I recently started college, and the IT department has oppressive software such as EDR, College controlled Windows settings. They said I can't install VeraCrypt, or run ShutUp10+/Harden Windows GitHub Script, because it's against their policy. Should I disable the C2 hooks, and spoof the CRC checks to bypass their stuff?
If I were in your shoes, I would ask for my money back and then go to a college that respects me. It would be a huge hassle I am sure, but security, privacy, and freedom are worth it.
I'm assuming you agreed to use their hardware. They have the right to do what they want with it. If you don't want to follow those policies, don't use their hardware.
Get your own laptop for your studies, and just use the college's computers other than for sending in completed work.