Hornet Laptop Discount Program FAQs

Program ended March 1, 2022

How long does the Hornet Laptop Discount promotion run for?

January 10, 2022 - March 1, 2022.

Who can participate in the Hornet Laptop Discount Program?

Only new and transfer undergraduate students enrolled in a minimum of six (6) units are eligible. See full terms and conditions.

Do I have to apply for the HEERF discount?

There's no need to apply! This specific HEERF discount is built-in to the checkout/payment process when you purchase an eligible laptop through the Hornet Bookstore.

I heard I can apply a remaining balance to the Bookstore Loan Program. How long is that option available?

Each semester, the Bursar's Office offers the optional Bookstore Loan Program to help students manage the purchases of course essentials by applying remaining balances up to $2,000 to their Student Account for repayment. Through February 4, 2022, the Bookstore Loan Program will also include adding the difference of a laptop purchase to this program. Payment is due in full by March 11, 2022. View their flyer for full details.

If I buy a laptop that's cheaper than the discount, do I receive a refund?

While the HEERF discounts are $600 or $900, if the purchase price (including sales tax and shipping if applicable) is less than the student's eligible discount, no refund of the difference will be processed.

How can I look up my discount amount?

The one-time HEERF discount is either $600 or $900 (Maximum PELL grant) based on financial aid eligibility. To look up your amount, follow these online instructions, or you can visit or call the Hornet Bookstore at 916-278-5701 and ask them to look it up for you. You'll need to provide your Student ID and PIN (your birthday MM/DD).

But I didn't think I qualified for HEERF Grants?

Yes, you do! While there are other HEERF Emergency Grants that you must apply for, this discount is specific to the Hornet Laptop Discount Program. New and transfer undergraduate students are eligible to apply a HEERF discount of either $600 or $900 depending on your financial aid eligibility. While HEERF funding lasts.

Did I get the discount? My purchase total doesn’t seem to be reduced.

If you correctly clicked the Hornet Laptop Discount Program box during checkout, yes! We know this part may seem a bit confusing, but here’s how it works: the discount is not deducted from the total you see at checkout because the Hornet Bookstore charges that amount back to Sacramento State, who uses HEERF funding to cover the discount. Whether you add your remaining purchase balance to your Student Account through the Bookstore Loan Program for repayment, or pay in full by credit card or PayPal, the discount has already been deducted from the final amount you owe.

Can I use the discount towards something other than a laptop?

No, the Hornet Laptop Discount Program was developed to respond to technology equity needs during COVID-19, and for continued remote learning needs. It's intended to help make owning a laptop more affordable for new and transfer Sacramento State undergraduate students.

Do I have to buy a laptop online, or can I buy it at the Hornet Bookstore?

Either way works! You can browse and purchase an eligible laptop through the Hornet Bookstore website, or plan to visit in person during open hours (following Return to Campus guidelines) for a consultation and/or to purchase directly. NOTE: inventory availability subject to change without notice.

Can I buy any laptop I prefer?

You're free to choose any laptop, however the HEERF discount only applies to an eligible device.

Are there any other discounts or promotions?

Yes! Dell is offering a $100 rebate with the purchase of a Dell PC $499 or higher. Promotion is good for purchases through 03/31/2022. Visit the rebate site for more information.

What specifications should I look for in a laptop?

View IRT's recommended laptop specifications, and be sure to check your major or program for any specific requirements. Laptops not meeting these specifications may not be compatible with University software.

Can I use my financial aid to purchase a laptop?

Yes! As financial aid is disbursed directly to your Student Account, you are able to use those funds towards the purchase of a laptop.

Is there a payment plan option?

No, not at this time.

How long will it take to get my laptop?

Some eligible laptop models are in stock and ready for immediate in-store purchase or online ordering. For other models, there may be delays due to high nationwide demand. Approximate order processing and shipping timeframes may vary, but are typically 3-5 business days for processing, and 4-6 days for delivery. We are working closely with vendors to help keep wait times as minimal as possible. Contact the Hornet Bookstore for more information.

How much is shipping?

Shipping is a flat rate of $6.99 per order. PRO TIP: Add additional items into your bag at the same time as the eligible laptop to save on shipping costs! You may receive your order in multiple shipments from different locations.

Can I order a computer not listed on the Hornet Bookstore website?

Please email hornetbookstore@me.com for questions related to custom orders, or items not currently available on the Hornet Bookstore website. Note: only eligible laptops qualify for a HEERF discount.

Will my laptop come with a warranty?

All computers come with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty. Please contact the manufacturer directly for how to process a claim. An additional Safeware protection plan that includes accidental and liquid damage protection can be purchased through the Hornet Bookstore within 1 year after the purchase of your laptop. AppleCare+ can be added to your purchase from the AppleCare website. An Apple account is required to purchase AppleCare+.

Also, the Hornet Bookstore is an Apple Authorized Service Provider, and as a convenience, Apple computers can be serviced in-store at the Hornet Bookstore Computer Department. Contact them at hornetbookstore@me.com.

Can I get a refund if I change my mind?

Please carefully read through the refund policy before making your purchase.

What is an e-Waste fee?

The Electronic Waste Recycling (eWaste) Fee is a fee imposed on the retail sale or lease of certain electronic products. The fee is based upon the viewable size of the video display, measured diagonally. The current rate is $4 for screens less than 15-inches and $5 for screens between 15-inches and 35-inches.

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