Computing on Campus

Computers are a vital part of life at Bentley and you are expected to bring a personal laptop computer to campus. You will use it to communicate, access online resources, register for classes, complete and submit class assignments and countless other academic tasks. Bentley provides a list of computer specifications to ensure you can work in Bentley’s computing environment. Please be aware that you do not need to purchase Microsoft Office 365 as it is made available to you at no additional cost while you are a registered student at Bentley. Bentley strongly recommends that you purchase a Windows computer as it provides the best experience across the curriculum.

While not recommended, if you choose to use a Mac computer, certain courses require Windows-only applications. These courses include Accounting (AC), Computer Information Systems (CS), Information Process Management (IPM) and Finance (FI) courses. For Mac OS users, Bentley cannot guarantee compatibility with Windows-only applications for certain courses. Students with Macs will need to purchase and install additional software to use Windows-only applications in order to complete course requirements. Also, you may incur additional costs to acquire virtualization software for your Mac. Installing virtualization software is both time consuming and requires advanced technical knowledge to use on your Mac computer.

Purchasing a New Computer

Bentley offers educational pricing on Windows computers. Each year Bentley reviews brands, models, and configurations based on product quality, reliability, value and the ability to meet the needs of the Bentley curriculum. Last year, Bentley offered Lenovo laptops. Computers can be purchased from a secure procurement portal provided by Micros Northeast for Windows-based products. In addition, please note that tablets, iPads and Chromebooks do not provide adequate functionality in order to complete your necessary academic work at Bentley. These platforms are not supported or advised for academic work at Bentley. While students are not required to purchase Bentley’s recommended laptop computers via the Micros Northeast portal, there are advantages to doing so, including access to vetted business-class computers, educational discounts, three-year warranty and accidental damage coverage, on-campus repair services, and priority access to a loaner should your computer need repair. For information on computer configurations, available software, links to purchase Windows computers, and more, visit bentley.edu/offices/it/informationincoming-students.