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The best computers for nursing students are usually Windows 11 laptops with a modern Core i5, Core Ultra 5, or Ryzen 5-class processor, 16 GB of RAM, a 512 GB SSD, a webcam, a microphone, and reliable battery life. Windows is the safest default, but a MacBook can work when the nursing program confirms compatibility.
Do not choose a computer solely from a generic “best laptops for college” list. Nursing programs may require ExamSoft Examplify, HESI, ATI, Respondus LockDown Browser, simulation software, Microsoft 365, research tools, or institution-specific proctoring systems. The correct buying order is simple: verify the program’s requirements, choose a compatible operating system, then optimize for portability, durability, battery life, and price.
Key takeaways
- A Windows 11 laptop with 16 GB of RAM, a 512 GB SSD, and a modern midrange processor is the safest choice for most nursing students.
- ExamSoft Examplify supports Mac, Windows, and iPad, but Examplify does not support Chromebook, Android, or Linux.
- A Chromebook should be purchased only after the nursing program confirms that every required exam, proctoring, and course application works on ChromeOS.
- Sixteen gigabytes of RAM and a 512 GB SSD are sensible new-purchase targets, even when a school’s published minimum is lower.
- Exam software may require a working webcam and microphone, and ExamSoft recommends 100% display scaling for Examplify.
What is the best computer for nursing students?
The best computer for most nursing students is a conventional Windows 11 laptop with a current Intel Core i5, Core Ultra 5, AMD Ryzen 5, or better processor, 16 GB of RAM, a 512 GB SSD, a 13- to 15-inch display, a built-in webcam and microphone, strong battery life, and full—not S mode—Windows.
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Windows is the safest default because nursing programs can combine Examplify, HESI, ATI, Respondus, learning-management systems, simulation applications, Microsoft Office, and statistical or research software. A MacBook is a reasonable alternative when the school explicitly confirms that its complete software and examination workflow support macOS. A Chromebook or iPad should generally be treated as a supplemental device unless the program approves it as the primary computer.
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Do nursing students actually need a laptop?
Most nursing students need access to a primary computer, although the exact institutional rule varies. Nursing coursework commonly involves online classes, learning-management systems, digital textbooks, reference databases, PDF annotation, presentations, spreadsheets, practice questions, simulation preparation, video lectures, research, and proctored exams.
Some nursing schools require students to bring a laptop for examinations and instructional work. The University of Florida’s laptop requirements, for example, state that students must bring a laptop to class for course exams and complete mock exams to verify compatibility with ExamSoft and HESI.
A tablet can be valuable for handwritten notes, anatomy diagrams, reading, and slide annotation, but a tablet is not automatically a substitute for a laptop. A phone is useful for communication and quick reference, but it is not a practical primary computer for nursing school.
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What should you check with the nursing program before buying?
Checking the program’s official technology requirements is the most important step because software, exam versions, operating-system policies, and approved hardware can differ by institution.
Search the school’s website for exact phrases such as “nursing student laptop requirements,” “technology requirements,” “ExamSoft,” “Examplify,” “HESI system requirements,” “ATI system requirements,” “Respondus LockDown Browser,” “clinical simulation software,” “Mac compatibility,” and “Chromebook policy.” If the published information is unclear, contact the nursing department or campus IT help desk.
Ask these questions before purchasing:
- Is Windows required, or is macOS fully supported for every course and examination?
- Are Apple Silicon Macs supported by the school’s complete software stack?
- Are Windows ARM laptops supported?
- Are Chromebooks allowed for every exam, including secure or proctored exams?
- Are iPads allowed as the primary testing device?
- Which Examplify version will the program use?
- Is Windows S mode prohibited?
- Are virtual machines, Parallels, or remote desktops prohibited?
- Is a touchscreen required, discouraged, or unsupported during exams?
- What minimum RAM, storage, webcam, microphone, display, and operating-system versions are required?
- Does the school provide Microsoft 365 or other required software?
- Does the school require full-disk encryption?
Requirements can differ materially between schools. The University of Maryland nursing computing requirements identify full Windows 11 24H2 or later in certain contexts and describe Microsoft Surface Pro or a similar Windows tablet as the compatible tablet category—not simply any tablet. The University of Louisville nursing technology requirements recommend an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5-class processor while listing lower processor classes as minimums.
What laptop specifications do nursing students need?
The following specifications are sensible buying recommendations for a new computer, not universal requirements imposed by every nursing program.
| Component | Sensible recommendation | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 11 64-bit or a currently supported macOS | Improves compatibility with exams, learning platforms, Office, and school software. |
| Processor | Intel Core i5/Core Ultra 5, AMD Ryzen 5, Apple M-series, or better | Provides comfortable multitasking and useful life without paying for gaming-level performance. |
| Memory | 16 GB RAM | Allows more headroom for browsers, PDFs, video calls, Office, and exam software. |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD | Provides fast startup and room for applications, downloaded materials, updates, and local files. |
| Display | 13–15.6 inches and at least 1920×1080 | Balances portability with comfortable reading and split-screen work. |
| Webcam | 720p minimum; 1080p preferred | Supports proctored exams, online classes, meetings, and recorded assignments. |
| Microphone | Integrated microphone with clear voice pickup | Supports identity verification, proctoring, meetings, and presentations. |
| Battery | Advertised for all-day class use; an 8-hour practical target is sensible | Reduces dependence on campus outlets, although real runtime varies by workload. |
| Wireless | Modern Wi-Fi, preferably Wi-Fi 6 or newer | Helps with campus, home, video, and cloud connectivity. |
| Ports | USB-C plus at least one USB-A when possible, or a reliable adapter | Supports accessories, storage, peripherals, and classroom presentation equipment. |
| Security | Encryption support; fingerprint reader or infrared camera preferred | Protects academic files and personal information. |
| Weight | Approximately 3–4 pounds when portability matters | Makes daily movement between classrooms, libraries, and clinical locations easier. |
How much RAM is enough?
Sixteen gigabytes of RAM is the better target for a new nursing-school laptop. Eight gigabytes can handle light browser-based coursework, but nursing students may simultaneously use many browser tabs, video conferencing, PDF textbooks, Microsoft Office, exam software, screen monitoring, and research or statistical applications.
When the choice is between a faster processor with 8 GB of RAM and a midrange processor with 16 GB of RAM, the 16 GB configuration is usually the more useful purchase. Avoid 4 GB models for a computer expected to last through a nursing program.
How much storage does a nursing student need?
A 512 GB SSD is the most sensible general recommendation. A 256 GB SSD can work when most documents are stored in approved cloud services, but a smaller drive leaves less room for operating-system updates, Office, exam applications, reference software, downloaded lectures, textbooks, local backups, and personal files.
Paying substantially more for a 1 TB SSD is usually unnecessary for ordinary nursing coursework. Extra capacity becomes more useful for students who keep large media files, use virtual machines where permitted, or want several years of additional storage headroom.
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A current midrange processor is sufficient for ordinary nursing-school work. Students usually do not need a gaming processor, discrete graphics card, workstation CPU, or an expensive AI/NPU feature solely for nursing coursework.
Prioritize processor efficiency, adequate RAM, a reliable cooling design, a current operating system, and a manufacturer warranty. Processor branding alone does not determine whether a laptop is a good nursing-school computer.
Windows ARM laptops require additional checking. Examplify 3.10 release notes added Windows ARM support, but that support requires Windows 11 24H2 or later. Examplify compatibility does not prove that a school’s ATI, simulation, statistical, or other required applications support Windows ARM. Intel- or AMD-based x86 Windows laptops remain the least complicated choice unless the program confirms its entire software stack supports ARM.
What screen size and resolution work best?
A 13- or 14-inch laptop is the best balance for most students. A 15- or 16-inch display is more comfortable for dense PDFs, split-screen studying, data analysis, and larger text, but it is less convenient to carry. An 11- or 12-inch display can feel cramped for document-heavy coursework, while a 17-inch laptop is usually excessive if the computer travels daily.
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Are a webcam and microphone important?
A working webcam and microphone are functional requirements for many nursing students, not merely video-call extras. They may be used for remote classes, recorded assignments, identity verification, and proctored examinations.
ExamSoft’s Examplify installation guidance says students need a working webcam and microphone for exams using ExamID and ExamMonitor. A 720p webcam can function, but a clear 1080p camera and a microphone with noise reduction can improve reliability.
Which operating system is best for nursing school?
Windows is the safest default, macOS can be excellent with institutional approval, ChromeOS is conditional, and iPadOS is best viewed as a supplement unless the school explicitly approves an iPad as the primary testing device.
| Platform | Best fit | Advantages | Main risks or limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows 11 laptop | Students unsure what their program supports or using Windows-specific software | Broadest hardware range, strong school IT compatibility, many price points, and broad desktop-software support | Budget models vary widely; S mode and ARM hardware require special attention. |
| MacBook | Students whose programs explicitly approve macOS | Strong battery efficiency, build quality, displays, trackpads, and portability | Some clinical, simulation, testing, or statistical applications may be Windows-specific; virtualization is not a guaranteed workaround. |
| Chromebook | Programs that confirm every required workflow works on ChromeOS | Low cost, simple maintenance, automatic updates, and good battery life on many models | Examplify does not support ChromeOS; desktop applications and some secure-testing workflows may not work. |
| iPad | Handwritten notes, reading, diagrams, and review alongside a compliant laptop | Lightweight, strong pen input, and convenient reading experience | Not a universal laptop replacement; keyboards and required specialty applications may be limiting. |
| Windows 2-in-1 | Students wanting laptop typing and tablet-style annotation in one device | Full Windows environment plus touchscreen and optional pen input | Usually costs more, and touchscreen input may not be supported by examination software. |
Is a Windows laptop the safest choice?
Yes, a full Windows 11 x86 laptop is the safest general-purpose choice when the program’s requirements are unknown. Windows offers the broadest selection of hardware and the least complicated path to Windows-specific applications, secure browsers, statistical tools, and school IT support.
Do not buy Windows S mode when required applications need traditional desktop installation. Respondus system requirements state that Windows S mode is not compatible with LockDown Browser.
Can a MacBook work for nursing school?
Yes, a MacBook can work for nursing school when the institution confirms compatibility with macOS, Apple silicon, required exam software, proctoring, simulation tools, and other course applications. A universal claim that MacBooks do not work is inaccurate.
For example, NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing’s laptop requirements permit authentic Windows or Apple macOS systems. Other schools can publish more restrictive policies, so a MacBook should not be purchased on the basis of another institution’s rule.
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Are Chromebooks good for nursing students?
Chromebooks are good only for nursing programs that explicitly confirm ChromeOS compatibility across all required coursework, examinations, proctoring, and specialty applications. Examplify’s official requirements exclude Chromebook, Android, and Linux.
Respondus supports some ChromeOS configurations, and Elsevier documents managed Chromebook support for HESI Next Generation. The Elsevier HESI Chromebook document applies specifically to HESI Next Generation and managed Chromebooks; it should not be generalized to every HESI product or nursing-school workflow.
Is an iPad enough for nursing school?
An iPad is not automatically enough for nursing school. An iPad is excellent for handwritten notes, reading e-books, and annotating lecture slides, but the nursing program must explicitly confirm that iPadOS is allowed for every exam and required application.
ExamSoft supports iPad in general, but each institution controls whether iPad exams are enabled and whether all required features work. Students who already own a compliant laptop can add an iPad as a supplemental study device; students buying one primary computer should normally choose a full Windows laptop or an approved MacBook.
Is a 2-in-1 laptop worth it?
A Windows 2-in-1 is worth considering when handwritten notes and tablet-style reading are important enough to justify the additional cost. A 2-in-1 can combine full Windows compatibility, keyboard productivity, touchscreen annotation, and optional stylus input.
The keyboard and stylus may be separate purchases, and touchscreen input may not work in a particular exam configuration. Institution-specific ExamSoft guidance warns that touchscreen input may not be supported on Mac, iPad, or Windows devices in certain testing configurations. Treat the touchscreen as a note-taking feature, not an examination requirement.
Which exam and course software must the computer support?
The exact software list matters more than the brand name on the laptop. Ask the program for the exact product names, versions, supported operating systems, and proctoring configuration.
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What does ExamSoft Examplify support?
Examplify’s current minimum-system documentation lists Mac, Windows, and iPad support and excludes Chromebook, Android, and Linux. Examplify also checks requirements such as operating system, storage, RAM, and screen resolution; the school may require a particular minimum version.
Windows ARM support begins with Examplify 3.10 and Windows 11 24H2 or later, but students must separately verify every other required application. Students using ExamID or ExamMonitor need a working webcam and microphone. Students should install the required version, register the device, complete mock exams when offered, and test the webcam, microphone, display scaling, battery, and network before a real examination.
What should students know about HESI?
HESI requirements vary by product, platform, edition, and school configuration. Students should not infer Windows requirements from a Chromebook document or assume that support for HESI Next Generation covers every HESI workflow.
Elsevier’s separate HESI Windows system requirements should be checked alongside the program’s own instructions. The school should confirm the exact HESI product and whether a managed device, browser, secure application, or proctoring tool is required.
What does Respondus LockDown Browser support?
Respondus lists support for Windows 10 and 11, macOS 12 or later, certain current ChromeOS versions, and iPadOS 15 or later in compatible learning-management-system configurations. Exact version and LMS integration requirements still matter.
Respondus also states that at least 4 GB of available RAM is required when LockDown Browser is used with a webcam. That is a software minimum, not a sensible laptop purchase target; 16 GB of installed RAM gives a student considerably more operating headroom.
What about ATI and simulation software?
ATI compatibility should be checked by exact product and configuration rather than assumed. Some tools are browser-based, while others may depend on a secure browser, integrated proctoring, an LMS plug-in, or institution-managed settings. Ask the program for the exact ATI products, simulation applications, and supported operating systems.
How should nursing students compare Windows, Mac, Chromebook, and tablet options?
The right choice depends on compatibility first and personal preferences second.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches| Student situation | Best direction | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Unsure what the school supports | Windows 11 x86 laptop | Lowest general compatibility risk. |
| School requires or strongly prefers Windows | Full Windows 11 laptop; avoid S mode | Matches the institution’s platform and avoids LockDown Browser restrictions. |
| School confirms Mac compatibility | MacBook Air or MacBook Pro according to workload | Provides strong battery life and portability without ignoring school approval. |
| Wants handwritten notes and a full computer | Windows 2-in-1 with a compatible stylus | Combines pen annotation with a desktop operating system. |
| Needs the lowest practical cost | Full Windows laptop with 16 GB RAM if possible | Avoids Chromebook exam limitations while preserving multitasking headroom. |
| Already owns a compliant laptop | Keep it and add a tablet only if useful | Avoids replacing a working primary computer unnecessarily. |
| Needs statistical or specialized software | Choose the platform confirmed by the software and school | macOS and ARM compatibility can vary by application. |
| Buys refurbished | Reputable seller with verified battery health, warranty, and return policy | Model age, battery condition, and support life matter more than the logo. |
How much should a nursing student spend?
Broad budget bands are more useful than fixed prices because laptop configurations, education discounts, and sales change frequently. The following ranges are approximate United States buying guidance, not guaranteed current prices.
| Budget | Look for | Trade-offs |
|---|---|---|
| About $400–$650 | Full Windows 11, modern Core 3/Core i3 or Ryzen 3 equivalent, 8 GB minimum and preferably 16 GB RAM, 256 GB minimum and preferably 512 GB SSD | Greater risk of poor displays, weak webcams, short support life, 4 GB RAM, eMMC storage, and low-quality hinges. |
| About $650–$1,000 | 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, current Core 5/Core Ultra 5 or Ryzen 5, 13–15-inch 1080p display, good webcam and battery | Usually the strongest value tier; premium materials or unusually low weight may still cost more. |
| $1,000–$1,500 or more | Premium build, lower weight, better display, longer battery life, higher-quality 2-in-1, or additional storage | Performance is not necessary for ordinary nursing coursework; the premium mainly buys comfort, portability, durability, and longevity. |
Microsoft’s U.S. education store states that eligible students, faculty, and parents can receive 10% off select physical products, including select Surface devices and PCs. Eligibility and exclusions apply. Microsoft also displayed a 2026 Surface Laptop promotion valid through August 31, 2026, while supplies lasted; temporary offers should not be treated as permanent prices.
Do not publish or rely on an exact laptop price without checking the current configuration, country, date, taxes, accessories, education discount, and warranty. A 2-in-1’s complete cost may include a separately sold keyboard and stylus.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which computer type fits each nursing-student profile?
Best default: a midrange Windows laptop
A 13- to 15-inch Windows 11 laptop with 16 GB RAM, a 512 GB SSD, a current Core 5/Core Ultra 5 or Ryzen 5 processor, a 1080p-class display, and a good webcam is the strongest all-purpose choice for a student who wants minimal compatibility uncertainty.
Best for approved Mac users: a MacBook Air
A MacBook Air is attractive for students who prioritize battery life, quiet operation, build quality, and portability and whose program has confirmed macOS and Apple Silicon compatibility. A MacBook is not the safe default when the school has not provided approval.
Best for handwritten notes: a Windows 2-in-1
A Windows 2-in-1 suits students who want pen annotation and tablet reading without giving up a full desktop operating system. Confirm the exam keyboard and touchscreen rules, and budget for the keyboard and stylus if they are not included.
Best lower-cost direction: a full Windows laptop
A lower-cost full Windows laptop is generally a better nursing-school gamble than a Chromebook, provided the laptop has an SSD, a usable webcam and microphone, current Windows support, and as close to 16 GB of RAM as the budget allows.
Best supplemental device: an iPad
An iPad with a keyboard and stylus is useful for reading, annotation, diagrams, and review when the student already has a compliant primary computer. It should not be assumed to replace the primary laptop.
What should students avoid buying without written confirmation?
Students should avoid buying a Chromebook, an ARM Windows laptop, a MacBook, or an iPad as the only computer when the nursing program has not confirmed compatibility. Students should also avoid Windows S mode, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB eMMC storage, and a virtual-machine workaround that the school has not approved.
How should nursing students configure security and privacy?
Nursing students should enable full-disk encryption, automatic operating-system updates, a strong login password, multifactor authentication, regular backups, and a password manager. A fingerprint reader or biometric login is convenient, but the underlying password remains important.
Students may encounter sensitive academic or health-related information. Students should follow the school’s privacy and clinical-device policies, avoid storing patient information unless specifically authorized, avoid publicly sharing patient-related material, and lock the computer whenever it is unattended.
The University of Florida’s computer requirements require laptop encryption. The University of Louisville discusses BitLocker for Windows and FileVault for Mac in its technology guidance. Security support, encryption, Secure Boot, and a TPM are more valuable for this use case than an AI branding label.
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The best nursing-school laptop is light enough to carry every day but durable enough for repeated movement between lecture halls, libraries, simulation labs, study rooms, and clinical-preparation sessions.
- Choose a rigid hinge, comfortable keyboard, accurate trackpad, and bright or matte-enough display.
- Choose a weight the student will actually carry; approximately 3–4 pounds is a useful portability range, not a requirement.
- Use a protective sleeve or padded backpack compartment.
- Prefer efficient processors and check independent battery tests when available.
- Carry the manufacturer’s charger and confirm whether the laptop supports USB-C charging before buying a USB-C charger.
- Fully charge the computer before a proctored exam. ExamSoft’s installation guidance advises students to connect to power or fully charge the battery on exam day.
Business-class Windows laptops often provide stronger keyboards, hinges, serviceability, and support than the cheapest consumer models. Premium consumer laptops may offer better displays and lower weight but can have more soldered components or limited repair options. A discrete graphics card and gaming chassis are usually unnecessary unless the student has another course or hobby that needs them.
Which accessories are worth buying?
The core accessories are a charger, protective sleeve or padded bag, and a backup system. A mouse, headset, USB adapter, external SSD, privacy screen, laptop stand, or stylus can be useful according to the student’s workflow.
- Protective sleeve: reduces damage during daily transport.
- USB-C or USB-A adapter: helps connect classroom displays, drives, and peripherals.
- Wired headset or earbuds: provide a dependable audio option for classes and meetings.
- External mouse: improves comfort during long study sessions.
- External SSD or approved cloud backup: protects coursework and personal files.
- Stylus: useful only when buying a compatible 2-in-1 or tablet.
- Privacy screen: useful when studying in public areas, subject to the display’s size and design.
Do not assume that every 2-in-1 includes its keyboard or pen. Compare the complete cost of the device, required accessories, warranty, and accidental-damage coverage.
What are the most common buying mistakes?
- Following a generic college-laptop list: gaming performance, OLED screens, and thinness do not guarantee nursing-software compatibility.
- Buying a Chromebook because coursework is web-based: a later Examplify requirement can make the Chromebook unsuitable.
- Buying a Mac without school confirmation: one nursing program’s Mac policy does not apply to another.
- Buying Windows S mode: Respondus LockDown Browser does not support Windows S mode.
- Buying 4 GB RAM or 64 GB eMMC storage: those configurations leave little practical capacity for browsers, Office, PDFs, updates, and testing tools.
- Assuming a touchscreen improves exams: touchscreen support can be limited even when touchscreen note-taking works well.
- Relying on virtualization: Parallels, remote desktops, and virtual machines may be prohibited or incompatible with secure testing.
- Ignoring support and repair: a computer unavailable during an exam can be more costly than a slightly higher initial purchase price.
- Buying too much computer: a discrete GPU or workstation processor is generally unnecessary for standard nursing coursework.
Final nursing-student computer checklist
- School technology requirements have been checked on the official website.
- The nursing department or IT help desk has confirmed the operating system.
- Examplify, HESI, ATI, Respondus, simulation, and proctoring requirements have been checked by exact product and version.
- The computer has 16 GB of RAM, or the school has confirmed that a lower configuration is sufficient.
- The computer has a 512 GB SSD rather than slow or undersized eMMC storage.
- The webcam and microphone meet the school’s requirements.
- Windows is full Windows 11 rather than S mode when Windows software is required.
- ARM compatibility has been confirmed for every required application, not only Examplify.
- The battery is suitable for classes and the computer can be fully charged before exams.
- Encryption, automatic updates, multifactor authentication, and backups are configured.
- The return policy, warranty, battery condition, and accidental-damage coverage have been checked.
- The device has been registered, updated, and tested with a mock exam before the first graded exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a MacBook for nursing school?
A MacBook can work for nursing school when the specific program confirms macOS, Apple Silicon, exam software, proctoring, and specialty-application compatibility. Do not assume that approval from one nursing school applies to another.
Can nursing students use Chromebooks?
Nursing students should use a Chromebook only when the program confirms that every required platform works on ChromeOS. ExamSoft Examplify does not support ChromeOS, although some Respondus configurations and managed HESI Next Generation Chromebooks may be supported.
Is 16 GB of RAM necessary for nursing school?
Sixteen gigabytes of RAM is a recommended new-purchase target, not a universal school requirement. Eight gigabytes may run light coursework, but 16 GB provides better headroom for browser tabs, PDFs, video calls, Office, proctoring, and exam software.
Is an iPad enough for nursing school exams?
An iPad is not automatically enough for nursing-school exams. ExamSoft supports iPad generally, but the institution decides whether iPad exams are enabled and whether the required exam features work; an iPad is often best used alongside a compliant laptop.
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What should I test before my first nursing-school exam?
Install and register the required exam application, apply the school’s required operating-system and display settings, test the webcam and microphone, charge the battery, verify network access, and complete the school’s mock exam when one is provided.
The Bottom Line
Bottom line: If the nursing program has not specified otherwise, buy a full Windows 11 laptop with a modern Core i5/Core Ultra 5 or Ryzen 5-class processor, 16 GB of RAM, a 512 GB SSD, a 13- to 15-inch display, a webcam, a microphone, reliable battery life, and encryption support. Confirm the school’s exact Examplify, HESI, ATI, Respondus, simulation, and proctoring requirements before paying for any computer.
