With the current vast growth in technology, free tablet for students smoothen the learning process. In addition, low-income students benefit from free government tablets through Lifeline.
Moreover, students can use the free tablets to take online jobs and be able to cover tuition fees and other student expenses. This Lifeline benefit is only limited to one member per household, and you must meet the participation and income eligibility criteria.
However, you can get free tablets for students through various ways, such as enrollment for government programs like Lifeline and non-governmental organizations, including local churches, public libraries, and other charitable organizations.
These tablets also feature free plans with unlimited text, talk, and data, which vary depending on your chosen service provider. It will help if you sign in to a service provider with Lifeline benefits when applying for a free student tablet. These companies include Qlink Wireless and Cintex Wireless.
So, the Government is highly committed to providing them with free internet facilities and free tablets to support their education. Low-income students who are unable to purchase a tablet on their own will benefit a great deal from this free tablet offer. The steps taken by the Government obviously help them to continue their studies successfully and with confidence.
Eligibility for Lifeline Program to Get Free Tablets For Students
A student may be enrolled in a university, college, or school. Participants in the Lifeline Program must be at least eighteen years old. Therefore, students can apply directly for the Lifeline Program if they are 18 or older.
Students must be a part of a family or home if they are under the age of eighteen or a child. In that scenario, their family or home may apply for the program on their behalf, but the individual cannot. Here, we take into account every pupil, regardless of age.
If a home’s income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if at least one of the following conditions is met by a household member, the household is eligible for the Lifeline Program:
The table below reflects 135% of the 2024 Federal Poverty Guidelines.
| Household Size | 48 Contiguous States, D.C., and Territories | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $20,331 | $25,394 | $23,369 |
| 2 | $27,594 | $34,479 | $31,725 |
| 3 | $34,857 | $43,565 | $40,082 |
| 4 | $42,120 | $52,650 | $48,438 |
| 5 | $49,383 | $61,736 | $56,795 |
| 6 | $56,646 | $70,821 | $65,151 |
| 7 | $63,909 | $79,907 | $73,508 |
| 8 | $71,172 | $88,992 | $81,864 |
| For each additional person, add: | $7,263 | $9,086 | $8,357 |
You may have to show proof of income, like a tax return or three consecutive pays stubs, when you apply for Lifeline.
- Obtained a Federal Pell Grant in the year of the grant.
- Fulfills the requirements for enrollment in an existing low-income internet program offered by a partnering provider. If Maxsip Wireless is the provider, the family should be eligible for Maxsip Wireless’ low-income internet program.
The Lifeline Program is available to everyone who takes part in one of the following aid programs:
- Through the School Breakfast Program, the National School Lunch Program, or the USDA Community Eligibility Provision.
- Program for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP)
- Medicaid.
- Federal Public Housing Assistance.
- Security Income Supplement (SSI).
- Women, Infants, and Children’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program (WIC).
- Survivor Benefits or Veterans Pension.
An individual who resides on Qualifying Tribal grounds and takes part in one of these aid programs:
- General Assistance Bureau of Indian Affairs.
- TANF stands for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.
- Program for Food Distribution on Indian Reservations. Tribal Head Start (income-based) (FDPIR).
READ MORE: Get a FREE 10-inch Government Tablet – Limited Offer, Apply Now!
Get Qualified Through Your Dependent or Child
Even your child may qualify your home for the Lifeline. Your household is eligible for the Free Lifeline Benefit if your dependant or child is enrolled in the school breakfast or free and reduced-price school lunch programs.
You will also be eligible for the Lifeline Program if you have previously received Lifeline Benefits.
A government initiative called Lifeline helps lower-income clients purchase telecommunication services. The Affordable Connectivity Program is available to everyone who qualifies for the Lifeline program.
If you are a qualified student who wants to apply for a free tablet from the Lifeline Program, you must submit the following documents.
Provide a letter or official document as evidence of participating in qualified programs.
The document
- letter of benefit award.
- Letter of approval.
- Documents from the school.
- Letter of benefit verification.
- Benefits statement.
You must submit documentation proving that your yearly income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines if your income qualifies you.
The document
- A pay stub or your employer’s most recent income statement.
- Benefits statement for unemployment or worker’s compensation.
- A Social Security benefit statement.
- Benefits Statement from the Veterans Administration.
- State, federal, or tribal tax returns from the previous year.
- A statement of benefits for retirement or pensions.
- Child support orders, divorce decrees, or other formal records attesting to your income.
Identity Verification
You should provide one of the following papers to demonstrate your identity:
- The document
- valid identification from the state, military, Government, or tribe.
- Certificate of Birth.
- Passport.
- United States driver’s license.
- A certificate of naturalization or U.S. citizenship.
- Documentation of a government assistance program.
- Green Card or Permanent Resident Card.
- Ther the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) doc does not require a date of birth.
Verify address
To be included into the Lifeline Program, you have to show evidence of address validity. To do this, you have to generate one of the following records:
Record and Guideline:
If you are applying online, help USAC find your address by using the online mapping feature within the application.
One approach to apply by mail is to send a map showing your physical address or position together with your latitude and longitude coordinates (if you live on Tribal territory, coordinates are absolutely crucial).
Additional Documents:
- A valid driver’s license or another form of state, federal, or tribal identification.
- Utility bill.
- Latest tax return or W-2.
- Statement of lease or mortgage.
- A duplicate address
To determine whether your household is eligible for multiple lifeline benefits, you must respond to a series of questions if you reside with another person who is a lifeline participant.
If someone else at your address is already receiving Lifeline, please document a completed Lifeline Household Worksheet and include the following files with your submission.
Freed Adolescent:
Unless you are an emancipated juvenile, you must be at least 18 years old to apply for the Lifeline Program independently. The following paperwork must be submitted to apply for the program as an emancipated minor:
- Document from the court.
- Emancipation certificate
- Your first and last name must appear on the documentation.
- Verification of the status of a free minor.
Application Procedure to Get a Free Tablet
You can apply for the Lifeline Program through a provider, online, or by mail. Below is a description of the application procedures:
Apply online.
- You can apply for the Lifeline on the FCC’s website. Go to the login page.
- You can immediately complete the FCC’s national verifier form on the official Lifeline website.
Apply via mail.
To apply by mail, you must print the household worksheet and application form from the FCC’s official website. Complete both forms and send them to the Lifeline Support Center at PO Box 9100, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773, along with supporting documents.
The application can be printed in either Spanish or English. Fill out the forms after carefully reading all the instructions. The Household Worksheet is available for printing in both Spanish and English.
Use a Provider to Apply
Select a provider who is appropriate for you and fits your needs. To make it easier to get in touch with them in the event of a problem, you should pick one that is closer to your home. Additionally, you ought to choose a plan from the service.
Tablet Models That are Available for Free for Student
You may get the following tablet models for almost free (You have to pay $10.01):
- Samsung Galaxy Tab E
- Samsung Galaxy Tab A
- Samsung Galaxy Tab 4
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S3
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S2
- Apple iPad 3
- Apple iPad Mini
- Apple iPad 4
- Alcatel Joy Tab
- Alcatel Joy Tab 2
- Connect ONE Moxee Tablet
Carriers or MVNOs that Offer Tablets for Students
Airtalk Wireless
Operating as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), Airtalk Wireless provides trustworthy and economically priced cellular services for low-income residents of our country.
For low-income homes or individuals—including students—the AirTalk Wireless Lifeline Program provides a free tablet along with a free internet plan. The free internet subscription allows a student to access up to 8 GB of high-speed data, therefore enabling them to keep on with their studies. The site is “Airtalkwireless.com”.
Cintex Wireless
Participating in the Lifeline Program, Cintex Wireless seeks to close the digital divide across the country. The program aims to give students of colleges and universities a free tablet so they may easily keep on their studies and utilize the Internet.
Many students live in dorms or on campuses of colleges. They might thus keep in contact with their parents and other family members by video conferences with them using the tablet, which features programs including Skype, Zoom, and others. The portal is “cintexwireless.com/qualify”.
SanoConnect
One company that specializes in closing the digital divide in our nation is SanoConnect, which offers an inexpensive connectivity program. Students who are older than eighteen are eligible to receive tablets for free from the corporation.
Students who purchase a free internet package also receive free data. They can learn a lot of fascinating topics and gain access to a wide range of educational resources by using this data. A student may find a SanoConnect tablet to be a helpful companion. Sanoconnect.com is the website; the phone number is (866) 970-7299.
QLink Wireless
Through its Lifeline Program, QLink Wireless provides low-income households, especially students, with reasonably priced wireless services. Customers of QLink Wireless are eligible to receive free tablets that include a camera for video conferencing, high-speed internet access, and a selection of leisure and educational apps. Using this tablet, students can communicate with their parents, teachers, relatives, and other individuals of interest. “qlinkwireless.com” is the website.
Maxsip Wireless
For those in need, Maxsip Wireless offers reasonably priced Internet. Many individuals, notably students, cannot afford the Internet despite its growing demand. Maxsip Wireless offers a free tablet together with inexpensive Internet as part of its Affordable Connectivity Program to assist these individuals. MaxsipConnects.com is the website. Phone number: (866) 629-7471
Easy Wireless
A telecommunications company called Easy Wireless provides wireless internet services to those with low incomes, particularly students in our nation. The business is essential in helping people who need it most by offering free and reasonably priced Internet access.
Easy Wireless is aware of how crucial the Internet is to students’ lives. Therefore, under the Affordable Connectivity Programs, low-income individuals and students are given free tablets with Internet access. Students and others can access the Internet and make the most of it with the help of the instructional content and practical applications that are preloaded on the tablet. “Myeasywireless.com/how-to-sign-up” is the website. Telephone: (877) 476-3451
StandUp Wireless
Leading the narrowing of the digital divide is Stand Up Wireless, a mobile virtual network operator, offering a free tablet with free Internet as part of its Lifeline Program. Thanks to the Lifeline Program, low-income families and persons—including students—who do not already have access to reasonably priced Internet and wireless services can now do so.
The free tablet Stand Up Wireless contains all the tools and features needed to remain in touch in the new digital environment. 888-225-5322; “standupwireless.com/apply-now” is the website.
USA’s Le Wireless
Le Wireless USA has taken a bold step to reduce the digital divide in our nation with its Lifeline Program. Through the initiative, the business offers low-income individuals nationwide access to inexpensive Internet. Still, many low-income people in our country are left behind since they lack Internet connection.
Now that they have a free tablet with free Internet from Le Wireless USA, though, they may access online resources, apply for jobs, and engage in a number of activities that were unthinkable a few years ago. The online portal is LewirelessUSA.com.
TruConnect
Students who are eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program can receive a tablet for free from TruConnect Wireless. The goal of this program is to give families that might not otherwise be able to afford inexpensive internet connections and devices.
Students in many families cannot afford an Internet connection or a tablet. They must use internet resources to create their notes and prepare assignments, homework, etc. They require a tablet because of these factors. Tablets are also necessary for students’ leisure. They can create their presentations, view movies, listen to music, and compete online.
In light of all of this, TruConnect oversees the Affordable Connectivity Program, which provides low-income individuals and students with a tablet with free Internet. URL: “truconnect.com,” phone number: (800)430-0443.
Different Ways to Get Free Tablets for Students
Should students not be able to obtain a free tablet via the Lifeline Program, there are a few other choices:
Salvation Army: Students who show documentation proving their eligibility will get a free tablet from Salvation. Low-income households can get free tablets—which could be new or used depending on availability—from the nonprofit Salvation Army.
Online Applications: Students can get a free tablet online among other ways. Visit two websites offering free tablets, Craigslist and Freecycle, to do this. This site provides moderately priced used tools and appliances.
From a nearby chapel: Local churches’ charitable part concentrates on serving their members in need. You could raise your need for a tablet in the local church. Your reception of a new or old tablet will depend on the financial situation of the department.
The Library: Public libraries provide free access to literature and the internet. This location is one of the greatest places for students to receive a free tablet, particularly if they are members of a public library.
Speak with nearby nonprofits or charities: Students in need can receive free laptops or tablets from specific nonprofits and charities. PCs For People, Kids In Need Foundation, EveryoneOn, Net Literacy, and others are some of these groups. To find out more about these institutes’ programs and the amenities they provide students, you can either visit their website or stop by in person.
Seek out free tablet programs that businesses are offering: Many students in our nation lack the funds necessary to maintain a laptop or tablet while attending college. As part of their corporate social responsibility efforts, some large and well-known organizations provide free tablet programs to kids in recognition of their predicament. You can see if any businesses or organizations in your area provide these kinds of programs.
Seek out local tech recycling initiatives: Tech recycling initiatives exist in some towns and cities. Tablets are among the many tech items they recycle. They accomplish this by refurbishing and donating devices to kids in need of a laptop or tablet. You can look for these initiatives in your town or city and find out how donations are accepted.
Speak with neighborhood organizations: Numerous community organizations, including local service clubs, churches, and youth groups, may have initiatives in place to give students in need free laptops or tablets. You can inquire about any such programs by visiting their website or by physically visiting their office.
Take part in online competitions: Throughout the year, a lot of websites and social media platforms host giveaways and contests. By taking part in these freebies and competitions, you can win free computers or tablets. Students have a great chance since they are constantly engaged in their education and have a higher possibility of winning a prize than the other contestants.
Seek out academic scholarships: A lot of colleges offer academic awards that include a complimentary laptop or tablet for the recipient. You can apply for these scholarship programs to take advantage of this chance.
Think about reconditioned tablets: These may frequently be purchased for a significantly lesser price than new ones. You can look for reconditioned tablets that fit your demands on internet marketplaces like eBay or Amazon.
Consult your employer: In our nation, many students work in addition to their studies. Your firm might have initiatives in place to give employees who are also students free or heavily discounted tablets if you work part-time or full-time while you’re a student. You can ask your company about these programs.
Think about renting a tablet: Tablets can be leased from certain electronics retailers. Some students may find this to be a more cost-effective choice. Instead of buying the tablet outright, you can choose to lease it and pay a monthly charge.
Speak with the IT department at your school: There is an IT department in many schools. To assist students in need of tablets, several departments may run programs offering tablets at a reduced or no cost. Therefore, you might ask the IT department at your school about such programs.
Benefits of Free Tablet for Students
There are many advantages for both students and teachers when free tablets are given to pupils. Here are a few of the main advantages:
A tablet enhances teamwork: Previously, student collaboration was still somewhat limited. They can work together, but not very much. But now that they have a tablet, students can work together more efficiently on group projects and tasks. Students may now collaborate more quickly even when they are not in the same place because of tablet features like video conferencing and cloud-based file sharing.
It boosts a student’s productivity: Students were entirely reliant on textbooks and a few other notes in the absence of iPads or other digital learning tools. Information is complex for them to obtain. However, the situation has since altered. With just a tap on their tablets, students nowadays may access a broad array of material. They are now more equipped to take notes, do assignments, and carry out research.
A tablet can save money: Tablets can save money. Parents used to have to purchase a lot of books and educational resources. Many families would have to bear the burden. Now, all a student needs is a tablet. Therefore, we may conclude that tablets are a cost-effective tool for students these days.
It enhances resource accessibility: With tablets, all students may now access the same learning materials, irrespective of their financial situation. They are now able to read any book from any library in the world. This option is presented to them via a tablet. A tablet thus makes it easier to access a wide range of resources.
Digital literacy is increased by a tablet: With a tablet, a student can develop digital literacy and enhance their skills. In the cutthroat world of today, greater digital literacy is crucial. A tablet can fulfill this function and assist a learner in expanding their technological expertise.
It enhances communication: Students, instructors, and parents may all communicate more effectively when using tablets. While students can ask questions, turn in assignments, and work together, teachers can respond to inquiries, give reminders, and offer feedback. Parents can occasionally contact the teachers to seek feedback about their children. Consequently, a tablet enhances communication.
A tablet is environmentally friendly: Previously, we used a lot of chemicals to make ink, pens, and other educational supplies, and we cut down forests to make paper. However, one tablet can now save a lot of money. In addition to reducing chemical and paper waste, it preserves our forests. In other words, tablets are eco-friendly and protect the environment. We no longer have to waste paper or chemicals because students can now access digital textbooks, take notes electronically, and turn in homework online.
It raises attendance rates since tablets make it easier for students to access their coursework from any location. Students can participate in class and do their work online even if they are unable to attend school or the institution physically.
It guarantees parental involvement: Tablets make it easier for parents to be involved in their kids’ education. These days, parents can keep tabs on their kids’ whereabouts, progress, and more. They can even get in touch with teachers at any time. As a result, parents are more involved in their kids’ education.
A tablet raises test scores: Studies have indicated that integrating technology into the classroom can enhance both the overall learning environment and students’ academic performance. Students’ performance and exam scores can be raised by using tablets to get them interested in the material they are studying and to get them involved in the learning process.
It enhances organization: Students may quickly create digital calendars, to-do lists, reminders, and much more with a tablet. These features help students better manage their time and correctly organize their work.
More accessibility for people with disabilities: Students with disabilities may find tablets to be more accessible. While students with mobility disabilities can use speech recognition software to use their devices, students with visual impairments can use screen readers. Disability no longer prevents people from using and accessing online resources. The impaired individual merely requires a tablet.
It provides immediate feedback: Students can use tablets to get real-time performance feedback, which enables them to pinpoint their areas of weakness and make the necessary corrections. Students may be able to speed up their learning process and assess the precise state of their knowledge with this aid.
A tablet facilitates distance education: Tablets are excellent resources for distance learning, both now and during the pandemic. Students can participate in virtual classrooms, finish homework, and communicate with peers and teachers from any location in the world as long as they have a tablet and an internet connection.
Free tablets for students can offer a variety of advantages that can improve the educational process, encourage academic performance, and equip students for success in the contemporary world.
Free Tablet Data Plan For Students
Depending on which internet service provider you choose to participate in ACP, different data plans are available for students. Among them are:
1. Cintex Wireless Data Plan
- 4.5 GB Lifeline data;
- 15GB of high-speed data is available with the ACP and Lifeline combo package.
2. The 4.5 GB Airtalk Wireless Data Plan Lifeline plan
- ACP plan with 8GB of data
- With 4G and 5G network coverage, the Lifeline and ACP combo package provides 15 GB of high-speed data.
4. Standup Wireless Data Plan
- A $30/month subscription that includes 5GB of high-speed data
- There is 10GB of high-speed data available with the $40/month package.
- There is 12GB of high-speed data available with the $50 monthly package.
- There is 16 GB of high-speed data available with the $60 monthly package.
- Plans that include 25GB of high-speed data for $75 a month
- A package with 60GB of high-speed data for $110 per month
Activation Process of A Tablet
You must complete a quick activation process if you acquire a new tablet through Lifeline Program and wish to use it. Below is a description of the procedure:
Get the tablet ready: The first thing you should do after receiving the tablet is to charge it fully.
Turn on the tablet: Pressing and holding the power button will turn the tablet on.
Link it to WiFi: After turning the tablet on, link it to a wireless network. Make advantage of the username and password to establish a secure connection.
Open your Google account and log in: Logging into your Google account should be your next step. Please establish a Google account and log in if you don’t already have one.
Update the program: To utilize your tablet, you must update the software after logging into your Google account. Update the software, then.
Install required software: The tablet has a few pre-installed programs, but you can download and install more apps from the Play Store based on your needs.
That’s the entire procedure. Your tablet is now prepared for use.
Tips for Maximizing Chances of Getting a Free Tablet for Students
The following advice can help you increase your chances of receiving a free tablet as a student:
Consult your university or college: Since you attend a school, college, or university, start by contacting your establishment. There are programs in place at many colleges, institutions, and schools that give their students free tablets. Therefore, find out if your institution offers such a program. There’s a good chance your school will give you a tablet.
Please pay attention to sales and giveaways: Since many IT businesses give away tablets as part of their promotions, always keep an eye on their websites and social media accounts. This will increase your chances of receiving a complimentary tablet.
You might think about reconditioned or pre-owned tablets: Refurbished tablets are available for extremely low prices on a number of internet marketplaces. You can occasionally exchange old electronic equipment for a refurbished tablet for a very cheap cost or for free with a number of companies. By doing this, you may improve your chances of receiving a tablet for free or at a reduced cost.
Watch out for scams: Regrettably, some scammers might offer free tablets in return for money or personal information. Be wary of these frauds and always conduct adequate research before sending money or providing personal information.
Never hesitate to seek assistance: Never hesitate to seek assistance. Ask your instructors, counselors, or any other school support staff if you’re having trouble finding a free tablet. They might not be able to assist you directly with purchasing a tablet, but they can provide you with advice and recommendations or, at the very least, put you in touch with helpful resources.
Never forget that there are other ways one may get a free tablet. Thus, never give up; try different strategies; always be open to the potential of receiving a free tablet.
Final Verdict
Among other charitable programs, students who are engaged in the Lifeline program are eligible for free tablet advantages. Students who participate in the free tablet program are better able to afford the technological tools they need for their studies. Additionally, these tablets offer a respectable distribution of data plans that meet the requirements of students.
FAQs: Free Tablets for Students
Who can get a free tablet for students?
Students from low-income families, those in government aid programs, or students with disabilities may qualify.
How do I apply for a free tablet?
Apply through government programs, schools, or nonprofits. Visit their official website and follow the steps. You’ll need to show proof that you qualify.
Are the tablets 100% free?
Yes, but some programs have rules. You may need to apply, meet certain conditions, or wait for approval.
What tablet brands are available?
A: It depends on the program. Brands like Samsung, Apple, Lenovo, and Amazon Fire are common.
Do free tablets include internet?
Some programs provide free internet or discounted data plans. Others require Wi-Fi at home.
Can I use the tablet for fun?
Most programs allow general use but may block certain apps to keep it for school use.
How long does it take to get a tablet?
It varies. Some students get theirs in weeks, while others wait longer due to demand.
What documents do I need?
You may need proof of income, school enrollment, a government ID, or proof of benefits like SNAP or Medicaid.
What if my application is rejected?
Check why you were denied. Fix any mistakes and reapply. You can also look for other programs.
What if the tablet stops working?
Many programs offer limited warranties or support. Contact them if your tablet has issues.
Do I get to keep the tablet?
Some programs let students keep it, while others require you to return it after the course.
Where can I find real information about free tablet programs?
Check official websites of schools, nonprofits, and telecom providers. Be careful of scams!