Does it have to be that brand ? Why not Lenovo, or HP? What sort of student -- science-engg sort or humanities-commerce type? A Lenovo (Y50-70) or a HP has hardware that are compatible with all three major operating systems -- Linux, MacOS, and the other one. however, if the dell is the one on sale, much cheaper than an HP, and the student doesn't care (or know the differences).. go with the dell.
