Young man smiling and wearing headphones and another person creating music on a laptop with an electronic keyboard

Best Windows laptops for university students

Whether you’re in class, at home, or on the go, a new Windows 11 PC will help you make the everyday easier. Find savings for students and parents alike at the Microsoft Store.*


Find the right fit

Shop the latest 2-in-1s, laptops, and gaming PCs. Whatever you need, we’ll help you find it.

Laptop running Windows 11 with bloom and pinned apps screen

Laptops for students always on the go

Windows laptops give you everything you love—speed, power, accessibility, and more with the latest processors and features.

Laptop folded open with an illustrated leaf on the screen

For the aspiring artist or digital scribe

A Windows 2-in-1 provides power and flexibility. Touch1, type, click, or pen1—you choose what fits your style best.

Gaming PC in dark mode with Windows 11 bloom on the screen

For the part-time pro gamer

Gaming is better on Windows 11 with laptops and powerful desktops.

Need help deciding?

We’ll help you select the best PC for your unique needs.

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University students save 50% on Microsoft 365 Personal

Use your university email2 3 to save on premium features and offline access for Microsoft 365 productivity applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, 1 TB of cloud storage, Microsoft Defender4 device protections, social media templates, and video editing software.


The best Windows yet

When there’s a lot to do, let Windows 11 help you get it done.

Meet Windows 11

Learn how to use the new features of Windows 11 and see what makes it the best Windows yet.

Remote learning

Microsoft Teams brings professors and students together for a vibrant virtual learning experience. Get assignments, manage group projects, and connect to learning communities.

Features & tips

Your notes are in Word and your professor is on Microsoft Teams. Use snap layouts to organize those windows side-by-side so you don’t miss a thing.

Frequently asked questions

The specifications and system requirements for Windows 11 are available here. To upgrade, your device must be running Windows 10 or later. Students can check if their current PCs are eligible for an upgrade by using the PC Health Check app.

When choosing a Windows 11 PC, university students should consider several factors to ensure the device meets their academic and personal needs. Key considerations include:

  • Performance needs: Depending on their major, students may need a PC with specific capabilities, such as more powerful processors for engineering software or high-quality graphics cards for digital arts.
  • Portability: Lightweight and compact laptops are beneficial for students who need to carry their computer between classes.
  • Battery life: A long battery life is crucial for students who spend long hours on campus without access to charging stations.
  • Budget: Students should look for the best options within their budget, considering both up-front costs and potential long-term savings through durability and energy efficiency.
  • Compatibility with school resources: Ensure the PC is compatible with any specific software or hardware requirements dictated by the student’s course or university.

University students can access significant discounts on Windows 11 PCs and Microsoft 365 subscriptions by verifying their enrollment status with their university email address. Discounts are available directly through the Microsoft Store and may include savings on hardware like laptops and tablets. Offer excludes: digital games, digital apps, in-app content and subscriptions, movies, TV shows and associated content, Office software and apps, Windows 10, Xbox consoles, games, and accessories, products that have been personalized or customized, gift cards, and services/subscriptions (e.g., Skype, Xbox Live).

Every student is different and various factors including budget, major, and extracurricular interests will affect how you decide which laptop, PC, or tablet is right for you. This laptop buying guide can help you find the best laptop for your university experience.

Looking for more?

Get help with your transition to Windows 11, and make the most of your Windows experience.

Laptop folded open running Windows 11 with bloom and pinned apps on the screen

Upgrade to Windows 11

Ready to make the switch? See if your PC is eligible by selecting the Start button, then go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

Resources for parents

Get help setting up your student for success with tips and tools for parents.

Give us a follow

Follow us on Instagram for tips and inspiration for making the everyday easier.

  • Screens simulated. Features and app availability may vary by region.
  • * Terms and conditions apply; see full agreement here.
  • 1 Touch capable tablet or PC required. Pen accessory may be sold separately.
  • 2 Must be full- or part-time enrolled university or college student in accredited institutions and have your enrollment verified here. Payment instrument required to sign up, and you’ll be charged each month until you cancel. Student status must be reverified every 12 months to maintain discounted pricing. If you are no longer eligible, or do not reverify student status, price will increase to the then-current full monthly price. Student pricing may be discontinued or changed at any time. You will be notified prior to any price changes.
  • 3 Cancel online on your Microsoft account page. Sign in with the Microsoft account you used to buy your subscription and turn off recurring billing. Your subscription will automatically expire when your remaining subscription time runs out. For additional details, see “How to cancel your Microsoft subscription” on the Microsoft Support site.
  • 4 Microsoft Defender app is available as a separate download; you must sign in with your student email address (the same email address you used to create your subscription).