Mapping Software for K-12 Instruction

Free mapping software for school instruction

A teacher sitting beside a smiling student as they discuss a computer display in a classroom with a world map in the background

Children are key to solving the world's problems. Using interactive maps to explore data, illuminate patterns, and uncover relationships helps them build the critical thinking skills they need. Esri provides many free resources for integrating geographic content of all types—turning data into maps, stories and knowledge.

Explore your world without an account

Journey into classroom content through maps using a GeoInquiry activity, or launch your wall maps into the digital age using National Geographic MapMaker. Both resources are free and work in a web browser – no account required.

Try a GeoInquiry
Try MapMaker
A road map of Seattle in beige and yellow with blue water

Expand your world with an account

Once you've brought maps to your classroom and are ready to do more, you can create a secure account to

  • Modify an existing map, saving it as your own.
  • Create new maps and ArcGIS StoryMaps stories about your topics and interests.
  • Collaborate on projects and incorporate location.
  • Turn observations into mapped data.
  • Perform analysis to discover patterns and relationships.
  • Share your creations with your class, school, and beyond.

 

A computer program window displaying a map of the Seattle area, a menu pane, and a toolbar

Get ArcGIS for your district

An ArcGIS for Schools Bundle includes accounts for all teachers and students. Accounts provide secure access to mapping software, apps, and data. Accounts are valid through July 2025.

ArcGIS Online

Organizational account

ArcGIS Online is a cloud-based GIS for using, creating, and sharing maps and apps.

  • Map Viewer

  • Scene Viewer (3D)

  • Analysis tools

  • Group sharing

Ready-to-use apps

Go beyond map viewing and authoring with specialized web and mobile apps.

  • ArcGIS StoryMaps

  • ArcGIS Survey123

  • ArcGIS Dashboards

  • National Geographic MapMaker

  • And more

Ready-to-use data

Use a vast collection of existing data for research and analysis.

  • ArcGIS Living Atlas of the World

  • ArcGIS Business Analyst (web and mobile)

Advanced applications

Maximize your GIS power with advanced tools. Model 2D and 3D data. Perform advanced data management.

  • ArcGIS Pro Advanced (Windows)

  • ArcGIS Drone2Map (Windows)

  • ArcGIS Urban Suite

  • ArcGIS Insights

Considerations before applying

Free accounts are for K–12 instructional use only. As part of your request, you must agree to the terms of use and meet the following criteria:

  • Who can apply

    You must be a member of the IT staff or a curriculum lead for your district.

  • Based in the US

    These forms are for districts based in the United States or a US district or territory. If you are outside the US, contact your distributor.

    Find your distributor

  • Management requirements

    When requesting the ArcGIS for Schools Bundle, you must be prepared to manage the software and accounts that come with it.

    Learn about managing this bundle

  • No existing accounts

    You and your students cannot already have access to accounts for your district.

    Find out if your district has accounts
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Review terms of use

Request ArcGIS for Schools

Esri provides free mapping software for use in K–12 instruction. Request ArcGIS for your district below. You'll be contacted within a week. Email schools@esri.com if you have questions.

Submit request
Not in the US?
Contact your distributor