About the program

Colorado State University is proud to launch CSU TechConnect, an iPad technology Initiative starting with 100 devices to select degree-seeking, first-time undergraduate students as part of our commitment to ensure student access and academic success. This initiative is aimed at improving learning, graduation rates, and ensures equal access to technology for students starting in Fall 2024 of this year. 

Through our collaboration with Apple and T-Mobile, CSU believes by giving students a secure and reliable device for their success, students will gain an advantage inside and outside of the classroom.  The iPad devices will be pre-configured with iOS apps that are designed specifically for students and aimed at helping them achieve a high level of academic success at CSU.  

About the device

What’s included?

Each student will receive an 11-inch iPad Air, keyboard, and an Apple Pencil. Additionally, all students receive coverage for damage provided by AppleCare+ as well as productivity apps needed to succeed at CSU. 

Am I required to use the iPad? 

No, students can choose not to participate in the TechConnect program. You can either decline to participate or return the iPad to RamTech. 

Who owns the device?

Each iPad, keyboard, and pencil are property of CSU’s Division of IT. These devices are on loan to students participating in the program.  

When do I need to return the device?

This program is a one-year pilot, ending in spring of 2025. Students will receive communication prior to the end of the spring semester informing them if TechConnect has been extended or if the Division of IT will be recalling the devices for return.  

Where do I pick up my device?

Students will receive an email asking them to sign up for a time slot to collect their device during RamStart on August 14th or 15th. More details will be emailed to eligible students.

What if I can’t make the distribution event?

If you were unable to attend your allotted time to pick up your iPad, please contact [email protected] to schedule a new time.  

What do I need to receive my iPad? 

Please bring your RamCard student ID to claim your device. 

Eligibility

What happens if I take a leave of absence or withdrawal?

Students on planned leave are still eligible for this program. If unsure of your status, please contact [email protected]. 

Any student participating in the program must return the device if their student status stops (withdraw from the university, transferring to another university, graduating, etc.). To return your device, please contact [email protected]. 

Who is eligible?

Actively enrolled students for the 2024/2025 academic year identified as part of the initial pilot program are eligible to participate.

Students are required to attend two training sessions during the academic year to maintain their eligibility should the program extend beyond the initial pilot.  

Tech help and Repairs

Do I have to pay for repairs or replacements? 

Accidental damage is covered by the AppleCare+ protection plan.

I forgot my passcode and am locked out of my device 

A computer can be used to reset the iPad and erase all content including the passcode.  We recommend keeping an updated iCloud backup of the iPad’s contents so that it can be restored in case of reset.

AppleCare+ coverage for broken iPads 

All iPads will be equipped with AppleCare+ to cover repairs for accidental damage at no additional cost to students. 

Training

Apple has several resources available on their support website. 

Students are required to attend four training sessions during the academic year to actively participate in the program. More details are below and will also be emailed to eligible students. 

Drop–In Hours

If you’d like to get in-person help, we’ll be having drop-in hours this semester! We’re located at the University Services Center at 601 S Howes St, just down the street from Mugs. We’re in room 111 (the door right in front of you when you enter the building). The room requires keycard access, so just knock or send us an email at [email protected] when you arrive. See hours below, hours may be subject to change.

• Monday: 8:00am – 11:30am
• Tuesday: 8:00am – 1:00pm and 3:45pm – 5:00pm
• Wednesday: 8:00am – 11:30am
• Thursday: 8:00am – 1:00pm
• Friday: 8:00am – 10:30am

Workshop Schedule

All TechConnect Initiative students must attend two workshops per semester to remain eligible for the program. We will be holding at least two workshops per month, some in-person and some virtual. See our workshop schedule below (more dates to be added).