As promised, Microsoft allowed MSDN and TechNet subscribers to start downloading their RTM copy of Windows 8 today. Microsoft Partner Network members and existing Microsoft Software Assurance for Windows members can download Windows 8 starting tomorrow. Microsoft Action Pack Providers will gain official access to Windows 8 on August 20th. Finally, Volume License customers without Software Assurance will be able to buy Windows 8 on September 1st.

But some people have been wondering when Windows 8 might be made available to users of the DreamSpark program. For those people who may not be aware, Microsoft launched DreamSpark in 2008 as a way to give high school and college students a way to download a number of Microsoft development software products for free.

Microsoft didn't mention Windows 8 availability for DreamSpark users on its primary Windows blogs. However, a little seen Microsoft blog for its UK Faculty Connection program has filled in the missing dates. The blog says that students can download Windows 8 "via DreamSpark Premium institutional ELMS stores" between August 25th and August 31st.

The DreamSpark Premium level means that only college students and teachers who are involved in science, technology, engineering and math departments will be able to take advantage of downloading Windows 8 using this avenue.

Thanks to Mary Jo Foley for the tip

Source: Microsoft UK Faculty Connection blog