Tulane's Computer Purchase Policy
Policy for Inclusion of Computer Cost in a Student's Cost of Attendance
Policy overview
Federal financial aid rules permit a reasonable allowance in a student’s cost of attendance (COA) for the documented purchase of a personal computer used for study during the enrollment period. The computer does not have to be required by the student’s specific academic program. Tulane University applies the following institutional standards when reviewing requests for an additional computer allowance.
1. Maximum Allowance
The maximum approved increase to the student’s COA is $2,500. The allowance cannot exceed the documented eligible cost. An extended warranty purchased with the selected device may be included within this maximum.
2. One Computing Device
Only one personal computing device may be considered: a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet. Students must select one device. Requests for multiple devices or combinations (for example, a laptop and tablet or a desktop and laptop) will not be approved under the standard computer allowance.
3. Excluded Expenses
Optional accessories and peripheral items, including digital pens or styluses (such as an Apple Pencil), protective cases, headphones, and similar items, are not eligible. Routine computer maintenance and repair costs are excluded. Software, printer cartridges, paper, internet service fees, and comparable expenses will not be added separately when they are already reflected in the standard COA allowances for books, course materials, supplies, equipment, or other expenses.
4. Frequency of Allowance
A student may receive a computer-related COA increase only once during the student’s entire undergraduate enrollment at Tulane and once during the student’s entire graduate/professional enrollment at Tulane. The allowance does not renew each academic year or when a student changes majors or begins another program at the same enrollment level.
5. Documentation
Students must submit a written request and a dated receipt, paid invoice, or other acceptable documentation showing the selected device and its cost. Documentation should identify the student as purchaser or, for a dependent student, the student’s parent. Additional documentation may be requested as needed.
6. Purchase Date
A documented purchase made before or during enrollment may be considered if the computer is reasonably intended for the student’s educational use during the applicable enrollment period.
7. Financial Aid and Loan Eligibility
Approval increases the COA only; it does not automatically increase a student’s financial aid offer or guarantee additional loan eligibility. Institutional scholarship funds generally are not available specifically for a computer purchase. Students may consult their financial aid counselor regarding available federal student loan or private educational loan options, subject to applicable eligibility and borrowing limits.
8. Submission Deadline
Requests must be submitted no later than March 1 of the applicable academic year to allow sufficient time for review and any necessary financial aid or loan processing.