You can download for macOS directly from the MathWorks Downloads page . While the software itself is not free, there are several legitimate ways to access it or its components without an immediate purchase. Official Download Methods
: You can access previous releases, including R2018a , by logging into your MathWorks Account. Use the "Select Release" dropdown to find R2018a and download the macOS installer. MATLAB R2018a for Mac Free Download
: MathWorks offers a free trial of the latest MATLAB version, which typically allows you to select older releases like R2018a during the setup process. You can download for macOS directly from the
: A limited version of MATLAB is available for free online for up to 20 hours per month. Use the "Select Release" dropdown to find R2018a
: Many students and employees can download MATLAB for free through their institution's Campus-Wide License or company group license.
: If you only need to run compiled MATLAB applications (and not write code), the MATLAB Runtime R2018a (9.4) is available for free on the MATLAB Runtime page . Ways to Get MATLAB for Free (Legal)