When does the WoW Forever beta start?
The closed beta begins on September 17, 2026. The currently announced testing window ends on October 21, 2026. Access can come from a qualifying upgrade-pack pre-purchase or from Blizzard selecting an account that opted in for free.
How to get guaranteed beta access
Eligible players receive beta access automatically after pre-purchasing one of the qualifying upgrade packs:
- Skyborne Epic Pack
- Warcraft Forever Collection
This is the direct route for players who want guaranteed access rather than relying on Blizzard's selection waves. Use the Battle.net account on which you intend to play when making the qualifying purchase.
How to opt in for free
Players who do not purchase a qualifying pack can enter Blizzard's beta selection pool. Sign in to the relevant Battle.net account, open Blizzard's official World of Warcraft: Forever page and choose the beta opt-in option.
Opting in does not guarantee an invitation. It records your interest and makes the account eligible for selection. Blizzard may invite additional opted-in players in waves as testing progresses.
Beta access steps
- 1Sign in to the correct Battle.net account.
Use the account on which you intend to test WoW Forever.
- 2Check that a valid World of Warcraft account is attached.
Confirm the game account before opting in or buying a qualifying pack.
- 3Open Blizzard's official WoW Forever beta page.
Use Blizzard's own World of Warcraft website while signed in.
- 4Opt in for beta testing.
This enters the account in the free selection pool.
- 5Check beta and testing settings.
Enable Battle.net beta or testing options where they apply to the account.
- 6Enable two-factor authentication where appropriate.
Protect the Battle.net account before testing begins.
- 7Watch your email and Battle.net launcher.
Access may appear in the launcher or arrive through the email address connected to the account.
- 8Follow official Blizzard announcements.
Invitation waves and testing information can change during the beta period.
Is beta access guaranteed?
Automatic or guaranteed beta access through the Skyborne Epic Pack or Warcraft Forever Collection.
A free chance of access. The account enters the selection pool, but an invitation is not guaranteed.
How invitation waves work
Blizzard may add opted-in accounts in stages as testing progresses. Not receiving access on the first day does not mean the account has been rejected. Continue checking the Battle.net launcher and the email connected to the account during the announced beta window.
What is in Beta Week One?
The first test phase has a level cap of 20. It includes the Skyborne, their Zephras Isle starting experience and the new Hall of Thanes and Ruins of Lordaeron dungeons, alongside the original leveling routes available through level 20.
Blizzard has also announced a Server Slam for a later stress test. No exact date or time has been published.
Do not buy beta keys from third parties
Be careful with websites, marketplace listings, social posts or private messages claiming to sell WoW Forever beta keys. Use Blizzard's official opt-in or a qualifying pack purchased through Blizzard. Do not provide Battle.net credentials or authentication codes to a supposed key seller.
WoW Forever beta FAQ
When does the beta begin?
September 17, 2026.
When does the current beta period end?
October 21, 2026.
Which purchases include automatic access?
The Skyborne Epic Pack and Warcraft Forever Collection are the qualifying upgrade packs listed for automatic access.
Is the free beta opt-in guaranteed?
No. It enters the account in Blizzard's selection pool. Blizzard may invite additional players in waves.
Where should I look for access?
Check the Battle.net launcher and the email address associated with the relevant Battle.net account.