Microsoft announced the August 1, 2024, discontinuation of Office 365 A1 Plus for education. In response to Microsoft’s decision, UC Riverside is providing students, faculty, staff, retirees, and emeriti who were assigned an A1 Plus license with a complimentary Office 365 A1 license, which is the new standard license offered to higher education institutions. Highlanders impacted by this change were automatically assigned the A1 license on August 1.

What’s Changing and How Does it Affect Me?

The A1 license provides online access to Office 365 applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) via office.com. However, it does not include access to the desktop version of Office 365 applications.

If you primarily use online Office applications, you won’t experience any disruptions and can continue working as usual.

If you primarily use the Office desktop applications, you will need to transition to accessing your Office tools online at office.com. This article explains the differences between the online apps and the desktop apps.

What Is My Alternative? 

If access to Office desktop applications is important for your studies or work, consider the following alternatives:

For Students

You can purchase the Microsoft 365 Personal plan for college students for $2.99 per month (Note: UCR does not control pricing. Microsoft’s discounted pricing is subject to change without prior notice).

This plan allows college students to retain access to Office desktop applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and offers other premium Microsoft features like increased cloud storage and identity and device protections. To learn how you can sign up for a Microsoft 365 Personal plan, please refer to the KB article on Purchasing a Microsoft 365 Personal License for Students.

Alternatively, students can access the desktop apps for free through UCR’s virtual lab at labs.itopia.com or by visiting the in-person labs in Watkins Hall 2111 and 2117. 

For Faculty and Staff

The A3 license is the standard license for UCR staff and faculty and it provides the full Microsoft Office 365 suite, including desktop versions of Office applications. Interested staff and faculty members are encouraged to discuss the purchase of an A3 license with their department administrator. For more details, department administrators may refer to the KB article on Microsoft License Procurement Through UCR.

For Retirees and Emeriti

You will continue to keep and access your UCR email address as part of your benefits. If access to desktop applications is important for your work, consider upgrading to a paid license through Microsoft. You must directly contact Microsoft to purchase a Microsoft 365 plan. Visit the Microsoft website for the plan and pricing comparison.

ITS is Here to Help

We understand that changes to tools can be disruptive, and ITS is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for everyone. If you have questions or concerns regarding your Microsoft 365 Education license, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with BearHelp at (951) 827-4848 from Monday to Friday, between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, or submit an IT ticket online.