Tamil Nadu Government has announced the launch of the Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme for students. Under this scheme, the state government is providing free laptops to 2 million students. The scheme is being administered by the Electronics Corporation of Tamil Nadu using a new ERP system and mobile app. This system will track applications, distribution, and even service requests.
A budget of ₹2,000 crore has been set aside for the free laptop scheme for the year 2025-26. First phase tender for 10 lakh laptops already floated internationally. If you are also studying in a college in Tamil Nadu and meet the eligibility criteria for the free laptop scheme, you can get a laptop.
Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme
The Free Laptop Yojana is an extensive government initiative that aims to give laptops free to eligible students throughout Tamil Nadu. This scheme aims to empower students with access to the latest technology, online learning, and essential digital skills. The scheme will be implemented by the Electronics Corporation of Tamil Nadu (ELCOT) through an ERP system and a mobile app.
Highlights of Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme
| Scheme Name | Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme |
| Announced in | Budget 2025–26 by Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu |
| Managed by | ELCOT & Higher Education Department |
| Total Beneficiaries | 20 lakh students (2 years) |
| Budget Allocation | ₹2,000 crore per year |
| Eligible Students | Arts, Science, Engineering, Medical, Agriculture, Polytechnic colleges |
| Device Type | Laptop / Tablet (choice of student) |
| Distribution Start | December 2025 |
| Tracking | Online ERP system and Mobile App |
Under the free laptop schemes will provide laptops with modern specs suitable for video editing, 4K playback, and coding. Through this laptop, students will be able to learn the latest technology and fight the increasing job competition in the market. Below is the detailed specifications of the laptops. ERP tracking system will manage applications, delivery, and warranty.
Laptop Specifications
According to government sources, laptops under this scheme will have:
- Intel i3 / AMD Ryzen 3 processor
- 8 GB RAM
- 256 GB SSD storage
- 15-inch display
- HD camera for video calls
- Windows + Linux (dual boot)
- Microsoft Word & Excel (1-year free)
- Educational tools and antivirus pre-installed
Benefits of Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme
- Empowers students with access to the latest technology and internet.
- Bridges the digital divide for underprivileged and rural youth.
- Helps students learn IT skills, code, and research for academics and jobs.
- Enables online learning, e-classes, and exam prep from anywhere.
- Free Office 365 helps students prepare assignments, projects, and presentations.
- Future-proof specs ensure laptops remain fast and useful for years.
Eligibility Criteria
- Student must be a resident of Tamil Nadu.
- Must be enrolled in a recognized college in Tamil Nadu.
- Scheme is only for students, not teachers.
- Priority may be given to first and second-year students.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card
- College ID Card / Bonafide Certificate
- Bank details (for warranty registration)
- Passport-size photo
- Any extra documents mentioned on portal
How to Apply Online for Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme
Applications will be available soon on the official portal. Students need to register, fill the form, upload documents, and track via ERP or mobile app. All eligible students can follow the below step by step Tamil Nadu free laptop scheme apply online process:
- Visit the official website of the scheme (link will be updated), or Higher Education department.
- Click on Apply Online for Free Laptop Scheme.
- Fill in details like name, Aadhaar, college, course, mobile number.
- Upload required documents.
- Submit the form and note the Application ID.
- Track status on the ERP portal or mobile app.
Students can choose between a laptop or tablet based on their preferences. A portal has been launched by the state government for this purpose.