Microsoft Copilot provides AI-powered assistance across different platforms, including conversational chat, integration within Microsoft Office apps, and Copilot Studio for creating custom AI workflows. This article outlines how students, faculty, and staff can access Copilot, including free and paid options.
Microsoft Copilot is available to students, faculty, and staff in three different ways:
Click on the links above to learn more about each option.
Ways to Use Microsoft Copilot: Free & Paid Options
1. Copilot Chat AI (Free for All Users)
- Copilot Chat AI is a general-purpose assistant that helps answer questions, generate content, and provide insights. It is available at no cost to students, faculty, and staff through the following methods:
- How to Access:
- Windows 11 users can access Copilot from the taskbar.
- Open the Copilot App in Teams.
- Microsoft Edge users can use Copilot within the browser.
- Any internet browser can open Copilot.Microsoft.com.
- Sign in with:
- Students: StarID@go.minnstate.edu
- Faculty/Staff: StarID@minnstate.edu
- Signing in allows users to save conversations, access generated images, and ensure privacy.
2. Copilot for Microsoft 365 Apps (Paid Option)
- Copilot for Microsoft Office integrates AI-powered features directly into Word, Excel, Outlook, and other Office apps to assist with writing, data analysis, email responses, and productivity tasks.
- Copilot licenses can be purchased for individuals by contacting IT Solutions. The cost of each license is $360.00 per year and can be canceled in May if the user decides not to continue. The cost is prorated from August 1st, meaning the first year will be a partial-year subscription.
- What’s Needed:
- Microsoft Office ProPlus or Microsoft Office 2024 for Windows/macOS
- New Outlook version
- Microsoft Office Upgrade – If you’re using Office 2022, an upgrade to ProPlus or Office 2024 is required (contact IT Solutions for assistance).
- Limited trial licenses are available through ITS for departments to test Copilot.
3. Copilot Studio (Free for All Users – Request Required)
Copilot Studio is a tool for creating and managing custom AI chatbots and automation workflows. It allows users to build AI assistants tailored to specific tasks, such as answering FAQs or automating processes.
How to Access:
Copilot Studio is free for students, faculty, and staff, but a request is required to enable access. Submit a ticket to IT Solutions to request a Copilot Studio license.
FAQ
Q: Can students use Copilot for free?
A: Yes, students can access Copilot Chat AI and Copilot Studio for free. However, the Office integration requires a paid license.
Q: Can I cancel my Copilot Office license?
A: Yes, licenses can be canceled in May. If purchased mid-year, the cost is prorated from August 1st.
Q: What is the difference between Copilot Chat AI and Copilot for Office?
A: Copilot Chat AI is a standalone assistant available for free via a web browser or Windows 11. Copilot for Office integrates AI-powered features into Microsoft apps like Word, Excel, and Outlook, but requires a paid license.
Q: How do I request access to Copilot Studio?
A: Submit a ticket to IT Solutions to enable Copilot Studio on your account.
More Resources
Microsoft AI Skills Challenge
LinkedIn Learning – Microsoft Copilot Training
- LinkedIn Learning offers a variety of free training courses on Microsoft Copilot for students, faculty, and staff at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
- Popular Courses:
- New LinkedIn Learning training courses are available each month.
Still Need Help?
Visit the IT Solutions Center page to view current hours, locations, and contact information.