So, to start off, register at Students.autodesk.com. There is one requirement: you have to select 'what you are' - student, teacher etc.
As a student, which you probably will select, you have to tell them which school are you learning in, your latest should do (if listed, if not...cheat ?).
Once registered and logged in, go to 'Free Software' section on the top, and guess what, download 3DS max for free! you can select from versions from last 3 years.
You will get your very own activation keys and voila !
You can now create your models in professional software package and export them into Gmax compatible formats.
The Educational version IS a full version of Max, so you get all the latest tools and stuff to ensure that detail is just right.
You can now finally render your designs in top quality HD as well ! :)
Note: Check your system specs, Max is a resource buster on older machines (my 2GB ram and 2.13 GHz dual core get eaten easily on high poly designs)
Have fun !
Paw
This quick tutorial will go over the process of getting Free legal, full copy of latest 3DS Max to help you creating those new models.
Posted by LePawel on - Basic Starting a mod