Multi-factor authentication for students
Concordia uses multi-factor authentication (MFA) to help keep the digital assets, information and user identities of our community safe.
What is multi-factor authentication (MFA)?
MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring something beyond your username and password to access your account. Like many organizations, Concordia uses MFA to protect access to many of its accounts and services.
When MFA is required, you’ll complete two steps:
- Enter your Concordia username and password.
- Approve a sign-in request using the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device.
You can download Microsoft Authenticator for free from the Google Play Store or App Store.
For detailed instructions on setting up MFA, please see instructions below.
Which accounts require MFA?
- Microsoft 365 applications, including Outlook, Teams, SharePoint and OneDrive.
- Student Information System (SIS)
- Moodle
- Virtual Private Network (VPN)
- eConcordia
Change coming to MFA
Microsoft is retiring SMS text messages and phone calls for MFA when signing in to Concordia services, effective February 1, 2027. If you currently use SMS or phone calls, you may be asked to set up another verification method this fall. We recommend switching to the Microsoft Authenticator app for a more secure and convenient sign-in experience.
Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA)
To learn how to set up MFA using the Microsoft Authenticator app, select your mobile device type below and follow the instructions:
What should I do if:
First setup MFA on your new phone/tablet before relinquishing possession of your old phone/tablet. MFA can be set up on multiple devices at the same time.
Once your new device is configured, erase the contents of your old device if it is being discarded.
If this is not possible, please contact the Service Desk by email at help@concordia.ca or by phone at 514-848-2424, ext. 7613.
Don’t worry, your account is safe. A phone/tablet alone is not enough to log into your account. Please contact the Service Desk by email at help@concordia.ca or by phone at 514-848-2424, ext. 7613.
If you were the victim of theft while on campus, please report the incident to Campus Security & Emergency Services at 514-848-3717. They are available 24/7.
If you do not have a cellphone, please contact our Service Desk for assistance with setting up MFA through alternative methods. You can reach us at help@concordia.ca or dial 514-848-2424, ext. 7613.