Online Colleges That Provide Free Laptops

Q: Do students get to keep the laptops after graduation?

It depends on the school’s policy. Some schools let you keep the free laptop after graduation while others ask you to return it so the school can refurbish and redistribute the devices to incoming students.

Q: What happens if my free college laptop is damaged or stolen?

If your laptop needs repair due to a software or hardware malfunction, the school will typically cover the cost. However, if the laptop is damaged due to negligence or is stolen, you may be responsible for the cost of repair or replacement.

Q: How do I get a laptop for free from the government?

As a college student, the easiest way to get a free laptop from the government is to qualify for a Pell Grant and use your funds to buy your own computer. Low-income households no longer qualify for technology stipends through the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program, since it stopped accepting applications in 2024.

Q: What online schools offer free laptops?

Online colleges that offer free laptops for college students include Dakota State University, Moravian University, Seton Hall University, and the University of Arkansas Grantham. Many other universities provide loaner laptops or free laptops for students in specific programs. Check the full list above for details.

Updated on April 23, 2026

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Some online schools offer free laptops for college while others give enrollees discounts or other technology perks.

Disclosure: The webpage may mention the possibility of free laptop programs offered by various educational institutions. However, it is important to note that the inclusion of any school or educational institution on this website does not guarantee or imply a free laptop offer. The availability and terms of any such programs are subject to change and may vary from one institution to another. For the most accurate information please confirm with our partner institution directly.

Key Takeaways

Colleges that offer free laptops include Dakota State University, Full Sail University, and Berea College.
Eligibility criteria differ, but many institutions limit devices to first-year students or those who demonstrate financial need.
In addition to schools, some nonprofit organizations provide free laptops to students, including the On It Foundation and Compudopt.

Whether you study in person or online, a laptop is an essential college tool. However, the best devices can be expensive, ranging from $600 to $2,500 or more. Add the cost of required software, and the total can really add up.

To help students succeed, some colleges provide laptops, either as a gift or through a loaner program. Read on for a quick look at some institutions offering this benefit and their eligibility criteria.

Where Can I Get a Free Laptop for College?

Below is a list of colleges that offer free laptops or loaner programs to help students complete their coursework. Eligibility may be limited to certain students, such as undergraduates or those with financial need.

Dakota State University

Dakota State University gives all full-time, first-year students a Dell Latitude 7440 2-in-1 laptop. The laptop comes pre-configured with the software required for classes, so students can use it right away without additional setup.

It also includes warranty protection, replacement batteries, and on-campus repair services.

Full Sail University

Full Sail University gives students a laptop as part of the school’s Project LaunchBox initiative. The exact model you get depends on the degree program you enroll in. Each laptop comes equipped with software tailored to that major.

For instance, if you enroll in audio production, your laptop will include software like Pro Tools and Logic.

Moravian University

Moravian provides all incoming undergraduate students a MacBook Pro, an iPad, and an Apple Watch.

The laptop has a pre-installed app called “Self Service” that you can use to download software such as Microsoft Office 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud, as well as access campus resources.

And if the device ever needs servicing, you can get it repaired through the campus IT Help Desk or directly through Apple.

Ohio State University

At Ohio State University, you can get a Microsoft Surface or iPad.

However, this is a loaner program, so you will likely not get to keep the device for your entire time at the school or after graduation. The university simply lends you the device for a set period of time — typically a few weeks or up to a semester.

Also, note that this program is only available to students who qualify for financial aid, so you have to submit your FAFSA to be considered.

Seton Hall University

Seton Hall’s Mobile Computing Program provides all incoming full-time undergraduate students free laptops before starting their fall semester.

The current laptop being offered to students is a Lenovo ThinkPad T14S 2-in-1, but which one you get depends on availability. Whichever model you get, it will come equipped with standard software needed to complete your coursework, including Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud.

University of Arkansas Grantham

UA Grantham gives a Lenovo laptop to both new and returning students — many schools limit the program to incoming freshmen.

To qualify, you simply have to enroll in an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s program and provide a mailing address within the continental U.S. Note that students on a full scholarship may not be eligible for the program.

Berea College

Berea gives first year students a Dell laptop, and unlike many schools that require you return your device, Berea lets you keep it after graduating.

If the laptop needs repairs covered under the Dell warranty — such as a faulty battery or screen — the campus IT department handles it, so you don’t have to deal with repairs yourself.

How to Get a Free Laptop for College

These are the usual requirements to qualify for a free laptop as a college student:

Enroll in a college or university that has a free laptop program: Not all schools offer this benefit, so it’s important to check the school website or contact the institution directly.
Understand what’s being offered: Some schools provide laptops that you can keep after graduation, while others offer loaner devices that must be returned.
Review the school’s qualification criteria: Most schools limit free laptops to incoming undergraduate students, meaning returning students or graduates don’t qualify. Loaner programs are usually more flexible and available to all students. Some programs may also require you to maintain a minimum GPA or remain enrolled for a certain period.
File the required forms: To qualify, you typically need to complete an application form and submit supporting documents such as proof of enrollment, identification, and financial aid information by the stated deadline. Availability may be limited, so applying early is important.
Be ready to show proof of financial need: Schools often limit free laptops to students who demonstrate financial need, such as Pell Grant recipients.
Explore additional programs beyond your school: If the college you’re interested in doesn’t offer free laptops, you may still qualify for one through nonprofit organizations (more on this below).

Requirements and availability vary by school and program, so it’s important to review details carefully and apply as early as possible.

Other Programs That Offer Free or Low-Cost Laptops for College Students

Here are several nonprofits and scholarships available for students who need a free or low-cost laptop:

Computers With Causes

Computers With Causes has a free laptop program that provides students with refurbished laptops, at no cost. The program doesn’t have specific eligibility criteria. To apply, fill out the application form explaining your need and mail it to the address listed.

Dell Scholars

Each year, the Dell Scholars program awards 500 college undergraduates a $20,000 scholarship and a free Dell laptop. To qualify, you need a minimum 2.4 high school GPA. You must also qualify for a federal Pell Grant during your first year of college.

The On It Foundation

If you’re a high school student planning to attend college, you may qualify for a free laptop from The On It Foundation. The program is intended for K-12 students from low-income families, so students who have already graduated typically aren’t eligible.

Compudopt

Compudopt sets up giveaways for refurbished laptops. Availability is limited, and you’ll likely need to show that your household doesn’t already have a working computer.

FAFSA and Pell Grants

Any aid you receive after filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) — such as a Pell Grant — can typically be used for education-related expenses like a laptop or table.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges That Offer Free Laptops

Do online colleges give you a laptop?

Not all online colleges have free laptop programs, and those that do typically limit the benefit to students with specific eligibility criteria. These might include being a full-time, first-time student or financial aid recipient.