Will Bowdoin replace my iPad or MacBook Pro Charger or USB-C Cable?

Questions

  • I lost my iPad charger — will Bowdoin replace it?
  • My iPad charging cable is broken — can I get a replacement?
  • My iPad charger was stolen — what should I do?
  • My charging cable stopped working — is it covered under AppleCare?
  • Where can I buy a replacement iPad charger or USB-C cable?
  • I'm faculty and I lost my iPad charger — what are my options?

Environment

This article applies to Bowdoin College students and faculty who received a USB-C power adapter and USB-C charging cable as part of their Digital Excellence Commitment (DExC) iPad kit. Lost or stolen accessories are not covered by AppleCare+ — AppleCare covers damage and malfunction only.

Resolution

Students — lost or stolen charger or cable

If your iPad charger or charging cable is lost or stolen, replacement is your responsibility as a student. You do not necessarily need to replace both items — just the one that is missing or not working.

Replacement options:

  • Bowdoin College Bookstore in Smith Union carries Apple-compatible chargers and cables.
  • Apple sells replacement USB-C power adapters and cables at apple.com.
Buy genuine Apple accessories. Bowdoin IT strongly recommends purchasing authentic Apple-branded or MFi-certified accessories. Non-certified chargers and cables can damage your iPad's battery and charging port over time.

Students — damaged or non-functioning charger or cable

If your charger or cable has stopped working and you believe it is defective, it may be worth contacting AppleCare before purchasing a replacement. In some cases AppleCare will replace a defective cable or adapter under the device's coverage. Call the AppleCare for Education line at 1-800-800-2775, press Option 3, and have your iPad's serial number ready.

Tip: If AppleCare quotes a fee for replacing the charger or cable, compare that cost to the retail price before proceeding — it may be less expensive to buy a replacement outright.

Faculty and staff — lost or damaged charger or cable

Faculty and staff can purchase a replacement charger or cable from the Bowdoin College Bookstore in Smith Union and charge it to their department. Contact the Service Desk if you need assistance.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
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Related Articles (4)

Broken iPad, Apple Keyboard, or Apple Pencil — Repair Process
How students and faculty should report and process a repair or replacement for a damaged Bowdoin-issued iPad, Apple Pencil, or Magic Keyboard covered under AppleCare+. Covers the student self-service process (submitting a ticket, disabling Find My, contacting Apple) and the faculty process (contacting the Service Desk).
Digital Excellence Commitment (DExC) Technology FAQ
Frequently asked questions for Bowdoin students about the Digital Excellence Commitment (DExC) program, including what technology is provided, warranty coverage, device ownership, Apple ID requirements, and Bowdoin's use of Mobile Device Management (MDM).
How to Contact AppleCare
How to contact AppleCare for support on a Bowdoin-issued iPad, MacBook Pro, or accessories. Covers the AppleCare for Education phone number, Apple's online support options, and the requirement for students to notify IT before initiating a repair.
Will Bowdoin replace my Apple Pencil if it is lost or stolen?
What to do if a Bowdoin-issued Apple Pencil is lost or stolen. Explains that lost pencils are not covered by AppleCare and are the student's responsibility to replace, and provides the theft reporting process for stolen pencils. Separate guidance for faculty and staff.