Is there any possible way to import checkboxes using "Prepare Form" from Excel files?

Import directly? No. But it is possible to use a script to recognize specific characters (like Wingdings, as you've mentioned) with 100% accuracy and create check-boxes (or radio-buttons) over them.

I've developed a (paid-for) tool that does just that, actually. You can find it here:

https://www.try67.com/tool/acrobat-reader-convert-wingdings-characters-to-check-boxes-or-radio-buttons

Hi @Chris G I.,

Thanks for reaching out with a great question. 

Currently, Acrobat’s “Prepare Form” tool does not support importing form elements like checkboxes directly from Excel files. The auto-detection feature in “Prepare Form” can recognize visible table structures in static PDFs, but not logic or form field types (like checkboxes) from Excel source files.

While Acrobat doesn’t support checkbox importing from Excel, here are a few options you might explore:

1. Use Excel to Create a Flat Form, Then Add Checkboxes Manually

• Design your layout in Excel with placeholders (e.g., “☐” or labels).

• Print to PDF.

• Open in Acrobat > Tools > Prepare Form > Add checkboxes manually where needed.

2. Convert Excel to Word, Use Content Controls, Then Create PDF

• Create a form in Word with checkbox controls.

• Save or export to PDF.

• Use “Prepare Form”—which may recognize those controls more reliably than from Excel.

Your request is a great use case for automation between Excel and Acrobat form creation. We recommend submitting it to our feature request form here: 🔗 https://adobe.ly/3ZsKaCx