Multi-Factor Authentication for students

Once you've enrolled for your course, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) will be enabled on your college account. The next time you sign in outside of college premises, you'll be guided through a quick set up. It only takes a few minutes and helps protect your personal information, college work and access to college systems.

How do I set up MFA?

When MFA is enabled, you'll be guided through the set up when you next sign in to your college account on a personal device outside of college.

• Using the Authenticator app for MFA

  The Authenticator app is the quickest and easier way to approve sign ins.

  1. Sign in to the student portal using your college username and password. Your college username is your student number followed by @edu.cwa.ac.uk e.g. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
  2. When prompted, select Next to begin setting up MFA.
  3. Download the free Microsoft Authenticator app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store
  4. Open the Authenticator app on your phone and add your college account
  5. If you're using a computer or laptop to log in, select "Scan QR Code" and scan the QR code on your computer screen. If you're using your phone to log in, choose "Sign In" and follow the prompts to link your account.
  6. Approve the test notification and complete the setup!

• Using your email for MFA

  1. Sign in to the student portal using your college username and password. Your college username is your student number followed by @edu.cwa.ac.uk e.g. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
  2. When prompted, select Next to begin setting up MFA.
  3. Choose Email as your verification method and confirm the personal email address linked to your account
  4. Check your inbox for the verification code
  5. Enter the code on the sign-in screen
  6. Select Next and complete the setup!

• Using your phone number for MFA

  1. Sign in to the student portal using your college username and password. Your college username is your student number followed by @edu.cwa.ac.uk e.g. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
  2. When prompted, select Next to begin setting up MFA.
  3. Choose Phone as your verification method and confirm the phone number linked to your account
  4. Choose whether you'd like to receive a text message or automated phone call
  5. Enter the verification code on the text message or phone call
  6. Select Next and complete the setup

Frequently asked questions

• What is MFA?

  MFA adds an extra layer of security into your college account. It means that, as well as entering your password, you may also be asked to confirm it's really you using another method, such as entering a code sent to you by email, text or an app notification.

  You'll be familiar with MFA as it's enabled on most websites; it will be like when you have to enter a code which is sent to your email when you try to log in to Netflix or Amazon with a new device.

• Why is MFA important?

  Your college account gives you access to your college email, college files, Microsoft 365, the student portal, LEARN and other college systems. MFA helps make sure that only you can acess yoru account.

  Even if someone knows your password, they won't be able to sign in without the additional veritifcation step.

• When will MFA be switched on?

  MFA will be enabled once you've enrolled at college in the summer. If you are already a student at the college, MFA will be enabled in July 2026.

• What will I need?

  You'll need access to the email address or phone number used when you applied for the course (or you've since updated ont he student portal). Alternatively, you can use a smartphone or tablet so you can use the Microsoft Authenticator app. This is the quickest and easiest way to approve sign-ins.

• What if I get stuck?

  If you have any problems setting up MFA, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with your student number and a screenshot of the issue. Support will also be available during enrolment and at the start of term from student services.

• What should I do if I receive an unexpected request?

  If you receive a notification, text message or phone call asking you to verify a sign-in that you didn't request, you should:

  • Do not approve the request (selecting "Deny" if you're using the Authenticator app)
  • Change your college password as soon as possible here
  • Contact the IT Service Desk to let them know

  Unexpected verification requests can be a sign that someone knows your password and is trying to access your account.