How to Install and Activate MATLAB 2026a

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MATLAB is a proprietary multi-paradigm programming language and numeric computing environment. It allows matrix manipulations, plotting of functions and data, implementation of algorithms, creation of user interfaces, and interfacing with programs in other languages.

MATLAB is available at no charge for UNLV Faculty, Staff and Students. The UNLV license currently expires 7/31/2027.

Before you begin

System Requirements

To install MATLAB, you will need:

  • A device meeting MATLAB system requirements
  • An active UNLV MathWorks account
  • An Internet connection to download and activate MATLAB

Download MATLAB 2026a from MathWorks

Register for an account

Before you can download MATLAB, you will need to self-register for a license by creating a MathWorks account using your UNLV email address.

Download MATLAB

  1. Login to the MathWorks website. Select Sign in to get started.
  2. In the MATLAB Dashboard, select Install MATLAB.

    Screenshot of MATLAB dashboard with "Install MATLAB" button highlighted.

  3. At Downloads, select R2026a from Select Release. Then select Download.

    A screenshot of the MathWorks downloads page showing the dropdown menu labeled "Select Release" set to "R2026a" and a blue action button reading "Download for Windows".

Verify Your Release Version
Please check and ensure that R2026a is explicitly chosen in the Select Release drop down menu before clicking download. This ensures you are downloading the newest supported version.

The installer files should now download to your local computer.

Install MATLAB 2026a

Once the installer files have been downloaded, install MATLAB. The process is the same for Windows and macOS.

  1. Launch the installer for MATLAB 2026a. The setup will start to load.
  2. Once the main setup screen appears, type in your UNLV MathWorks email address, then select Next.
  3. Type in your UNLV MathWorks password, then select Sign In.
  4. On the License Agreement screen, select Yes, then select Next.
  5. On the Select License screen, select License 40902587, then select Next.

    A screenshot of the MathWorks Product Installer window at the "Licensing" step with release version "R2026a" showing license number "40902587" selected for MATLAB (Individual).

  6. On the Select Destination Folder screen, click Next. You can leave the destination as the default.
  7. On the Select Products screen, check the box for each product you would like to install, then select Next.
  8. On the Select Options screen, enable Add shortcut to desktop and disable Improve MATLAB by sending user experience information to MathWorks. Then select Next.
  9. On the Confirm Selections screen, select Begin Install.

    A screenshot of the MathWorks Product Installer at the final "Confirmation" step summarizing the installation folder and parameters before clicking the green "Begin Install" button.

  10. Once the installation is complete, select Close.

MATLAB is now installed.

Activate MATLAB 2026a

  1. Launch MATLAB 2026a.
  2. A MathWorks Sign In window will appear. Type in your UNLV MathWorks email address, then select Next.

    A screenshot of the compact MathWorks sign-in dialog window for software activation showing a red box highlighting the email entry box and the "Next" button.

  3. You will be redirected to the UNLV ACE login page to finish the sign-in. Login with your UNLV ACE credentials.

MATLAB is now activated.

Need Additional Help?

Users may contact MathWorks Support for assistance with MATLAB including account registration, license activation, and installation issues. For additional information, you can also contact the IT Help Desk.

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