Microsoft Forms is great for collecting quick responses, but its built‑in file upload feature has some major limitations, especially if you’re working with people outside your organization. Since external users often can’t upload files directly, many teams need a reliable workaround.

A simple and effective solution is to use Dropbox File Requests. This lets users upload files without needing a Dropbox account, and you can easily link the upload request to your Microsoft Form.

Below is a step-by-step guide to help you set this up. 

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Step 1: Create and Name the Upload Folder

Start by creating a dedicated folder in Dropbox to store uploaded files.

Create a new folder

1. Open Dropbox.
2. Create a new folder.

Name the folder

To stay organized, name the folder exactly the same as your Microsoft Form.

What the uploaded files should include

Ask users to include:

• The form name
• The file name or type
• A unique identifier (e.g., faculty name, student ID, or requester name)

This makes sorting and identifying files much easier.

Allow anonymous uploads

To accept uploads from anyone, the folder must be shared with public access.

How to update folder sharing

1. Click Share on the folder.
2. In the pop‑up window, click the settings (gear) icon.
3. Under Link for Viewing, click Create link if one doesn’t exist.
4. Change the access to Anyone with the link.
5. Save your settings.

This ensures that people who submit your form won’t need a Dropbox account to upload their files.

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Step 2: Create a Dropbox File Request

Dropbox File Requests let users upload files directly into your designated folder without giving them access to the folder itself.

Create your File Request

1. In the left menu of Dropbox, click Home.
2. Select File Requests.
3. Click the Request Files button.
4. Give your request a title (e.g., “Upload Your Signed Form” or “Submit Required Document”).
5. Under Folder for uploaded files, choose the folder you created in Step 1.
6. Click Create.

Copy the share link

After creating the File Request, Dropbox will give you a link.
Copy this link—you’ll need it for your Microsoft Form.

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Step 3: Add the Dropbox Link to Your Microsoft Form

Now you’ll connect your Dropbox File Request to your Microsoft Form so users can easily upload files.

How to add the link

1. Open your Microsoft Form.
2. Go to the question where the user needs to upload a file.
3. In the question text:
   • Explain what file the user needs to upload.
   • Include the file-naming instructions from Step 1.
4. Turn on the Title option for clearer formatting.
5. Add a clear prompt, such as:
   “Click here to upload your file”
6. Paste your Dropbox File Request link directly into the question.

Test your setup

Always test the link yourself:

• Make sure it opens the Dropbox upload screen.
• Upload a test file to confirm it appears in the correct folder.

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🎉 You’re All Set!

With this Dropbox-based workaround, your form respondents can upload files easily—even if they’re external users. This method keeps your process simple, organized, and user-friendly without requiring any special permissions or accounts.

If you'd like help improving your form instructions, formatting the upload section, or automating notifications, IIT has a Microsoft 365 help page with tips and tools.

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