Non-U.S. Schools Setting Up Google and Microsoft Education Plans with .edu Domain: A Comprehensive Guide

As more educational institutions around the world embrace digital transformation, many non-U.S. schools are considering launching websites under the .edu domain. However, there is often confusion regarding the setup costs and requirements for Google Workspace for Education and Microsoft Office 365 Education Plans, especially when using a custom domain. This guide aims to clarify the process and address common questions.

Overview of Google Workspace for Education and Microsoft Office 365 Education

Google Workspace for Education and Microsoft Office 365 Education offer powerful tools to enhance teaching and learning experiences. These plans include custom domain email addresses, file storage on Google Drive, collaborative tools like Docs, Sheets, and Slides, and more. For non-U.S. schools, the pricing and setup requirements may differ slightly but generally include no additional cost beyond the standard subscription fees once the necessary conditions are met.

Eligibility and Requirements for Educational Discounts

To qualify for educational discounts provided by Google and Microsoft, schools must establish their accounts for educational purposes. Specifically:

Non-U.S. Schools and the .edu Domain - While the .edu domain is primarily reserved for U.S. educational institutions, some non-U.S. schools may still use .edu domains for branding or marketing purposes. This can be acceptable as long as the usage aligns with the purpose for which the domain was intended.

Documented Proof Requirement - Both Google and Microsoft require a documented proof that the account is being opened for an educational institute. This might include:

Institutional letterhead and signatures Certified copies of educational charters or deeds Letter from the school administrator or IT person confirming the educational purpose of the account Proof of official accreditation or recognition in the home country

Verification Process - Schools may need to undergo a verification process to ensure the legitimacy of their requests. This could involve a phone call, email, or a site visit to confirm the institution's status and the intended use of the resources.

Setting Up Google Workspace for Education and Microsoft Office 365 Education

The process of setting up Google Workspace for Education and Microsoft Office 365 Education is similar for both services. Here is a step-by-step guide to help non-U.S. schools complete the setup:

Choose the Right Service - Decide whether to use Google Workspace for Education or Microsoft Office 365 Education based on your institution's needs and preferences. Both offer a range of features suitable for educational environments.

Complete the Domain Verification - Regardless of the chosen service, domain verification is crucial. Follow the specific instructions provided by Google or Microsoft to verify your custom domain. This usually involves adding DNS records to your domain registrar.

Create and Configure Accounts - Use the designated sign-up portals ( or ) to create accounts. Provide all required information, including domain verification details and educational proof. Follow any additional setup steps to customize email addresses and configure other settings.

Test and Train - Before full implementation, test all services to ensure they work as expected. Train staff and faculty on how to use the tools effectively to maximize their benefits.

Cost Considerations and Conclusion

It's important to note that while there may be no additional costs beyond standard subscriptions for both services, schools should carefully review the terms and conditions to understand any potential charges. Regularly review the services to ensure they continue to meet the evolving needs of the educational community.

In conclusion, although the .edu domain is primarily used by U.S. educational institutions, non-U.S. schools can still leverage Google Workspace for Education and Microsoft Office 365 Education with the right documentation and setup procedures. With proper planning and execution, these tools can significantly enhance the educational experience and productivity of students and educators alike.