Buying a laptop

For most degree programs, you cannot do without a computer as a student. Therefore, the use of a laptop is strongly recommended for many programs. Depending on the program you will be taking, you will need a laptop that meets certain requirements. From July 1st, check here to see which laptop suits your program and download the correct specifications.

If you choose a MacBook, Chromebook, or a system with Linux and experience problems with, for example, (online) course material, we unfortunately cannot provide technical support. You will then have to find a solution yourself. For help, consult those around you, such as a fellow student, your parent(s), or a tech-savvy family member. You might find the solution via Google or an AI bot.

We cannot assess whether a MacBook, Chromebook, or a system with Linux will cause problems. We therefore advise you to purchase a laptop with Windows 11. One exception: a MacBook is also suitable for Summa Artiest students.

Please note: If you have a laptop with Windows 10 or 11 in S mode, you can read how to disable it here . You can find more information about S mode here.

It is important that your laptop aligns with the content and requirements of your study program. The specifications are therefore determined by Summa, but you are free to purchase a laptop wherever you wish if you do not yet have a suitable one. You can find suitable laptops via the Paradigit Campus Shop and via Studywise under your school's name. Both shops offer additional services, such as the option to rent a laptop and take out insurance.

Summa has a helpdesk staffed by Summa students. So there's always help nearby if you have any questions or problems!

To participate in online courses, you need a webcam with a microphone. All new laptops available for purchase come with a webcam.

As a Summa student, you may install Office 365 for free on up to 5 computers. This use is valid until the end of your studies. To download and install Office 365, use your Summa email address. If you are starting a program at Summa for the first time, you will receive your personal login details by email. Click here for the page explaining the installation: start.summacollege.nl.

Do you already have Office installed on your computer? If it's a recent (trial) version, you don't need to uninstall it. During the first few weeks of the academic year, most programs will focus on installing the necessary programs on your laptop, including the Microsoft Office suite. If not, please contact one of your instructors during the first few weeks of the academic year.

It's not possible to install the (free) Office suite on a Chromebook. You can, however, use the less comprehensive version online.

Office 365 is also available for Apple computers. Downloading Office 365 for macOS works the same way as the Windows version. However, Summa does not offer support for Apple (macOS). Chromebooks or Linux are not supported either.

You can purchase software cheaply on the Surfspot website. You also need a Summa email address for this. After registering with Summa, you will receive your personal login details. You can use these details to log in to the Surfspot website.