September 4, 2025 — Microsoft has announced a series of new initiatives to advance AI education and workforce readiness in the United States. The commitments, unveiled at the White House’s AI Education Task Force meeting, are designed to give teachers, students, and job seekers access to AI tools, training, and certifications.
The initiatives support the Presidential AI Challenge and the AI Education Executive Order, focusing on three priorities: equipping classrooms with the latest AI technology, building AI skills through practical learning, and connecting those skills to future career opportunities. Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella joined the meeting to outline these measures, emphasizing the role of AI education in preparing the next generation for a rapidly changing job market.
Expanding AI Tools for Students and Teachers
One of the key announcements is free access to Microsoft 365 Personal for U.S. college students. The package includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook, with Microsoft’s AI assistant, Copilot, built in. Eligible students can register with a valid university email address to access the offer, which runs through October 31, 2025.
Microsoft is also expanding AI integration into schools through Microsoft Elevate, which will provide access to Copilot for teachers and students. The program is designed to ensure safe, age-appropriate use of AI in classrooms while supporting educators with resources to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.
To recognize outstanding contributions to AI-powered education, Microsoft Elevate will fund $1.25 million in educator grants. The initiative will award prizes to teachers in every state who are pioneering innovative uses of AI in their classrooms.
Training and Certifications to Build AI Skills
Beyond classroom tools, Microsoft and LinkedIn are rolling out free training resources aimed at both students and teachers. LinkedIn Learning AI courses will be unlocked to provide a pathway from basic AI literacy to advanced skills. Learners who complete the courses will be able to showcase their achievements through LinkedIn certifications, strengthening resumes and career opportunities.
For community colleges, Microsoft Elevate is partnering with the American Association of Community Colleges and the National Applied AI Consortium. The collaboration will deliver no-cost AI training and certifications for faculty and staff who collectively serve over 10 million students nationwide. More than 30 community colleges across 28 states will also receive grants to support AI peer learning programs.
Preparing Job Seekers for the AI Economy
Recognizing the significant impact AI will have on the workforce, Microsoft and LinkedIn are extending training to job seekers. With 70% of AI-related skills expected to evolve by 2030, Microsoft plans to launch nearly 100 AI courses organized into 15 LinkedIn Learning paths.
In addition, LinkedIn will host a nationwide AI Learning Challenge beginning September 29. The challenge will offer five days of free, intensive AI education, led by industry experts and accompanied by curated content from top AI voices. The initiative is designed to help job seekers quickly develop in-demand skills and prepare for emerging roles across industries.
Shaping the Future of Learning and Work
Together, these initiatives mark one of Microsoft’s largest education-focused investments in AI to date. By providing free access to AI-powered productivity tools, expanding training for educators, and offering certifications for students and job seekers, the company aims to help individuals and institutions adapt to the rapid changes AI is bringing to the workforce.
Microsoft leaders underscored that the success of AI depends on how widely its benefits are shared. By equipping teachers, empowering students, and supporting job seekers, these programs are positioned to strengthen both education and career pathways in the AI era.
For educators, the new commitments provide access to tools and recognition for their leadership in technology adoption. For students and job seekers, they offer both practical skills and industry-recognized credentials to support career growth.
As AI reshapes industries, Microsoft’s expanded PowerProtect-style initiatives in education highlight the growing importance of digital literacy, lifelong learning, and accessible training for all.