File Exchange Licensing FAQ

Why does the File Exchange require licensing?

Licensing clarifies the rights you have as an author and as a user of the code available on the File Exchange. Licensing details how the file can be used and addresses common questions around rights to modification, distribution, and commercial use.

What is the BSD license?

The text of the BSD license is available on the Open Source Initiative site.

Why does MathWorks require the BSD license for File Exchange?

The BSD license is simple, well-known, open source, and permissive. It is one of the most widely used licenses approved by the Open Source Initiative. It is short enough to fit on an index card.

How does my File Exchange submission add the BSD license?

The license information will be added automatically to new and updated File Exchange submissions.

Can I submit to File Exchange with a different license?

You can use other licenses if your File Exchange submission is linked to GitHub. The BSD license is the standard license for community-contributed content that is uploaded to File Exchange from your computer.

Can I modify the text or terms of the BSD license?

No. The license text will be generated when you upload or update a file, and must not be altered to remain valid for the File Exchange.

What copyright year should I use?

Use the year in which the file was published.

Do I have to ask an author's permission to use BSD-licensed code?

No. Permission to use the code is granted in the license.

Do I have to acknowledge the author of code I'm reusing?

No, but you do have to keep the original BSD license attached to the code and include it with any derivative work you create.

How do I change the details of my license after I've submitted it?

Use the regular update process on the File Exchange. You'll find an "update" link on the file detail page for each of your existing submissions. Change the relevant license details in the License and Acknowledgements section of the update page, and resubmit.