As a new student, it can be challenging to navigate some of the hardware and software options available. We have provided answers to frequently asked questions and added some comments along the way. It’s most important that you make the choices that are best for you, your budget, and your comfort level with technology.

Before you begin the program you must have Microsoft Office, Zoom, Solver (for Excel), and the Analysis ToolPak (for Excel) installed on your computer. All of these resources are free for students and installation will only take a few minutes.

• Microsoft Office 365 ProPlus (Mac, PC and iPad) subscription licenses are available for UW students. Part of the Student Technology Fee goes toward providing you with free or discounted softwareLinks to an external site.. You will need your UW NetID to log in to the system. Instructions for downloading Microsoft Office for free can be found here.

• You also get access to Zoom’s Pro License. The Zoom software can be found here. Instructions to sign in with you UW NetID can be found here.

• Instructions for adding Solver to Excel can be found hereLinks to an external site..

• Instructions for adding the Analysis Toolpak to Excel can be found hereLinks to an external site..

Here are some frequently asked tech questions and answers:

Q1. Do I need to buy a new computer?

If you purchased your laptop in the last 2-3 years, it should be capable of handling all of the programs necessary for the MBA program. If your computer is three years old or older, or heavy/bulky/a pain to carry around, it is worth making the investment in a new computer.

A good rule of thumb: You are making a significant investment in earning your MBA, and you will need the tools to be successful. Your computer will be an important tool since you will be using it to

• Work on your assignments – applications such as browser, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc. will be used extensively

• Attend important virtual meetings - information sessions, conferences, and most importantly interviews

• Collaborate with your MBA core & elective teams by meeting them virtually, sharing screens to present ideas, sending & receiving important documents

• Take notes in class

If your current computer doesn’t efficiently handle any of the tasks mentioned above, we would recommend upgrading your computer.

You can also get a laptop/tablet on loan (for free) from UW STLP. Please note that stocks of such devices are limited and they are loaned out for a stipulated period only.

Q2. Should I go with Windows or a Mac?

Windows PCs are recommended over Macs because all the software and Excel add-ins that we use in the program are native to Windows. In addition, certain programs like Power BI will only work on windows. That said, many students and professors have Macs, and can work around any compatibility issues by using the following resources:

• (Most preferred among students) Foster Remote Lab - a remote computer with Windows and all Excel plugins installed – this remote computer can be accessed from any desktop/computer device from any network and is free for all students

• Installing software like Parallels or Bootcamp (both paid). If you personally prefer to buy a Mac or already own a Mac that is less than three years old, you will be ok!

• Instructions for installing Parallels to run Windows on your Mac can be found hereLinks to an external site..

Q3. What computers do you recommend?

These are the most popular makes/models for the Class of 2023:

• HP Spectre x360

• Lenovo Yoga 720

• Macbook Air or Pro (You do not need a Pro to run any of the programs for the MBA)

• Microsoft Surface or Surface Laptop

Q4. What technical specifications would you recommend?

You should be able to run a recent version of Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. We also suggest a Solid-State Drive, as they are more reliable than a traditional hard drive.

If you do decide to buy a new laptop, the reference chart below as a guideline for ideal requirements.

Recommended Minimum

Operating System Windows 11/ MAC OS X Windows 8.1/Mac OS X 

Processor (CPU) Core i7/Apple M1/AMD Ryzen 7 Core i3/AMD Ryzen 3 

Memory (RAM) 16 GB 8 GB

Hard Drive 256 GB Solid State Drive (SSD) 128 GB 

Q5. Can I use a tablet?

iPad or Android tablets can be a handy complement but should not be your primary device because they do not have full compatibility with many Excel plugins. A tablet computer like a Microsoft Surface is a great option for the program.

Q6. How about Microsoft OneDrive and Google Drive? What should I be using?

Every student receives a Microsoft OneDrive account with 5TB of storage when they set up their UW e-mail. You can also host your UW email on Gmail however, the storage will be limited to 100 GB only. You can follow the instructions mentioned on this page to learn more about setting up and switch your email client. The MBA Program Office, MBA Career Management and student leaders recommend using Microsoft Office 365 for emails, calendars, and file sharing for the following reasons:

• Certain classes use Excel for submitting assignments, and Microsoft Excel works better than Google Sheets for formulas and formatting.

• When submitting presentations, Microsoft PowerPoint works better for formatting layout as well as embedded video. There can be issues with using Google Presentation with external embedded content

There may be scenarios where accessing Google services is necessary. To activate UW Google account, follow the steps here. Otherwise, services such as accessing shared files on google drive that require UW account won’t be accessible.

Q7. What other technology supplies are useful?

The Class of 2023 recommends the following: a mouse, pen/stylus for writing on-screen (if applicable), graphics tablet for taking notesLinks to an external site., a desktop monitor for working at home. None of these items are necessary, but all will make your life easier.

Q8. What about a calculator?

Basic 4 function or scientific calculators are recommended for taking core classes.

Q9. What apps should I download?

If you don’t already have them, you will want the following:

• Slack – Will be used for class and team group chats

• WhatsApp – Popular messaging app, not used officially by MBA program except for Short Term Study Abroad Trips

• Venmo – We all use this to make and receive payments (no cash or check)

• OneBusAway – Transit app that tells you how long you’ll wait for the next bus

• Zoom – To attend interviews and meet with your team virtually, if needed

• Canvas – Access course materials

Comments/Feedback

If you experience any issues, contact MBAA Vice President of Technology, Albert B. Kwong at kwongab@uw.edu