Recommended Laptop Computers

Students in a degree or certificate program at Cincinnati State may purchase a laptop computer from the College Bookstore that meets standards established by the academic and technology leadership of the College.

  • Students in some degree programs may need to purchase software subscriptions, and other tools and materials.
  • Some software used in Cincinnati State classes will be available for downloading at no charge.
  • Students are responsible for proper setup, software installation, and maintenance of their personal computer systems.

Financial Aid considerations:

If you are using or planning to use financial aid to help pay your Cincinnati State costs, ask a Financial Aid Advisor if your financial aid award includes funds you could use to cover all or part of the cost of a laptop computer and required software (if applicable).

  • If you are using financial aid to purchase a computer immediately, you MUST purchase a “Cincinnati State recommended” computer from the College Bookstore.
  • If you purchase a computer and open the package, you will NOT be able to return the computer to the Bookstore for a refund. Only unopened computers can be returned/refunded. 
  • If you wait for your refund of “excess” financial aid (after tuition and fees are paid), you can purchase a computer from any store of your choice.
  • If you are NOT using financial aid, you may purchase from the College Bookstore or another store of your choice.

Computers recommended for Cincinnati State students:

If you already own a computer:

If you already own a computer, talk to your Program Chair. If your current computer meets/is close to the specifications for recommended laptops, you should be able to continue using your current computer.

Computer Specifications – Dell Mobile Precision

Display15.6-inch display
ProcessorIntel Core i7
Memory16 GB
Storage1 TB Solid State Drive 

Computer Specifications – Dell XPS 15

Display15.6-inch display
ProcessorIntel Core i7
Memory8 GB
Storage256 GB Solid State Drive

Computer Specifications – Dell XPS 13

Display13.3-inch display
ProcessorIntel Core i5
Memory8 GB
Storage256 GB Solid State Drive

Technical support:

Students are responsible for proper setup, software installation, and maintenance of their personal computer systems. Technical support is not provided by Cincinnati State.

Loaner laptops and Wi-Fi hotspots available:

Cincinnati State has a limited number of laptop computers and Wi-Fi hotspots available for loan to students who are registered for classes.

To borrow a computer and/or hotspot: