Dell Student Discounts: Save on College Laptops & Computers

Jul 8, 2010
Carol Finch

A Guide to Dell Student Discounts - Photo by MrK001

Students looking to buy laptops or PCs for college may save money by looking for student discounts. Buying via Dell University may help find a cheap deal.

Like some other computer manufacturers, Dell offers a range of discount deals for college students. Accessed in the U.S. via Dell University and in the UK via The Dell Student Computing Initiative, these deals could help students to find cheaper deals on laptops, PCs, accessories, software and electronics. How do Dell student discounts work, how much can be saved and who can benefit?

How Does the Dell Student Discounts Scheme Work?

The Dell college scheme allows those about to attend/already attending college/university to buy Dell equipment online at a discounted cost. The actual savings to be made will vary depending on factors such as total spend, location and, in some cases, the college itself.

How Much Will a Student Save With the Dell Student Discounts Scheme?

The discounts on offer in the U.S. may vary from those available in the UK. Some U.S. colleges, for example, have put extra deals in place with Dell and attending students may be able to access special offers. Savings in the UK tend to be generic and do not yet change according to the college/university attended.

Some deals may simply reduce the cost of a laptop or a PC by a few dollars or pounds; others may give 10%+ discounts. In the UK students can currently save up to 10% on standard costs with the actual percentage rising according to spend. They may also be able to apply standard promotions and special offers to save more. In the U.S. student discounts are not able to be combined with other deals.

Who Qualifies to Use Dell Student Discounts?

Under the terms of the Dell U scheme in the U.S, purchasers must be:

High school juniors or seniors that are college-bound.
Currently enrolled or incoming college students.
Parents/legal guardians buying equipment for a child that qualifies for the scheme.
College alumni.
Faculty/staff at a college or university.

The company also offers various initiatives for high school students.

In the UK, purchasers must be:

Students about to take up a college/university place or currently enrolled students.
Staff working in a post-secondary educational establishment.
Parents/friends/relatives of students that would qualify for the scheme.

It is possible to use the UK Dell student discount scheme with an unconfirmed college/university place. The plan must be, however, to go on to study at this level. Those that are not eligible for the scheme but that try to play the system to save money may be liable to repay any discounts given or may have their orders canceled.

Those looking at buying a laptop/PC for college may also find the following articles useful:

Sources: Dell University; The Dell Student Computing Initiative. Accessed online 7th July 2010.