Free Laptops for College Students
Before applying to any nonprofit, check whether your own school already provides one — more than 15 U.S. colleges and universities include a laptop with enrollment at no extra cost.
Who This Is For
Undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at accredited U.S. colleges and universities, especially Pell Grant recipients and those with demonstrated financial need through FAFSA.
College Student Checklist: Getting a Free Laptop
- Check if your university includes a laptop. Over 15 universities on this site (including Berea College, Dakota State, and Rasmussen University) provide a laptop as part of tuition. See our Universities directory.
- Use your Pell Grant refund. If your Pell Grant exceeds tuition costs, the refund can be used for a laptop. Maximize your grant by filing the FAFSA on October 1st.
- Apply for the Dell Scholars Program before graduation. A merit-plus-need scholarship that includes a laptop for qualifying first-generation college students.
- Check your campus IT lending library. Most universities lend laptops for the semester at no cost to enrolled students.
- Apply to PCs for People if your household income qualifies (200% FPL or below).
Top Resources for College Students
Universities That Include a Laptop→
Browse our directory of 15+ U.S. universities that provide a laptop to enrolled students as part of tuition or enrollment.
Dell Scholars Program→
Scholarship for low-income high school seniors that includes a laptop, $20,000 in aid, and ongoing mentoring through college.
Federal Pell Grant→
Up to $7,395 per year in federal aid for qualifying students. Refund money can be used to purchase a laptop.
PCs for People→
Open to college students who qualify on household income. Accepts Pell Grant award letters as proof of eligibility.
Common Questions from College Students
Can I use my Pell Grant to buy a laptop?
Yes. If your Pell Grant covers more than your tuition, the refund is yours to spend on educational expenses including a laptop. File the FAFSA on October 1st to maximize your refund.
Does my income or my parents' income count?
For nonprofit programs like PCs for People, it is the household income that matters. If you live independently, only your income counts.
What if I am a part-time student?
Part-time enrollment still qualifies for most university lending programs and campus IT libraries. Check with your school's IT or financial aid office.