In 2025, a growing number of programs make it easier than ever to get a free laptop for high school students, helping both students and their families overcome financial barriers and bridge the digital divide.
Below is information about useful programs that allow students to easily receive a free laptop, along with clear and straightforward instructions on how to apply.
1. Best Free Laptop Programs for High School Students
In today’s increasingly digital world of learning and testing, a laptop has become an essential tool for high school students. In 2025, a wide range of initiatives are making it possible for students to access devices at no cost or at discounted prices.
Parents and students looking for a free laptop for high school students 2025 should understand these three main types of programs:
- Government-sponsored programs: These initiatives, launched by government agencies or public–private partnerships, provide devices and internet access to students from low-income families. Eligibility is often determined by criteria such as participation in Free/Reduced Lunch, SNAP, or Medicaid. Backed by federal and state budgets, these programs usually have broad coverage.
- School-provided laptop initiatives: Many districts and high schools now implement “1:1 device programs,” where each student receives a laptop or Chromebook for both classroom and home use. This is the fastest and most consistent way to ensure students have the technology they need, often paired with direct technical support from the school.
- Non-profit organizations offering free devices: Beyond government and schools, many non-profit organizations collect, refurbish, and distribute laptops to students without devices. This option is particularly valuable in areas without official support, giving students continued access to technology for learning.
Together, these three types of programs create a nationwide support network, enabling high school students across the United States to receive free laptops in 2025 helping bridge the digital divide and enhance academic performance.
2. How to Get a Free Laptop for Students?
To receive a free laptop, students and parents need more than just awareness of existing programs, you must also clearly understand the eligibility requirements and the application process.
Following these steps correctly will increase the chances of successfully obtaining a free laptop.
Check your eligibility
Start by verifying whether you meet the program’s requirements. This is a crucial step to avoid wasting time or applying to the wrong program.
Common eligibility criteria include:
- Participation in government assistance programs such as Free/Reduced Lunch, SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI.
- Household income below the set threshold (often under 200% of the Federal Poverty Level).
- Current device status: Families without a computer or with an outdated device that does not meet learning needs.
- Student type: Public high school or K-12 students are often prioritized.
- Proof of documentation: Income verification, proof of participation in assistance programs, a letter of confirmation from the school, and valid identification.
Preparing all required documents in advance will help make the application process smoother.
How to apply for a student laptop?
Once you are sure you qualify, you can apply by following these basic steps:
- Find the right program: Start by checking with your school or district for a 1:1 device program; if unavailable, look for nonprofit organizations such as Computers with Causes or PCs for People.
- Prepare your documents: Scan or clearly photograph all necessary paperwork to submit online or by mail.
- Submit your application correctly: Fill out the form on the program’s website or the school/organization’s application and include all required documents.
- Track your application status: Stay in touch with the provider to check your status and understand any conditions when receiving the laptop.
These steps are straightforward but crucial, helping students increase their chances of receiving a free laptop.
3. Free Apple Laptop for High School Students
Apple doesn’t directly give free laptops to high school students, but its education discounts, scholarships, and federal programs like Lifeline can help families greatly lower costs or even get Apple devices at little to no cost.
Discounts from Apple for students
Apple operates the Apple Education Store, an online shop dedicated to students, teachers, and the education community. Here, MacBooks, iPads, and Apple accessories are offered at prices below regular retail. This is the fastest way for eligible high school students to purchase genuine Apple products at discounted rates.
In addition, every back-to-school season, Apple runs Back-to-School Offers: students, parents, or teachers who purchase a Mac or iPad through the Education Store may receive free accessories or other special incentives.
To make the most of Apple’s discounts, check out these links and programs:
These programs help high school students save significantly when buying Apple devices for their studies.
Lifeline program – free and discounted services
Beyond Apple’s own programs, students can also access free or low-cost mobile devices through Lifeline providers, a federal subsidy program supporting low-income households. This is a valuable opportunity for families that cannot afford brand-new Apple devices.
AirTalk Wireless is one of the most reputable Lifeline providers. It offers free smartphones, tablets, and occasionally laptops, along with free or heavily discounted monthly mobile service to qualified customers (those participating in SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, and similar programs).
This makes it easier for students to own a smartphone or tablet for online learning, homework, accessing study materials, and staying in touch with teachers.
One of the biggest advantages of Lifeline is that it not only provides free or deeply discounted devices, but also includes complimentary data plans or minutes, ensuring students have stable internet connectivity for schoolwork without extra costs. This is especially critical for families without home internet access or those unable to afford telecom services.
To apply for Lifeline, eligible households can simply check their qualification on the official Lifeline website, fill out the online application, and choose a participating provider to start receiving the benefits.
By combining Apple Education Store discounts, Back-to-School promotions, and Lifeline providers like AirTalk Wireless, high school students in the U.S. can access high-quality Apple technology at minimal or even zero cost helping bridge the digital divide and improve academic performance.
>>> Read more: Free Government Internet and Laptop: Applications & Alternatives
4. FAQs
Do high schoolers get laptops?
Yes, many high school students today receive laptops directly from their schools or districts, but it’s not universal. Since COVID-19, the 1:1 device model (one student, one device) has become common. Large numbers of districts now provide Chromebooks or laptops for use in class and at home.
However, the scope and terms vary widely: some districts issue devices permanently, while others loan them for the school year or only to students with demonstrated need. Families should check their local district’s website or technology department for specific policies.
How to get a free laptop from Goodwill?
Goodwill operates as a network of local branches that primarily accept, refurbish, and resell donated electronics. Some locations or community partners also distribute free computers through digital inclusion or workforce programs. Because there’s no single nationwide Goodwill laptop-giveaway program, availability depends on each branch and its local initiatives.
Here are practical steps to access a laptop through Goodwill:
- Find your nearest Goodwill branch and review its “Community Programs” or “Digital Inclusion” section, many list refurbishing, low-cost sales, or free-distribution projects.
- Check for specific initiatives such as volunteer-run refurbishing efforts that give free laptops to residents.
- Prepare required documentation (proof of residence, income, student status, or job-seeking status) for eligibility.
- Ask about refurbished sales or training programs if no free laptops are available, many branches sell computers at well below market price or bundle them with training.
- Stay updated on giveaways or partner programs by subscribing to alerts or joining Goodwill’s digital-skills or workforce classes, where participants may receive devices first.
This approach gives students and families a realistic path to free or low-cost laptops while leveraging community resources.
Final Words
In 2025, thanks to government initiatives, school-based 1:1 programs, nonprofit organizations and Apple’s own discounts, access to technology has never been easier. These combined efforts are helping close the digital divide and ensure that every student can learn, create and achieve their goals.
If you’re a parent or student looking for a free laptop for high school students, don’t wait, review the programs above, gather your documents and apply today. Acting now can secure a reliable device for the school year ahead and open more learning opportunities without extra cost.