FileMaker - Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to purchase Filemaker Pro?

This software is licensed by the University of Pennsylvania and is restricted to Institutional use only by Penn faculty and staff, as well as faculty and staff of Penn Medicine, for Penn-related academic use or for Penn-related academic research on a Penn-owned computer.

Are students eligible to purchase FileMaker Pro?

OSL does not carry a student version of FileMaker Pro. Students may contact Claris Customer Support for information on how to obtain a single user student license.

How do I purchase FileMaker Pro?

Go to Kivuto to click on the Get FileMaker button where you 'll be taken to the BEN Marketplace. From there, you can punchout to the SHI website to purchase it directly via BEN purchase order.

How do I start using FileMaker Pro?

After you purchase Filemaker Pro, instructions on how to download and install the software will be provided on the Kivuto Website. Those instructions are reprinted below for your convenience.  

Make sure that you are downloading both the install file and the .fmcert file. Both work together, and the .fmcert file contains the authorization code embedded in the file to activate the software.

Do I still have to renew maintenance every year if I purchase FileMaker now?

Yes, you need to renew FileMaker each year. The license expires on July 31st. If you don't renew the license, you must remove the software from your system.

How do I get FileMaker Server?

Filemaker Server is available upon request for departments that own a valid Filemaker license. Please contact OSL at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

How do I obtain technical support for FileMaker?

FileMaker provides no technical support for this volume license. There is a knowledge support page at https://support.claris.com/s/?language=en_US that may be helpful.