barto :
Correct. There are many Unix-like operating systems that will do exactly what the OP needs. GNU/Linux and then there are even BSDs like FreeBSD, OpenBSD etc. My recommendation will not only save the OP money, but give flexibility.
your suggestion will bring him hanging linux and wasted time each time Linux crashes ...
Students dont have time fixing errors and bugs in their System by the way .
nothing like a well supported system vs open system garbage.
look at tomshardware , how many people are asking to fix problems and bugs in MAC ?
and how many are shouting HELP my notebook this and my notebook that ?
The MACS even restore your whole system from the internet , Recovery type in case your system is crashed and you dont even bother with installing or recoving anything. not even find the iso or DVD for the system.
The programs just run and dont need commands to install manually like in unix ...
I dont recommend people who want to use Linux to work on anything other than MACs. and when you are a student and have exams wasting time on stupid Linux RPM , or BSOD of windows is horrible.