Buying a laptop for school

Before you buy a laptop, find out what your courses actually require, then compare new, refurbished and campus store options against that list. Working through these questions in order keeps you from overspending or buying a machine that cannot run your coursework.

Start with your program's requirements

Many departments publish minimum computer specifications, especially in engineering, design, music, architecture and nursing. These lists often name an operating system, a minimum amount of memory and storage, and sometimes a graphics card. Some required programs run on only one operating system, which can rule out a machine that otherwise looks fine.

Browser-based laptops are light and inexpensive, but some cannot install the desktop software or testing tools a course uses. If your program uses online proctored exams, check which devices the testing tool supports before you buy.

New, refurbished or from the campus store

Campus stores often carry models that match common program requirements, and they may offer education pricing, service plans and repairs on site. Their prices are worth comparing with other sellers, since education pricing is not always lower. Ask about the return window in case the machine does not suit your classes.

Refurbished laptops from the manufacturer or an established refurbisher can cost noticeably less than new ones. Look for a written warranty, a stated battery condition and a clear return policy. A machine a few years old may still meet basic requirements, but check that it will keep receiving security updates for as long as you need it.

Before you pay

• Your department's minimum specifications
• The operating system your required software needs
• The warranty and return window
• Whether the aid office will add the cost to your budget

How financial aid can account for a computer

Your school's cost of attendance can include an allowance for a personal computer, and some schools add it only on request. If you buy a laptop for school, ask the financial aid office whether the cost can be documented and included. A higher cost of attendance does not create new grant money by itself, but it can affect how much aid, including loans, the school is able to offer.

Some schools, departments and emergency funds lend or give laptops to students with a documented need. The financial aid office, the library and the basic needs office are good places to ask.

Protect what you buy

Register the warranty, write down the serial number, and turn on the device's location and remote-lock features. A padded sleeve or bag prevents a lot of common damage. Accidental damage coverage costs extra, so weigh it against the price of a repair and whether a renters or homeowners policy already covers the laptop.

Back up your coursework to cloud storage or an external drive from the first week. A lost or broken laptop is far easier to recover from when your files are somewhere else.