Discover the best online college with free laptop for 2025. Get quality education and a free device to support your online learning
Online learning is quite prevalent in 2025. Fees are increasing, and most students desire flexible learning, so they enroll in online schools. The good news is that some of the best online schools now provide free laptops to allow you to thrive academically. In this article, we will examine the 7 top online colleges that provide free laptops in 2025. We'll explain how the programs operate and what to consider prior to enrolling. Whether you're a new college student, an adult returnee to college, or someone looking for a career change, this blog contains the useful information you're looking for.
Why Choose an Online College That Offers a Free Laptop?
If you are wondering if it is truly worth the effort and investment, let me present you with a few clear and convincing arguments to enlighten you on this matter:
- Saves money on tech gear (laptops can cost anywhere between $500–1500+)
- Makes it even more accessible, especially where you wouldn't already have a suitable device.
- Guarantees that there is full compatibility with various course platforms and the tools employed by them.
- Gives you a great head start with preinstalled software, plus a range of academic resources easily accessible for you to use.
In addition, when a school provides students with a free laptop, it is only natural they are making a significant investment in your future success and well-being.
Top 7 Best Online Colleges with Free Laptop in 2025
Here’s a carefully researched list of 2025’s best options based on:
- Accreditation
- Laptop program details
- Student reviews
- Flexibility and affordability
1. Dakota State University (DSU)
Location: Madison, South Dakota
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Laptop Supplied: HP ProBook or similar ready-to-use laptop
Dakota State University is a technology-focused university with a focus on cybersecurity, computer science, and digital innovation. As part of its Wireless Mobile Computing Initiative, DSU offers a free, quality laptop to all of its full-time students, including online students, to aid them in their academic pursuits.
The laptop you will be receiving has all the software and settings needed for the use of DSU's online learning platforms. Students are also eligible for assistance with technology and hardware throughout their academic careers. The laptops are heavy-duty, rugged computing-capable, and can meet the needs of STEM students.
DSU is also known to be highly popular for its excellent academic programs and a strong online learning platform that has earned a good reputation among students. Their well-structured online courses try to emulate the interactive environment of studying on a traditional campus to the best possible extent, using interactive lessons where students are able to participate actively, dynamic discussion forums where one can share ideas, and experienced instructors who share their experience with the virtual classroom. If you are looking to earn a degree in information technology, cybersecurity, or data science, DSU is the right alternative that cannot be ignored.
Advantages:
- A recognized and established presence in the realm of cybersecurity and technology-related disciplines.
- Laptop has software and support.
- The program has a favorable high student-to-teacher ratio, which is very conducive to learning processes of this kind.
- It is especially suitable for computer-literate students who are studying Information Technology, cyber defense, or computer science.
2. Bethel University (Tennessee)
Location: McKenzie, Tennessee
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Laptop Provided: Chromebook or similar
Bethel University is a private Christian university that is easy to gain admission to, is affordable, and is committed to educating adult learners. The university has a unique Success Laptop Program that awards every qualified online undergraduate student a free Chromebook on formal enrollment.
This laptop is accessible to Bethel's learning systems and comes with online apps like Google Docs, Sheets, and many others. It is portable and simple to use, especially for students who are coming back to school after a while or those who are not tech-savvy.
Bethel offers adult working professionals online degrees. They offer flexible schedules, anytime classes, and numerous different majors such as business, criminal justice, and health sciences. Success coaches and technical support assist students in learning.
Advantages:
- Free Chromebook to your doorstep
- Simple-to-use web systems for adults.
- Accredited and highest rated for student satisfaction
Best For: First-generation college students, adult learners, and work-study balanced students.
3. Full Sail University
Location: Winter Park, Florida (Online nationwide)
Accreditation: The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
Laptop Provided: MacBook Pro (creative courses), HP Laptop (tech/business courses)
Full Sail University is a reputable institution for the study of creative arts and digital media. Under its Project LaunchBox program, all students – including those who are studying online – receive a free laptop that is tailored to their area of study.
Design students, for instance, are provided with a MacBook Pro and Adobe Creative Cloud and other software. Game design and programming students can be provided with a sturdy HP laptop with the required tools. The LaunchBox costs in excess of $2,000 based on the program.
Full Sail online degrees are extremely interactive, project-oriented, and taught by professionals in the field. Students are invited to create portfolios and work in real-time with their peers, even though they are geographically apart. Technology that is supplied does not allow any creative potential to go unrealized because resources are missing.
Advantages:
- Premium laptops and software included
- Vocation-oriented craft courses
- Build your portfolio in the process.
4. Chatham University
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education Laptop Provided: 13" MacBook Air (Apple M-series chip) Chatham University provides an excellent technology package to all new students, on-campus and online. The Undergraduate MacBook Program provides students with a brand new MacBook Air with robust processors, extended battery life, and educational software. The laptop comes with software such as Microsoft Office, Zoom, and course-related software. It is perfect for students pursuing writing, business, marketing, or sustainability. Chatham's IT helpdesk provides ongoing help, and students are allowed to retain the laptop upon graduation. Chatham is known for being good to the environment, supporting women in leadership, and caring about social issues. The online programs are designed to be flexible, which helps students balance school with their life duties. Advantages:
- Top-of-the-line MacBook in possession and owned at graduation
- Perfect for research and writing classes
- Industry-leading support and availability
Best For: Liberal arts, marketing, and eco-friendly students who like Apple devices.
5. Independence University (Note: Currently under closure process as of late 2023)
Independence University used to have a reputation for awarding laptops to every student with its "Tools for Learning" initiative, but it is closing. Make sure to find out the current status of these colleges before applying. In case they still exist, they offered an entire technology package and flexible degree plans.
Important: As of 2025, students are encouraged to explore other accredited institutions actively enrolling.
6. Moravian University
Location: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Laptop Provided: MacBook Pro and iPad with Apple Pencil.
Moravian University offers a wonderful tech package to both on-campus and online students. Called the Moravian Apple Technology Program, it gives each student a MacBook Pro, an iPad, and an Apple Pencil as part of the tuition fee.
This technology assists students in accessing live classes, recording notes on their devices, and using creative tools on their projects. All devices come with school apps such as Notability, Microsoft Office, and more. The students are also given AppleCare+ and full tech support.
Advantages:
- Full Apple bundle (MacBook + iPad + Pencil)
- Top-rated tech support and student experience
- Effective online academic and community advising
Best For: Visual learners, multimedia users, and students in blended online programs.
7. Seton Hill University
Location: Greensburg, Pennsylvania
Accreditation comes from the highly respected Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Laptop Provided: A MacBook Air has been provided.
Seton Hill University, known for its unique approach to education within the framework of Catholic liberal arts, has a comprehensive plan referred to as Mobile Learning @ The Hill. The plan ensures that every full-time student, be they attending on campus or learning through online courses, is provided with a MacBook Air. Every laptop is loaded with a variety of educational software that is geared towards academic success, and the students also receive AppleCare protection in addition to full support services that are intended to assist them throughout their learning experience.
The equipment may be kept by the students even after graduation, and the university gives every student access to digital tools required for success. The online degree programs provided by the university are education, business, and healthcare management.
Advantages:
- Free Apple laptop software
- Professional-focused online degrees
- Free laptop to stay with student upon graduation
Best For: Business and education students, and students who want a well-structured and religious learning environment.
How to Qualify for a Free Laptop from an Online College?
Every college is different, but this is a general step to follow:
- Start the process of college application – You should confirm that the college you wish to apply to is actually accredited.
- Verify laptop eligibility – Verify if the free laptop is for online students or only for campus students.
- Enroll as a full-time student – A majority of courses demand full-time enrollment.
- Signing the laptop agreement – Some colleges do have policies in place that necessitate students signing on to specific terms regarding the use of the laptop or the terms of its return.
- After you have finalized your enrollment, your device will be delivered to your chosen address or held for you to collect from a designated point.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best online college that provides a free laptop in 2025 will cost you less in the short run and enhance your studies. Make sure the college you choose is accredited, transparent about its laptop program, and aligned with your career aspirations. Take into account the curriculum, tuition, laptop requirements, and tech support before you enroll. A laptop is only one aspect of the grand scheme, especially in today's digital classroom.