Learn and Earn Your Laptop: Online Schools That Offer Devices

Online learning has been getting more expensive, and having the right tools can make a big difference. According to a 2025 EDUCAUSE report, about 70% of U.S. colleges now offer some form of tech support to students, making a laptop an important tool for keeping up.

This guide shows which online schools might provide laptops and what you need to know to get one. All information comes from official sources, but you should check the school website or contact them directly to confirm details.

Benefits Of Receiving A Laptop From Your School

Some schools give laptops to all students for free. If you’re in one of these programs, you get a device right away. That means no extra cost and a consistent way to do your work. Sometimes the offer only applies to certain courses or levels, so you’ll want to check eligibility.

Other schools offer laptops through scholarships or tech assistance. You usually need to apply and meet conditions, like demonstrating financial need. If you qualify, you get the laptop, but it can take a little time to be approved.

Some schools let you borrow a laptop or include it in your tuition or tech fees. You can use it during your course and return it afterward. This lowers upfront costs, but you don’t get to keep the device permanently.

Online Schools Offering Laptops for Students

1. University of Arkansas Grantham

Laptop Provided: Free laptop upon enrollment

Who It’s For: New and returning degree-seeking online students in associate, bachelor’s, or master’s programs

Device Model: Lenovo Windows 11 laptop (approx. 15.6-inch, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) with Microsoft Office 365 access

Limitations: You must enroll and start classes to qualify. To keep the laptop, you must complete at least the first two terms with a passing grade; if you withdraw early or don’t continue, the device must be returned or its cost paid back. International shipping may not be available.

2. Western Governors University (WGU)

Laptop Support: WGU does not automatically give laptops to all students. It offers an Online Access Scholarship that can cover the technology you need—such as a laptop, mobile hotspot with internet access, and/or a webcam—if you are selected as a scholarship recipient. You choose which devices are most helpful for your online study.

Who It’s For: New WGU students who apply for and are awarded the Online Access Scholarship based on financial need, readiness for online study, and other criteria. To be considered, you must first apply for admission and then submit the scholarship application within the eligibility window.

Device Model: Devices vary by award and availability. Some recipients have received models like Lenovo ThinkBook 14 with accessories, though exact equipment depends on the scholarship package.

Limitations: Scholarships are competitive and awarded based on multiple factors including financial need and application quality. You must maintain satisfactory academic progress (e.g., a cumulative percentage requirement as outlined in scholarship policies) to keep eligibility. Awards are limited and not guaranteed for all applicants.

3. University of Minnesota Crookston

Laptop Provided: Free laptop to students at the start of semesters

Who It’s For: New and returning students (including online majors at some programs)

Device Model: HP EliteBook or similar laptop preloaded with Office 365 and essential tools

Limitations: Devices are generally loaned for the term and must be returned if you withdraw from the program.

4. Bethel University (Tennessee)

Laptop Provided: Your choice of a standard laptop or Chromebook included in tuition

Who It’s For: All incoming students including online learners

Device Model: Varies by program and school year, often basic laptops or Chromebooks that support coursework

Limitations: Device cost is part of tuition; you typically keep the laptop throughout your enrollment but policies differ by program term.

5. Western Governors University

Laptop Provided: Via Online Access Scholarship you may get a laptop along with a hotspot and/or webcam. This isn’t an automatic giveaway for all students.

Who It’s For: New WGU students who apply for and are awarded the Online Access Scholarship based on financial need and other criteria.

Device Model: Varies by award; students choosing this scholarship report devices like the Lenovo ThinkBook 14 or similar models, tailored to academic use.

Limitations: WGU primarily follows a Bring Your Own Device policy, so you’re expected to have a computer that meets university technical requirements if you do not receive the scholarship. Eligibility for the Online Access Scholarship includes applying after admission and maintaining satisfactory academic progress.

6. Seton Hill University

Laptop Provided: Apple devices (MacBook Air laptop or iPad) through the Mobile Learning @ The Hill program, but not for all online programs; this mainly applies to traditional full-time students. Seton Hill has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for its tech program.

Who It’s For: Full-time undergraduate students in traditional programs and some graduate degrees; availability for fully online courses varies by program and must be confirmed with admissions.

Device Model: MacBook Air laptops for undergraduates; iPad tablets and Apple-related support are also part of the program.

Limitations: The Mobile Learning devices are tied to full-time enrollment and may not automatically apply to online-only students; online program handbooks note that laptops are not provided through the online bachelor’s program itself, though support is available.

7. Northwest Missouri State University

Laptop Provided: Laptop is included as part of the textbook and technology rental program for on-campus students; device access is bundled with tuition and fees.

Who It’s For: Full-time on-campus undergraduate and graduate students; online-only students (Northwest Online programs) are specifically excluded from the laptop rental benefit.

Device Model: HP ProBook 440 G9 Notebook PC with Intel i5, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, Windows 11 Professional, and Microsoft Office 365 preloaded.

Limitations: Laptops are loaned devices that must be picked up each semester and returned if you leave the program; students not enrolled in campus programs do not receive them. Students sometimes face non-returned charges (example: ~$1,500) and late fees if laptops aren’t returned on time.

8. Full Sail University

Laptop Provided: Project LaunchBox program supplies a MacBook or PC based on your major

Who It’s For: Students in creative, design, or media tracks; many programs support online learners

Device Model: MacBook Pro or equivalent tailored to your coursework

Limitations: Some upgrades or accessories may cost extra; check specifics by program.

Exploring Other Avenues For Laptop Access

If your school does not provide a laptop, there are other ways you can get an affordable device.

Some government and nonprofit programs exist to help students access technology needed for online learning.

1. One Free Computer -Free desktop or laptop for individuals in need

You can apply for one free computer with at least basic modern specs (laptops included) through this nonprofit. Applicants can request a device and are eligible for an upgrade after a few years if still needed.

2. PCs for People -Refurbished laptops and low-cost internet solutions

This organization refurbishes donated computers and offers them to eligible low-income individuals and families at very low prices or free in some cases. You can also get discount internet services and tech support.

3. Compudopt -Free computers at community giveaway events

Compudopt runs computer giveaway events in many U.S. communities. You can register online and attend local events where qualifying individuals receive free refurbished laptops or desktops.

4. The Silicon Project -Free or low-cost computers nationwide

This nonprofit offers free computers to qualifying households nationwide (income-eligible) and sells low-cost laptops/desktops to anyone. Shipping is available across all 50 states.

5. EveryoneOn -Locator for affordable devices and internet offers

EveryoneOn doesn’t directly give laptops, but it connects your ZIP code to local affordable device programs and low-cost internet services, including refurbished laptops from partners.

6. Local Digital Equity & Community Tech Programs

Depending on where you live, state Digital Equity initiatives offer refurbished laptops and tech access to low-income households, students, and job seekers. These are frequently updated, and you can find local opportunities by searching your state’s digital equity office. A good starting point for national coverage is the Digital Equity National Collaborative.

5 Things To Consider When Choosing A Laptop

If you’re planning to buy or pick a laptop outside of school programs, these five factors will help you make a choice that fits your needs as a student.

1. Price

Laptops range from inexpensive Chromebooks under a few hundred dollars to premium ultrabooks over $1,000. Setting a budget first helps you narrow down the options to things you can realistically afford.

2. Processor and RAM

The processor determines how quickly your laptop can handle everyday tasks like web browsing and video streaming. For most students, a modern Intel Core i5/i7, AMD Ryzen 5/7, or Apple M-series chip will feel responsive. RAM matters just as much.

General advice from tech reviewers notes that 16 GB of RAM has become the practical baseline in 2025 for smooth multitasking and future-proofing, while 8 GB might be limiting if you run many apps at once or keep many browser tabs open.

3. Storage

Most students benefit from solid state drives (SSD). A minimum of 256 GB SSD is a good starting point, but 512 GB or more can be more comfortable if you store large files or media locally. SSDs are faster than traditional hard drives, which means quicker startup and file access.

4. Battery Life

Battery life varies widely by model, but independent guides suggest you look for laptops with at least 8 - 10 hours of practical battery performance.

Lightweight devices like Apple MacBook Air or modern ultrabooks can exceed this, which is useful if you have long study sessions away from power outlets.

5. Size and Portability

A smaller, lighter laptop is easier to carry between classes, meetings, and study spots. For many students, a 13- to 15-inch screen balances usable workspace with portability. Larger screens can be better for multitasking, but they usually weigh more.

Taking time to explore these alternative options and carefully comparing device features helps you choose a laptop that supports your online coursework without breaking your budget. Whether you qualify for a free program, find a refurbished model from a nonprofit, or pick a reliable budget laptop on the secondary market, you have paths available to stay connected to your studies.