Alias Systems has released version 5 of Maya Personal Learning Edition, which is a free, downloadable version of Maya designed for students and others interested in learning how to use sophisticated 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software.
The Personal Learning Edition is limited to non-commercial use, and the company also offers a tutorial CD, which can be purchased for $19.99.
The software runs on Mac OS X, Windows 2000, and Windows XP, and can be downloaded for free at www.alias.com/mayaple/