Computer Recommendations for New Students (FAQ)

Laptops are required along with a headset or headphones with a microphone. For all computers, we recommend having a power strip with surge protection.

NOTE: Extension cords are not allowed in the residence halls due to fire hazard risks.

The following are college-specific requirements and minimum specifications. For more specific information please check with your academic program.

• College of Arts and Sciences: Mac OS or Windows 10 laptops
• College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences: Mac OS or Windows 10 laptops
• Law school: Windows 10 laptops. More information can be found at Drake Law School Technology Resources
• School of Education: Mac OS or Windows 10 laptops are acceptable for all undergraduate or graduate programs
• School of Journalism and Mass Communication: Mac OS laptops. More information can be found at Equipment for Incoming SJMC Students
• Zimpleman College of Business: Mac OS or Windows 10 laptops

For Mac Laptops:

• MacBook 2020 or newer model or MacBook Air with M1 chips 2020 and newer with at least 8 GB of ram (16 GB preferred)
• OS V 12 or higher and the ability to be updated to the latest version
  See https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT213264 for the current model list
• AppleCare extended warranty
• Solid State hard drive (SSD) or M.2 style Hard Drive

For Windows Laptops:

• Minimum I7-6000 series laptop or AMD equivalent with at least 16 GB of ram.
• Windows 11 OS preferred 
• 3- or 4-year extended warranty with accidental damage protection
• Solid State hard drive (SSD) or M.2 style Hard Drive

The below items are either insufficient or unable to be used on campus networks:

• Chromebooks, MacBook Air laptops (2019 or older with Intel chips), tablets, or Windows RT or 10 S devices
• Smart devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Home as our networks require increased security that doesn't work with these devices
• Printers – students get $20 per semester to print at printers located across campus.

All students are eligible for free and discounted software, including the latest versions of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) for Mac or Windows. Software is available beginning 30 days prior to the start of the fall semester. See the Software Downloads link in myDrake for more information. Check with your college/school to see if they require additional programs for your major(s).

 Hewlett-Packard (HP) (Drake's PC vendor)
 Apple Discount Page for Drake

Other manufacturers may also provide student discounts, please contact them directly.