All Freshmen and Transfer Engineering Students entering Spring 2013 are expected to purchase the following items:
- University Undergraduate Bundle
- Engineering Software Bundle
- A mobile computer that meets our minimum specifications
Fall 2013 Requirements will not be available until April 2013. Fall 2013 entering students should not purchase their computer until the requirements have been published.
Minimum Requirement
Click on terms for expanded definitions of each item.
| Platform | Tablet PC Convertible |
|---|---|
| OS | Windows 7 Professional, 64-bit version |
| PC Processor | Intel 2nd Gen Core i5 2.4 Ghz or faster Intel processor |
| Memory (RAM) | 4 GB or more (one dimm recommended) |
| Hard Disk Drive | 320 GB or larger ; 7200 RPM spindle speed or better |
| CD/DVD drive | DVD+-R dual layer DVD (External drive acceptable) |
| Input/Output Ports | Minimum 1 USB 3.0 port recommended |
| Input Device | Integrated Wacom, N-Trig, or S-Pen |
| Wireless | 802.11 a/g/n |
| NIC/Ethernet Card | 10/100/1000 Ethernet Card |
| Printer | Any Windows compatible inkjet or laser printer |
| Warranty | 3 Year onsite with accidental damage coverage (recommend 4 years) |
| External Backup Drive | USB external hard drive of 1 TB or more |
Options that Meet Requirement
Option 1: A convertible tablet pc that supports digital inking (Wacom, N-trig, or S pen technology). If you are buying a new mobile computer for college, this is your least expensive option.
Option 2: A laptop meeting all of the above requirements AND a Windows 7 or 8 slate/tablet that supports digital inking (Wacom, N-trig, or S-pen technology)
Please review our statement on "Deviation from the Requirement" before making your purchase.
Financial Aid Information:
$2,500 is included in the total cost of attendance for the purchase of a computer and associated peripherals for all first-year students at Virginia Tech. This in effect increases the amount of financial assistance students may be eligible for their first year. It is not included in later years. Please take this into consideration when making your decision regarding our tablet PC requirement.
Links to Helpful Information
- Software Bundle Download
- Apple Laptop Information
- Additional information regarding software
- Hardware and software requirements policy statement
- Frequently Asked Questions about the tablet requirement
