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Summary
Microsoft 365 Copilot is an AI-powered productivity assistant integrated into Microsoft 365 applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams. It uses large language models (LLMs) and Microsoft Graph data—like your emails, meetings, documents, and chats—to enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and improve content creation across the Microsoft 365 suite.
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Description
Microsoft 365 Copilot integrates directly into Microsoft 365 applications to help you create, analyze, and communicate more effectively.
It provides intelligent assistance for:
- Writing and editing documents in Word and Outlook.
- Analyzing data and generating summaries in Excel.
- Designing and formatting presentations in PowerPoint.
- Managing and summarizing information in Teams and other Microsoft 365 tools.
Copilot is securely embedded within MSU’s Microsoft 365 environment and operates under enterprise-grade data protection and compliance controls.
Additionally, through Copilot Studio (formerly Power Virtual Agents), MSU users with a Microsoft 365 Copilot license can build and share Copilot agents inside their organization with other M365 Copilot users:
- The Copilot Studio Lite experience (included with Microsoft 365 Copilot) allows users to create, test, and share lightweight Copilot agents using natural-language instructions and templates.
- Users can share these agents with other MSU users or departmental groups (Only users with the appropriate Microsoft 365 Copilot and Copilot Studio licenses can access shared agents) for internal workflows and information-retrieval tasks.
- Advanced capabilities—such as multi-channel deployment, external data connections, or enterprise-wide publishing—require the full Copilot Studio environment, which may need additional licensing or administrative enablement.
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Data Classification and Acceptable Use
Use of Microsoft 365 Copilot must comply with Michigan State University’s data governance and acceptable use standards.
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Common Use Cases
- Summarizing meetings, chat discussions, and email threads.
- Drafting and refining reports, proposals, or research documentation.
- Creating structured presentations and visual content.
- Analyzing datasets and generating formulas in Excel.
- Adjusting tone, grammar, and clarity in written communications.
- Assisting with project management summaries and document organization.
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Initial Purchase and Ongoing Costs
Microsoft 365 Copilot is a paid add-on license available to MSU faculty, staff, and students.
- Faculty, Staff and Students: Purchase via departmental billing through the MSU Tech Store.
To purchase, visit: Microsoft 365 Copilot - License Through August 30th, 2025 | MSU Tech Store
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How to Request Assistance
For technical help, billing questions, or general assistance:
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between Copilot (Enterprise) and Microsoft 365 Copilot?
Copilot (Enterprise) is included with your MSU Microsoft 365 license and provides general AI chat assistance through Windows and the web. Microsoft 365 Copilot is a separate, paid feature embedded directly into Office applications to enhance productivity and collaboration. For more details, see Article - Spartan 365 - General Infor...
How do I know when my license is active?
A colored Copilot icon will appear in your Microsoft 365 apps, typically in the top-right corner of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams, and in the middle menu bar of Outlook.
How does Microsoft 365 Copilot access my information?
Microsoft 365 Copilot uses Microsoft Graph to securely access data you already have permission to view—such as your documents, emails, and meetings—while maintaining compliance with MSU’s data governance and Microsoft’s enterprise privacy standards.
Does Microsoft 365 Copilot store my data externally?
No. Microsoft 365 Copilot processes and stores information within Microsoft’s secure enterprise environment. It does not use institutional data for model training or share information externally.
Can I use Microsoft 365 Copilot for AI development or testing?
Not for traditional AI development. Microsoft 365 Copilot is designed for productivity and collaboration within Microsoft 365. You can, however, create and test lightweight custom copilots using Copilot Studio (lite) to automate tasks or extend Microsoft 365 Copilot’s functions.
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Related Services / Offerings
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