Summary
This article guides CWU students through the process of changing or resetting their MyCWU password using Microsoft’s Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR) service.
Content
Password Recovery via Microsoft Self-Service
Please note: You must be signed in to your CWU account to change your password this way. If you are unable to log in, use the reset instructions below instead.
You can also visit help.cwu.edu for additional support.
- Go to your Microsoft Account page: https://myaccount.microsoft.com/
- Click Change Password and follow the prompts.
Click on Change password on your Microsoft account page.
Password Reset Methods
Email Verification
- On the Sign in window, click Can’t access your account?
Click Can’t access your account? to begin recovering password via email.
- Click Change your Password via Microsoft Site in the CWU Account Management screen.
Click on Change your Password via Microsoft Site.
- Enter your email or user name and the CAPTCHA, then click Next.
Enter your email/user name and CAPTCHA.
- Select Email. A verification code will be sent to your personal email on file in MyCWU.
Please note: If your personal email is outdated, this method may not be available.
Click Email to retrieve code for resetting password.
- Retrieve the code from your email inbox.
- Enter the code in the provided field and click Next.
Phone Call Verification
- If your phone number is on file in MyCWU, select the Call option.
- Microsoft will display only the last two digits. Enter your full number to confirm.
- Answer the call and press # to confirm your identity.
Please note: If no phone number is registered, this option won't appear.
Microsoft Authenticator Notification
This method requires that your account has MFA set up with the Microsoft Authenticator app.
- Click Send Notification.
- Enter the numbers shown on-screen into your app.
Please note: If the app hides the numbers, click I can’t see the numbers.
Authenticator Code
If you use Microsoft Authenticator, you can also enter a time-based one-time code:
- Open the authenticator app.
- Enter the code displayed.
- Click Next to continue.
Please note: This method is available only if the app was registered in advance.
Password Requirements
Once your identity is verified, you'll be prompted to create a new password.
- Must be at least 14 characters long
- Include 3 of 4 of the following:
- Uppercase letters (A-Z)
- Lowercase letters (a-z)
- Numbers (0-9)
- Symbols (e.g., !, #, $, etc.)
- Must not contain your name, username, birth date, or other personal info
Please note: When your password meets all criteria, you'll see: Your password has been successfully reset.
Additional Resources
Submit a Service Request
Do you need additional assistance? If so, submit a service request here.