Data Import & Export

How to Sync Microsoft Forms Data with Desktop Excel

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to know how to automatically synchronize response data from Microsoft Forms into a Microsoft Excel desktop workbook.

Product: Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Forms
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Collecting survey or form responses online and needing to access the updated data directly within a desktop Excel application.
Observed behavior: Synchronization requires specific Excel versions and tenant rollouts to automatically sync when the local workbook is opened.

Before you start

Ensure you are signed into your Microsoft 365 account on your desktop app and that your Excel application is connected to the internet.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify Requirements and Synchronize Forms Data

Check if your Excel desktop app meets the minimum version requirements to support Forms data synchronization and open the workbook to initiate it.

Microsoft is actively rolling out Forms data synchronization for Excel desktop. This feature links your online form responses directly to your local workbook, provided your Microsoft 365 tenant has received the update.

Check Excel Version

Open Microsoft Excel, navigate to 'File' > 'Account', and check your version. You must be on Current Channel Version 2410 (build 16.0.18227.20000) or later.

Open the Linked Workbook

Locate and open the specific Excel workbook that is linked to your Microsoft Form. The workbook must be actively opened to trigger the synchronization process.

Wait for Data Sync

Once opened, allow a few moments for Excel to fetch the latest responses from Microsoft Forms and update the local spreadsheet.

Rollout Status: If you meet the version requirements but the feature is still unavailable, your Microsoft 365 tenant may not have received the rollout yet.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Analyze Form Data Effortlessly with WPS Office

While automatic background synchronization from Microsoft Forms requires specific Microsoft 365 subscriptions and rollouts, WPS Office provides a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative for opening and analyzing your exported form data. Enjoy a familiar interface and comprehensive data tools seamlessly.

1. Export Form Data: Download your Microsoft Forms responses as an Excel (.xlsx) file directly from your web browser.
2. Open with WPS Office: Launch WPS Office and open your downloaded spreadsheet to view the response data immediately.
3. Analyze and Edit: Use WPS Office's powerful charting, filtering, and pivot table features to analyze your collected data without requiring an expensive subscription.

Free and lightweight Office suiteFully compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx) formatsFamiliar user interface for a seamless migrationRobust built-in tools for data analysis and charting

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn't my Microsoft Forms data updating in Excel desktop?

Your Excel version might not meet the minimum requirement. You need Current Channel Version 2410 (build 16.0.18227.20000) or later. Alternatively, your Microsoft 365 tenant might not have received the feature rollout yet.

Does the Forms data sync automatically in the background?

No, locally opened workbooks will not update in the background. You must actively open the workbook in Excel desktop for the synchronization of the latest responses to occur.

How can I check my current Microsoft Excel version?

Open your Excel desktop application, click on 'File' in the top-left corner, and select 'Account'. Your version and build number will be displayed under the 'About Excel' section.

Excel & Data Problems