Policy Statement
The Student Computing Requirement Policy establishes the minimum computing standard for students to maintain continuous access to the necessary computing technology for successful completion of academic and administrative activities.
Applicability
This policy applies to all enrolled students, part-time and full-time.
Definitions
Computer Labs: Physical and virtual computer labs and learning spaces are provided by UF Information Technology (UFIT) in partnership with the George A. Smathers Libraries. Computer labs provide students access to the latest hardware and software technologies used by most degree programs. More information can be found at https://it.ufl.edu/.
Software Licensing Services: Software Licensing Services (SLS) provides software licensing, distribution and management services for departments at the University of Florida. SLS also maintains an online listing of software licenses managed centrally at the University of Florida. More information can be found at https://it.ufl.edu/.
Policy Specifics
The University of Florida requires all students to have continuous ongoing access to computer hardware and software appropriate to their degree program. Course work in all degree programs requires the use of a computer and reliable high-speed internet connectivity. Activities related to student life including academic advisement, course registration, official university correspondence, use of library resources, and student financial affairs are predicated on access to a computer with internet connectivity.
It is expected that most students will meet this requirement by owning or leasing a computer appropriate to their degree program. The cost of meeting this requirement may be included in financial aid considerations.
The university provides both physical and virtual computer labs that include access to numerous software packages. While the university provides these services to all students, they are not intended as the sole means for students to meet this requirement. The university has also negotiated free or discounted student options for many software packages which are available through Software Licensing Services.
Up to date computer recommendations are located in the Guidelines.
Review and Adjudication
If applicable, describe the process for reviewing submissions required under this policy and how submissions will be adjudicated. Include any appeal or grievance procedure following adjudication.
Policy Violations
Failure to adhere to the policy is likely to result in a negative impact on academic performance if students choose not to obtain the computing technology necessary to engage in course work appropriately.
Questions
Please direct any questions concerning this template to policy.ufl.edu.
While every student's experience is unique, the following are general recommendations to consider when purchasing a computer for your time at UF.
Specifications
- Processor: Current generation Intel Core Series (i3, i5, i7, i9) or AMD Ryzen equivalent
- Memory: 8GB RAM
- Storage: 256GB hard drive
- Camera, microphone, and speakers
- Wireless internet (WiFi)
- Windows 10 or Mac OS X 10.13 (High Sierra) or newer
- Please visit the College Specific Requirements page to see if your college has additional requirements.
Additional Recommendations
- UF does not recommend students rely on tablet devices, mobile phones, or Chromebook devices as their primary computer.
- Consider purchasing an extended warranty and accidental damage protection.
- Some academic programs may require the use of Windows based applications. If purchasing an Apple computer, ensure you have at least 64GB of free space. More information can be found at https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201468