Information on Computers for Incoming First-Year Students arriving August 2023*
UVA Engineering prepares students to be leaders in technological innovation. Therefore, it's no surprise that our students depend upon laptop computers for many tasks, including course work, special projects, capstone design and theses. Some instructors ask students to bring computers to class.
*If you are a transfer student, please check with your advisor for major-specific expectations before purchasing a computer.
Questions? Contact:
Engineering Undergraduate Programs <engineering-undgrad@virginia.edu>
Requirements & Recommendations
UVA Engineering requires students to have their own laptop. Computer models with a combination of readable screen size, light weight, strong battery life, reasonable CPU power and quality graphics are advised. Beginning your studies at UVA Engineering with a laptop that you currently own is a viable option. See FAQ#1 below for more info. UVA Engineering also advises students to acquire computers with excellent hardware repair plans that include rapid repair turnaround times. Also, regularly backing up data is critical, and keeping systems secure is an on-going and essential task.
Since students carry their personal computers with them constantly, UVA Engineering recommends coverage for accidental damage and loss. At a minimum, students are advised to develop plans for sudden needs to replace a computer due to damage or loss.
Operating Systems
Software needs for engineering students differ by major. While the Windows options below typically ensure the broadest compatibility across all disciplines, newer Apple silicon-based MacOS devices offer more compatibility in some majors than others. The Mechanical and Aerospace and, to a lesser extent, Civil Engineering undergraduate programs rely on Windows-only software. Therefore, students purchasing a computer before starting at UVA and who are reasonably certain of choosing one of those two majors should choose a Windows computer. Either MacOS or Windows devices will be fine for all other Engineering majors.
Please note that new students do not start in their Engineering major until their second year of study and either MacOS or Windows devices are acceptable for the first-year curriculum. Furthermore, about half of students change their mind about their Engineering major in the first year of study! Thus, we recommend to new first-year students that if you have a functioning computer that is less than 3 years old that you continue to use it at UVA for your first year. Plan then to purchase a new computer at the end of your first year when you know your major and your computer needs.
The UVA Engineering curriculum includes the use of modeling and simulation software, interactive applications, and animations. While we maintain the position to wait until after your first year to purchase a new laptop, we maintain a catalog of engineering compatible computers on the CAV site:
Other Devices
- Devices such as tablets (running Android or iOS) or other systems like Chromebook are not required for the curriculum.
Software
A copy of Microsoft Office 365 is provided through the MICROSOFT OFFICE AND WINDOWS FOR UVA STUDENTS PROGRAM. Please also see: Engineering School Software Installation Recommendations for additional information.
Laptop Program
For those who qualify, Student Financial Services provides a laptop program and will directly communicate with you. If you hear from them and have questions, please contact them directly at LAPTOP@VIRGINIA.EDU. If you did not hear from them and would like to apply based on financial need, please contact them quickly as the deadline is June 3, 2022. Our school also has a HARDSHIP APPLICATION to support students with unexpected financial hardships.