Canisius Computes: An Initiative for Student Success
New for 2026: All incoming full-time freshmen and transfers will receive a MacBook Air to power their journey at Canisius!
By providing our students with cutting edge technology, we give them the tools they need to be successful in the classroom & beyond. Access to technology should never be a barrier to learning.
Canisius Computes reflects the university's commitment to ensuring every student has consistent, reliable access to the tools they need to succeed. All incoming full-time, first-year undergraduate students are eligible to receive a device through the program. Current students will have an opportunity to opt-in for the Fall 2026 semester while supplies last.
FAQ
What are the eligibility requirements?
All incoming undergraduate students are eligible to receive a device through the program. Current students will have an opportunity to opt-in for the Fall 2026 semester while supplies last.
What is the cost for the device?
For incoming undergraduate students, the device cost is included in tuition.
Returning undergraduate students have the opportunity to buy into the program at a discounted rate:
Rising Sophomores: 25% of the device and AppleCare+ cost.
Rising Juniors: 50% of the device and AppleCare+ cost
Rising Seniors: 75% of the device and AppleCare+ cost.
Specific pricing details will be communicated directly to returning students prior to the buy-in window opening.
What kind of device do I get?
A MacBook Air. Each device will include AppleCare+ with the no-fee repair option, providing comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.
Product Details
MacBook Air 13” w/ M5 processor, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD
When do I receive my device?
Incoming first-year and transfer students will receive their MacBook Air at New Griff Orientation.
Details for current students will be announced soon.
Can I opt-out?
Yes, incoming students can decline the device. There is not a bill adjustment available if they choose to do so.
Do I get to keep my laptop?
Yes, after three years of full-time status or graduation, whichever comes first, ownership of the device transfers to you.
What should I do if I encounter technical issues or need assistance with the laptop? Will there be a charge for repairing my laptop?
Each device includes AppleCare+ with the no-fee repair option, which provides comprehensive coverage for hardware issues and certain types of accidental damage. Students should contact Apple directly or visit an Apple-authorized service provider for repairs covered under this plan.
What if my device is lost or stolen?
AppleCare+ does not cover loss or theft. Because devices remain Canisius property until ownership transfer, students are strongly encouraged to ensure they have adequate personal property coverage in place. We recommend checking whether your family’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy covers a dependent’s personal property while they are living at college, or considering a dedicated renter’s insurance policy if you are living in the residence halls. Canisius partners with GradGuard to make renter’s insurance easily accessible for residential students. More information about GradGuard can be found here.
Student are also strongly encouraged to turn on the Apple Find My feature built-in to macOS.
How do I opt in as a returning student?
Complete the Canisius Computes returning student Opt-In form. You'll confirm your name and agree to have the pro-rated cost added to your student bill.
Is there a deadline to opt in?
There is no set deadline. Devices are available while supplies last, so we encourage you to submit your request as soon as possible.
Can I change my mind after submitting the form?
Once your request is submitted and processed, the cost will be applied to your student bill. Please review pricing for your class year before submitting.
Billing & Financial Aid
When will the charge appear on my student bill?
The pro-rated cost will be applied to your fall 2026 student bill following confirmation of your request.
Can I use financial aid to cover the cost?
Students are encouraged to contact the Office of Financial Aid (@email or 716-888-2600) to discuss how the device cost may interact with their aid package.
Can I pay the cost upfront rather than having it added to my bill?
The cost of the device will be added to the bill of all students who opt in. If you would like to pay for this line item in advance of settling your bill for the term, please contact Student Records & Financial Services at 716-888-2600 after the charge is posted.
Device & Ownership
When and how will I receive my device?
Incoming first-year and transfer students will receive their MacBook at New Griff Orientation. Returning students will be contacted with device deployment details just before the start of classes in August.
How does ownership work for returning students?
Ownership of the device transfers at graduation or after three years of full-time study, whichever comes first. For returning students who opt in, ownership will transfer when they graduate.
What if I leave Canisius before ownership transfers?
If you leave Canisius before the ownership threshold is met, you will be responsible for the remaining balance of the device cost.
Can I choose a different device or configuration?
No. Devices distributed through Canisius Computes are the MacBook Air 13" with M5 processor, 16GB unified memory, and 512GB SSD. Students majoring in Digital Media Arts (DMA) are the one exception. Students in this program will receive a MacBook Pro.
Eligibility
What if I'm a part-time student?
The opt-in opportunity is available to full-time returning undergraduates only.
Are graduate students eligible?
At this time, Canisius Computes is available to undergraduate students only.
Contact Us
More details about the program are still being finalized and will be posted to this page and communicated to students when available.
For further questions please contact the office of Student Life:
Email: @email