How to Get a Free Laptop for College In 2025

College expenses like tuition, fees, housing, and daily needs can quickly add up.

A free or low-cost laptop reduces financial strain and allows students to use funds for other essentials. Many colleges also make laptops a core part of their learning programs.

Benefits of Free Laptops for Students

The cost of college depends on factors like whether the school is public or private and whether the student lives in-state.

Data from the National Center for Education Statistics shows that in 2021–22, tuition at public in-state colleges averaged $9,596, while private colleges charged an average of $34,041.

Programs offering free laptops can help students manage these growing expenses. Since eligibility for these programs is based on financial need, possessing an EBT card may also qualify you for a free laptop.

Where to Find Free Laptops for College Students?

• Colleges and Universities: Some schools provide free or discounted laptops, often included in tuition or financial aid. Check with your college’s website or financial aid office for details.

 

• Government Assistance: Federal programs don’t offer free laptops directly, but low-income students may qualify for aid to purchase a device. Local government offices can provide more information.

 

• Nonprofit Organizations: Nonprofits like Computers with Causes refurbish donated devices and give them to low-income students. Apply online through their website.

Dell Scholars Program

The Dell Scholars Program annually awards $20,000 for a free laptop from Dell, $2,000 for textbooks, and support services like teletherapy to 500 undergraduate students.

The $20,000 can cover tuition, loans, internships, or study abroad expenses.

Applicants must have a GPA of 2.4 or higher in 11th and 12th grade and enroll in a college readiness program.

They must also qualify for a Pell Grant during their first college year, starting immediately after graduation.

On It Foundation

The On It Foundation provides free laptops to K-12 students, which they can later use in college. Students who receive free or reduced-cost lunch are eligible.

The program relies on donations, and eligible students may join a waiting list if laptops are unavailable.

Laptop Discount Programs for Students

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Students receiving benefits like housing assistance, Medicaid, or Social Security Disability Insurance can access discounted refurbished laptops.

Options include a $49 basic model and a $99 essentials model. A T-Mobile internet plan costs $14.95 per month for those who qualify.

Notebooks for Students

Notebooks for Students sells refurbished laptops in excellent condition, including Apple, Dell, and HP models.

Discounts are available for all students, from primary to college levels, as well as homeschoolers and trade school attendees.

Walmart ACP Free Laptop Program

Walmart’s ACP Free Laptop Program offers low-income families and students access to refurbished laptops for educational use.

PCs for People

PCs for People offers refurbished laptops at discounted prices to students in need. Applicants must provide ID and proof of government assistance.

Available options include HP Elitebooks, Dell Latitudes, and Lenovo laptops.

Free Centrelink Laptop Grants in Australia

The Free Centrelink Laptop Grants in Australia program helps eligible individuals access free or low-cost laptops. It supports those receiving Centrelink benefits by providing essential technology for education, job searching, and digital inclusion.

Retailer Discounts

Retailers like Acer, Apple, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Microsoft provide student discounts on laptops and software.

• Acer: 10% off for verified students via Student Beans.

 

• Apple: Discounts on MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and more for students and educators.

 

• Dell: Devices categorized for various fields, including engineering, gaming, and design.

 

• HP: Up to 40% off laptops without requiring student ID.

 

• Lenovo: Students get 5% off on particular laptops and four months of Amazon Music.

 

• Microsoft: Students can get Microsoft 365 Personal at half price. It includes 1,000 GB of cloud storage.

Additional Considerations for College Laptops

• Needs Assessment: Determine if a Chromebook or a higher-spec laptop suits your academic needs.

 

• Operating System: Choose one compatible with your program’s requirements.

 

• Battery Life: Select a device with sufficient battery to last through classes.

 

• Warranty and Support: Ensure it includes a warranty and reliable technical support.