or within 5 business days of withdrawing from the University. In most cases, students are not charged for minor damage, such as a broken screen or a lost AC adapter. However, students will be charged for major damage, such as vandalism or theft.
Students can add decorative or personal stickers to their laptop, but they must remove them before returning the free laptop to Northwest. The Northwest ID sticker must remain intact and not damaged.
Students are financially responsible for any major damage, loss, or theft of their laptop up to $1,500.
- Free loaner laptops can be checked out from the library
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Net Price: $13,845
- Acceptance Rate: 37%
- Graduation Rate: 79%
- Median Earnings: $59,027
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 92%
- Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 74%
Most Popular Majors
- Business: 1,682 graduates
- Liberal Arts and Humanities: 524 graduates
- Psychology: 524 graduates
- Physical Education Teaching and Coaching: 386 graduates
- Criminal Justice and Safety Studies: 317 graduates
- Mechanical Engineering: 306 graduates
- Biology: 284 graduates
- Economics: 236 graduates
- Nursing: 224 graduates
- Communications: 221 graduates
SDSU students can checkout laptops and other technology at the Circulation Desk. All equipment is on a first-come, first-served basis. Laptops can be checked out for one semester at a time. Ipads can be checked out for seven days.
How to Checkout Equipment
SDSU students can checkout laptops and other technology at the Circulation Desk.
Equipment Available
- Laptops: Mac, Chromebook, and Windows laptops are available for checkout.
- Tablets: Ipads and Pad Kit with apple pencil and key board are available for checkout.
- Projectors: Portable and stationary projectors are available for checkout.
- Cameras: Digital still and video cameras are available for checkout.
- Other equipment: Audio/visual equipment, such as microphones and speakers, is also available for checkout.
- Microsoft Surface Laptop Go via Sycamore Technology Award for freshmen who are admitted and are Pell-eligible as determined by the FAFSA
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Net Price: $14,270
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Median Earnings: $42,877
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 93%
- Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 62%
Most Popular Majors
- Nursing: 201 graduates
- Criminology: 141 graduates
- Psychology: 119 graduates
- Elementary Education: 104 graduates
- Business: 88 graduates
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies: 73 graduates
- Communications: 71 graduates
- Mechanical Engineering Technician: 66 graduates
- Liberal Arts and Humanities: 64 graduates
- Community Health Services and Counseling: 62 graduates
Indiana State University Laptop Program
Indiana State University (ISU) offers a free laptop program to incoming freshmen who are admitted and are Pell-eligible. The free laptop is a Microsoft Surface Laptop Go with Touch screen, Intel Core i5 processor, 8 gig of RAM, 256GB Solid State Drive, 3 Year Warranty and 3 Year (max 2 incidents) Accidental Damage Protection.
To be eligible, students must:
- Be admitted to ISU
- Be Pell-eligible
- Enroll full-time
- Be a resident of Indiana or another state
- Not be an online-only or returning ISU student
Students do not need to apply for the free laptop program. They will be automatically considered if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Rules and Regulations
The free laptop program is subject to the following rules and regulations:
- Students must maintain full-time enrollment to keep the laptop.
- Students must return the laptop in good condition when they graduate or withdraw from ISU.
- Students are responsible for any damage to the laptop.
Combining Scholarships
Students who qualify for the Sycamore Technology Award may also qualify for other scholarships. The amount of financial aid available to a student is restricted, however.
- Laptop or Google Chromebook
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Net Price: $15,717
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Median Earnings: $40,767
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 90%
- Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 62%
Most Popular Majors
- Business: 282 graduates
- Criminal Justice and Safety Studies: 168 graduates
- Liberal Arts and Humanities: 23 graduates
- Nursing: 23 graduates
- Homeland Security and Disaster Management: 18 graduates
- Physical Education Teaching and Coaching: 16 graduates
- Biology: 13 graduates
- Psychology: 11 graduates
- Accounting: 9 graduates
- Human Services: 7 graduates
Bethel University’s Laptop Program For First-Year Students
At Bethel University’s orientation, all incoming first-year students who will be residing on campus are provided with computers to facilitate their academic pursuits. These laptops are already included in the standard tuition fees, ensuring that students do not face any additional financial burden for this essential tool.
Students have a flexible window up until the conclusion of their initial semester to acquire their laptops. It is crucial for them to claim their devices within this timeframe, as failure to do so would result in forfeiting the offer. This arrangement ensures that students have adequate time to settle in and obtain their laptops at a convenient moment during their initial semester.
The provided laptops are Chromebooks, specifically designed to operate using Google’s internet-based Chrome OS. This streamlined and easy-to-use system is especially advantageous for teaching professionals, as it facilitates effective and prompt management of their tasks. Chromebooks easily merge with Google’s wide-ranging assortment of productivity software, featuring Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides. This integration empowers both instructors and students to generate, disseminate, and cooperate on various materials such as documents, presentations, and spreadsheets effortlessly.
- Laptop rental, $250 deposit
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Net Price: $18,455
- Acceptance Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Median Earnings: $46,070
- Retention Rate: 66%
- Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 88%
- Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 63%
Saint Leo University Laptop Program For All Students
Saint Leo University is dedicated to providing all students with the necessary technology to facilitate their academic success. To achieve this, the Department of Information Technology offers a Laptop Rental Program for various categories of students at the University Campus. This includes transfer students, part-time students, and commuters, ensuring that a wide range of learners can benefit from the initiative.
The eligibility criteria for the DoIT Laptop Rental Program are as follows:
- The student must be enrolled in an undergraduate program at Saint Leo University’s main campus.
- The student must be registered for at least a part-time course load.
Operating on a first-come, first-served principle, the Laptop Rental Program necessitates that students who are interested submit their applications promptly. To secure a rental laptop a deposit of $250 is required. This deposit demonstrates the student’s commitment to the program and helps ensure the availability of laptops for future students.
By offering this Laptop Rental Program, Saint Leo University supports its students in their educational journey, allowing them to access essential technological resources for their studies.
- Free laptops and software for all domestic students
- Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
- Net Price: $21,500
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Median Earnings: $24,951
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 78%
- Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 28%
Most Popular Programs
- Health Professions and Related Programs
- Business
- Management
- Marketing
- Related Support Services
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services.
American National University Laptop Program For All Students
American National University, a reputable online college, is a college that provides laptop options for all new students from the United States with complimentary laptops and academic software to support their educational journey. These laptops are shipped to the students approximately one week prior to the commencement of the semester ensuring they have the necessary resources before online courses with their free laptops begin.
ANU’s academic offerings focus primarily on three key areas up to the master’s level: business, medicine, and technology. This targeted approach allows students to develop specialized skills and knowledge in their chosen fields. To stay relevant and cater to the evolving needs of students ANU is continuously working on expanding its program offerings by developing new courses and degree options.
By providing students with essential technological resources and a variety of academic programs, American National University demonstrates its commitment to fostering supportive and accessible learning environment for its online student community.
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Net Price: Tuition and Fees
Strayer University Online Laptop Program For New Students
Strayer University demonstrates its dedication to the academic and professional growth of its students by providing all newly admitted or readmitted undergraduate students with a brand new laptop. Upon registering for any online bachelors degree programs provided by SU, students qualify to obtain a laptop equipped with Microsoft software which serves to enrich their educational journey.
Strayer University allows students to keep the laptop permanently once they have successfully completed the first three quarters of their enrolled classes. This acts as a motivation for students to maintain their dedication and involvement in their academic pursuits. However, to avoid incurring a $350 charge for the laptop students must either complete three of the first four quarters of their enrollment or return the device.
- Apple MacBook Pro or MSI gaming laptop (depends on major) and degree-specific software
- Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
- Net Price: $27,454
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Median Earnings: $44,344
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 87%
- Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 45%
Most Popular Majors
- Human-Computer Interaction: 617 graduates
- Radio and Television Broadcasting Technician: 616 graduates
- Communications: 529 graduates
- Graphic Design: 399 graduates
- Design and Visual Communications: 351 graduates
- Communications Technicians: 320 graduates
- Film and Video Studies: 308 graduates
- Music Technology: 293 graduates
- Multimedia: 282 graduates
- Rhetoric and Composition: 253 graduates
Full Sail University Laptop Program For All Students
Under their “Project Launchbox” initiative, Full Sail University has collaborated with Apple to give each student a free laptop computer of the most recent version of the MacBook Pro as well as the essential software applications for the student to be successful in their chosen field of study. When it comes to establishing and constructing their portfolios, Project LaunchBox is intended to provide students with everything they require to do so successfully. LaunchBoxes are unique to each degree program. This ensures that students obtain hardware and software that is up to date with the constantly shifting requirements of the business.
Digital arts degrees like as Game Development, Software Development, and Simulation & Visualization are examples of the types of programs that receive an MSI laptop rather than a MacBook Pro for its students. The Launchbox is priced at $3,000, but students who keep their grade point average at or above 1.0 are eligible for a scholarship worth the same amount.
Click here to request more information about the Launchbox program.
- Free MacBook Pro laptops and iPads for first-year students
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Net Price: $27,801
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Median Earnings: $61,264
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 93%
- Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 77%
Most Popular Majors
- Nursing: 118 graduates
- Business: 59 graduates
- Health Service Preparatory Studies: 44 graduates
- Psychology: 41 graduates
- Sociology: 26 graduates
- Economics: 23 graduates
- Accounting: 22 graduates
- Arts: 20 graduates
- Biology: 20 graduates
- Liberal Arts and Humanities: 20 graduates
Moravian University Laptop Program For All Students
Upon admission acceptance to Moravian University as a freshman undergraduate, you will be furnished with an Apple MacBook Pro, an iPad, and an Apple Pencil to facilitate your academic pursuits. These cutting-edge technological tools are yours to keep even after completing your studies at Moravian, allowing you to continue leveraging them in your professional endeavors.
Since 2018, Moravian College has earned the prestigious title of “Distinguished School” from Apple Inc. This acknowledgment underscores the university’s steadfast dedication to continuous innovation across multiple facets of education, encompassing student education, faculty growth, and the comprehensive campus atmosphere. The university’s partnership with Apple Inc. and its distinguished status reflects its dedication to embracing cutting-edge technology in the pursuit of academic excellence.
- Free 13-inch MacBook Air laptops, cases, and backpacks for all first-year and some transfer students
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Net Price: $27,830
- Acceptance Rate: 66%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Median Earnings: $42,808
- Retention Rate: 78%
- Employed 2 Years After Graduation: 91%
- Percentage Earning More Than a High School Graduate: 66%
Most Popular Majors
- Psychology: 34 graduates
- Biology: 32 graduates
- Nursing: 30 graduates
- Communications: 22 graduates
- Interior Architecture: 16 graduates
- Sustainability Studies: 16 graduates
- Kinesiology and Exercise Science: 11 graduates
- Criminology: 10 graduates
- Elementary Education: 9 graduates
- Marketing: 8 graduates
Chatham University Undergraduate Laptop Program
As part of the Chatham Universities undergraduate 1:1 Laptop Program, a 13-inch MacBook Air laptop will be provided to each and every first-year undergraduate student who is enrolling at the university. In addition to receiving a laptop, students will also receive a backpack and a sleeve to keep it in. Transfer students may or may not be given a 13-inch MacBook or MacBook Air. This all depends on how many credits are being transferred over to Chatham University.
The Technology Fee accounts for all of the expenses related to the computer and the services. When students complete their education, ownership of the equipment is transferred to them in accordance with the terms of the Student Technology Program Computing Agreement (Student Contract). Chatham University offers a wide variety of online bachelor’s degrees and online graduate degrees.
Online Colleges that Offer iPads
These universities offer free iPad programs to their online students: the University of Florida, American Public University, Ashworth College, Grand Canyon University, and Strayer University.
The iPad programs provide students with a new iPad, case, and sometimes a stylus pen, depending on the school.
Each school has unique terms and conditions for its iPad programs, so students should read them carefully before receiving the iPad. This way, they can be aware of all program expectations and requirements.
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
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota – iPad Only
Further Reading: Best Online Schools
Online Colleges With Free Laptops and iPads
STEVENS-HENAGER COLLEGE – This college provides laptops to students taking online or hybrid courses, empowering them to stay on top of their studies. Upon graduation, the laptop is presented to the student as a valuable gift. How amazing is that as a graduation present!
BETHEL UNIVERSITY: Enrolling as a full-time or online student at this college grants you an iPad to utilize during your studies. It remains uncertain whether you can retain possession of it after graduation, but it serves as a valuable tool nonetheless.
ILLINOIS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY – Despite the exorbitant tuition rates, new students are bestowed with an iPad upon enrollment, which, although not explicitly encompassed within the tuition fees, presents a remarkable perk for the students.
LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY – At the CW Post campus, full-time undergraduate students are equipped with a mini iPad to aid them in their studies and beyond. Those who do not qualify for full-time enrollment can still benefit from a deduction of $250 on their course fees.
EVEREST UNIVERSITY ONLINE: Enrolled students in online courses at this prestigious university receive loaner laptops, facilitating seamless connectivity to their academic pursuits.
FULL SAIL UNIVERSITY: Full Sail University offers its students a valuable resource by providing a complimentary laptop and software suite. While the cost of this amenity is deducted from the student loans, it remains an exceptional tool for those who are actively pursuing their degrees.
Last but not least, we will include a community college. While numerous lists feature prestigious universities and colleges, we’ve noticed a lack of online institutions that provide laptops or iPads to the average community college student, who may not have the financial means to attend institutions with exorbitant tuition fees like Harvard. Hence, we seize this chance to occupy that empty space.
Last, on the list, we have:
FORT WAYNE COMMUNITY COLLEGE: Learners at this college can access a range of laptops, iPads, and Android tablets, which can be purchased using student loans. These devices prove to be valuable tools for those who exclusively take online courses.
What are online schools?
Online schools are educational institutions that deliver courses and degree programs primarily through the internet. By utilizing remote access, students can remotely retrieve materials, engage in discussions, and accomplish tasks, affording them a versatile and convenient atmosphere for learning.
Why might you want to attend an online school? Learners who attend online schools can learn at their own pace, experience schedule flexibility, and access a broad range of programs and courses not available in traditional educational settings.
What are the benefits of attending an online school?
- Financial savings: Laptops and iPads can be expensive, so receiving a free one can be a significant financial relief for students on a tight budget. By choosing an online college that offers a free or discounted device, students can save money and make their education more affordable.
- Access to resources: Students can enhance their learning experience by accessing online materials, taking notes, and communicating with professors and classmates, all facilitated by a laptop or iPad. Having a reliable device ensures that students can complete their assignments, access necessary resources, and participate in online discussions.
- Organization: Laptops and iPads help students manage assignments, due dates, and grades, keeping them organized throughout their studies. Students can enhance their learning experience by accessing online materials, taking notes, and communicating with professors and classmates, all facilitated by a laptop or iPad.
- Staying connected: Online learners can stay in touch with friends and family using their laptops or iPads. Students can effectively manage the stresses of college life and foster stronger connections with their loved ones by actively cultivating a robust support network.
FAQs
- What are the benefits of attending an online school?
By providing flexibility, convenience, and the autonomy to learn at one’s own pace, online schools empower learners. Atypical offerings abound at non-traditional schools, presenting an extensive array of programs and courses not typically found elsewhere. - How do I know if an online school is accredited?
Research the school’s website for information about its accreditation status or search for it in the database of accredited institutions maintained by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. - How do I choose an online school?
When evaluating a school, examine its accreditation status, available programs, costs, support services, and overall standing. Read reviews and testimonials, and reach out to current or former students for insights. - How do I apply for financial aid for an online school?
Start by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Assessing your eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs will be aided by this. Additionally, research scholarships, grants, and other financial assistance opportunities offered by the school or outside organizations. - What are the different types of laptops that are available?
Laptop models and specifications may differ among schools, with some offering basic models for general use and others providing more advanced devices suitable for specific fields or programs. - What are the eligibility requirements for receiving a free or discounted laptop?
In order to qualify for financial assistance, one must typically be enrolled in a degree program, uphold a minimum GPA, and exhibit a financial necessity, though specific standards vary by institution.
Online Classes for Medical Billing and Coding with Free Laptop
Meditec and Texas A&M Kingsville offer free laptops for all students enrolled in any Meditec program, including their medical billing and coding program.
This program costs an average of $3,500 and includes exam fees, books, and materials. This fully online platform provides round-the-clock access and enables students to receive assistance and guidance from both their peers and instructors through text, call, or email.
The Meditec and Texas A&M Kingsville program teaches learners to perform medical billing and coding tasks, including submitting claims to insurance companies and evaluating coding practices. It also teaches learners how to develop compliance programs that meet healthcare regulations.
The program consists of three courses: Medical Terminology, Medical Coding, and Medical Billing.
These courses cover the language needed for communication in healthcare, coding systems used in healthcare, and the complexities of medical billing and reimbursement. Upon completion, learners will be ready to take the Certified Billing and Coding Specialist exam, and we’ll provide a voucher for exam registration.
Organizations That Offer Laptops
A handful of organizations offer free or heavily discounted laptops for low-income families who can’t afford them on their own.
- Computers With Causes
- Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse
- Computer Technology Assistance Corps (CTAC)
- Everyone On
- Freecycle
- The On It Foundation
- The World Computer Exchange
- Interconnection
- Craigslist
- PCs for People
- The National Cristina Foundation
- Seattle Community Network
- Komputers 4 R Kids
- Microsoft Registered Refurbishers
- SAM.gov Assistance Listings
- Smart Riverside
- With Causes
Which laptop is best for online classes?
No laptop can be deemed “best” for all online classes. Any laptop that can hook up to WiFi will work for basic classes that don’t require photo or video editing. For photo and/or video editing, learners will need a more powerful laptop with a heftier price tag.
For learners finding the perfect laptop to meet their academic and personal needs can be challenging. Learners may feel daunted by the plethora of choices when selecting an option that suits their budget, offers essential features, and endures throughout their college years.
From lightweight and portable models to powerhouse machines with impressive processing power, these 10 laptops cover a variety of needs and budgets.
According to Heavy.com (Feb 7, 2022), here are the best laptops for online college students:
| PRODUCT | OS | PROCESSOR | Hard Drive | SCREEN SIZE | WEIGHT | RAM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple MacBook Air (2020) | Mac OS X | Intel Core i5 | 256GB SSD | 13 Inches | 2.8 Lbs. | 8 GB |
| Dell XPS 15 7590 | Microsoft Windows | Core i7-9750H | 256GB SSD | 15.6 Inches | 5.5 Lbs. | 16 GB |
| ASUS Chromebook Flip C434 | Chrome OS | Intel Core M3-8100Y | 64GB SSD | 14 inches | 3.3 Lbs. | 4 GB |
| Apple MacBook Pro | Mac OS X | Intel Core i5 | 512GB SSD | 13 Inches | 3.1 Lbs. | 8 GB |
| Google Pixelbook Go M3 Chromebook | Chrome OS | Intel Core M3 | 64GB SSD | 13.3 Inches | 2.3 Lbs. | 8 GB |
| HP Chromebook | Chrome OS | AMD A4-9120 | 32GB SSD | 14 Inches | 3 Lbs. | 4 GB |
| Lenovo ThinkPad E595 | Microsoft Windows | AMD Ryzen 5-3500U | 256GB SSD | 15.6 Inches | 4.7 Lbs. | 16 GB |
| Microsoft Surface Go 2 | Microsoft Windows | Intel Core m3 | 64GB SSD | 10.5 Inches | 1.2 Lbs. | 4 GB |
| Razer Blade 15 | Microsoft Windows | Intel Core i7-8750H | 512GB SSD | 15.6 Inches | 4.6 Lbs. | 16 GB |
Comparing Laptops for College Students
Laptops can be very cheap and still get a decent job done for basic classes that students are required to complete during their college years. While some laptops are super expensive if they’re looking for one with all the bells and whistles.
Below is a list of our recommended laptops for online undergraduate or graduate students.
| PRODUCT | OS | PRICE | SCREEN SIZE | WEIGHT | RAM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asus Chromebook Flip (C100PA-DB02) | Chrome OS | $239 | 10.1 Inches | 1.96 Lbs. | 4 GB |
| Lenovo ThinkPad T450s | Microsoft Windows | $1,254.99 | 14 Inches | 3.5 Lbs. | 8 GB |
| Acer Aspire E5-573G-57HR | Microsoft Windows | $554.99 | 15. 6inches | 5.29 Lbs. | 8 GB |
| Alienware 15 | Microsoft Windows | $1,899.99 | 15.6 Inches | 7.1 Lbs. | 16 GB |
| Apple MacBook Air 13-Inch | Mac OS X | $894.78 | 13.3 Inches | 2.96 Lbs. | 4 GB |
| Apple MacBook Pro 13-Inch, Retina Display | Mac OS X | $1,234.99 | 13.3 Inches | 3.48 Lbs. | 8 GB |
| Dell Latitude 13 7000 Series 2-In-1 (7350) | Microsoft Windows | $1,549 | 13.3 Inches | 1.92 Lbs. | 8 GB |
| Dell Latitude 14 7000 Series (E7450) | Microsoft Windows | $1,368.30 | 14 Inches | 3.59 Lbs. | 8 GB |
| Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga 12 | Microsoft Windows | $1,572.99 | 12.5 Inches | 3.48 Lbs. | 8 GB |
| MSI GT72 Dominator Pro G-1438 | Microsoft Windows | $2,099 | 17. 3 Inches | 8.5 Pounds | 16 GB |
Comparing Tablets and Readers for College Students
Here are some of the top-performing tablets for college students.
| PRODUCT | OS | PRICE | DIMENSIONS | WEIGHT | STORAGE CAPACITY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple IPad Air | Apple IOS | $339 | 9.7 Inches | 16.86 Oz | 16 GB |
| Apple IPad Air 2 | Apple IOS 8 | $449.88 | 9.7 Inches | 0.96 Lb | 16, 64, 128 GB |
| Asus Transformer Book T100TA (64GB) | Microsoft Windows | $256 | 10.1 Inches | 1.44/2.4 Lb | 64 GB |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 | Android 4.4 | $399 | 8.4 Inches | 11.68 Oz | 16 GB |
| Apple IPad Mini 2 | Apple IOS | $259 | 7.9 Inches | 11.68 Oz | 16, 32 GB |
| Asus VivoTab Note 8 | Microsoft Windows | $289.99 | 8 Inches | 0.85 Lb | 32 GB |
| Dell Venue 11 Pro 7000 Series (7140) | Microsoft Windows | $799 | 10.8 Inches | 1.6 Lb | 128 GB |
| Microsoft Surface 3 | Microsoft Windows 8.1 | $599.99 | 10.8 Inches | 1.37 Lb | 128 GB |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5 | Android 4.4 | $448.99 | 10.5 Inches | 16.47 Oz | 16 GB |
| Google Nexus 9 | Android 5.0 | $305.37 | 8.9 Inches | 14.99 Oz | 16, 32 GB |
Further Reading: Cheapest Online College
Online Colleges that Offer Laptop Discounts
- Purdue University – Discounted laptops.
- Azusa Pacific – Website Link.
There is another way to save money! By choosing to go to a college that pays you to attend you can become more financially stable after you graduate.
