Free Download, Install and License SOLIDWORKS 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016. In this article, we will explain step by step how to free download, install and license SolidWorks on your PC. Currently available SolidWorks versions for downloading and install are: 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2015. SolidWorks is a trusted 3D design software that has been around for over 25 years. This software helps you conceptualize, create, validate, and transform your ideas into great looking product designs. This is our SolidWorks download.
What is Solidworks
From Wikipedia:
SolidWorks is a solid modeling computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) computer program that runs on Microsoft Windows. SolidWorks is published by Dassault Systèmes.
According to the publisher, over two million engineers and designers at more than 165,000 companies were using SolidWorks as of 2013.
Supported Operating Systems
Solidworks is only available for 64-bit Windows. Mac and Linux users will need to install Windows first.
VPN requirement
Connection to campus VPN is not required to license Solidworks for student version but is required for faculty version.
Notes:
- You will need to run the EXE to unzip the installer and you will need to run the installer as an admin or uncheck the Electrical option to avoid the SQL Express error.
- You will need to connect to the campus VPN in order to use the faculty/staff license.
License key (STUDENTS)
The license key for student use is available to UA students via SOLIDWORKS 2021-2022 Student Key
Note: Student licenses are only valid for 1 year
How to Install (STUDENTS)
IF THIS METHOD DOESN'T WORK USE ALTERNATE METHOD AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE
Students should follow the instructions in this PDF to download and install Solidworks.Select Academic Version 2021-2022.
If you are installing Solidworks on a Mac, here is a PDF with basic instructions to get you started.
How to Install (FACULTY/STAFF ONLY)
This version requires you to be on campus, or connected to the VPN if you are off-campus
Faculty and staff can email support@eng.ua.edu and specify your computer name and we can install it remotely if you are on campus.
If you wish to install it yourself, here are download links:
- Zipped Solidworks install files: via this link to UA BOX Warning - this is a very large file (~8GB)
- Licensing information: via this link to UA BOX

Alternate Method to Install Solidworks (STUDENTS)
In the past, some students have had trouble downloading Solidworks from their website, so we've uploaded the files to Box.
- Download the installation folder via this link to UA BOX. The ZIP file is ~8GB, so depending on your network connection/speed, it might take a while to download. Make sure you have at least 30GB of free space before downloading so you will have room to extract and install all the files.
- If you have issues downloading, plug an Ethernet cable into your computer instead of using Wi-Fi.
- Follow the instructions in this PDF. The install can take up to an hour.

The College of Engineering has extended its SolidWorks license to include the download of the Student Edition for our students. Do note that this download is only for Windows-based operating systems. If you wish to use it on a Mac, you need to install Windows on a separate partition using 'Boot Camp' or run Windows in a 'virtual' environment. Google 'windows environment on a Mac' for more information.
If you are interested in obtaining this software for your own personal computer, please send an email to engrweb@vcu.edu with the following information:
Last Name:
First Name:
VCU Email address:
Major:
Student V#:
Be sure to include the word 'SolidWorks' in the subject line!
Solidworks Student Download For Mac Free
Once we process your request, you will receive a notification with instructions on downloading and installing SolidWorks. Due to our limited IT staff resources, it will be your responsibility to download the software and install it correctly on your machine. Normal turnaround on requests is within two business days.
Solidworks Student Download For Mac Full
If you have any questions, email engrweb@vcu.edu