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Upper School Laptops

Students are required to have a laptop computer and bring it with them, charged, to their classes every day.

Visit the Technology Resources page for related information

Device Requirements​

Recommended minimum specifications for a computer to last four years:

  • Processor:
    • Windows: Intel Core i5 or better (or comparable AMD CPU)
    • Apple: M1 minimum (M3+ is better)
  • Operating Systems:
    • Windows 11
    • macOS 12+
  • RAM: 8 GB minimum (16 GB is better)
  • Storage: 256 GB SSD (512 GB SSD is better)
  • Screen: 13" minimum - touchscreen recommended on Windows devices
  • Webcam
  • Extended warranty (3- or 4-year warranty with accidental damage protection if possible)
  • Vendors
    • Windows: We recommend one of these major vendors: Microsoft Surface, Lenovo, Dell, or HP. Look for student discounts on their websites.
    • Mac: Discounts available online through the Apple Store for Education or in person at an Apple Store.

Warranties and Accidental Damage Protection​

We recommend that families purchase the appropriate extended manufacturer warranty and accidental damage protection coverage for their student's device. Be mindful of the terms of coverage; how soon are you comfortable with purchasing another device for your student? Your homeowners' insurance policy may also cover accidental damage or theft to the device, though you'll want to confirm the deductible.

Protective Case and Backpack​

There are numerous protective case options available directly from the manufacturer or through third parties such as InCase and Otterbox. We have found that cases which are fixed directly to the device (a snap-on or wrap-around case, not a sleeve), which cover the corners of the device rather than simply the screen or back, offer the greatest protection against accidental damage.

Many of the backpacks available today have padded sleeves or areas to hold a device. These provide an added level of protection when a backpack is dropped on the floor, thrown in the car, or tossed into a locker. The separated section also helps to keep the device from getting sandwiched between textbooks and reduces the pressure that can result in screen damage.

Backing Up Devices​

It is crucial that students have some method of backing up their devices to prevent data loss. Common methods include Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, or Apple cloud backup. On Windows devices, students can set up a user account for school use with their University Prep email address and then sign into OneDrive to enable backup with no additional cost. Google Drive backup can also be used with their student Google Account and Google Drive.

Microsoft Office​

Students are required to have Microsoft Office installed on their laptops for in-class use. UPrep provides a free copy of Office to all students, linked to their @universityprep.org e-mail address. New students will receive instructions on how to download and install Office from Microsoft Office 365 along with their school e-mail addresses during the summer.

Antivirus Software​

Windows and Mac include built-in antivirus software as long as you have automatic updates enabled and the latest version of the operating system.