Once you've made some major decisions about what kind of computer suits you best, you can decide where to buy and how to pay for your new computer.

Numerous retailers sell computers in the Davis/Sacramento area. A quick glance through any local newspaper will give you a long list of potential places to purchase a computer, and there are probably many more in your hometown. All this may give you a headache due to the numerous options and the varying ways stores package and sell computer systems. To help you purchase your computer, we suggest you bring a copy of the specifications for the Campus Recommended Configurations. A salesperson will be able to assist you more effectively with this information.

Be sure to ask the vendor you choose if they offer academic discounts.

How am I going to pay for a new computer?

As with any major purchase you are considering, there are numerous methods of payment. You can always pay with cash or use a credit card. In addition, as a UC Davis student, you can put a computer purchase on your university billing account at the UC Davis Bookstore TechHUB, and you may even qualify for extra financial aid for computer purchases..

Using cash or a credit card

Flush with cash from your summer job? Your best bet will be to go to the UC Davis Bookstore TechHUB on campus and buy your computer in person.

By using a credit card, you will probably have more options to buy your computer than with any other form of payment. You can:

• Go to the UC Davis Bookstore TechHUB on campus and buy it in person
• Call the UC Davis Bookstore TechHUB at 530-752-2204 and order it by telephone
• Order online from the UC Davis Bookstore TechHUB

Using your UC Davis student account

If you've already registered as a UC Davis student, you can go to the Bookstore Computer Shop and use your Registration Card (also known as your student identification card) to purchase a computer. Once the Bookstore has determined you are who your Registration Card says you are, they will charge your purchase and send the final amount to the Cashier's Office to be included in your quarterly fee statement.

Using Financial Aid

If you have applied to and qualified for financial aid as a UC Davis student, you may be able to receive an additional loan specifically to help you purchase a computer. If you think you might be eligible for this, be sure to check with the Financial Aid Office BEFORE you purchase a new computer. Once the Financial Aid Office has determined your eligibility, the campus Bookstore Computer Shop can help you with all the necessary details to complete your purchase, although you can purchase your computer anywhere.

Contact us if you have questions or need further information:
E-Mail Address: ITHelp@ucdavis.edu
IT-Express Phone Number: 530-754-HELP (4357)