Body
This article explains the different Adobe software license options available to faculty and staff. Adobe software orders must be processed through ITS to ensure the best pricing and allow for centralized software management.
NOTE: We cannot guarantee full ITS technical support for Adobe software not ordered through ITS.
Adobe License Program Overview
ITS manages the Drake Creative Cloud master license agreement to maintain compliance with the annual subscription renewal. We can easily transfer licenses to a different user as needed. Here are a few options to consider before requesting an order.
Product Changes Effective in March 2026
Adobe will retire some educational license products on March 31, 2026. The new product changes will increase our pricing on the next renewal order. Refer to the Attachments section in this article for a summary of the changes and a product comparison chart.
Named-user License:
- All Apps – this is a full suite of 20+ applications, including Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat, and more. As of April 2026, choose between Enterprise or Pro Plus versions.
- Single App – includes access to only one application and is cheaper than the All Apps suite. This is a common choice for users that only need Photoshop.
- Acrobat Pro – this is best for a user that only works with Acrobat files.
A user license is assigned to a specific person with rights to install on up to two computers for work and home use. The license is assigned to the person’s Drake email address.
Device License:
A device license is installed on a shared computer for use in lab or classroom environments only. This All Apps license will provide access to a full suite of desktop applications, but it has limited or no access to some services like Firefly AI.
Adobe Training Tutorial Resources:
Learn Acrobat Pro: adobe.com/learn/acrobat
Learn Adobe Apps: adobe.com/learn
How to Get a Quote and Place an Order
Once you’ve determined what you want to order, the Software Request can be used in a two-step process.
Quote Request (Step 1)
- Submit your Software Request through the IT Service Portal.
- ITS will respond with a vendor quote.
Pricing for Adobe subscriptions will change every month because the license is pro-rated to align with Drake's annual expiration date.
Order Request (Step 2)
After you receive the quote, you can submit an order request using the same ticket number assigned to your quote request.
- Fill out the Adobe Software Order Form (linked to the Software Request service and this article).
- Upload the order form to the Software Request ticket.
- ITS will order the Adobe software.
Installation
For named-user licenses: The user will receive an email from Adobe confirming they have access to Drake's license membership. ITS will provide installation instructions.
For device licenses: An ITS technician will install the license on the designated shared computer.
FAQ:
How do employees renew their annual Creative Cloud subscription?
Licenses are renewed annually in June before the July 3 expiration date. ITS will review each department's license summary with a budget manager. Renewals will be processed by ITS and the cost will be charged back to each individual department.
What happens to a Creative Cloud subscription license if an employee leaves Drake?
The license will remain active through the remainder of the subscription term. A license can be transferred to a different user. Submit a Software Request through the IT Service Portal for assistance with the transfer.
How do students get access to Adobe Creative Cloud software?
Adobe Creative Cloud is not available to students for free. Visit Adobe's website to see current pricing for student subscriptions. Adobe usually offers a discount for first time memberships. Pay special attention to the terms and conditions because pricing will increase automatically when the subscription is renewed.