Free government laptop programs have a big impact on disadvantaged students. Students from poorer backgrounds generally gain more from laptop programs, especially in technical skills, due to their starting point of less computer and digital experience outside the classroom.[1]
Many government programs offer free or low-cost computers and laptops to eligible students.
As part of their academic and career preparation, select colleges, nonprofit organizations, and scholarships also provide students with free laptops.
A study found that the use of computers and the Internet for educational purposes has been associated with a modest but significant improvement in academic performance.[2]
The shift to remote work and school has boosted computer sales to record levels over the past couple of years. Today's households, offices, and classrooms cannot function without laptops and mobile technology.
College students often cannot afford new laptops. The good news is that there are ways to obtain free broken laptops for the university. Increasingly, students can access tech through scholarship programs, charitable donation programs, and discounts from top brands.
Students need laptops to stay on top of their studies. It is common for students to use laptops to conduct research, submit assignments on student platforms, and complete many other academic tasks.
Through digital platforms like Zoom, college students can continue their studies online. There are still a lot of lessons available online to this day. University and college courses can be taken only online at some institutions. There is no doubt that a laptop is necessary in this case. If you have a part-time job while you are a student, a laptop allows you to get your work done at any time from anywhere.
It's good news that students from low-income families can get free government tablet/laptops for students.
How Does The Free Laptop Program Work?
Students can obtain computers for free through free government laptops for student programs. Through colleges, nonprofits, and scholarships, these programs equip students with reliable tech to succeed in academics and careers. You must be enrolled in an accredited degree program to be eligible for most free laptop programs.
Free government laptop programs have a big impact on disadvantaged students. Students from poorer backgrounds generally gain more from laptop programs, especially in technical skills, due to their starting point of less computer and digital experience outside the classroom.[1]
How To Get A Free Laptop For A Student?
You have many options, so you don't have to feel out of luck if you don't qualify for any of them. You can choose from the following options:
- A government laptop can be obtained directly from a government program or a nonprofit organization
- Connecting with government agencies,
- Making a list of colleges or universities that offer free laptops to new students.
Do not accept a free laptop from any of the following organizations unless you have contacted your local authorities first, as this could affect your government assistance benefits.
Eligibility Criteria
Fast Facts
A study shows that students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds benefit more from laptop programs, especially in technical skills.
There are free government laptops for schools that you can apply for. Their eligibility requirements are, however, quite strict. They are doing this to help the most vulnerable families, who are those with low incomes.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizen of the United States
- Documents proving your identity
- Document proving your address
- You must provide a copy of your tax return or salary slip to prove you have a low income.
There's no need to worry about not qualifying for this option! You may find that several other options might be more suitable for your needs below.
Organizations That Help Students Get A Free Government Laptop
The following are the government's partner organizations and charities that offer needy students a chance to get their hands on free government laptops for students.
1. With Causes Charitable Organization
There are many ways that With Causes Charitable Organization helps people in need. A key initiative of this organization is to provide laptops and computers to people who cannot afford them.
They accomplish this by donating free government-issued laptops to students. You'll need to submit an application online for more information on their program.
A candidate's eligibility requirements are as follows:
- Living in a low-income household
- Served in the military or is a veteran
- Be a survivor of abuse in a women's shelter
2. Computers with Causes
It is important to note that Computer with Causes is an entirely different organization that With Causes Charitable Organization despite the similar names. Computers and laptops are the only items this organization provides to those in need.
A background check and reference checks are part of their application process. Doing so ensures that the most vulnerable people receive the assistance they need.
The application process can be started online right now. It is important to fill out basic contact information and explain why you need a laptop before applying. A representative from the organization will contact you. A limited number of volunteers help them with many computer requests, which can take some time.
3. Dell Scholars Program
As part of the Dell Scholars Program, Dell offers a $20,000 scholarship to high school graduates, a free laptop, textbook credits through Chegg, and professional and personal support during college.
The application deadline for rising high school seniors is October, so start submitting materials this autumn. Students must have an average of 2.4 and be eligible for the Pell Grant to qualify.
Additionally, applicants must be planning to graduate in the academic year they apply and enroll in a bachelor's program immediately after that.
4. Laptops 4 Learning
Laptops 4 Learning (L4L) was founded in 2015 to provide students with computer access to help them succeed. A laptop is also available to military veterans who are part of the mission-driven nonprofit.
A laptop is also available to military veterans who are part of the mission-driven nonprofit. After that, students should seek donations from their social networks and local communities to cover costs. Free laptops are given to students once sufficient funds have been raised.
5. World Computer Exchange
The organization provides free or refurbished computers and laptops to those in need in collaboration with governments, NGOs, schools, and libraries. The World Computer Exchange offers free laptops for college students from the government to those who contact them and submit a request.
Describe your condition and why you need a laptop when requesting a laptop from the organization. A free laptop will be sent to you if the organization believes you are in genuine need. They have several partners you can contact for more information.
It is essential to remember that the main goal of the World Computer Exchange is to assist developing countries. It might be worth a shot if you are still interested in submitting a request.
6. Smartriverside
Different states offer this program through the government. While the program will be offered under different names, it will be the same. Free laptops are being provided to low-income families through these programs.
Different states have different eligibility criteria. This program is available to California residents with incomes less than $45000.
7. Accelerated School Program
Laptops are available on a loan basis through the Accelerated School Program. Laptops are being provided to low-income families as part of the program to help them further their education.
A free laptop will be provided to participants through a government program. Once you have made a $100 deposit, you can borrow a computer. Upon returning the laptop to the program in the same condition you received, your $100 deposit will be refunded. For students in need of laptops, the program will also allow them to access the internet!
Contact 1800-724-6653 for more information about the Accelerated School Program or visit their website.
8. Technology For The Future
The nonprofit organization has helped families and organizations throughout America and Canada through its partnership program. Students in need can access the resources needed to succeed in the 21st century through the organization.
They need specific resources like laptops to finish their education. The application process for this program can be found by emailing [email protected].
Fast Facts
In addition to free laptops, some programs also offer low-cost and high-speed internet to bridge the digital gap for the students.
9. The On It Foundation
According to the On It Foundation, technology is essential for students to have a successful future. Insufficient access to technology disadvantages students who want to excel in their education.
Over 2000 laptops have been distributed to students from grades K-12, and over 7500 hours of computer training have been provided! Your parent or guardian must complete the application for free laptops for high school students from the government.
You will need to ask them for their contact information and have them sign 'The Letter of Request' and a statement from your school to qualify for the laptop. A letter can be mailed or emailed to the organization by your parent or guardian.
10. Alliance for Technology and Refurbishing and Reuse
With its goal of providing laptops to those in need, the Alliance for Technology and Refurbishing and Reusing has a straightforward mission. There is a map locater on the organization's website that you can use to find a computer.
There are, however, not all laptops that are free, but they do provide affordable options that are well worth considering.
Colleges That Offer Free Laptops For Students
A study by the University of Michigan found that the use of computers and the internet for educational purposes has been associated with a modest but significant improvement in academic performance.[2] Students who used computers for writing and research showed improved performance in writing.
With the help of technology grants, colleges can provide free laptops to students who qualify. It is possible, however, for some universities to offer students a laptop labeled as free. Even so, it still counts toward your long-term tuition fees.
The best way to find a university or college that fits your needs is to research them and find one that offers financial aid. Please look at these seven colleges and universities offering free laptops to their students.
1. Chatham University
Student support is a top priority at Chatham University, located in Pittsburgh. Student laptops are provided for free by the school. University instructors use laptops as part of their efforts to integrate technology into their instruction. First-year students at Chatham University receive free MacBook Air laptops as part of the university's free laptop program.
In addition to free repair services and a warranty against theft and damage, the laptop has a backup bearing the university's logo. The free laptop program is not available to undergraduate students. Students who cannot afford the tuition can still receive financial aid from the university.
2. Rochester University
It was the first university in Michigan to offer free MacBooks to students in 2008. It might be worthwhile to take advantage of a free laptop program in Rochester Hill, Michigan.
In addition to the MacBook Pro, all first-time freshmen and transfer students with a minimum of 29 transfer credits can also have a free iPad. All MacBook Pro or iPads are allowed to be kept by students who complete all six semesters!
3. Wake Forest University
This university offers the Wake Forest University Technology Grant program in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. In this program, laptops are provided free of charge to students who need financial assistance. However, this program is limited; it is available to only students receiving merit scholarships, need-based grants, or athletic scholarships. Student financial aid is available only to those who need it.
WakeWear is available at a discount to all students, regardless of whether they qualify for the Wake Forest University Technology Grant. The university offers free laptops to students who qualify for tech repair services and insurance.
4. Moravian College
One of the oldest colleges in America, Moravian College, was founded in 1742. The college is a very technologically advanced institution, despite being one of the oldest.
Currently, the college is adopting a more technologically-based approach to teaching and learning. There is an emphasis placed on the use of technology by both faculty and students at the university.
With an All-Apple initiative, the university uses mainly Apple products for all its technology. It helps the university achieve its mission of increasing student-faculty collaboration through the All-Apple initiative. MacBook Pros and iPads are provided to all the university's new first-year students!
5. Stevens Henager College
While undergraduate students at Stevens Henager College, undergraduate students receive laptop computers. The university lets its graduates keep their devices after graduation.
To alleviate the financial burden for some students, the college has decided to offer this service. Their students in the School of Graphic Design receive a MacBook computer.
6. Seton Hill University
The university's Mobile Learning @ The Hill Program students receive free MacBooks. A partnership with Apple has led to the school becoming an Apple-only campus and offering AppleCare support to students.
7. St. John's University
Students at St. John's University are given the same rights as other students. With this belief in mind, they founded St. John's University Academic Initiative (ACI).
Through this initiative, the university wants to make university affordable for all students regardless of their economic background. The university aims to educate youth from complex backgrounds so they can build a better life for themselves.
As part of the ACI program, students who want free laptops for students from the government in New York and are freshmen or transfer students. If it breaks, students who enroll in ACI will receive a computer, repair and teaching assistant, a loaner laptop, and a warranty. According to the university, a small fee will be added to a student's tuition to cover the cost of the laptop.
A great source of free tech devices like laptops for online students can also be found on the Open Education Database.
Alternative Options To Get A Free Laptop As A Student
You have many options for getting free laptops, even if you are not eligible for government-free laptops for students. All it will take is a little research and some initiative. You can try some of these alternative options below.
- Laptops are often on sale at discounted prices. Various websites provide a listing of the best-discounted websites on the web. Even though it is not free, it might be your best option. Many stores offer well-discounted items, including eBay, Amazon, Dell Refurbished, and Facebook Marketplace.
- There is a reward website where you can earn gift cards that could be used to purchase a laptop.
- Don't miss out on free giveaways online; there are plenty to choose from. However, entering a legitimate competition is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many school districts have implemented technology initiatives to provide students with laptops, tablets, or other devices for educational use. These programs typically target students from low-income families or those who lack access to technology at home. Check with your local school district or educational institutions to learn about any available programs.
Some non-profit organizations offer free or low-cost laptops to students in need. Examples include Computers with Causes and The On It Foundation. These organizations have specific eligibility criteria, so visit their websites to learn more and apply for assistance.
Some colleges and universities provide free or discounted laptops to their students as part of their financial aid packages or technology initiatives. Check with your college or university's financial aid office or information technology department for information on available programs.
The E-rate program is a federal initiative that provides discounts to schools and libraries to help them afford telecommunications and internet services, including devices like laptops and tablets. While this program doesn't directly provide free laptops to students, it can help educational institutions increase access to technology for their students.
Students who don't qualify for free laptop programs might consider purchasing refurbished laptops or low-cost devices. Many manufacturers, like Dell, HP, and Apple, offer refurbished computers at discounted prices. Additionally, low-cost devices like Chromebooks can be an affordable option for students.
Keep In Mind
Be extra careful whenever you are looking for a free laptop online as a student. It is essential to be cautious when it comes to scams. Hopefully, you will find a laptop that suits your needs. In addition, you may get free beds or even housing grants, free laptops, free gas, and free cars from such reputable organizations.
Are you interested in learning more about different grants and programs that can help you with your living situation? Check out the rest of our blogs at Gov Relations today!
- “Student Learning With Laptops: Measuring the Effectiveness of Laptops in American Classrooms.” David Trilling, 2016, www.journalistsresource.org/education/student-learning-laptops-measuring-effectiveness-laptops-american-classrooms/
- "Learning in One-to-One Laptop Environments: A Meta-Analysis and Research Synthesis." Review of Educational Research, vol. 86, no. 4, 2016, pp. 1052-1084, www.jstor.org/stable/44668243
