How to Find Online Schools that Give Free Laptops?
Great news for all students! Government has taken initiative to start a online schools that give free laptops program for their students to help them out. They are now accepting online applications of this govt. laptop program.
Why Government Initiated this Program? State realized that their education system has developed significantly in previous decade. According to The Journal‘s survey, about 94% public schools said they’re giving out laptops to students who need them in year ended December-2023. This show that instead of just going to a physical school, more and more people are now learning online using computers or phones. This change has happened because technology has gotten better and made it easier to learn from anywhere.
In this post, I’ll show my expertise about how you can get a free government laptop from schools, colleges using different programs, its eligibility criteria, documentation required and online application process in this regard. We will also discuss about laptop donations for schools and colleges.
What is Free Laptops for College Students Program?
The Free Laptops for College Students Program is when colleges give out laptops to their students for free or at a lower price. This is to help those who might not be able to afford a laptop on their own. The main goal of the program is to make sure that every candidate have the technology they need to do well in their classes.
By giving out laptops, colleges want to make sure that money doesn’t stop their students from having what they need to learn.
Do Online Schools Provide Free Laptops?
Are you a student? Yes, there are many online schools that give you free laptops as part of their learning programs. They know that technology is really important for learning nowadays, so they offer laptops for free or at a discounted price.
Where Can I Get a Free Laptop for Online Schools?
To get a free laptop for students, there are a few things you can do. First, they can ask their online college or university if they have any programs that give out laptops. They can also apply for scholarships or grants that help with buying technology, which could include a free laptop.
Another option is to look for special discounts through the school’s deals with laptop companies like Apple, Dell, or HP. Lastly, some schools might let you rent laptops or offer payment plans to make them more affordable. I will discuss each methods in detail below!
Top 14 Online Schools That Provide Free Laptops
14 Schools and colleges has started to accept application to provide free government laptops. Here’s a comprehensive list and explanation of these institutions:
1. Bethel University
Bethel University gives students laptops for free as part of its technology program. Instead of buying laptops separately, the university includes the cost of the laptop in the overall tuition and fees. Go to their official website and click on apply option, or you can click here to go directly to that link.
2. Dakota State University
This university provides free laptops to you through its Digital Dakota Initiative. This program offers each incoming student a laptop equipped with necessary software and tools for academic success. The laptops are distributed during orientation.
3. Drexel University
Drexel University provides free laptops through its Drexel One to One program. This initiative ensures that all incoming undergraduate students receive a MacBook Pro laptop as part of their tuition and fees. The laptops come preloaded with essential software and tools, including access to Drexel’s online resources and course materials.
4. Full Sail University
Full Sail University offers free MacBook Pro laptops as part of their LaunchBox initiative. The university covers the cost of the laptop within the overall tuition fees for certain degree programs. This means that when you enroll, you get the laptop without having to pay extra for it.
5. Indiana State University
Indiana State University gives government laptops to students via Sycamore Technology Award Program. If you’re eligible, you get a laptop when you start college. This helps you access online stuff you need for your classes. The university pays for this with money from the school and fees you pay for technology.
6. Northwest Missouri State University
Northwest Missouri State University gives students laptops with its Bearcat Advantage program. If you’re a student there, you can borrow a laptop for free while you’re studying. These laptops come with all the important software you need for your classes. The university uses a fee included in your tuition to pay for this program. They also make sure the laptops stay up-to-date with the latest software and technology needed for your studies.
7. Ohio State University
Ohio State University gives free iPads through its Digital Flagship initiative. When freshmen start, they get an iPad and access to digital learning stuff like software and apps for their classes. The university works with Apple to provide these devices, making sure they work well with educational tools. Plus, you get help and training to use their iPads for school.
8. Princeton University
Princeton University offers free government laptops to students with its Technology Equity Program. If you’re a new undergraduate student and you show that you need financial help, you can get a laptop and software bundle for free. This program makes sure that every student has the technology they need for their studies, no matter their money situation. Usually, you get your laptop during orientation or at the start of the school year.
9. Seton Hill University
Seton Hill University gives government laptops to students with its Griffin Technology Advantage (GTA) program. You get an Apple MacBook and iPad to use for learning. These devices come with software and digital stuff that match what you studies. Plus, the GTA program helps you with tech support and insurance for as long as they’re studying at Seton Hill.
10. Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University gives laptops to students with its Technology Fee Initiative. If you’re a full-time, on-campus undergraduate student, the cost of a laptop is included in your tuition fees. During your first semester, you get a new laptop, and you get to keep it when you graduate.
11. St. John’s University
St. John’s University offers laptops to students through its Laptop Loaner Program. If you’re in need, you can borrow a laptop for the whole semester, making sure you have the technology you need for your classes. These laptops come with all the important software and you can pick them up at specific places on campus. Plus, the university helps with any technical problems you might have while using the borrowed laptops.
12. University of Minnesota, Crookston
The University of Minnesota, Crookston (UMC) offers laptops with its Laptop Loan Program. Students can borrow laptops for their academic needs during their time at UMC. These laptops come with all the necessary software and tools to help you with their coursework.
13. University of North Carolina, Pembroke
The University of North Carolina, Pembroke (UNCP) offers free laptops to students with its Technology Assistance Program (TAP). This program lets eligible students borrow laptops for their entire academic program. If you need help you can apply by showing financial need or meeting other criteria.
Once approved, you get a laptop with all the software and tools they need for their studies. These laptops are loaned to you for your entire time at UNCP.
14. Wake Forest University
Wake Forest University gives free laptops to students with its Technology Lending Program. Every undergraduate student gets a laptop as part of this program. These laptops come with all the important software and have great technical support. Plus, the university makes sure the laptops stay up-to-date with the latest technology and what you need for your studies.
Schools Eligibility Criteria
The rules for getting laptops for schools can be different depending on the program or school offering them. But some common things they might look at include:
- Academic performance: You need to meet minimum academic standards, often shown through high school or previous college transcripts.
- Admission requirements: Fulfilling specific requirements set by the university, like standardized test scores (e.g., SAT, ACT), recommendation letters, essays, and interviews.
- Language proficiency: Demonstrating proficiency in the language of instruction, usually through tests like TOEFL or IELTS for non-native English speakers.
- Residency status: Verifying residency status, which can affect tuition rates and eligibility for scholarships or financial aid.
- Application deadlines: Submitting applications and required documents within specified deadlines to be considered for admission.
- Application fees: Paying application fees, which may vary based on the university’s policies and the applicant’s financial situation.
- Prerequisite coursework: Completing specific prerequisite courses or educational requirements for the chosen field of study.
- Character and conduct: Providing records demonstrating good conduct, as some universities consider disciplinary history during admissions.
- Diversity and inclusion: Some universities prioritize diversity and aim to enroll you from various backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
- Specialized requirements: Meeting additional criteria for certain programs or majors, such as portfolio submissions for art programs or auditions for performing arts programs.
It’s really important for you to check the rules of the program or school to make sure they’re eligible for a free government laptop.
How to Apply for Online Schools that Give Free Laptops?
Here is my detailed analysis of process of applying for a laptop from schools:
Step 1: Application Submission
Submit an application form specifically designated for the laptop assistance program, usually available through the university’s website or your portal.
Step 2: Proof of Enrollment
Provide proof of acceptance into the university, such as a your ID number or acceptance letter.
Step 3: Financial Need Assessment
Universities may require you to demonstrate your financial need by submitting financial aid documents, such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or other relevant financial information.
Step 4: Application Review
The university’s designated committee reviews the applications to assess eligibility based on predetermined criteria, which may include financial need, academic standing, or other specific requirements.
Step 5: Notification of Approval
Once the application review process is complete, you are notified via email or postal mail regarding their acceptance into the program and the next steps to receive the laptop.
Step 6: Laptop Distribution
Upon approval, you may be required to attend an orientation session or pick up the laptop from a designated location on campus. Alternatively, laptop may be shipped directly to your address.
Step 7: Agreement Acknowledgment
You may also be required to sign an agreement acknowledging your responsibility for the care and appropriate use of the laptop while enrolled at the university.
Step 8: Technical Support and Maintenance
Universities often provide technical support services to assist students with any issues or questions regarding the laptop’s functionality or software.
When Do Students Receive Their Free Laptops?
Students usually get their laptops after they officially sign up for their online programs. Online schools that give free laptops have specific ways to make sure laptops are given out efficiently. Schools want to avoid spending extra money on shipping, so they wait until you are definitely enrolled before sending out laptops.
For students who go to classes on campus, the way they get their laptops can be different. Some schools let them pick up their laptops on the first day of classes. But if you study online, laptop is usually sent to your home address or you can pick it up after confirming your enrollment.
What Are the Best 6 Laptops for Schools?
After confirmation, you might be required to choose a laptop for yourself. I would suggest you to select one of these 6 laptops which will serve your purpose well:
Laptop Model | Operating System | Processor | RAM | Storage | Display Size | Battery Life | Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MacBook Air | macOS | Apple M1 chip | 8GB/16GB | 256GB/512GB | 13.3 inches | Up to 15 hrs | 2.8 lbs |
Microsoft Surface Go | Windows 10 | Intel Pentium Gold | 4GB/8GB | 64GB/128GB | 10 inches | Up to 9 hrs | 1.15 lbs |
Dell XPS 13 | Windows 10 | Intel Core i5/i7 | 8GB/16GB | 256GB/512GB | 13.3 inches | Up to 12 hrs | 2.65 lbs |
HP Pavilion | Windows 10 | Intel Core i3/i5 | 8GB/12GB | 256GB/512GB | 14 inches | Up to 10 hrs | 3.55 lbs |
Lenovo Yoga C940 | Windows 10 | Intel Core i7 | 12GB/16GB | 256GB/512GB | 14 inches | Up to 12 hrs | 3.09 lbs |
ASUS Chromebook Flip | Chrome OS | Intel Core m3/m5 | 4GB/8GB | 64GB/128GB | 12.5 inches | Up to 10 hrs | 2.65 lbs |
Top 4 Alternatives for Online Schools that Give Free Laptops
In case your application for online schools that give free laptops gets rejected, there are other ways you can get help:
1. Government Initiatives
Some government groups or local authorities have programs that give laptops to students who don’t have much money or are going through tough times. These programs want to make sure everyone has the same chance to learn, no matter what their situation is.
2. Nonprofit Organizations
There are nonprofit groups that focus on helping people learn and get access to technology. These groups might give out grants, scholarships, or donated laptops to students who need them for school. Examples include One Laptop per Child and Computers with Causes.
3. Corporate Sponsorships
Some big companies or tech companies have programs where they give laptops or money to help with education. They might work with schools, nonprofit groups, or the government to give free laptops to students who need them.
4. Community Programs
Local places like community centers, libraries, or churches might have programs that give out laptops. These programs usually get laptops from people or entities who are willing to assist you.
Our Verdict
In conclusion, online schools that give free laptops are a great way for students to get the technology they need and make their learning better. These programs help bridge the gap between people who can afford laptops and those who can’t, making sure everyone has what they need to succeed. By getting rid of obstacles like the high cost of laptops, these schools help students get fully involved in their education and reach their goals.
My opinion of schools that offer government laptops is really good. These programs show they care about making sure everyone has a fair chance in education, creating a helpful learning space where everyone can do well. By giving out these laptops, these schools not only make it easier to learn online but also help students get better at using technology.
All in all, online schools with free government laptops are a big help in making education fair and available to everyone, and they’re a great choice for students who want a flexible and easy way to learn.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to find Online Schools that Give Free Laptops?
These schools often collaborate with technology companies or have their own programs to offer laptops. These laptops may be included in the tuition cost or provided through scholarships and grants.
Can I keep the government laptops after graduation?
Depending on the school’s policy, you may have the option to keep the laptops after graduation. Some programs allow you to fully own the laptop, while others may require returning it or leasing it for a specific duration.
What happens if a free laptop is lost or stolen?
In the event of loss or theft, students should report the incident to the school promptly. The school may assist in securing a replacement or offer guidance on filing insurance claims. Students are typically responsible for any costs associated with lost or stolen laptops.
Are there alternatives to obtaining these laptops for school?
Yes, you can explore various alternatives, including EBT scholarship programs, grants, leasing options, or purchasing refurbished laptops. Additionally, some schools may offer discounted laptops or financial aid to cover technology expenses.
What criteria do students need to meet to qualify for free laptops from online schools?
Eligibility criteria may vary depending on online schools that give free laptops and program. Typically, students need to be enrolled in specific online programs or meet certain financial need requirements. Schools may also require students to maintain good academic standing to continue receiving free laptops.
How can students apply for government laptops from online schools?
Students interested in obtaining free gov laptops should inquire with their chosen schools about available programs and application processes. This may involve completing application forms, demonstrating financial need, or meeting specific eligibility requirements outlined by the school.