Why am I required to purchase a laptop?
With a unified laptop program Saint Francis can offer services and support far superior to other universities. Just a few of those benefits include:
- Your laptop is pre-configured and tested with all of the software you will need for classes. Plus, it’s distributed to you in a very personal Laptop U session before the first day of classes.
- All of our free printers across campus come pre-installed on your laptop so you never have to struggle with installing network printers and drivers.
- Knowing the exact model of laptop that you have allows us to stock parts so you never go without your laptop for more than 15 minutes. You never have to deal with a repair center and the hassle of shipping your laptop away for repairs.
- Using one vendor allows all of our technicians to participate in training and certification procedures focused specifically on your model.
How will this laptop program benefit my educational experience?
Most of your courses require you to create multimedia materials and presentations as part of your coursework. An SFU-purchased laptop provides a unified platform that helps streamline collaboration and file exchange.
When will I receive my laptop?
You will receive your laptop the Sunday before the first day of class at our special technology informational program called Laptop U. This program is custom designed to provide new full-time undergraduate students with an opportunity to meet the staff, ask any questions, and receive their provisioned laptop before classes start.
What laptop will I get?
Because we work directly with the manufacturer to get you the latest cutting edge technology, your laptop hasn't even been produced yet. We use the Lenovo ThinkPad line of products.
Why have we selected the Levono Thinkpad laptop?
Think-branded products from Lenovo offer many benefits that stand the test of time in a tough university setting.
The roll-cage is made from the same material used on the exteriors of aircraft and F1 Race Cars. Entire systems are forced to pass Mill-Spec tests in order to carry the Thinkpad name. According to Laptop Magazine's 2018 report Lenovo took first place for the second year in a row because of its excellent quality and highly rated laptops.
Can I purchase this same laptop from a major retailer?
No. We work directly with the manufacturer to provide you with the SFU designated equipment at a competitive price. This also allows your laptop to be shipped here so we can custom provision it for you and have it ready for deployment at your Laptop U session.
Can I bring my personal laptop to SFU when I enroll and can it be serviced by the Laptop Helpdesk?
You can bring your own personal laptop to use as a supplemental device in addition to the laptop you are required to purchase through the laptop program. However, there is a chance that your device will not meet the security requirements to be granted access to our network. Additionally, the Student Laptop Help Desk will not have the tools necessary to offer you more than the most basic and limited software support on your personal device.
Will this laptop really last me all 4 years of college?
While every student's technology needs will differ slightly, we work directly with the product engineers to design a machine capable of withstanding 4 years in a college environment with standard student use. You may always choose to buy another laptop through the program at your discretion.
When will I be required to complete the laptop purchase?
Upon paying your tuition deposit you will receive information from the Office of Admissions on required items in preparation for your arrival at SFU. Instructions for purchasing your laptop will be found in your ‘To Do’ folder on my.francis.edu.
What are my options for paying for my laptop?
You can pay for your laptop via a credit card or choose to have your laptop fee placed on your student bill during your first semester.
Can I use my financial aid to cover my laptop purchase?
Yes. If you elect to have your laptop fee placed on your student bill, the fee becomes a direct educational expense thus allowing financial aid (grants, scholarships and/or loans) to be applied.
How will my laptop charge appear on my student bill?
Your laptop charge will appear on your initial bill after July 1st. If you purchase your laptop after July 1st, it will be on your next monthly billing statement. Bills are published the first week of each month and due by the last business day of the issuing month. The charge will appear as an individual line item on your bill.
If I choose to purchase the laptop with a credit card, are there any additional fees?
No.
Can I transfer my laptop to another student if I withdraw or graduate?
Contact the Laptop Help Desk. Individual situations may differ between students. This may not always work across different cohorts.
If I take a leave of absence and come back, do I have to buy another laptop or can I use the originally purchased one?
The laptops we designate are designed to last 4 years. If you leave and come back while that model is still in service, you can continue to use that model until it reaches the end of its life. The Student Laptop Help Desk can provide that timeline.
Where can I go for service?
The Student Laptop Help Desk is located on the first floor of the Library and Learning Commons building to the right as you walk in the doors.
What are the hours of the Student Laptop Help Desk?
Hours during the semester are:
- Mon-Thurs: 9 AM - 10:45 PM
- Friday: 9 AM - 3:45 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM - 4:45 PM
- Sunday: 5 PM - 10:45 PM