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MS iPad Program Requirements

 

iPads can be purchased through a variety of sources, both online and in-person. While Apple has recently announced Educational pricing for iPads for the first time, this discount is only valid for Higher Education students (i.e. college), and employees, staff and faculty of K12 institutions. The plan is not valid for K12 students at this time.

DEVICE OPTIONS

Any currently-available iPad is acceptable under the U Prep program. Families can choose the Air, or standard size. We do not recommend the iPad Mini. There is no storage requirement, although we recommend at least 32GB based on students' heavy use of photo and video. Cellular capacity is not required for school devices-- wi-fi is acceptable.

  Acceptable Recommended
Models Air (all), Standard or "New" iPad Air (all), Standard or "New" iPad
Storage All At least 32 GB
Connection Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi + Cellular Either


Apple offers a number of different options for the iPad. When choosing the device that is right for you, you’ll want to consider price, weight and size. Based on our students' experience, we do not recommend the iPad Mini. This weight difference is compounded with the addition of a protective case (see below).

KEYBOARD

An external keyboard is required to assist with long-form writing. This keyboard can be part of a protective keyboard case, or a separate external unit.

BACKING UP DEVICES

It is crucial that student devices be backed up to prevent data loss. iPads can be configured with a student's Apple ID and iCloud to backup wirelessly, or devices can be backed up to a family laptop computer. Whether physically connected to a computer or backing up wirelessly via iCloud, families should make a plan for student backups.

Recommended Items - (Not Required Under Program)

WARRANTY AND ACCIDENTAL DAMAGE PROTECTION

AppleCare Plus provides two years of extended coverage, including two incidents of accidental damage. In most instances, along with the use of a device case, this coverage should be sufficient against damage. However you will want to look into options available through your homeowners insurance for coverage due to loss or theft. Safeware provides coverage against loss or theft, in addition to accidental damage.

PROTECTIVE CASE AND BACKPACK

Recommended Cases:

A case for your device is required, and while there are many options to choose from, finding one that protects the corners of the iPad is of paramount importance. Also, consider any functionality (wake on sleep, keyboard stand) and weight of the case. A backpack with a padded section for your device should be considered. Given the pressure that can be exerted upon the device, a separate, padded section in a backpack will help protect it from screen damage.

STYLUS

It is an option for students to use a stylus with their device, although we have observed that most students do not use a stylus, or if so use it very infrequently. If your student would like to use a stylus, there are many options across a wide range of styles and prices. We recommend the Jot as it is easier to be precise and accurate with its tip design than with most iPad styli. There are also active, battery-powered Bluetooth styli which are highly accurate but at a significantly higher cost. A good review of several stylus options can be found here.

Apple ID

An Apple ID is an account with Apple that students will use to download and install apps to their iPad and back up iPad data to cloud. Every student must have an Apple ID in order to fully participate in the U Prep iPad program, and students should know the password in order to be able to install apps during the school day. Students should set up their Apple IDs before the school year starts to make sure that they have all of the required apps for their classes on the first day. Please see our iPad Setup Guide for more information on setting up an Apple ID and configuring the iPad.