Laptop & Software Recommendations

Student Laptop Recommendations

While Terry does not have a blanket computer requirement, some programs, including the Terry MBA program, require students to own a laptop. Many undergraduate and graduate courses also require access to a Windows-based laptop. Check with your program advisor to determine specific requirements.

The University of Georgia Bookstore has vendor relationships that offer students a competitive price. Visit the UGA Bookstore website to buy a laptop configured and priced for UGA students. Laptop prices are expected to increase due to shortages of RAM and other key components.

At Terry, the standard operating system is Windows 11 or higher. Since Windows OS owns 71% of the usage share of operating systems, learning Windows is an important part of your skill set.

Terry’s Office of IT (OIT) recommends you do not purchase a Mac if you are not prepared to deal with the added complications, cost, and time required to install Windows (in a Virtual Machine) on a Mac. Since many business software applications do not run on MacOS, some Terry courses require access to a Windows-based computer. Open lab hours are available during limited periods where students can gain access to a Windows desktop that may have their required software installed.

Alternatively, UGA’s vLab makes University-supported software available to students, faculty, and staff on their personal computers (Mac/PC) and tablets. While not all of UGA’s supported software is installed on the virtual lab, some applications, including Microsoft Office, SPSS, STATA, and MATLAB are available in a limited capacity. Learn more about UGA vLab.

iPad or Android tablets work great for note-taking, browsing, and information consumption. However, you will need a laptop for homework and other activities utilizing software requiring Windows or MacOS (vs. iPadOS). Be prepared to bring your laptop on days when faculty require laptops for in-class activities and exams.

• Processor
  Intel Core i5, i7, i9 — 14th generation or newer (Ultra 5, Ultra 7, Ultra 9)
  AMD Ryzen 5, 7, 9 — 8000 series or newer (Ryzen AI 7, Ryzen AI 9)
• RAM
  Minimum 16GB, recommended 32GB
• Storage – Solid State Drive
  Minimum 256GB, recommended 512GB
• Graphics Card
  A dedicated GPU is not required
• Network Card
  Wireless AC, AX, BE (Wi-Fi 7)
• Ports
  HDMI output or compatible with adapters (such as USB-C)
• Screen
  1920×1080 or higher

• A 3-year accidental warranty
• Quality integrated webcam, or external webcam
• Surge protector
• Stable high-speed internet connection

It is each student’s responsibility to ensure his/her laptop is functioning properly and is able to connect to the PAWS Secure wireless network. Computer repair is available at the UGA Bookstore. See the UGA Bookstore Technology Center for hours and information.

• Ensure your laptop is set up for UGA’s Learning Management System, eLC, by running a system check. You can review full details by visiting the Browser Support page.
• Review the Digital Learning Tools page to learn about a variety of tools your instructor might be using in class. 

Free Office 365 ProPlus for Students

UGA students can install Microsoft Office 365 for free on up to five devices with Windows or Mac operating systems. Office 365 ProPlus includes Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and more.