In today’s digital-first world, reliable technology is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity for academic success. Whether you’re taking your very first online course or pursuing a graduate degree, having access to the right device can make or break your learning experience. Many students worry about the upfront cost of purchasing or upgrading a laptop, especially when tuition and textbooks already stretch budgets thin.
To ease this burden, several online colleges that offer laptops have created programs where students receive technology either included in tuition or completely free. These programs are designed to make education more accessible and affordable while ensuring that students can fully participate in virtual classrooms, video lectures, and online labs.
If you’re considering online schools that offer laptops, here’s what you need to know about the benefits, the top programs, and how to choose the right school for your needs.
Why Choose Online Colleges That Provide Laptops?
Choosing an online college that provides laptops comes with several advantages beyond simple cost savings:
1. Cost Savings
High-quality laptops range anywhere from $500 to $1,200, which can be a major expense for students. By enrolling in online universities that provide laptops, you cut down on that initial investment. Schools that supply laptops often roll the cost into tuition or provide them free, making it easier to start your degree without financial stress.
2. Standardized Technology
Different courses require different software. For example, students in criminal justice online degrees may need access to specialized databases, while those in online psychology degree programs might use statistical software for research. By standardizing the devices, schools ensure all students can run necessary programs without compatibility issues.
3. Better Preparedness
From streaming lectures to joining group discussions on Zoom, students in online MSW programs, online business colleges, or military online colleges need reliable hardware. A pre-configured laptop ensures you’re prepared for virtual labs, simulations, and collaboration tools.
4. Accessibility and Financial Aid
Many online colleges that accept FAFSA or online colleges that accept financial aid include laptops as part of their package. This means students can use federal aid, Pell Grants, and scholarships to cover not only tuition but also technology needs.
Best Online Colleges That Offer Laptops in 2025
If you’re searching for online schools that provide laptops, here are some of the best options:
1. Bethel University
Bethel equips all full-time students with laptops, making it one of the most affordable and military-friendly online colleges. This is an excellent choice if you’re seeking cheap online colleges that offer laptops while still maintaining strong academic quality.
2. Seton Hill University
Seton Hill issues MacBook Air laptops to every student. It’s particularly popular for students pursuing degrees in business or psychology, including online business management degree programs and online BA psychology degree tracks.
3. St. John’s University
At St. John’s, both undergraduate and graduate students—including those in online MBA programs with no GMAT—receive laptops. This makes it one of the most flexible online colleges that give laptops for business, healthcare, and psychology majors.
4. Northwest Missouri State University
Northwest Missouri provides both laptops and digital course materials at no additional cost, a unique benefit among online schools college programs. It’s a strong option if you’re searching for online colleges that take FAFSA and still want reliable tech support.
5. University of Minnesota Crookston
UMN Crookston stands out as one of the best online colleges for military students. The school includes a laptop in tuition and offers degrees in psychology, business, and online criminal justice programs.
Other Options: Discounts and Loaner Laptops
Not all online colleges that supply laptops provide them permanently. Some schools offer loaner programs, meaning you borrow a laptop during your enrollment and return it upon graduation. Others partner with tech companies to give students discounted access to Dell, HP, MacBook, or Chromebook devices.
For example, students in psychology online schools or accredited online MSW programs often benefit from discount programs that make devices more affordable. This approach ensures all students—whether in military online colleges or traditional degree programs—have equal access to technology.
Financial Aid and Technology Support
One of the greatest advantages of choosing online colleges with financial aid is the ability to combine federal funding with technology support.
- FAFSA Coverage – Many online colleges that accept FAFSA allow students to use grants and loans to cover tuition, fees, and even laptops.
- Pell Grants – For eligible students, Pell Grants reduce tuition costs while schools provide free or discounted laptops.
- Scholarships – Numerous universities offer scholarships for specific programs like online psychology degree programs or criminal justice online degrees.
By combining these resources, students minimize debt while gaining access to reliable devices.
Best Online Colleges for Psychology and Social Sciences
Psychology remains one of the most popular online majors. The best online colleges for psychology and good online colleges for psychology frequently include tech packages to support coursework in statistics, research, and counseling simulations.
Some of the best online universities for psychology also stand out as online colleges that accept financial aid, making them accessible to students from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s or enrolling in accredited online MSW programs, having a laptop included ensures smooth participation in research and fieldwork simulations.
Best Online Colleges for Military Students
For veterans and active-duty service members, military online colleges often provide laptops, discounted tuition, and flexible scheduling. Many are also military-friendly online colleges that accept federal tuition assistance and FAFSA. These schools make it possible for military students to pursue degrees in psychology, criminal justice, or business while serving their country.
How to Choose the Right Online College with a Laptop Included
When evaluating online schools that offer laptops, consider the following factors:
- Accreditation – Choose only accredited online schools with laptops to ensure your degree is recognized by employers.
- Programs Offered – Match your career goals with programs such as online criminal justice programs, healthcare administration degrees, or fully online MBA programs.
- Laptop Policy – Determine whether the laptop is yours to keep or only a loaner during enrollment.
- Affordability – Look for cheap online colleges that offer laptops and accept FAFSA to maximize your savings.
Final Thoughts
The best online colleges that provide laptops in 2025 go beyond simply handing out devices—they empower students with the tools to succeed in digital classrooms. Whether you’re pursuing psychology, criminal justice, social work, or business, choosing an online college that gives laptops can reduce financial barriers and improve your learning experience.
By focusing on affordability, accreditation, and tech support, today’s top online schools that provide laptops are making higher education more inclusive and accessible than ever before.