Strayer University Free Laptop 2026: Does It Really Give You One? (Honest Review for Online Students)

If you’re a working adult juggling a job, family, and the dream of finally earning that bachelor’s degree, you’ve probably searched something like this:

“Does Strayer University give a free laptop?”

The short answer is yes — Strayer University does provide a laptop to most new bachelor’s students. But like most "free" offers in higher education, there are important conditions attached.

In this 2026 review, we’ll break down exactly how the program works, who qualifies, what students really think, and whether it’s worth pursuing if you’re studying online while balancing a busy life.

Who Is Strayer University For?

Strayer is designed specifically for working adults. Their programs are almost entirely online, with flexible scheduling that fits around full-time jobs and family responsibilities. Degrees focus on practical fields like business, IT, criminal justice, and healthcare administration.

For many students, the biggest barrier to starting (or finishing) college is the cost — not just tuition, but books, software, and a reliable computer. That’s where Strayer’s laptop program comes in.

What Does Strayer Actually Provide?

Eligible new bachelor’s students receive a brand-new laptop (typically a Lenovo model) shipped during their first term.

Key features:

Pre-loaded with full Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Includes Project and Visio for relevant courses

Configured to integrate seamlessly with Strayer’s iCampus online platform

This isn’t a high-end gaming machine — it’s built for academic work: research, writing papers, taking online exams, and participating in virtual classes.

Strayer also specifies minimum internet requirements: at least 512kbps download (though they strongly recommend 2mbps+ for video lectures and smooth performance).

How Do You Qualify and Get the Laptop?

The process is straightforward:

Apply and get accepted into a bachelor’s degree program as a new student (not continuing from another Strayer credential).

Enroll in a program that requires at least six courses total.

Sign the Laptop Agreement Form (sent via DocuSign).

Receive the laptop — usually shipped a few weeks into your first term.

Only one laptop per student, and there’s no coverage for loss, theft, or damage — so treat it carefully.

The Important Condition: Keeping the Laptop

Here’s the part most people miss until they read the fine print:

You don’t own the laptop right away.

You keep it permanently only if you complete 3 out of your first 4 quarters.

If you drop out, withdraw, or fail to meet the requirement, you must:

Return the laptop, or

Pay its current value (typically $400–$550 in recent years)

This commitment is designed to encourage retention — but it’s also the biggest "catch" students mention.

What Real Students Are Saying in 2025–2026

Feedback from Reddit (r/Strayer, r/OnlineCollege), DegreeInfo forums, and Strayer’s own social media is consistent:

Positive: “It’s a huge help when you don’t have $500+ to drop on a computer.” Many appreciate that it arrives ready to go with all needed software.

Mixed: “It gets the job done for schoolwork, but don’t expect it to be fast or powerful after a year.”

Common Theme: Almost everyone agrees the value is there if you plan to stay enrolled.

Unboxing videos on YouTube show the standard package: laptop, charger, quick-start guide, and a welcome note from Strayer.

Other Strayer Benefits That Pair Well

The laptop isn’t the only cost-saving perk:

Learn & Earn Scholarship: Complete three classes successfully → earn one tuition-free class later.

Sophia Learning Partnership: Take low-cost/no-cost general education courses and transfer credits.

Generous Credit Transfer Policy: Bring in credits from previous college, military training, or life experience.

Flexible Scheduling: Designed for adults with jobs and families.

Note: The laptop offer usually can’t be combined with certain "tuition-free term" promotions — ask admissions for details.

Is the Strayer Laptop Program Worth It in 2026?

Yes — if you’re serious about completing your first year.

For working adults without a reliable computer, this removes a real barrier. The specs are sufficient for online coursework, and the pre-installed software saves additional expense.

The main risk is the retention requirement. If life gets in the way and you pause your studies early, you could end up returning the device or paying for it.

Bottom line: This is a strong incentive for committed students, especially when combined with Strayer’s other affordability tools.

If you're considering Strayer, reach out to admissions today — they'll confirm the latest 2026 laptop details and help you explore your options.

Ready to take the next step in your education journey? The right support can make all the difference.