Eligibility Popular
You’ve found software you want, but WebStore says you’re not eligible. Here’s why that happens and what to do next.
How eligibility works
Software offered through WebStore is governed by vendor licensing agreements that provide discounted academic pricing to the university. These agreements require specific eligibility rules to be enforced.
When you log in with your NetID, your university affiliation and member groups are automatically applied to your WebStore account. These groups determine which products you can view and purchase.
Why a product may appear unavailable
- You may be viewing the catalog before logging in.
- You may be following an old or expired product link.
- Your current university role does not meet the vendor’s eligibility requirements.
For the best experience, log in first and then browse or search the catalog.
Common questions
Can university retirees use WebStore for software discounts?
Retiree or emeritus status does not automatically provide eligibility. In some cases, a department may enter an appointment in Banner for a retiree (including a 0% appointment). When present, this may provide Faculty/Staff eligibility depending on the appointment type.
Can outside consultants, affiliates, or visiting scholars use WebStore?
External users must first obtain a university NetID through their campus Help Desk. Logging in with a NetID does not guarantee access to all products. In some cases, WebStore may be able to grant limited access to specific software.
Requests must be submitted by the user’s university sponsor and sent to webstore@illinois.edu. Please include the software name, the user’s role, and the reason access is required. Access duration is limited by the license term, appointment end date, or NetID status.
I’m a graduate student employee with a staff title. Why can’t I access staff software?
Eligibility is determined by system-level HR classifications, not departmental job titles. Graduate student employees often do not meet the state-defined Faculty/Staff classifications required by certain licenses.