The University of Missouri System is committed to protecting personal information, institutional data and the technology resources that support our campuses. As cyberthreats such as phishing and credential theft continue to rise, strong authentication practices are essential. Multifactor Authentication (MFA) adds an important layer of defense to safeguard your account and ensure that only you can access University systems. 

Having login problems? Find Password Management resources. 

MFA Resources

MFA requires users to verify their identity using two or more factors before gaining access to University services. After entering your username and password, you’ll be prompted to confirm the login using a second method such as a mobile app notification, verification code, phone call or security key. This extra step ensures that even if someone obtains your password, they cannot access your account.

When signing in to a protected service, you will: 

  1. Enter your University username in the format username@umsystem.edu 
  2. Enter your password 
  3. Verify your identity using your chosen MFA method, such as:  
    1. Microsoft Authenticator app notification 
    2. One-time passcode from the app 
    3. SMS or voice verification code 
    4. Call to a registered landline (if applicable) 
    5. Security key 

The system will remember your device for 30 days if you select “Don’t ask again for 30 days.” After that period, or when using a new browser or device, you will be prompted to authenticate it again. 

Users without a mobile device may register a direct office line or home landline. These numbers must be uniquely assigned to you and accessible when receiving MFA verification calls. 

If you have not registered for MFA yet, you can do so at aka.ms/mfasetup. During setup, you will be asked to: 

  • Provide a mobile phone number 
  • Provide an external (non-University) email address 
  • Add one or more MFA methods 
  • Install the Microsoft Authenticator app (recommended) 

Your phone number and external email address are used only for official University purposes. They are not shared, marketed or sold to outside entities. 

Passwords alone are not enough to protect accounts. MFA strengthens your login process by requiring evidence that you are the authorized account holder. The added factor: 

  • Helps prevent unauthorized access 
  • Protects against phishing attacks 
  • Reduces the risk of compromised credentials and data exposure  

MFA is required for all UM System students, faculty and staff when accessing University systems that use Microsoft authentication.

Recommended MFA Method

The Microsoft Authenticator app provides the fastest and most secure MFA experience. It supports: 

  • Push notifications for quick approvals
  • One-time codes
  • Secure sign-in confirmations
  • More reliable authentications than SMS or voice calls

You can download Microsoft Authenticator from

Using both your computer and mobile device during setup is recommended. 

Set up the Authenticator App

To set up the Authenticator app, you will need both your mobile phone and a computer.

  1. Install the app and enable notifications when prompted.
  2. Open the app and tap Add Account (+).
  3. Choose Work or School Account and allow camera access.
  4. On your computer, visit the Microsoft My Sign-Ins page. 
  5. Select Add method and Authenticator App and Confirm.
  6. Click Next to display your QR code.
  7. Scan the QR code using the mobile app. 
    1. If you can't scan, select "Can't scan image" to manually enter the provided code. 
  8. Click Next on your computer. A notification will be sent to your phone. Tap Approve.

Optional: Set Authenticator as your default sign-in method

  1. Visit Microsoft My Sign-Ins
  2. Under Security Info, choose Change next to Default Sign-In Method
  3. Select Microsoft Authenticator and Notification
  4. Enter the verification code and submit. 

If you only have access to your mobile phone

Visit Microsoft My Sign-Ins in your mobile browser and select the link that says "Pair your account with the app by clicking this link."