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How to Install Microsoft 365 on an Older Mac with a School Account
Question details
The user wants to install Microsoft 365 using a school account on an older Mac (such as a 2013 Mac Pro) but is running into macOS compatibility requirements.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- macOS (Older Mac / 2013 Mac Pro)
- Scenario
- Attempting to install Microsoft 365 desktop applications on an older Mac model using an educational account.
- Observed behavior
- The installation is unsupported or blocked because Microsoft 365 requires one of the three most recent macOS versions to run.
Before attempting to install or troubleshoot, check your current operating system version by clicking the Apple menu in the top-left corner and selecting 'About This Mac'.
Upgrade Your Mac to a Supported macOS Version
Microsoft 365 for Mac generally supports only the three most recent major macOS releases. Updating your Mac is the most direct way to resolve compatibility issues.
Apple releases a new major version of macOS every year. When a new version is released, Microsoft updates its requirements to support only the newest release and the two previous versions.
For older models like a 2013 Mac Pro, you will need to check if Apple still provides official updates that meet this three-version window.
Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select 'System Preferences' (or 'System Settings' on newer interfaces).
Click on 'Software Update' to see if there is a newer macOS version available for your device.
If a compatible version (e.g., macOS Monterey or newer) is available, click 'Upgrade Now' and follow the on-screen instructions.
Once the macOS update is complete, navigate to the Microsoft 365 portal with your school account and download the installer again.
Use Microsoft 365 Web Apps
If your Mac cannot be upgraded to a supported macOS version, you can still access your school account's Microsoft apps via your web browser.
Use WPS Office on Your Older Mac
If your older Mac does not support the latest macOS updates required by Microsoft 365, WPS Office is an excellent lightweight alternative. It is highly compatible with Microsoft formats and runs smoothly on many older devices, ensuring you can still complete your schoolwork.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the installation package designed for Mac.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Open the downloaded .dmg file and drag the WPS Office icon into your Applications folder.
- 3. Open Your School Files: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing Microsoft formats to continue your work without losing any formatting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the three most recent macOS versions supported by Microsoft?
Apple releases a new macOS version annually. Microsoft 365 typically supports the newest release and the two preceding versions. Whenever Apple releases a new major OS, the oldest of the three loses official support for Microsoft 365 updates.
Can I install an older version of Microsoft Office on my older Mac?
Microsoft only provides installer packages for currently supported versions through a Microsoft 365 subscription. If you have an older perpetual license (such as Office 2016 or Office 2019 for Mac), you may be able to install it, but those versions no longer receive security updates.
Why won't my school account let me download the desktop apps at all?
Some educational institutions only provide students with an 'A1' license, which limits users entirely to the web versions of Microsoft 365. You should check with your school's IT administrator to confirm whether your account includes permissions to install the desktop applications.
