How do I download free Microsoft Office software?
The Context
Gordon-Conwell email accounts are hosted on the Microsoft platform, and student, faculty, and staff accounts include a free subscription to Microsoft Office 365. In addition to accessing the online version of office applications, you can download and install the full Microsoft Office suite on a select number of computers and mobile devices for free, with just your Gordon-Conwell email address and password.
How to Install on a Windows or Mac Computer
- Please log into portal.office.com with your full Gordon-Conwell email address (e.g. jdoe@gordonconwell.edu) and password.
- If you are asked which account you want to use (Work/school or Personal), select Work or school account created by your IT department.
- You will see a list of the Microsoft Office apps you have access to. Clicking an individual app will take you to the online version of the app.
- To download the desktop version of the Microsoft Office suite, click Install apps near the top right corner and select one of the download options.
- Once the download has completed, run the file and allow it to install.
- Once the installation has completed, open one of the Microsoft Office programs.
- The software should ask you to log in to activate it. To do so, enter your Gordon-Conwell email address and password again (note again that this is a work/school account, not a personal Microsoft account, if you are asked what kind it is).
- Your Microsoft Office 365 subscription should now be activated and ready to use!
How to Install on a Mobile Device (e.g. Tablet, Phone, Chromebook)
- Install the individual Microsoft Office apps (e.g. Word, Excel, Powerpoint) from your device’s App Store or Google Play Store.
- Once the installation has completed, open one of the Microsoft Office apps.
- The app should ask you to log in to activate it. To do so, enter your Gordon-Conwell email address and password (note that this is a work/school account, not a personal Microsoft account, if you are asked what kind it is).
- Your Microsoft Office 365 application should now be activated and ready to use!