FAQs

• If you have already accepted your full financial aid offer and you need additional aid to cover the laptop purchase, you may apply for either an Alternative Loan or a PLUS Loan. If you need assistance with this process, please contact Niner Central.

• If you have already accepted a lower amount of your loan (less than the total amount offered) but want to increase your loan amount to cover your laptop purchase (up to the maximum amount offered), you may request the increase on the Loan Change Form.

Not through the NinerTech Store, but other retailers may offer financing options. Financing typically involves pre-approval and may include an interest-free period. Information about Dell financing is available through the Dell Store online. Apple financing is available through Apple Card. 

• The Library offers short-term loaner laptops. For more information, visit this site.

Chromebook’s capabilities do not meet the Niner Ready Laptop Initiative. A Chromebook is browser-based and will not allow you to download specialized software you may need to complete your coursework. 

Maybe, especially in your first couple of years. But as you advance in your academic career, you may find that you need a laptop with more computing power and processing speed. Use these hardware specs as a guide to help ensure your device will last you through graduation.

No, if you already have a laptop, you don’t need to purchase a new one. 

No. The NinerTech Store offers great educational discounts and on-site support, but you are free to use the retailer of your choice if you need to purchase a laptop. We recommend these hardware specs to ensure your laptop can meet your needs for your next four+ years. 

A desktop is fine, but most students prefer the portability of a laptop. A laptop also comes with a built-in camera and microphone, both of which may be required for some courses.

Your instructors will let you know if you are expected to bring a laptop to class.

As soon as you activate your NinerNET account, you can download Microsoft Office. Once your classes start, you can download antivirus software, endnotes, and more—all at software.charlotte.edu. See a full list of free software.

No, but the warranty will help you in the case that you have an accident with your laptop. Do you have a warranty on your phone? It’s the same reasoning—your laptop is an essential tool (like a book), and you don’t want to worry about it breaking or getting it replaced because you dropped it or spilled coffee on it.

No, warranties purchased through the NinerTech Store are not responsible for data backup or recovery. However, with a warranty from a Niner Ready Bundle combined with a backup hard drive provides an easy way to have peace of mind, as your data would be duplicated.

Yes.

Staff on-site at the NinerTech Store are certified to repair computers still covered under NinerCare, Dell or Apple warranty. If your computer isn't under warranty, please take your computer to a local, reputable repair shop that specializes in fixing your type of device.