Globally, online learning is becoming more common. For students attending college online, a laptop is a must. However, some students may not be able to afford it. The good news is there are online schools that give refund checks and laptops to their students as a form of support. After graduation, some schools let students keep their laptops, while others may demand that they return them.
For people who are unable to attend traditional institutions, these advantages increase the affordability and accessibility of education. It may be worthwhile to look for an online school that provides these benefits if you’re considering attending.
In this post, I will list 20 of the top online schools that give refund checks and free laptops to students in 2025.
What Is A Refund Check?
A refund check is funds that your college deposits directly into your account. It is the money that remains after paying your tuition and other costs from your financial aid grant. The funds may be placed into your checking account or you may receive a check from your college.
How to Get a Free Laptop for College
Students looking to get a free laptop for online education will discover that these free programs can take many different forms. While some laptops may be given away for free, others have restrictions that students must accept.
Free computers, for instance, could be provided by:
#1. Pick a School That Offers Laptop Programs
Many colleges rent out computers rather than providing them to students. For instance, students can borrow a laptop for a single term through Santa Ana College’s Digital Dons program.
#2. Make Use of Loans, Grants, or Scholarship Funds
Some grants and scholarships have broader limitations, while others can only be used to pay for tuition and fees. Certain forms of financial help allow you to spend the money to purchase necessary technology, such as a laptop.
#3. Tuition Bundles
Tuition bundles where laptop costs are included in overall tuition fees
Note that you must understand the terms and conditions of any college’s laptop program before enrolling by doing extensive research on it.
Best 20 Online Schools That Give Refund Checks and Laptops
The following lists recognized online schools that offer free laptops and refund checks to students:
#1. Strayer University
Every new student enrolled in an online bachelor’s program at Strayer University receives a complimentary laptop.
After finishing three-quarters of the classes, students can keep the new computer, which comes easily equipped with Microsoft software.
Numerous graduate and undergraduate programs are available at this private university. Information Technology and Health Services Administration are among its online programs.
#2. Moravian University
Moravian University in Pennsylvania offers several undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates.
Every new student who enrolls receives an iPad and a MacBook Pro laptop, coupled with apps like Office 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, and some Apple software that are preinstalled on it.
Its business administration program and the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) degree are two examples of online learning environments.
#3. University of Minnesota, Crookston
One of the less expensive online universities that provide computers is the University of Minnesota in Crookston. They are given to all new and returning students at the beginning of the semester.
This state university offers distance learning bachelor’s degrees in subjects such as accounting and agricultural business.
#4. Chatham University
Chatham University, Pennsylvania, offers all entering first-year undergraduate students a 13-inch MacBook Air laptop, backpack, and protective case as part of the university’s Undergraduate 1:1 Laptop Program.
The kind of laptop offered to transfer students will vary based on how many credits they have transferred.
It provides graduate degrees in fields like business administration and occupational therapy, as well as an online RN to BSN program.
#5. University of Phoenix
Arizona’s University of Phoenix is well known for its dedication to flexible online learning.
It offers refund checks and laptops to qualified students at this university, offering them both financial assistance and necessary academic resources to improve their educational experience.
#6. DeVry University
DeVry University places a strong emphasis on the importance of modern technology in education. To guarantee that students can participate effectively in their online coursework and have access to a digital learning environment, the university provides laptops to registered students.
#7. American Public University
The American Public University System, which has its headquarters in West Virginia, recognizes the particular difficulties its students may face and offers laptop grants and reimbursement checks as additional forms of help.
#8. Liberty University Online
Virginia-based Liberty University Online skillfully combines technology and online learning.
To ensure they have the resources they need to complete their online schoolwork, new students are given computers that are specifically designed to match their needs.
#9. Western Governors University
Western Governors University, located in Utah, supports competency-based advancement and individualized learning.
Tuition refunds and laptops are two ways the institution helps students so they can concentrate on their studies without worrying about money.
#10. Grand Canyon University Online
Grand Canyon University Online, located in Arizona, is dedicated to cutting-edge teaching methods by providing new students with cutting-edge laptop packages.
These laptops are designed to help students succeed by meeting the academic requirements of the online learning environment.
#11. California State University, Bakersfield
Many bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificates are offered remotely by the reasonably priced California State University in Bakersfield.
Qualified students can receive a free laptop, tablet, or Wi-Fi hotspot through the Student Technology Equity Program (STEP). While supplies last, applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
It offers numerous fields of study, such as sociology and communications.
#12. University of Arkansas Grantham
The University of Arkansas Grantham is one of the low-cost online universities that provides laptops to increase educational accessibility through distance learning.
Upon enrolling in a degree program and after courses begin, they provide a complimentary Lenovo laptop to all new and returning students.
Information management and computer science are among the majors that offer online degrees.
#13. San Diego State University
The University Library at San Diego State University lends out MacBook Pro, Dell Windows, and Chromebook laptops to students for a semester.
Additionally, iPads, webcams, chargers, and other equipment are available for students to check out. Additionally, there are cameras and audio equipment available.
Through flexible online learning, this public research university offers several bachelor’s degrees and master’s level programs. Its fields of study include electrical engineering and criminal justice.
#14. Grantham University
Another online school that provides free laptops and refund checks is Grantham University. If you complete the admissions process and enroll in an Associate, Bachelor, or Master’s degree program, the university will provide you with a laptop.
The quality of education offered at Grantham is excellent. The university has extensive experience with distance learning. The majority of students who enroll at Grantham are happy with their decision.
#15. Moravian University
At Moravian University online school Regardless of whether you are a graduate or undergraduate student, the type of financial aid you qualify for will depend on it.
Undergraduate students have access to personal loans, state loans, federal loans, and grants. Graduate students can apply for scholarships, private loans, and federal loans.
Moravian also participates in the Apple Distinguished Schools initiative, which is a partnership between Apple and universities. Moravian students who sign up for this program are given a MacBook and an iPad for free.
#16. Dakota State University
Established in 1881, Dakota State University is a government-run online university with over 3,000 students. This online school offers a free laptop program to all its students. The newest Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga, a dual-purpose laptop for Dakota State University academic programs, will be given to you upon enrollment.
Additionally, at the end of the semester, you will get a refund check within 14 days if you have any money left over. The institution offers 23 majors and courses, including business administration, biology, and artificial intelligence.
#17. Independence University
Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, Independence University provides traditional and online courses in business, technology, healthcare, and the arts. Students at Independence University can get free laptops and refund checks. This is one of the online schools that give refund checks and laptops.
All students are eligible to enroll in the 18 associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees that are provided online in subjects like respiratory care, healthcare, banking, and website design. Every month, new online courses are launched.
#18. Bethel University
Located in St. Paul, Minnesota, the university was established in 1871 as a Christian-focused university. For individuals who are interested in applying, there are more than 100 degree and diploma programs available.
To guarantee that everyone has equal access to a first-rate Christian education online, refund checks and laptops are given to online learners. Christian missions, corporate management, nursing, and organizational leadership are some of its popular online degree programs.
#19. Full Sail University
Project LaunchBox by Full Sail University provides students with the necessary technology for their curriculum.
Current-generation Apple MacBook Pro or MSI GE Raider laptops are given to people as part of a degree-specific technology package. It also comes with the necessary software and hardware.
To help students graduate more quickly, it provides many online associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees and certificates at an expedited pace. Study topics include business and cybersecurity.
#20. California State University, Fullerton
Free laptop computers are available at California State University in Fullerton, a public research university. It is well-regarded due to its outstanding value.
The university offers online college courses with free laptops by the Center for Equitable Digital Access at the university library for the semester.
Programs for Students to Get Free or Cheap College Laptops
Here are educational nonprofits and programs that provide free or cheap laptops for online students:
#1. Affordable Connectivity Program
Internet service, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers are all discounted through the Affordable Connectivity Program. Eligible households receive monthly internet savings of $30 and device savings of $100.
#2. Dell Scholars Program
The Dell Scholars Program offers free laptops, textbook credits, and $20,000 scholarships to new freshmen. Eligibility for Pell Grants and a high school GPA of 2.4 are prerequisites.
#3. FAFSA and Pell Grants
This program covers laptop expenses. It also offers refund checks for eligible educational expenses, such as computer purchases, that are issued from remaining funding.
#4. Laptops 4 Learning
Through the Laptops 4 Learning initiative, underprivileged students can ask family members for donations. Students receive laptops for free once the laptop value has been reached through donations.
#5. PCs for People
PCs for People offers low-income families and students reconditioned, discounted laptops and desktops from Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
How to Get a Free Laptop with EBT?
EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) is a system that provides benefits to individuals and families with low incomes. One of these benefits is that EBT recipients might be eligible for free laptops and other helpful resources.
By providing technology to marginalized communities, these initiatives seek to close the digital divide. Laptops may be given to you for free or at a reduced cost if you use your EBT status. These laptops can support personal development, education, and job searches.
How to Apply for a Free Laptop with EBT
A few crucial actions must be followed to apply for a free laptop:
- Research Programs: Seek out non-profit or government initiatives like Adaptive.org that provide complimentary computers.
- Collect the necessary paperwork: Get your government benefits, income, and any other qualifying documents ready.
- Send in Your Application: While some programs require in-person applications, some include online forms. Pay close attention to instructions and adhere to all deadlines.
- Follow-up: Take the initiative and see how your application is progressing. Persistence is helpful since government programs and nonprofits frequently handle high amounts of requests.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Schools That Give Refund Checks and Laptops
What are refund checks?
People who overpaid fees, tuition, or other costs received refund checks from schools and colleges. It can come through scholarships, student account modifications, and financial aid reimbursements.
Which online school offers the quickest refunds?
Information regarding which online school provides the quickest return procedure may vary. Therefore, you must get in touch with the individual online schools or visit their official websites for the most recent details on their return policies.
What can I do with my refund check?
As a young adult, you will have to make numerous decisions about what to do with the money. The options that are accessible to you are listed below in the order that I advise you to think about them:
- Use money to buy the books, tools, and school supplies you’ll need for your immediate study. This would include technological equipment like a computer and/or a decent calculator, which you would only need to purchase once over four years.
- You can put it aside in a bank account and use it for things you will need all year long, such as clothing, laundry, food, toiletries, travel expenditures, furniture, medication, a bicycle, other living expenses, and moderate entertainment.
- Any excess funds should be placed in a bank account for future use.
Is there any limit to what I can do with the free laptop?
The laptop may occasionally have operating system constraints, particularly if you must finally return the computer. You might not be able to install external programs or access specific websites. Before you start using your laptop for anything unrelated to your studies, always make sure you are aware of its restrictions.
What happens if the free laptop breaks or is stolen?
You could have to cover the expense of replacing or repairing your laptop if your program requires you to return it after your studies. You probably won’t have to pay for a replacement laptop if you are permitted to keep it after college.
Nevertheless, each of these programs has its own set of rules. The likelihood that your program won’t require you to pay for the computer is higher, particularly if you have proof of theft, like a police report.
Can I get a laptop for free through student financial aid?
Financial aid packages for students may occasionally include funds for laptops and other technology-related costs. To find out more about these alternatives, though, be sure to get in touch with the financial aid office at your institution.
Do online colleges give you a laptop?
Free computers are provided by certain online universities. To be eligible for these programs, schools may need full-time enrollment. The cost of the laptop may be covered by your tuition’s technology charge at certain universities.
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