Not sure how long it will take in each case, but I don't think they require a credit card (though there are restrictions on what you can do, so check it is suitable for your thesis first).
Thanks but I doubt those would work, I cleared all of my courses years ago and I'm only recently going back to Uni to finally finish my thesis and get my degree.
If you are a student, Microsoft offer undergraduate and postgraduate Azure grants: http://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/community/education/
If you are applying with a lecturer, they can request grants or passes for entire class: http://www.microsoftazurepass.com/azureu
Not sure how long it will take in each case, but I don't think they require a credit card (though there are restrictions on what you can do, so check it is suitable for your thesis first).
Good luck with your thesis!