Microsoft has launched Chip In, a new Kickstarter-style crowdfunding program to help students raise money toward the cost of a new Windows PC for college. The first program of its kind, Microsoft hopes Chip In will compete with others’ back-to-school promotions (such as the $100 gift card to the Mac App Store Apple offers with the purchase of a Mac for college) while making it easy and affordable for students to purchase a new PC. Microsoft offers Chip In buyers a 10% discount.
How Chip In Works
- Visit Microsoft’s PC browsing page, where the 10% Chip In discount has already been shaved off listed prices
- Select the machine that meets their needs
- Create a Chip In profile to share with friends and family
- Once students reach their crowdfunding goal, or the price of the PC, Microsoft will send them a promotional coupon code to buy the PC
And voila: Microsoft will ship students their PC with a four-year subscription to Office 365 University included.
Who Can Buy a PC Using Chip In?
Though anyone can create a Chip In account, only students with a valid .edu college e-mail address or international student identity card (ISIC) can redeem Microsoft’s coupon to buy a computer. The Chip In program will run until September 1.
Do you know anyone who may want to use Chip In this summer?