A .max
file can be imported into most Autodesk programs (Maya, AutoCAD, etc.) and can be exported to a .obj
format by 3dsmax, then opened in almost every 3D modelling program in existence. All of Autodesk’s programs are available for free from their website on a student or educational license, however with that license you cannot use your creations for commercial gain.
I believe programs such as Mudbox, Softimage, ZBrush, etc. can also open .max
files.