Computer Science
College of Engineering
2026-27 Baseline Minimum System Requirements
For All Incoming Undergraduate Students
Platform
PC
Laptop (Chromebook not recommended)
Mac
Laptop
See Engineering Apple Macbook Laptop webpage.
Operating System
Windows 11 (64-Bit)
macOS 12 (or higher)
Processor Speed
Intel Core i5/i7/i9 or Core Ultra 5/7/9 or newer, AMD Ryzen 5/7/9 or newer (Processor manufactured 2024 or later). SnapDragon, ARM Processors not recommended
M2/M3/M4
At least 10-core GPU
Memory (RAM)
32 GB or higher
24 GB or higher
Storage
500 GB SSD (Solid State Drive) or higher
500 GB SSD (Solid State Drive) or higher
Webcam
Built-in or external with built in microphone (headset/earbuds recommended)
Built-in or external with built in microphone (headset/earbuds recommended)
Wireless
Wi-Fi Capable
Wi-Fi Capable
Warranty
4 Year with accident protection
4 Year with accident protection
Software
Software Suite*
Software Suite*
*Students are required to purchase the Incoming Undergraduate Software Bundle through the Virginia Tech Software Service Center. See the Student Software Center for more information.
Included Products: Microsoft Windows Operating System with Microsoft Office 365 Pro Plus
Platform: macOS and Windows
Eligibility: Valid while enrolled in undergraduate classes at Virginia Tech
Note: Office 365 Pro Plus can be downloaded and installed on up to five machines and Office mobile apps can be installed on up to five mobile devices.
AND
Backup
Cloud backup service OR 500 GB or higher external SSD drive
Cloud backup service OR 500 GB or higher external SSD drive
Windows Only:
Graphics: Discrete/dedicated graphics with 4GB Video RAM or higher (NVIDIA / AMD Only). Intel graphics explicitly do not meet requirement.
MAC Only:
Windows Virtualization Software: Parallels Pro - Student Edition Suggested (Separate Purchase)
Contact
Jeff Phillips
540-231-9076
engtechteam@vt.edu
For additional details, see the Engineering Computer Requirements page.