Information on the “Bring Your Own Device” Principle
According to the FHNW Framework Regulations for Degree Programmes dated 1 September 2022, §10 item 1i, the “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) principle applies at the FHNW School of Business (HSW).
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) refers to the use of personal laptops in teaching. Beginning in the Autumn Semester 2026, BYOD will be mandatory for all newly enrolled students at the HSW. Students must have a laptop for the entire duration of their studies. The minimum requirements listed are already strongly recommended from the start of your studies. The device must be brought to class or exams when necessary and especially when requested. For students who began their studies before the Autumn Semester 2026, this document serves as a recommendation.
Mandatory Notebook Requirement for Students at the FHNW School of Business
A complete overview of all technical laptop requirements can be found here.
Important: Students are responsible for ensuring that their devices are fully functional, that the operating system is up to date, and that their devices comply with FHNW guidelines. The IT Support/Service Desk provides assistance only with issues related to Wi-Fi access, printing, VPN access from home, and problems with FHNW-provided software.
Special Offer for Higher Education Members (Project Neptun)
As part of Project Neptun, selected Apple and Windows laptops suitable for academic use are offered with a three-year warranty. These can be ordered online during two four-week sales periods each year, at the start of the February and September semesters. For first-semester students, pre-sales open two weeks earlier. The Neptun offer is available to students and staff at universities of applied sciences, universities, and ETH.
If you have any questions regarding the mandatory notebook requirement, please contact: learning.lab.wirtschaft@fhnw.ch
FAQ
Who is affected by the mandatory notebook requirement?
The requirement applies to all students who start or continue a programme at the School of Business from the Autumn Semester 2026 onward. It applies only to degree programmes anddoes notapply to continuing education participants.
Do tablets or Chromebooks meet the minimum requirements?
No. Tablets do not meet the minimum requirements, as certain software cannot run on them. They may be used as a secondary device.
How does the HSW FHNW support me if I have issues with my own laptop?
Students are responsible for ensuring that their laptops are fully functional and compliant with FHNW guidelines. The IT Support / Service Desk assists only with Wi-Fi access, printing, VPN access from home, and issues with FHNW-provided software.
How can I find out whether my laptop meets the minimum require-ments?
You can contact the place where you purchased your laptop or a trusted retailer. Students who are technically inclined may also find the necessary information in their laptop settings or on the manufacturer’s website.
Do I need specific software on my laptop, and where can I get it?
Software requirements vary by degree programme. Your lecturers will inform you about the software needed for their courses. However, certain standard software must be installed on every laptop—this includes Microsoft 365, which you can download for free using your FHNW email address via the FHNW software portal.
If you are unsure which software is required, please consult your lecturers to avoid unnecessary purchases.
What battery life should my laptop have?
Students are responsible for ensuring that their laptop is sufficiently charged for classes and other study activities. A charging cable or power adapter should always be carried. Many classrooms are equipped with power outlets, but availability for every student cannot be guaranteed.
Do I need to bring my laptop to every class?
No. Lecturers will inform you when a laptop is required. If you are unsure, please contact the lecturer for that specific class.
Do I need my laptop for exams?
Lecturers will inform you if a laptop is required for an exam and which programs may be used or are prohibited. If you are unsure, consult your lecturer directly.Please note: During your studies, there may be cases where Mac devices are incompatible with software used for e-exams. In such cases, you will receive support in finding a solution.
Can I use a laptop that only partially meets the minimum requirements?
The minimum requirements are strongly recommended from Autumn Semester 2026 onward. If your laptop only partially meets them, you use it at your own risk. Course content will not be adjusted to accommodate incompatible devices.
For how long do the minimum requirements apply to my laptop?
The minimum requirements apply from the start of your studies for ten consecutive semesters (five years).
Which operating system do I need?
According to the stated requirements, Windows and macOS are permitted, although Windows laptops are recommended. Other operating systems are not allowed.
Do I receive a student license for Microsoft 365?
Yes. All enrolled students are entitled to free access to Microsoft 365. You may use it once you have received your FHNW email address and set up your FHNW account.
Does FHNW provide additional software?
Yes. The FHNW software portal offers additional software free of charge, such as the Cisco VPN Client for remote network access, MathWorks MATLAB, Autodesk Education tools, and various antivirus programs. Your FHNW email address also grants free access to the learning platform LinkedIn Learning.
What can I do if I cannot afford a laptop?
Students unable to finance a laptop that meets the required specifications may apply for financial support from their canton of residence or from foundations. Guidance is available here: