How to Get a Free Laptop for College Students from Government Programs 

College students can easily get a free laptop from government programs. These US government programs, such as Lifeline, nonprofit organizations, and school-support programs, offer free laptops or tablets to eligible students to support their education. Many students can even receive a Samsung Chromebook with free service every month.  

Do you want to get a free laptop for college students from government? Continue reading this guide to learn about the application process, eligibility requirements, and available options through government programs.  

1. Can You Get a Free Laptop as a College Student? 

Yes, you can get a free laptop for college students from government programs if you qualify. Several programs provide students with free or discounted laptops, tablets, or other devices to help with their studies.  

Here are some of the best options: 

• Lifeline Program: Some Lifeline providers Ooffers free/discounted laptops, tablets, or smartphones as part of their offers, together with free talk, text, and data. 
• PCs for People: Provides low-cost refurbished laptops to low-income students. 
• Human-I-T: Helps students and seniors access discounted Chromebooks. 
• EveryoneOn: Connects students with affordable devices and digital literacy support. 
• Campus/Scholarships: Some universities provide laptops as part of financial aid. 
• Digital equity grants: May include device stipends for students in need. 

These programs can help you get a laptop at no cost or at a deeply discounted price. 

Among those options, we recommend choosing Lifeline programs, as they offer a wide range of device options, from laptops and tablets to smartphones. Here are the reasons why Lifeline stands out: 

• High subsidies for eligible users, covering devices and monthly services. 
• Free/Low-cost monthly telecommunication services. 
• Easy internet access and calling capabilities keep students connected to home and school. 
• Easier eligibility through government programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and SSI. 
• Suitable for low-income users who need a free device without worrying about monthly bills. 
• Simple registration, fast approval process, and reliable customer service. 

If you qualify for Lifeline, it could be your best option. You get monthly service, a free device, and faster approvals through a federal program designed to help low-income households stay connected. 

2. What is the Lifeline Program? 

The Lifeline Program is a government-backed initiative designed to help low-income households stay connected with their relationships. It provides monthly support to eligible users, which ensures they have access to essential communication tools like talk, text, and data. 

Through the Lifeline program, you can receive subsidies for monthly service: 

• Up to $9.25/month for standard users 
• Up to $34.25/month for tribal residents 

 In addition to the above discounts, Lifeline providers also expand benefits by offering additional free/discounted devices such as smartphones, tablets, and possibly even a FREE LAPTOP! 

Note: This benefit depends on each provider and is not always available. 

Because of the reasons above, Lifeline is a top choice for those needing a free laptop for low-income families, along with monthly services to help you stay connected without extra costs. 

>>> Read more: Can I Acquire A Free Tablet With Phone? A Popular Government Program 

3. List of Free Laptops or Tablets Available in Lifeline Providers 

Many Lifeline providers across the United States offer free laptops and tablets to eligible individuals and families.  

One of the top providers is TAG Mobile, which offers a variety of devices, including Samsung Chromebooks and other smartphones and tablets, at 100% free or discounted rates for eligible users.  

Moreover, TAG Mobile is known for its fast approval process and reliable customer service.  

Below is a list of devices that students can get: 

3.1. Laptop Samsung Chromebook 4 

The Samsung Chromebook 4 is one of the top devices available through TAG Mobile for 100% free. It’s a powerful yet affordable laptop ideal for students, job seekers, or anyone who needs a reliable device for everyday use. 

Key features of the Samsung Chromebook 4 include:  

• 11.6-inch HD display: Ideal for everyday tasks, from browsing to light media consumption. 
• Intel Celeron N3350 Processor: Smooth performance for tasks like email, web browsing, and document editing. 
• 4GB RAM and 32GB storage: Perfect for cloud storage and lightweight apps. 
• 12.5 hours of battery life: Long-lasting performance for all-day use. 
• Chrome OS: Easy-to-use operating system with fast performance and security updates. 

In addition to the free Samsung Chromebook 4, you can also receive the following benefits from TAG Mobile: 

• FREE plan available
• Up to 15GB of free high-speed data (depending your area) 
• Unlimited talk and text 
• No contracts or hidden fees 
• Fast approval in under 30 minutes and free shipping after 7-10 days 
• Good customer service, ready to help with any questions 
• Wide coverage across the US, including urban and tribal areas 

>>> Read more: Lifeline Free Laptop For Low Income Individuals & Families [Full] 

3.2. List of Free Tablets 

If the Samsung Chromebook 4 is unavailable or out of stock, you can consider these common tablets. Tablets are still a reliable choice for students’ study and work.  

Moreover, TAG Mobile offers tablets for eligible users at a price lower than retail, up to 30-70%.  Below is a list of tablets through TAG Mobile: 

Note: Tablets are very rarely provided completely free by providers. But with preferential fees from TAG Mobile, students can still easily access the latest devices. 

DISCLAIMER: The government does not cover device costs, only basic service through Lifeline. Any free or discounted devices, upgrades, or top-ups are limited-time TAGMobile offers and may vary by state, eligibility, and availability. Terms and conditions apply.

4. How to Apply for a Free Laptop for College Students From Government Online 

Follow these simple steps to apply and get your best free laptop for college students from government programs like Lifeline. 

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility 

Before applying for a free laptop, you need to check if you meet the eligibility requirements. To qualify for Lifeline, you must: 

• Participate in government assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or Section 8. 
• Have a household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. 
• Tribal residents may qualify for enhanced benefits through Tribal Lifeline. 

You can check the detailed Lifeline requirements HERE to confirm your eligibility. 

Step 2: Visit TAG Mobile’s Website 

Go to TAG Mobile’s official website. Enter your ZIP code to check for coverage and device availability near you. 

Step 3: Choose Your Plan 

Once you’ve entered your ZIP code, you will be shown a list of available plans. Review the available options and click “SELECT NOW” to proceed to the next step. 

Step 4: Select Your Device 

You will now be able to select your device. If a Samsung Chromebook 4 is available, choose it. If the laptop is out of stock, you may have the option to choose a tablet or another available device. 

Step 5: Upload Necessary Documents 

You may need to upload documents to verify your eligibility. These may include: 

• Government-issued ID 
• Proof of eligibility for government programs (e.g., SNAP, Medicaid, or Tribal program participation) 
• Proof of income or recent tax return 

Note: If your state cannot auto-verify your eligibility, you will be prompted to manually upload the documents through TAG Mobile’s secure online portal. 

Step 6: Submit and Wait for Approval 

After submitting your application, wait for approval. Most applications are reviewed and approved within 30 minutes if your details can be verified automatically. If additional checks are required, the process may take 3-4 business days. 

Once approved, your free laptop will be shipped to your address at no cost. Delivery usually takes 7–10 business days, and the package will include setup instructions and activation details to get you started with your new device. 

FAQs 

1. How to Get a Free Laptop for College 

You can get a free laptop for college through programs like Lifeline or nonprofits such as PCs for People. We recommend that students choose Lifeline program because it offers many benefits for low-income users. 

2. Can I Get a Free Laptop with EBT? 

Yes, EBT recipients can qualify for free laptops through the Lifeline program, which provides free devices to eligible individuals through providers’ offers. TAG Mobile is one provider offering these devices. 

3. Can I Receive a Free Laptop with Medicaid? 

Yes, if you receive Medicaid, you qualify for a free laptop or tablet through Lifeline providers like TAG Mobile, which offer free devices along with monthly phone service. 

4. Who is Giving Away Free Laptops? 

Free laptops are available from: 

• Lifeline providers (e.g., TAG Mobile, AirTalk Wireless) 
• Nonprofits (e.g., PCs for People, Human-I-T) 
• Schools and universities may also offer laptops to students through financial aid or grants. 

5. Who is Eligible for a Free Laptop from the UP Government? 

Students in Uttar Pradesh may be eligible for a free laptop under the UP Free Laptop Yojana launched by the state government. To qualify:  

• You must be a resident of Uttar Pradesh. 
• You must be a student who has recently passed Class 10 or Class 12 from a recognized board.  
• A minimum score is usually required (often 65% or higher, though this can vary by year).  
• Priority is often given to meritorious students, as well as those from economically weaker sections. 

Students who meet these conditions can apply online when the scheme is announced, and selected applicants receive a laptop to support their education. 

6. What is the Walmart ACP Free Laptop Program? 

The Walmart ACP free laptop program ended in June 2024. Although college students can no longer claim for free devices through ACP, there are still other active options such as Lifeline, non-profit organizations, etc. 

Final Words 

Getting a free laptop for college students from government programs is possible if you meet the eligibility requirements. Programs such as Lifeline, PCs for People, and Human-I-T offer free or discounted laptops to students who need them.  

If you qualify for government assistance, you can apply for a free laptop or tablet to support your education. Apply online today and start using your new device to stay connected and succeed in school.