Nowadays, laptops are a must-have device for students, especially those preparing for a GED Test. A laptop is considered an integral tool for classroom activities, home study, and completing GED coursework. However, many low-income students still need access to school laptops or computers. According to a 2021 report, approximately 27% of GED students, or 12 million students, still need to own a laptop.
Given the increasing need for laptops, GED students must receive one as soon as possible. This article discusses the organizations providing free laptops for GED students and their eligibility requirements. Read the article below to learn more.
Definition Of GED
You’ll get a diploma once you complete high school. A diploma proves that you have taken all the required courses to graduate. However, in some cases, other students still need to acquire a high school diploma. In these circumstances, students can take exams to determine whether they meet high school education requirements.
This set of exams is known as the General Educational Development (GED) Test. A GED certifies that you have achieved a high school equivalency diploma by passing tests in four subjects. The four subjects are science, math, social studies, and language arts.
Need For Laptops
Because of their portability and the educational tools they provide, laptops are becoming increasingly popular among students. Not only are they commonly used for research purposes, but many schools are now integrating them into basic classroom activities.
GED Students who use laptops can benefit from more effective and comprehensive note-taking, improved writing and editing, and convenient group work and study sessions. Regardless of age, students can greatly benefit from having a laptop for school use.
Eligibility Requirements
The eligibility requirements for a free laptop for GED students may vary from one program to another. However, to qualify, most programs require the following:
Age Requirements
m,m, It is common for non-profit organizations, universities, and government programs to offer free laptops to individuals of any age. However, the key requirement to be eligible for a free laptop for GED students is that you must be someone other than a high school graduate.
Income Requirements
Most free laptop programs prioritize GED students with extreme financial needs. As such, they provide free laptop devices to students whose median household income does not exceed 150% to 200% of the federal poverty level. Depending on your location and family size, these may range from $13,590 to $50,560.
Academic Qualifications
The academic requirements for free laptop programs are straightforward. The applicant must have finished elementary school but not high school to qualify. Additionally, the student should be enrolled in any GED preparatory course.
Partner Programs And Government Assistance
Several partner programs and government assistance programs provide free laptops and computers to low-income GED students. Below is a comprehensive list of free laptop initiatives you may apply for:
Non-Profit Organizations
Charities and non-profit organizations recognize the hardships GED students face without a laptop for school. As a result, they administer free laptop programs for financially struggling students. Some of the most well-known non-profits that offer free laptops include:
- Computers With Causes
- Computer Technology Assistance Corps (CTAC)
- The On It Foundation
- Freecycle
Bethel University Program
Each student receives a free laptop during New Student Orientation at Bethel University. Under this program, students will also receive a brand-new Chromebook or PC if they enroll in any online course or class.
Government Assistance Programs
GED Students or students affected by disasters may apply for government assistance programs that provide low-cost tech support and services, including a free laptop. Among these programs are:
- Benefits.gov
- Disasterassistance.gov
Types Of Laptop Programs Available
Applicants can choose from a variety of available laptop programs. However, remember that each program has specific eligibility requirements and application processes.
Low-Income Families
Numerous organizations provide low-income families, elderly people, and people with disabilities with affordable laptops and computers. There is a limit on the median household income eligible for these programs.
Public Schools & Community Colleges
Many colleges provide their students with cost-free laptops. Visit the school’s IT department website to see if any free or cheap laptop programs are available. You can also check out if there are any short-term laptop loans offered through your school’s library.
How To Apply For A Free Laptop Program?
Applying to available programs is the first step to getting a free laptop for GED students.
To begin the process, visit the organization’s or school’s website to download and submit an application form. Additionally, some schools or programs may require you to attend any of their GED courses to receive a free laptop.
School laptops are no longer just a luxury. Free laptops for GED students are necessary to help them have access to quality education and better life opportunities.
For affordable internet services and laptops, visit this article from Help Choices on free government internet and laptop 2023.