Is ok with the .exe also. When you first open Studio and click Start free, you just enter your email and you can use it for 12 weeks. Then, everytime you open Studio you will have to click Continue free. After that period, just go here: UiPath to renew the free license and you’ll be able to use for another 12 weeks and so on. The CE only activates online.
So, my question is, after you click Start free, do you get any errors? (maybe you're behind a firewall)
The difference between installing .exe and .msi is:
In my opinion, you can use the .exe in the lab(i suppose it’s for learning purposes).
P.S.: you can request the .msi from here: Enterprise RPA Platform Trial - Automation Software | UiPath
But you need to use the company/school email address.