"To get a free trial, go to app.powerbi.com and sign up with your email address." Link provided is asking me for work email address

Question

I am trying to follow the course, I have downloaded Power BI Desktop and am prompted to user Power BI service. I am using a personal account, I only have a personal account. This platform is made for people to upskill - in, or out of work and the the way it was worded suggests exactly that, I did not expect to have to use a workplace address. Is there any way around this?

Am I doing/understanding something wrong, are these just my unmanaged expectations?

This question is related to the following Learning Module

Answer 1

Hi Milosz Nonya,

Thank you for reaching out to us on the Microsoft Q&A forum.

In the Power BI Service (app.powerbi.com), a work or school email address is required to sign up, as personal email addresses (like Gmail or Hotmail) are not accepted.

Here’s how you can proceed:

Use a work or school email: If you have access to one from your employer or educational institution, you can use that to sign in.

Create a Microsoft 365 account: If you don’t have a work or school email, you can sign up for a free Microsoft 365 trial here. This will provide you with an organizational email that you can use to access Power BI Service.

If you’re using Power BI Desktop, there’s no need for a work or school email—you can use the tool without signing in to the Power BI Service.

Please don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any other queries.

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