Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme 2025 for college students has been launched by the state government. Under this scheme, 20 lakh students across the state will be given new laptops or tablets for free in next two years. The state government has allocated a ₹2,000 crore budget for the year 2025-26, and a similar fund will be allocated in 2026-27 for laptop distribution.
The scheme will be implemented by the Electronics Corporation of Tamil Nadu (ELCOT) through an ERP system and a mobile app. This system will track applications, distribution, and even service requests. Students from Arts, Science, Engineering, Agriculture, Medical, and Polytechnic colleges will be provided free laptops under this scheme.
Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme 2025 – Overview
Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme 2025 is started to help students with modern technology, making them ready for online learning, coding, research, and future jobs. Distribution of laptops to students is expected to begin in December 2025 after the tender process is completed.
Latest Updates of Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme 2025
- Laptop distribution will start in December 2025.
- First phase tender for 10 lakh laptops already floated internationally.
- Three multinational companies are in final talks to supply laptops.
- An expert committee of Anna University, IIT faculty, NIC officials is monitoring the process.
- Students can choose between a laptop or tablet as per their individual need.
- ERP tracking system will manage applications, delivery, and warranty.
- Colleges will identify and verify students for beneficiary lists.
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Highlights of Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme 2025 |
| 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 |
Benefits of TN Free Laptop Scheme
This scheme will bring big changes for students in Tamil Nadu. Following are some of the major benefits of the free laptop scheme of Tamil Nadu Government.
- Students will get easy access to internet, e-learning, and digital tools.
- They will learn computer skills, coding, and research for job readiness.
- Students will be able to attend online classes and prepare presentations easily.
- Pre-installed software like Microsoft Office 365 will be given with free access for 1 year on all laptops.
- Warranty and service support will be provided via the online ERP portal.
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
Budget & Distribution Targets
Tamil Nadu government has allocated a budget of ₹2,000 crore for 2025-26 to distribute laptops under the free laptop scheme, and the same amount will again be provided in 2026-27. In each year, around 10 lakh students will receive free laptops or tablets, making it a total of 20 lakh students in two years. More than 4,600 government and state-run colleges across Tamil Nadu will be part of this distribution process, ensuring wide coverage for students from different streams.
How to Apply Online for Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme
Online application process for Tamil Nadu free laptop scheme has not been shared yet by the state government. The state government might not invite online applications for the laptops at all because the beneficiary selection will be done on the basis of student data with the Higher Education Department. However, if online application facility is opened, students can follow the below 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.
Choice of Laptop
Students will be given option to select the laptop or tablet as per their choice via the online ERP system or dedicated portal. The detailed online process of laptop choice is not available yet, however, it will be updated as soon as there is any information available in this regard.
Students will also be able to submit their choice of laptop or tablet at their colleges itself.
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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
Contact Details & Official Website
- Implementing Agency: Electronics Corporation of Tamil Nadu (ELCOT)
- Official Website: https://elcot.tn.gov.in/
FAQs
Who is eligible for Tamil Nadu Free Laptop Scheme 2025?
Students who are permanent residents of Tamil Nadu and studying in government or aided colleges (Arts, Science, Engineering, Agriculture, Medical, Polytechnic).
What is the budget for this scheme?
₹2,000 crore in 2025-26 and ₹2,000 crore more in 2026-27.
How many students will get laptops?
20 lakh students in total (10 lakh each year).
What is the laptop specification?
Intel i3/AMD Ryzen processor, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, HD camera, dual boot OS, and pre-installed Microsoft Office 365.
How to apply online?
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.
What if my laptop has a problem?
You can raise a complaint or service request directly on the ERP portal or mobile app during warranty.