How to Remove Copilot from Microsoft 365 Apps

Overview

To fully remove Copilot from Microsoft 365 (M365) apps, follow the steps below. These instructions cover both administrative actions and user-level settings to ensure Copilot is disabled across your environment. 

Instructions

Step 1: Security Group Assignment (Admin Action) 

The Collaboration team must add your account to a security group that disables the Copilot Chat pin inside M365 apps. This is done by submitting a ticket to your desktop support team. Note: This cloud policy can take up to 24 hours to take effect. 

Step 2: User Actions While Waiting for Policy 

While waiting for the cloud policy to apply, perform at least one (preferably all) of the following actions in each M365 app (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.): 

Option 1: Turn Off Copilot via App Settings 

(Available in Word for Windows/Mac, version 2412+ on Windows) 

• Go to File → Options. 

• Select the Copilot tab. 

• Uncheck Enable Copilot. 

• Click OK and restart the app. 

Option 2: Remove the Copilot Button from the Ribbon 

• Right-click the Ribbon and choose Customize the Ribbon. 

• Under Main Tabs, expand Home. 

• Find the Assistance (Copilot) entry and click Remove. 

• Click OK and restart the app. 

Note: This only hides the button, not the floating Copilot icon. 

Option 3: Disable Connected Experiences 

• Open the M365 app (e.g., Word). 

• Go to File → Options → Trust Center. 

• Click Trust Center Settings. 

• Select Privacy Options. 

• Under Connected Experiences, uncheck: 

• Enable connected experiences (cloud-based features) 

• Enable optional connected experiences (includes Copilot and other AI features) 

• Click OK and restart the app. 

Important: You must repeat this process in each M365 app individually. 

Summary 

• The security group disables Copilot Chat pin (admin action, may take up to 24 hours). 

• Users should turn off Copilot, remove the button, and/or disable connected experiences in each app for immediate effect. 

• Some options may not be available depending on your app version. 

If you need further assistance, contact your IT support team. 

 

Still need help?  Click the 'Purdue IT Request' button to start a ticket.