Academia

Resources for Students

MSDN Academic Aliance and Microsoft DreamSpark

The MSDN Academic Alliance (MSDNAA) is the easiest and least expensive way for academic departments to make the latest Microsoft software available in labs, classrooms, and on student PCs. The program is available in more than 45 countries worldwide.

Whether you're a student working through high school or working on your degree at an institution of higher education, DreamSpark is here to help you achieve all your dreams. DreamSpark is simple; it's all about giving students Microsoft professional-level developer and designer tools at no charge, so you can chase your dreams and create the next big breakthrough in technology - or just get a head start on your career.

Students can receive a one-year Xbox LIVE Indie Games Academic Trial Membership, allowing them to deploy Xbox 360 games to their console. A paid Xbox LIVE Indie Games membership is required to submit Xbox 360 games to Xbox LIVE Indie Games.

Not sure if your school has an MSDNAA membership? Use the School Member Search to see if your school is already signed up. Sign up today, get verified as a student, and start downloading.

Imagine Cup

The Imagine Cup is a global student technology competition focused on finding solutions to real-world issues. The Game Design competition is designed for you and your team to create a new game, giving a chance for students who've always enjoyed playing games to create their own game, and at the same time to help change the global community.

Students who register receive a one-year Xbox LIVE Indie Games Academic Trial Membership, allowing them to deploy Xbox 360 games to their console. A paid Xbox LIVE Indie Games membership is required to submit Xbox 360 games to Xbox LIVE Indie Games.

Register today to compete in the Game Design competition.

Resources for Faculty

Microsoft Faculty Connection

Microsoft® Faculty Connection is an online resource that addresses the challenges that you face in teaching technology students by connecting you to worldwide faculty and a host of valuable tools. The site offers downloadable curricula, access to newsgroups, information on regional events and training, and free software. It's your source for technology and colleague interactions that inspire both classrooms and careers.

Top Resource Center Downloads for XNA Game Studio:

• Learn Programming with XNA
• Introduction to Programming Through Game Development Using Microsoft XNA Game Studio

For all materials related to XNA Game Studio, visit the Resource Center .

Courses and curriculum

Below you'll find links and information to schools teaching XNA game development/design courses, degrees, and game development camps.

View the full list of schools and game camps

Books on XNA Game Studio