So this is the process I would recommend: Wait for Apple to announce their back-to-school special. This special in recent years is a gift card that you can use on a purchase immediately afterwards but not for the computer. If you purchase a Mac, it was either $ 150 or $ 250 when I purchased my MacBook Pro in 2024. I would look into using that gift card for an iPad or other useful accessory. Also, if you have the Apple Card, you get 3% back on the purchase if you use that to pay. Also, when buying through Apple, you get a discount on Apple Care when using the education discount. Additionally, if you want Apple Care, the options are monthly and for a 2-year set. There is also a blanket $20 a month offer which allows you to have three items on Apple Care. If she has a phone and an iPad, I would recommend that. If you need to use Apple Care for the computer, Apple will send you a box to mail it to them since the closest Apple store is not close. I don’t remember if the bookstore is an Apple-authorized repair, but if they are, they could repair under the Apple Care warranty.