Free, Open-Source, and Yours to Keep
QGIS is a full-featured desktop GIS application. As it’s open-source software, there’s no license, no sign-in, and no University account required. Download it directly, and it's yours for as long as you want it, University affiliation or not.
What QGIS Does
QGIS handles the core of desktop GIS work: creating and editing spatial data, running spatial analysis, and producing polished printed maps. It reads and writes nearly all common geospatial data formats, so it plays well with data you've already built in ArcGIS or elsewhere, and it's extended by more than 300 community-built plugins covering everything from remote sensing to 3D visualization.
Core Advantages of QGIS
Runs on Anything
QGIS is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux, with a companion mobile app (QField) for Android, so your GIS setup isn't locked to one machine or one operating system.
Open Source and Free
QGIS is released under the GNU General Public License. There's no trial period, no license to renew, and no cost, ever, whether you're a first-year student or ten years into a career.
A Living, Global Project
QGIS is developed by an active international community, with new releases roughly every four months and support available through forums, mailing lists, and a global network of user groups.
There's No Account to Set Up
Unlike Esri software, QGIS doesn't run through your UMN Internet ID. Download it directly from the official QGIS site and install it like any other application.
Steps
- Go to the QGIS download page and choose the installer for your operating system.
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts.
- Open QGIS: you're ready to work.
Because QGIS isn't tied to a University account, you can install it on a personal computer today and keep using the exact same software after you graduate or leave UMN.
Documentation & learning resources
Download QGIS on Your Personal Computer
Official downloads for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Download QGIS →Training opportunities
Find workshops and tutorials designed to help you build, share and manage spatial data.
External & Vendor Training
Hosted outside of the UMNLearn QGIS Full Course
Learn all aspects of this amazing GIS tool that is free for you to download and use!
The Modern GIS Skill Map
5 skills that actually matter now
QGIS Tutorial Series
Tutorial series specially made for QGIS beginners and intermediates.
QGIS FAQs
Quick answers to what people ask us most about getting started with QGIS.
Do I need a UMN account to use QGIS?
No, it's not connected to your University account at all.
QGIS is independent, open-source software. Download and install it directly from qgis.org; there's no sign-in, license key, or University affiliation required.
What's the difference between QGIS and ArcGIS Pro?
Similar capabilities, different philosophies.
Both are full-featured desktop GIS applications capable of serious spatial analysis and cartography. ArcGIS Pro is commercial software with deep integration into the Esri ecosystem; QGIS is free, open-source, and works identically whether or not you're affiliated with a university. Many GIS professionals use both, depending on the project.
Can I open my ArcGIS files in QGIS?
Mostly, yes.
QGIS reads and writes nearly all common geospatial formats, including shapefiles and file geodatabases, so moving a project between QGIS and Esri software is usually straightforward. Some Esri-specific features may not translate directly; the Help Desk can advise on trickier conversions.
Will QGIS still work after I graduate?
Yes, nothing changes.
Because QGIS was never tied to your UMN account in the first place, your access doesn't change when your University affiliation ends. It's one of the reasons U-Spatial recommends getting comfortable with QGIS alongside Esri software.
What It Costs
Nothing! QGIS is free and open-source for everyone, University-affiliated or not. There's no license to purchase and no subscription to maintain. It's maintained by a global community of contributors rather than sold as a commercial product.
Ready to Download QGIS?
Grab the installer for your operating system and you'll be mapping within minutes. No university sign-in required.