Forum Discussion

Moony_34's avatar
Moony_34
Copper Contributor
Jul 13, 2026

My Microsoft Form is not able to sync to an Excel file

Hi, I am having trouble as when I try to open the results of a form that I made into an Excel is giving me the following error "It wasn't possible to open Excel online, You can still download a copy to visualize the responses on Excel" (translated from my native language so the message might be a bit different).

I am able to download the form as an excel but I cannot open a website version of it, this form was made using a personal email address and Microsoft account. 

I cannot share the link to the forms as it has personal information that would not be allowed to share in a public setting.

Error
excel
forms
Forms Responses
microsoft forms
onedrive

2 Replies

  • Kidd_Ip's avatar
    Kidd_Ip
    MVP
    Jul 14, 2026

    Are you using a work or school account tied to a Microsoft 365 account? support.microsoft.com/en-us/forms/how-to-ensure-your-form-and-workbook-are-in-sync

     

  • NikolinoDE's avatar
    NikolinoDE
    Platinum Contributor
    Jul 14, 2026

    Hi,

    The good news is your data is perfectly safe — it’s all stored inside the form itself. This issue just means the linked Excel file in your OneDrive has a hiccup.

    The most reliable fix is to create a fresh, clean connection. It sounds technical, but it’s really just two quick steps — you won’t lose a single response.

    Here’s how to do it:

    1. Go to your OneDrive (onedrive.live.com) and navigate to Apps → Microsoft Forms.
      You’ll see an Excel file linked to your form, usually matching its name.
      Delete it. Don’t worry — this only removes the linked copy, not your actual form or the responses.
    2. Head back to your form, open the Responses tab, and click Open in Excel again.
      Forms will instantly create a brand-new workbook and automatically fill it with all your past responses. New replies will sync going forward too.

    That usually solves the “It wasn’t possible to open Excel online” error straight away.

    A couple of extra tips (if you need them):

    • If the new file still won’t open in the browser, try right-clicking it in OneDrive and choosing Open in Excel (desktop app). That lets you view and work with the data while you sort out the browser side.
    • While you’re fixing things, you can always use the Download a copy option — it’s already working for you and gives you a full snapshot of your responses.

    I hope this gets you back up and running smoothly!

     

    My answers are voluntary and without guarantee!

     

    Hope this will help you.