Don't Get Locked Out.

AACC now uses multifactor authentication (MFA) to help keep your account secure. MFA is a quick extra step, like a text message, phone call or app notification, that helps confirm it’s really you signing in. It’s similar to the type of security your bank and social apps may use.

MFA protects your AACC account and keeps your access secure for:

• MyAACC
• Canvas
• Email (Outlook)
• OneDrive and Teams
• Office apps and other Microsoft 365 tools

What’s Changing?

Between Jan. 7 and 21, AACC will turn on MFA in phases for about 21,000 credit students. Once it’s enabled for your account, you’ll need to approve your sign in using your phone or another method you’ve set up.

MFA will not be required if using a campus computer or college device. 

Who Is Affected?

Students who enrolled during or before summer 2025 and are returning for spring 2026

• MFA will be added to your account during the rollout.

Students who first enrolled in fall or winter 2025

• You already use MFA. No additional setup is required unless you want to update your methods.

Why This Matters

If your phone number or login methods aren’t up to date, you may not be able to sign in when MFA turns on. Taking a few minutes setting this up now ensures you can access your classes, email and all your AACC tools without interruption.

What You Should Do Now

To make sure you’re ready, take a moment now to review your information and set up your MFA methods.

1. Check Your Security Information

Make sure your phone number and other authentication methods are correct and belong to you.

• Use your AACC email and password to sign in.
• Review your security information and update any phone numbers or methods that are no longer correct.

2. Set Up or Add MFA Methods

Choose how you want to approve sign-ins and add a backup option in case you lose your phone.

Common options include:

• Microsoft Authenticator app (most secure)
• Text message
• Phone call
• Security key (USB device)

Add at least one backup method (like a second phone number or authenticator app). It’s the best way to avoid being locked out if you get a new phone or number.

3. Try Signing in Before Classes Begin

Once you’ve checked your information and set up MFA, try signing in to MyAACC or Outlook.

If you have trouble:

• Use your backup method.
• Contact the Technical Service Desk at 410-777-4357.

How to Sign In Once MFA is Turned On

After you set up MFA, signing in will usually look like this:

1. Enter your AACC email and password.
2. Approve the sign in on your phone (Authenticator app, text or call)

Learn how to sign in with MFA. 

The link above also includes troubleshooting tips if you:

• Don’t receive the call/text
• Have a weak signal
• Need to switch from the app to a phone call, and more

Need Help?

Call the Technical Service Desk at 410-777-4357 (HELP) or request assistance using one of the service offerings on the Multifactor Authentication service page.

Contact the service desk if:

• You can’t access your security information.
• You don’t recognize a phone number or method listed on your account.
• You’re locked out and can’t complete the MFA step.