The Student Computer Initiative (SCI) requires all incoming freshman students, and freshman, sophomore or junior transfer students, to own a computer that meets the minimum standards set by the University.

Specifications for 2007 entering Freshmen and Transfer Students have been posted.

Breaking News: We’re Improving Our Computer Program

Announcing G2GMobile@VCU!

Each year VCU Technology Services works with the schools to develop minimum computer specifications for all students. Additionally, some schools have additional specific requirements for their programs. This year, we’re trying to make this process as easy and painless for you as we possibly can.

VCU Technology Services is working with Lenovo, maker of the award-winning ThinkPad computers, to develop G2GMobile@VCU for the Fall 2007 semester. Lenovo was awarded this contract via a competitive bid process. There will be many advantages to getting one of the new Lenovo G2GMobile@VCU computers, including:

• Special Pricing for VCU Students.
• 4-year Warranty. Standard warranties for computers are 1-3 years. This warranty is valid even if you are no longer at VCU.
• ThinkPad Protection. This program provides complete protection for any accidental damage to your ThinkPad for 4 years, even if you are no longer at VCU (theft and damage due to fire are the only warranty exclusions, which are normally covered by a rider to your homeowners/renters insurance policy).
• On-campus Warranty Service. Most service on your computer can be obtained at an on-campus service center, so you don’t have to wait for a service technician to come to you or for your ThinkPad to travel to some out-of-state service center.
• VCU Loaner Computers. Registered VCU students generally will be able to obtain a loaner ThinkPad if their computer purchased under this program will be in for servicing for a significant
  period of time.
• Wireless Connections. Take advantage of VCU’s comprehensive wireless network coverage to access online tools—indoors and out!

G2GMobile@VCU has it's own website! Visit this page for the latest information, a list of models, and purchasing information.

Students are not required to have laptop computers unless their program specifically requires them. If you need to know if your program requires a laptop or a Macintosh computer, you can check the links to programs with specific requirements on the Detailed Specs page (if you program is not listed, there are no special requirements and you can follow the VCU general requirements). If your program requires a Macintosh computer, or if you (or your budget) would be more comfortable with a desktop computer, you can purchase either of those two computers at a discount from VCU's on-campus computer store, Online@VCU. Please note that these G2GMobile@VCU computers are ONLY available from the G2GMobile@VCU website.

Questions? We have more information on the G2GMobile@VCU website. If you have specific questions that this web site doesn’t answer, feel free to e-mail sci@vcu.edu or call (804) 828-3018. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your computing needs at VCU.