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Program technology requirements

You need your own computer and technology accessories to study at NSCC. What you need depends on the program you choose. If you already have a computer, it may already meet your program requirements. Make sure you check.

Resources to support technology needs

A limited number of computers are available through the Library Equipment Loan Program. Some computer access will also be available on campus, within public health guidelines, for those facing technological barriers.

Confirm what you need

  • Before purchasing a computer, confirm with your instructor whether your program requires a laptop.
  • Review the costs and fees information for your program to find out which system is recommended or required.

Having a computer that works with the College’s minimum software and systems requirements will help ensure you can use the tools and services we offer.

Important compatibility information

Due to a lack of compatibility with required software, we do not recommend you use:

  • Chromebooks
  • Macintosh computers (except for specific programs)
If you already have a Macintosh, you'll need to ensure your NSCC program doesn’t require you to use software that’s only available on a Windows computer.

Student technology discounts

Dell

We've partnered with Dell to provide you (and your friends and family) with discounts on Dell computers. To view these exclusive offers:

  • Visit https://www.dell.ca/nscc
  • Create an account and log in (please use your personal email address, not your NSCC email address).
  • Click the green button called “Shop your standard configuration” to access discounts.

Order tracking is available online and by phone at 1-800-387-5757 (option 4). 

If you have questions or concerns, or require technical support with logging in or placing your order, please contact Dell and reference page #RC1462676. 

Eastlink

Eastlink is offering deals on internet packages to NSCC students, including guaranteed pricing and no contracts (and for a limited time, Eastlink is offering a $50 new customer welcome credit to NSCC students when they complete their order for internet service online). 

Computer and technology accessory recommendations


Technology accessories (optional) 

Students only need to purchase these accessories if their computer or laptop does not already include them. 

  • Headset with microphone (approx. $80) - Teams‑certified USB or Bluetooth headset is recommended.
  • Webcam (approx. $100) - An external Teams‑certified webcam may be required if your computer does not have a built‑in camera.

Windows computers

These are the recommended minimum system requirements for NSCC students.

  1. Budget computer - cost is approximately $700 - $1100
    • Windows 11
    • i5/i7 intel or AMD Ryzen 3 processor or higher
    • 256 SSD or higher
    • 8 GB RAM or higher
    • Integrated graphics
  2. Mid-range computer - cost is approximately $900 - $1,300
    • Windows 11
    • i5/i7 Intel, AMD Ryzen 7 processor or higher
    • 256 SSD or higher
    • 16 GB RAM or higher
    • Integrated graphics
  3. Performance computer - cost is approximately $1,000 -  $2,300
    • Windows 11
    • Intel Ultra 7 Processor or AMD Ryzen 7 or higher
    • 1 TB SSD or higher
    • 32 GB RAM or higher
    • Integrated or discrete graphics
  4. High-performance computers (see 2 options below)
  • Option 1 - High performance workstation computer - cost is approximately $4,500 and up
    • Windows 11
    • Intel Core Ultra 9 OR AMD Ryzen 5 series processor
    • 512 GB SSD
    • 64 GB RAM
    • 6GB dedicated video card or higher
  • Option 2 - High Performance Gaming Computer - Cost is approximately $3,400 and up
    • Windows 11
    • Intel Core Ultra processor OR AMD Ryzen 5 series or higher
    • 1 TB SSD
    • 32 GB RAM
    • NVIDIA RTX 5060 series or better w/min 8GB GDDR6, or equivalent

Macintosh computers

MacBook computers are only recommended for specific NSCC programs. Review the costs and fees information for your program to find out which system is recommended for it. If you already own a Macintosh, you'll need to confirm with your instructors that your program doesn’t require software that operates only on Windows.

  1. Budget MacBook - Cost is approximately $900
    • A18 (Neo) M4 or M5 processor
    • 8 GB of memory (RAM)
    • 256 GB SSD internal storage
  2. Mid-range MacBook Pro - Cost is approximately $1,400
    • M4 or M5 processor
    • 16 GB of memory (RAM)
    • 512 GB SSD internal storage
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