[bug?] Can't set branch protection rules as a Github Pro user (GitHub Pro from Github Edu) for a private repository in an GitHub Organisation

[An0n-00]

Hi everyone,

Hey Everyone

I am currently working in an organisation that me and my friends are using, and when i want to add branch protection rules for a private repository in a GitHub Organisation, it shows me this nice message:

Your rules won't be enforced on this private repository until you upgrade this organization to GitHub Team or Enterprise.

I found saw that someone else also had this issue on reddit before.... Is there a fix? I mean there should be since this is actually a free feature, if a "normal" GitHub (free) user sets up the org (right?).

And I am posting this into GitHub Education since:

• It seems that only GitHub pro users that got their pro license via GitHub Education have this problem
• and since I (like I said) also have the GitHub pro via GitHub Education

[DulangaDasanayake]

Hi, @An0n-00

Yes, this is a known issue for students using GitHub Pro via the GitHub Student Developer Pack. While Pro accounts normally allow branch protection rules on private repositories, GitHub Organizations require a Team or Enterprise plan to enforce them.

Possible Workarounds:

1. Use Public Repositories

   • Branch protection rules work for public repositories without requiring a paid plan.

2. Use Protected Tags Instead

   • If your goal is to prevent unwanted changes, protected tags might help as an alternative.

3. Apply GitHub Actions for Protection

   • You can set up workflows that enforce rules (e.g., require PR reviews before merging).

4. Contact GitHub Support

   • Since this might be an Education-specific issue, open a ticket at GitHub Support and explain your situation.

Good Luck!!