Microsoft 365 Access Is Changing Starting August 1, 2024

Dear CBS students,

We want to make you aware of an important change to your Microsoft 365 access, which will take effect on August 1, 2024. 

Currently, CBS provides you with the A1 Plus version of Microsoft 365, which includes both desktop and web versions of Microsoft Office applications. However, starting August 1st, Microsoft is retiring the A1 Plus version of Microsoft 365. We will be automatically migrated to the A1 version. The key difference is the A1 version does not include the desktop applications such as Word and Excel. So, starting August 1, 2024 you will no longer have access to the desktop versions of Microsoft Office applications through CBS. Instead, you will be able to use the web versions of these applications.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Desktop versions: If you have a desktop version of Office installed on your computer, it will stop working on August 1st. You will no longer be able to use these desktop apps provided through CBS.
• Web Applications:  You will still have full access to the web versions of Microsoft Office applications. These can be accessed via your web browser and include Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. 
• If you prefer to continue using a desktop version of Microsoft Office, you have the option to independently purchase a license directly from Microsoft on your own. This will allow you to maintain access to the full suite of desktop applications beyond August 1st.
• Your CBS email address and password will remain unchanged. You will still use your CBS Microsoft login to access services such as MyRecords and MyCourses.

Next Steps

1. Plan ahead: Please make necessary arrangements before August 1 to avoid any disruption to your work.

2. Explore web versions: Familiarize yourself with the web versions of Office applications to ensure a smooth transition.

3. (Optional) Purchase a desktop license on your own: If you wish to keep using the desktop applications, you can buy a license from Microsoft. The current pricing for Microsoft 365 Personal is $2.99 per month. Please visit the Microsoft Store for more information.

We understand this change may cause some inconvenience, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Should you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at: LearnHelpdesk@cbshouston.edu

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,
CBS Learn Helpdesk

Key Links:

• Office for the Web: Getting Started
• Basic tasks in Word
• Basic tasks in PowerPoint
  
• Microsoft 365: Student Pricing