Can I use the NXT 2.0 programming software with my educational set? I have bought the 9797 NXT base educational set. It didn't include any software.

I know that I can freely download the NXT 2.0 software (which was included in the 8784 retail set). Is it possible to use this version of the software with my education set?
Yes, you can - I have done so on numerous occasions, and actually prefer to use the retail software over the education version even when working with the education kit.

The NXT bricks in the two sets are exactly identical. You might need to update the NXT's firmware before using the brick with the retail software, however.