You cannot save your data file or output file in a format that is compatible with the commercial version. This ensures that universities must still purchase site licenses for faculty research. You can save your work, but only the student version can reopen it.
| Feature | LISREL Student | JASP / Jamovi | R + lavaan |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Cost | Free | Free | Free |
| Max Variables | 12 observed, 6 latent | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Max Sample Size | 75 cases | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Missing Data (FIML) | No | Yes | Yes |
| Learning Curve | Moderate (syntax) | Low (point-click) | Steep (coding) |
| Modern Output | Poor (text tables) | Excellent (APA-ready) | Good (customizable) | lisrel student version
If the 15-variable limit is too restrictive for your thesis or dissertation, consider these alternatives: You cannot save your data file or output
The most restrictive limit is the number of observed variables (Y + X) . Typically, the LISREL Student Version is capped at 75 observed variables total. | Feature | LISREL Student | JASP /
Furthermore, it limits the number of free parameters. In complex models, you cannot estimate more than a certain number of coefficients (usually around 100-150). If your model has 200 regression paths, the student version will crash or throw an "ESTIMATION FAILED" error due to memory limits.
Save your data as a .psf (PRELIS System File) or a raw .txt / .csv.
As of recent updates, Scientific Software International (SSI) has shifted focus toward their newer platform, LISREL 11.