How to Get a Free iPad in 2024? (10 legit Ways)

Apple iPads are the most popular tablets on the market, and iPads can be expensive. However, there are several ways to get a free iPad, especially if you are a student, a low-income individual, or a senior citizen.

According to a recent survey, over 1 million iPads are given away for free each year in the United States.

The most common way to get a free iPad is through government programs. Some schools, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and wireless companies also offer free iPads through contests and giveaways.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss all of the different ways to get a free iPad. We’ll also provide tips on how to increase your chances of winning an iPad giveaway.

Government programs That provide Free iPad

Several government programs, both the federal and state level provide free iPads and other tablets to eligible individuals.

Some of these programs target specific groups, such as students, low-income families, and veterans. Other programs are more general and are open to all eligible individuals.

ConnectED

ConnectED initiative, designed to enrich K-12 education for every student in America. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and companies like Apple, Microsoft, Sprint, and Verizon are already providing their support.

With an Apple ConnectED grant, Apple is providing iPads, Macs, and the very best educational content students need to personalize learning.

If your school is participating in ConnectED, you may be able to get a free iPad to use at school. In some cases, you may even be able to check the iPad out overnight or take it home with you for the weekend. Check with your school to find out if you qualify.

The Affordable Connectivity Program

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) offers a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet for eligible low-income households. You must contribute $10 – $50 out-of-pocket toward the device, and then the ACP covers the remainder of the cost up to $100.

To qualify for ACP, your household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or you must participate in certain government assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or Lifeline.

Lifeline Program

The Lifeline Program provides discounted phone and internet services to households with incomes at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Some Lifeline providers, like StandUp Wireless, offer free or discounted tablets (often Android rather than iPads) to Lifeline-eligible subscribers. You’ll typically have to pay a small co-pay of $10 or so.

Veterans Affairs

If you’re a veteran of the US military, you can get a free iPad from The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

The VA has collaborated with Apple to provide qualifying Veterans with free cellular-enabled iPads to access telehealth services. [Source]

Currently, more than 50,000 Veterans across the country connect to VA health care services virtually through free iPads.

Contact your local VA healthcare team to see if you qualify for a free iPad.

State and Local Programs

Some state and local governments also have programs to provide low-cost or free tablets to residents, often students or seniors.

For example, the state of California has distributed free iPads to adults over 60 through local agencies.

Contact your state or county’s Department of Health and Human Services to find out about any device assistance programs in your area.

K-12 School Districts

Many K-12 school districts, especially those in lower-income areas, are giving students free tablets or iPads to help them learn from home and bridge the digital divide. They partner with tech giant Apple to get free ipads for students.

Check with your local school district to see if they have a similar program available.

How to Get a Free iPad – Top 3 Network Providers

Major wireless network providers offer opportunities to get free and discounted iPads through special programs and promotions. Here are 3 top options for getting a free iPad from leading carriers.

1. StandUp Wireless Free iPad Pro Program

StandUp Wireless provides a “Free Government Phone Program” that supplies free cell phone service and iPads to eligible low-income individuals and families.

If you want to participate, you need to meet certain requirements, such as being enrolled in a government assistance program like food stamps, Medicaid, or SSI, and having a household income below a specific amount.

If approved, you can get a free iPad Pro once you finish the registration process and submit any required documents.

2. Access Wireless

Access Wireless works with the federal Lifeline program to offer free tablets, including iPad Pros in select states, to qualifying households.

You may be eligible if you participate in Medicaid, SNAP, SSI or other government benefits. Access Wireless will verify eligibility and approved applicants can get an iPad Pro for free after enrollment.

3. Easy Wireless

Easy Wireless is another Lifeline provider that gives out free ACP tablets, including iPad Pros, to eligible SNAP EBT cardholders who apply and qualify.

Benefits include unlimited talk time, texts, and data. Easy Wireless verifies eligibility before providing approved applicants with a free iPad Pro.

Check provider sites for full details, as iPad model availability and eligibility criteria can vary by state. But these leading wireless networks can be go-to sources for getting a gratis iPad.

How Colleges & Universities Provide Free iPad

Many colleges and universities have started equipping their students with free iPads and other Apple devices. Here are some of the ways students can get free iPads through their schools:

• New student iPad initiatives – Schools like the University of Kentucky and Delaware State University automatically provide new students with iPads and accessories like keyboards and Apple Pencils.
• Apple Distinguished Schools – Universities with this Apple designation often give free iPads to students, like Moravian College.
• Financial aid – Some schools work with Public Wireless to offer free tablets through financial aid, like the University of Maryland Global Campus. Complete the FAFSA to qualify.
• Loans – Schools may loan students iPads for the semester or school year. While not free forever, it saves on the initial cost.

Contact the admissions or financial aid office to find out about any iPad programs for incoming students.

Nonprofit Organizations Offering Free iPads

Several nonprofit organizations offer free iPads to individuals and groups in need. These organizations typically provide free iPads to low-income families, students, veterans, and other groups who may not have the resources to purchase their own devices.

Some examples of nonprofits that supply free iPads include:

• Computers for Youth: Computers for Youth provides free iPads to low-income students and families who apply and qualify.
• EveryoneOn: EveryoneOn partners with tech companies to give away free tablets and low-cost internet access to eligible low-income families and students.
• Human-I-T: Human-I-T refurbishes used computers and electronics like iPads to donate to economically disadvantaged individuals and families.
• Internet Essentials: This Comcast program offers low-cost internet and refurbished iPads to qualifying low-income households who apply.
• PCs for People: PCs for People supplies free or discounted computers and tablets, including iPads, to people with limited financial resources.
• The Salvation Army: The Salvation Army runs programs to give free iPads to students, families, veterans and other groups in need who meet eligibility criteria.
• Lifeline Providers: Companies like UScellular and Verizon provide free or low-cost cell service and refurbished iPads to subscribers who qualify for the federal Lifeline program.

To get a free iPad from a nonprofit, you’ll generally need to show financial need and/or belong to a qualifying group like students, veterans, or low-income households. Check individual charities for eligibility and application details.

Ways to Get Discounted iPads

If you can’t score a completely free iPad, getting one at a heavily discounted price is the next best thing. Here are some ways to get cheaper iPads:

Buy Refurbished

Apple and other retailers sell refurbished iPads at a significant discount – often $100 or more off retail pricing. While not brand new, refurbished devices are restored to like-new condition by the manufacturer.

Trade In Old Devices

Apple and wireless carriers like AT&T and Verizon offer trade-in programs where you can trade in your used smartphone or other electronics in exchange for bill credits toward a new iPad purchase.

Look for Sales & Deals

Watch for iPad sales around the holidays and other peak shopping times. Compare deals across retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart. Sign up for promo emails and check deal sites for iPad coupons.

Buy Used iPads

Purchasing a used iPad from sources like Craigslist, eBay, or Swappa can save you a lot, but beware of scams. Vet sellers thoroughly, meet in person when possible, and thoroughly test the device before buying.

By exploring these options, you may be able to get an iPad for a fraction of the retail cost.

Beware of free iPad scams

While there are legitimate ways to get iPads for free, you need to watch out for the many iPad scams lurking out there. Here are some common cons and tricks for avoiding them:

• Avoid ads and emails – Don’t click on pop-up, banner, or video ads claiming “Free iPads.” Delete emails from unknown senders touting giveaways.
• Research legitimacy – Vet any company offering free iPads. Look for solid contact info, positive reviews, and a professional website free of hype.
• Beware unclear terms – Know exactly what’s required to get the free iPad before providing any personal information. If it’s vague, move on.
• Don’t pay – Never pay any money for a promised free iPad, even for “shipping and handling.” This is always a scam.
• Watch for phishing – Any “free iPad” offer asking for sensitive information like your social security number or bank account details is a phishing scam.

Trust your gut and stick to reputable sources like government agencies, known nonprofits, schools, and major retailers. And understand that if an iPad offer seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is.

Key Takeaways on Getting a Free iPad

Here are some key tips to remember when trying to score an iPad at no cost:

• Check government programs like ACP and Lifeline if you qualify based on income or participation in other government assistance.
• Inquire about tablet initiatives at schools your child attends or colleges you plan to enroll in.
• Reach out to nonprofits providing free technology in your community.
• Consider buying refurbished or used if discounted is the next best thing to free.
• Buy from Network providers company offering free iPads and avoid scams.
• Know eligibility requirements before providing any personal information.

Getting a free iPad is possible if you’re careful and persistent. This guide will help you find legitimate sources for free tablets that can benefit you or your family. Once you have one, you can fully enjoy the amazing capabilities of an iPad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

iPads offer a lot of features in a compact design but not everyone can afford to buy one at full price. You may be able to get an iPad for free or at a low cost if you qualify for certain programs. These programs include government, school, nonprofit, or other sources. Make sure you avoid scams by verifying sources and starting with reputable providers. With persistence and caution, you can get a free iPad.