Is there a cheaper version of 3ds max I'm missing?

[jonas_opines]

I'm just curious.  I've always used Blender, which is a pain as of the version I'm using for Skyrim.  I see comment threads and tutorials for 3ds max (and did when I started modding in Oblivion), but when I've looked up the product the versions I've found have been like one or multiple thousands of dollars.  Do people actually pay that much for these programs, or is this where I'm looking at a full version for absolute professionals and there's a cheaper version available?  

[Vioxsis]

http://www.loverslab.com/topic/12725-uff-ladies-equipment/?do=findComment&comment=280139

[Ark of Truth]

Depends if you are a student you can get it for free, but they will check to see if you are one.

 

I got mine from University when I was a student.

[shedidwhat]

or if you know someone that is in collage, even a community collage

ask them if you can use there name and info

[jonas_opines]

Hmmmm. Sadly I am old, and almost four years out of grad school, and it would feel odd to pirate my sons identity for free software. Guess I'll stick with Blender for the time being. Thanks for the info.

[MasterAaran]

I'm 23, not in college. I have a copy that I got through the student account though. I filled out all the information until it came to the school stuff. I specified my state and such, then when they asked what school, I selected 'Homeschool' I was homeschooled. They let me in and never asked me to verify. This might work for you.

 

EDIT: I should add that of course, you can't use it for commercial uses if you use the student account.