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Educational Licensing for Students

Cloud Licensing for Individual Use

FREE Access to RISA Licensing for Students

At RISA, we believe in the power of education to shape the future of engineering. That's why we’re excited to offer FREE licensing to students, as we support the next generation of engineers by giving them hands-on experience with industry-leading tools.

Who is eligible:

  • Students who require access to software for specific coursework, thesis or master's work and research while also being enrolled at a Qualified Educational Institution.
  • Students (or sponsors/advisors) who are registered participants in an approved student design competition.
  • A Qualified Educational Institution is one that has been accredited by a governmental agency for the purpose of instructing students. This includes accredited middle schools, high schools, and universities.

What is included: 

  • Semester long, individual access to requested software
  • Access to free resources on RISA Learning Center.

"The future of education is not just about teachers and students but also about the software that facilitates and enriches learning experiences."

— John Seely Brown

 

RISA-3D is structural engineering software for modeling, analyzing, and designing buildings and other structures. It offers a user-friendly interface with advanced modeling tools. The software supports detailed analysis and complies with global design codes.

 

RISAFloor is software for designing and analyzing multi-story buildings floor by floor. It automates load generation and integrates with other RISA tools. An add-on, RISAFloor ES, adds advanced concrete slab design features.

 

RISAFoundation is software for designing and analyzing foundations like slabs and footings. It offers automated soil interaction and integrates with other RISA tools. The software also supports code-compliant rebar design and detailed reports.

 

RISAConnection is software for designing and analyzing steel connections. It includes 2D/3D visuals, code checks, and integrates with other RISA tools. Features include seismic design support and detailed reporting.

 

ADAPT-Builder is 3D software for designing reinforced and post-tensioned concrete structures. It handles complex geometry, automates load generation, and integrates with BIM tools. Key features include tendon optimization and long-term deflection analysis.

How to Apply:


  1. Confirm eligibility as an Education User at a Qualified Educational Institution.
  2. Complete the form below (using your school email) providing information about yourself and your educational institution.
  3. Once verified by RISA, complete your account setup to access licensing and download products.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Ask our Customer Support

Who is eligible to Educational Student User licensing?

Educational Student User licensing is available to Education Users (students) using their school email address for use in specific coursework, thesis, design competition or research while attending a Qualified Educational Institutions as defined in the RISA Educational Licensing - Program Description and Additional Terms.

How long does Educational Student User licensing last?

Once a request is made, access to RISA software products is per semester with licensing being reset on December 31st and July 15th each year. New requests can be made each semester.

Am I eligible for student licensing if I had a trial?

Educational Student User licensing is available to any active student using their school provided email address. If you previously had a trial license, you can complete the form above to request student licensing for the remainder of the semester.

I had a trial and my student licensing won't work, what can I do?

With the switch to student licensing (from a previous trial) you may need to clear the RISA login credentials on your computer. Follow these steps to complete the process:

 

1.  Navigate to "C:\ProgramData\RISA".
2.  The ProgramData folder is a hidden folder, typically. If you do not see it, please go to View and check the box to show Hidden Items.

clearcache1

3.  In that folder is an additional folder that will be named with the current users username on the computer. The example shown below is for a username of "gabriellec" (just for reference). That folder contains the cached credentials. Delete that folder.

clearcache2

When you delete that folder, the next time you launch a RISA product it will prompt you for the username and password. Once you successfully log back in, it will regenerate those cached credentials with the correct info and that error go away. 

Please note, you may also need to restart your computer after completing the steps above.

How do I install RISA on a Mac?

RISA programs are Windows-based and require a Windows operating system to run. Although RISA software does not operate natively on macOS, it is compatible with virtual machines that run Windows OS on your Mac. Below are the steps to get RISA up and running smoothly:

Step 1: Update Your macOS
Ensure your Mac is running the latest version of macOS for the best compatibility with virtualization software.

Step 2: Install Virtualization Software
You will need to install virtualization software to run Windows on your Mac.

Some of the most common options include:

  • Parallels Desktop for Mac (Recommended and tested)
  • VMware Fusion
  • VirtualBox (Free option, but not tested with RISA)
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.

Step 3: Install Microsoft Windows
Once your virtual machine is ready, purchase and install a licensed copy of Microsoft Windows. Windows 10 or Windows 11 (64-bit) are recommended for optimal performance.

Step 4: Download RISA Software
RISA software is now available exclusively through subscription-based licensing. You can download the latest versions of RISA programs directly from the RISA Customer Portal:
  1. Go to the RISA Customer Portal.
  2. Log in using your RISA Customer Portal email and password.
  3. Navigate to the Downloads section.
  4. Select the RISA product you want to install and download the installer.

Step 5: Install RISA Software
Run the installer inside your Windows virtual machine and follow the prompts to complete the installation. All licensing is handled through your subscription and verified online.

Using RISA on an iPad
One interesting note about using Parallels Desktop for Mac, is if you also own an iOS device, such as an iPad or iPhone, you get Parallels Mobile from the App Store and control your virtual computers from an iOS device. Now you have RISA on an iPad!

Note: When using a virtual computer, we recommend using as much virtual RAM as you have available. For additional support, please contact RISA technical support

Where can I get training?
Training resources are available in the RISA Learning Center. Resources include free step-by-step tutorials as well as paid virtual courses. Additional videos and technical articles are available to help answer your specific questions.

Already a Practicing Engineer?

If you are a practicing engineers, you can request and download a full featured, 10-day trial license of any RISA product by clicking the link below:

Start a Free Trial

RISA Tech, Inc. 27442 Portola Pkwy Ste 200, Foothill Ranch, CA 92610. Email us at info@risa.com or give us a call at (800) 332-RISA.
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