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2025–2026 status: Computer Allocation Program (CAP) requests for the 2025–2026 fiscal year have closed. See Information about the Computer Allocation Program (CAP) Process in the Related Articles section for the next cycle's timeline.
Questions
- What computer will I receive through the CAP program?
- What hardware does Bowdoin Information Technology (IT) provide with a new computer?
- What are the current MacBook Pro specifications for CAP computers?
- What are the current Dell laptop specifications for CAP computers?
- Does IT provide a monitor with my new computer?
- Can I request a second monitor or additional peripherals through CAP?
- What software is pre-installed on a new CAP computer?
- How do I request hardware or software costing more than $5,000?
- Can I get a desktop computer instead of a laptop through CAP?
Environment
This article applies to all Bowdoin College faculty and full-time, benefits-eligible staff whose job requires a computer. Hardware is provided and replaced on a four-to-five year cycle through the Computer Allocation Program (CAP).
- Who: Full-time faculty and benefits-eligible, non-casual staff
- What: Standard hardware, software, and peripherals available through CAP
- Note: A laptop is the default option. Desktop computers (iMac or Dell All-in-One) are only provided upon request with supervisor approval. If currently using a desktop, it will be replaced with a laptop at the next CAP cycle.
Resolution
Standard computer setup
Most faculty and eligible staff will receive:
- A computer no more than five years old
- A single external monitor (monitors are no longer replaced on a four-year cycle — request a replacement through CAP if needed)
A basic IT-provided setup includes a single laptop with power cord, a single monitor, and a single multi-port adapter or docking station. Items such as an extra power adapter or a second monitor must be requested separately. Monitor arms are the financial responsibility of each department.
Current computer specifications (2026)
Apple laptop
- 14" MacBook Pro — M4 Pro processor, 16 GB unified memory, 512 GB SSD
- A laptop case is included
- For primary workstation use: a single external monitor, laptop stand, keyboard, and mouse are available
Windows laptop
- 14" Dell Latitude — 12th gen Intel processor, 16 GB memory, 512 GB SSD
- A laptop case is included
- For primary workstation use: a single external monitor, docking station, keyboard, and mouse are available
Note: Actual specifications may be adjusted at the time of purchase depending on availability and pricing. If requesting a replacement for a computer less than four years old, a detailed justification is required.
Software
The following software is available through Bowdoin and can be installed on a new computer without a special purchase request:
- macOS Tahoe (26.x) or Windows 11
- Microsoft 365 — Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and more
- Web browsers (multiple options)
- Adobe Creative Cloud products
- Antivirus software (required)
- A variety of productivity, utility, and academic applications
For specialized software not listed above, provide a detailed description and justification in the CAP request.
Peripherals and upgrades
The following can be requested with a brief explanation:
- Larger monitor
- Additional memory
- Webcam
- Microphone
For peripherals other than those listed above, provide a detailed description and justification. Some purchases — including monitor arms or second monitors — may be charged to the department if approved.
Requests for hardware or software of $2,000 or more
The Academic Computing Committee encourages those making substantial resource requests to seek grants or other funding before applying to the Committee. When evaluating requests, the Committee uses the following priority order:
- Requests to continue teaching or research initially funded by outside grants, where activities have proven essential
- Requests to initiate teaching or research for which other funding has been sought
- Requests with institutional impact on education or research
- Requests with department or program impact
- Requests affecting the teaching or research of one faculty member
Individual or departmental requests for hardware or software totaling $2,000 or more should be submitted through the annual departmental Technology Budget process, not through CAP.
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.