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Office for Mac Issues

Can You Install Microsoft Excel on macOS Mojave? Solutions & Alternatives

Huma Ashraf ChHuma Ashraf Ch Oct 20, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to know if and how they can install Microsoft Excel on a MacBook running macOS Mojave, given that the Mac App Store often requires a newer OS version.

Can You Install Microsoft Excel on a MacBook Running macOS Mojave?
Product
Microsoft Excel
Device & OS
macOS Mojave
Scenario
Attempting to install Microsoft Excel on an older Mac operating system.
Observed behavior
The App Store blocks the installation of the latest Excel version, stating that a newer macOS release is required to run the current Microsoft Office apps.
Before you start

Verify your exact Mac model and macOS version by clicking the Apple Menu and selecting 'About This Mac' to determine if your hardware supports upgrading to a newer macOS release.

Solution 1Recommended

Upgrade Your macOS to a Supported Version

The most reliable way to ensure compatibility with the latest Microsoft Excel and Microsoft 365 updates is to update your Mac to a newer operating system.

Microsoft typically supports only the three most recent versions of macOS. Since Apple no longer supports macOS Mojave, upgrading your system is highly recommended for both app compatibility and security.

1
Check hardware compatibility

Click the Apple Menu > About This Mac to see your Mac's model and year, then check Apple's website to see the latest macOS version it supports.

2
Open Software Update

Navigate to System Preferences from the Apple Menu and click on Software Update.

3
Download and install

If a newer macOS version (like macOS Monterey or Ventura) is available, click 'Upgrade Now' and follow the on-screen instructions to install it. Afterward, install Excel from the Mac App Store.

Upgrade Your macOS to a Supported Version
Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Mac: A Lightweight, Highly Compatible Alternative

If macOS Mojave is preventing you from installing the latest version of Microsoft Excel, WPS Office offers a powerful, seamless alternative. It is a comprehensive Office suite that runs efficiently on Macs, providing advanced spreadsheet capabilities without the strict OS upgrade requirements.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx, .xls) and CSV formats.Lightweight architecture runs smoothly on older Mac hardware without slowing down your system.Free to use with a familiar, tabbed interface that makes switching from Microsoft Office effortless.All-in-one suite featuring Writer, Spreadsheet, Presentation, and advanced PDF tools.
microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Microsoft 365 still support macOS Mojave?

No. Microsoft 365 only provides updates and support for the three most recent versions of macOS. As Apple releases new macOS versions, older operating systems like Mojave lose official Microsoft Office support.

Can I use Excel Online on macOS Mojave?

Yes. If you cannot install the desktop application, you can still access Excel for the Web for free. Simply log into office.com using a supported web browser like Safari, Google Chrome, or Firefox on your Mac.

Are 32-bit versions of Office supported on macOS Mojave?

Yes, macOS Mojave is actually the final version of macOS to support 32-bit applications. If you own a very old 32-bit version of Office for Mac (such as Office 2011), it can still run on Mojave, though it is highly outdated and not recommended for security reasons.