Off-Campus Internet Access. Some options for connecting to the internet at home, particularly for lower-income households. Service may not be available in all areas. These services are not endorsed by or affiliated with Normandale Community College; links are provided only as a resource to students.

Computer and Wi-Fi Resources for Students 

This page will help students at Normandale find free or low-cost options for technology such as computers and WiFi resources

Normandale Campus Resources 

The Normandale campus has multiple computer labs with Windows PCs and Macintosh computers for students to use.

• All campus computers have software students are expected to use
  • NOTE: exceptions may apply for certain courses that have specific software requirements
  • Most campus computers have webcams built-in for Zoom Meetings or proctored exams that require a webcam
• Find more info here:  List of Normandale computer labs on campus.   

Wi-Fi and Computers from other sources

Below is a list of current resources with requirements for low-cost internet services offered in Minnesota. 

Internet Essentials

• Description:

  • Customers using Xfinity/Comcast’s Internet Essentials low-cost internet service can purchase a low-cost Dell laptop for $149.99.

  • Web page: https://www.xfinity.com/learn/internet-service/internet-essentials/low-cost-computer

PCs for People (Offers both Low-Cost Internet Services and Devices) 

• Description: 

  • Low-cost internet and technology equipment for eligible low-income households.  

  • Web page:  https://www.pcsforpeople.org 

• Eligibility:   

  • Proof of current enrollment in an income-based government assistance program OR documentation of current household income (under 200% of the federal poverty level or 60% of area median income). 

  • Must provide acceptable photo identification. 

  • More eligibility details: https://www.pcsforpeople.org/eligibility/  

Computers with Causes

• Description: 

  • Awards a limited number of computers to those in need. 

  • Web page:  https://www.computerswithcauses.org/application.htm  

• Eligibility:   

  • Anyone can apply. 

  • Priority is given to students, teachers, and parents, the elderly, foster homes, shelters, disabled US veterans, and struggling military families. 

Free Geek

• Description:

  • Thrift store that provides reduced cost or free technology equipment or software. 

  • Web page: https://www.freegeektwincities.org/thrift-store/  

• Eligibility: 

  • Open to anyone. 

Repowered (formerly Tech Discounts) 

• Description:

  • Sells refurbished computers, laptops, and tablets at low prices. 

  • Web page: https://techdiscounts.org/ 

• Eligibility: 

  • Open to anyone. 

 

Wi-Fi Resources

AT&T Access 

• Description:

  • Low-cost internet for eligible households.  

  • Web page: https://www.att.com/internet/access/  

• Eligibility:

  • See if you qualify 

Everyone On 

• Description: 

  • Gives you options of low-cost internet service providers for which you may qualify. 

  • Web page:  https://www.everyoneon.org/find-offers  

Lifeline Support 

• Description: 

  • Lifeline provides subscribers a discount on monthly telephone service, and broadband Internet access, from participating providers.

  • Web page: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/get-started/#  

• Eligibility:

  • Based on income and use of other benefit programs, like SNAP or Medicaid. 

  • Details here: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/do-i-qualify/.   

Spectrum 

• Description: 

  • Discounted internet service ($30 off) for eligible households.   

  • Web page: https://www.spectrum.com/browse/content/spectrum-internet-assist.html 

• Eligibility:

  • A member of your household must be a recipient of one of the following programs and must upload proof of eligibility: 

    • The National School Lunch Program (NSLP); free or reduced-cost lunch 

    • The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) of the National School Lunch Program 

    • Supplemental Security Income (For Applicants 65+ Years of Age) 

State of Minnesota's list of low-cost internet providers 

• Web page:  https://mn.gov/deed/programs-services/broadband/adoption/  

 

Xfinity/Comcast 

• Description:  Low-cost internet program offering WIFI for $9.95/month for low-income households.   

• Web page:  https://www.internetessentials.com/  

• Eligibility:  

• Qualify for programs like the National School Lunch Program, housing assistance, Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, Federal Pell Grant, and others 

• Live in an area where Comcast Internet service is available 

• Have not had Comcast Internet in the last 90 days