Check the free option first.

Free can mean different things

You may already have software access through your enrolment. Check your institution’s software catalogue, then the provider’s education programme. “Free for students” can mean a specific version, a renewable education licence or a limited benefit that requires verification.

These are official education options, not claims that every Australian student qualifies. The provider makes the eligibility decision.

Microsoft: web and desktop are different

Eligible students and educators can access Office 365 A1 at no cost. A1 includes web applications; it does not automatically include the full installed desktop applications. Your institution may supply a different licence, so check its IT portal before buying a personal subscription.

This matters if a course requires a feature available only in a desktop application. Confirm the application and licence you have rather than relying on the Microsoft 365 name alone.

GitHub: tools for verified student developers

GitHub Education offers verified students GitHub benefits and the Student Developer Pack. Eligibility includes being at least 13 and enrolled in a degree- or diploma-granting course. Verification uses a school-issued email address and/or dated enrolment evidence.

The Pack includes offers from multiple providers. Check each product’s duration, usage allowance and any charges after its credit or benefit runs out.

Autodesk: education access for learning

Eligible students can receive one year of individual access to Autodesk education software, renewable while eligible. Autodesk verifies eligibility.

The education licence is for educational use, not commercial, professional or other for-profit work. A university assignment licence does not automatically cover a paid freelance project. Confirm that the software you need is included.

Notion: check the enrolment requirements

Notion’s individual Education Plan is free for eligible students and teachers at recognised colleges and universities. It is a one-member workspace, with guests supported separately.

Your institution email must be the account’s primary address and verified annually. This offer excludes K–12 students and educators; Notion’s ordinary Free Plan is a separate option.

Before you activate

• Fit: does it include the exact features your course requires?
• Eligibility: does your institution and enrolment type qualify?
• Duration: is access ongoing, renewable, a trial or limited credit?
• Use: does the licence allow the work you plan to do?
• Exit: can you export your files when education access ends?

Keep renewal dates with your study calendar. Avoid storing your only copy of important work in an education account, and try the export options early.