Free Student Laptops: Here's How To Get One (2024)

If you’re about to start college, you probably have some big purchases ahead of you. Whether you plan to live at home with your family, move into a dorm on campus or live in off-campus housing, college will likely put a big dent in your bank account.

Tuition isn’t the only major expense for college students; school supplies, like laptops, can get costly as well. Free student laptop programs aim to relieve some of this burden for students in need. Depending on your family’s income level, you may be eligible to receive a free or discounted laptop for college.

This article explores programs offering free laptops for students or college student discounts on laptops. When it comes to budgeting for college, every bit of relief helps, so keep reading to learn where you can find free laptops for college.

The Importance of Discounted and Free Laptops for Students

Receiving a free or discounted laptop helps reduce the financial burden for many college students and their families.

According to National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) data for the 2021-22 academic year, the average total cost of attendance for full-time, first-time students at four-year universities was:

• $26,800 for those living off campus
• $26,000 for those living on campus
• $15,600 for those living with family

These figures include tuition, fees, books, supplies, housing and other living expenses.

NCES reports that the average amount of financial aid awarded to undergraduate students, including grants and scholarships, ranges from $3,300 to $13,200, depending on family income levels. Even when receiving financial aid, many students have a hefty net price to pay. For that reason, extra assistance in the form of a free or discounted laptop can make a significant difference to many students.

Where Can Students Get Free Laptops for College?

There are several ways for college students to find free and discounted laptop opportunities. Many tech companies offer college student discounts on laptops and other electronics; these are accessible to most learners. However, not all students are eligible for free laptop programs.

Some schools provide free computers to students—sometimes on loan for the duration of a degree program, and sometimes as a gift to keep. A selection of charitable organizations also distribute free laptops to students who meet certain income requirements.

Below we explore several resources for low-cost or free student laptops.

Your University or College

Some educational institutions provide free computers for their students, while others loan computers at no cost for the time you are in school. Find out if the school you plan to attend provides free or discounted laptops, and determine whether the computers are gifted or loaned.

Computers with Causes

Computers with Causes provides computers to students, aging adults, U.S. veterans with disabilities, foster homes, and other nonprofit organizations and individuals who demonstrate need. While there is no set income limitation, you must demonstrate your need for assistance and submit to a background check to be eligible for this program. A board reviews applications and selects recipients. To apply, complete an online application through Computers With Causes’ website.

Dell Scholars Program

Low-income and first-generation students may receive academic and financial resources through the Dell Scholars Program, which provides financial literacy resources, textbook support, laptops and scholarship funds for recipients to use for various college expenses.

To apply, submit your application through the Dell Scholars website, along with your transcripts, an online recommendation and a completed Student Aid Report (SAR) from your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). An independent selection committee reviews applications and selects recipients.

On It Foundation

The On It Foundation offers free computers and computer training to low-income public school students enrolled in grades K-12. You must receive free or reduced school lunches to qualify.

Your parent or guardian may apply for you by sending a letter of request and a letter from your school (on official letterhead) stating that you receive free or reduced lunches. You may send your documents through the mail or by email. See the On It Foundation’s website for more information.

Common Eligibility Criteria for Free Student Laptops

Organizations that distribute free or low-cost laptops may require you to prove that you are a student, and if they operate on an income-based system, they may request evidence of your family’s income level. Typical requirements to receive a laptop through one of these programs include:

• Photo identification
• Student identification or proof of enrollment
• Proof that personal or family income falls within the organization’s requirements
• Documentation demonstrating participation in certain government assistance programs, such as:
  • Federal Pell Grant
  • Medicaid
  • Housing assistance programs
  • Free or reduced school lunch program
  • Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Where To Get College Student Discounts on Laptops

What happens if you’re not eligible for a free computer? You may still be able to purchase one at a discount through the federal Affordable Connectivity Program or various nonprofit organizations. Several reputable tech companies offer college student discounts as well. We touch on some of these options below.

Organizations and Government Programs

• Affordable Connectivity Program: Through this program, the U.S. government provides discounted internet service, plus a one-time credit of up to $100 to purchase a computer from a participating retailer. You may qualify if:
  • Your family income is equal to or below 200% of the federal poverty level
  • You are eligible for participating low-income internet programs
  • You participate in certain government programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, Federal Pell Grant, reduced-price or free school lunches, or veterans’ pension and survivors benefits

You can apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program online at its website.

• Connect All: Connect All provides low-cost, refurbished laptop and desktop computers, tablets and other devices to nonprofit organizations and low-income individuals. You may be eligible if you participate in government assistance programs or have an income below 200% of the federal poverty level. Visit the program’s website for details on eligibility requirements.
• Notebooks for Students: This nonprofit organization offers discounted, name-brand laptops to students of all ages and grade levels. These laptops may be new, factory refurbished or NFS-certified off-lease. Off-lease computers were previously leased by large corporations for employee use and have been properly maintained.
• PCs for People: A nonprofit organization that recycles and refurbishes computers, PCs for People distributes computers to nonprofit organizations and low-income individuals and families.

Tech Retailers

• Acer: Acer offers a 10% discount on computer equipment for students. To receive your discount, register on Acer’s website and verify that you are a current student.
• Apple: Apple’s Education Pricing Program offers student discounts in the form of gift cards worth up to $150. You can apply your discount toward the cost of an Apple laptop.
• Dell: Dell offers discounts for students through its Dell Advantage for Students Program. Sign up on the website using your school email to get the discount.
• HP: The HP Education Program provides discounts of up to 40% on select computers, printers and accessories for students and teachers.
• Lenovo: Lenovo offers a 10% discount on laptops, tablets and other tech items for college students, K-12 students and their parents, and educators.
• Microsoft: Microsoft’s 10% student discount is available for K-12 learners, college students, faculty and parents. It covers select Microsoft Surface devices, laptops and accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Free Student Laptops