Back To School Sales And Supplies 2012: See What Apple, Microsoft, And Dell Are Offering

Getting ready to send your kids/going back to school? Retail stores everywhere are offering back-to-school sales that make it easier for students to gear up for the year ahead. Here's what the major tech companies Apple, Microsoft, and Dell are offering for this year's incoming class.

Apple

First off, to take advantage of Apple's back-to-school offer you must either be a "college student, a student accepted to a college, a parent buying for a college student, or a faculty or staff member from any grade level," according to the Apple website for its back-to-school promotion.

If you fit any of those categories, you can take advantage of this offer through the Apple website, or any Apple store. The website states that you can save up to $200 on a Macbook Pro (starts at $1099), $50 on a Macbook Air (starts at $949), and $100 on an iMac (starts at $1149). If you buy a Mac, Apple will give you a $100 gift card to use on music, movies, and apps. If you pick up the new iPad, you can still get a $50 gift card for the same purpose.

Microsoft

Just like Apple, Microsoft's 2012 back-to-school sale is almost the same as 2011. Only this year, you can grab them at more locations. All the parent or student has to do is show valid student identification defined at each participating retail location.

It started on May 20, and Microsoft is promising a free XBox 360 to students who purchase a PC for $699 or more. To receive this offer, you will have to purchase it at Microsoft's own stores, Best Buy, Fry's Electronics, Newegg, Staples, and The Source. A great buy for a college student looking to add some gaming to his or her dorm.

Dell

If you're one of the many who buy Dell computers, the Dell website shows that they are cutting prices across the board for students.

By using their back-to-school offer, students and parents can save as little as $30, and as much as 30 percent on select items. Everything from desktops, laptops, cameras, and computer accessories are up for grabs.