Password management
Boise State uses Microsoft’s password reset tool to create and reset passwords. The process uses Microsoft Entra for identity verification, making it easy to manage your password.
Before you begin, review the password requirements and step-by-step instructions below.
New students should use this tool to set their password for the first time.
Password requirements
Please choose a password that:
- is 15 or more characters in length
- uses spaces, lower/uppercase letters, special characters, or numbers to further strengthen the security of your password
- consists of several words and characters (it can be a unique and memorable phrase)
Your password cannot:
- contain significant portions of your username or full name
- be one of your 10 most recent passwords
Step-by-step instructions
Expand the section that applies to you for detailed instructions and screenshots.
New students: how to create your password
- Visit Microsoft’s password reset page. Even though the page says, “Get back into your account,” you’ll use this page to set your password for the first time.
- Enter your Boise State username in the format username@u.boisestate.edu. Although it looks like an email address, it is your Boise State username. Do not enter your personal email address.
- Complete the CAPTCHA, and click Next. (The CAPTCHA can be tricky. Unfortunately, we can’t change it.)
- Choose your preferred verification method. You can verify your identity using the personal email address or phone number you provided during enrollment.
- Follow the prompts to complete verification. If you receive a verification code, enter it and click Next.
- Enter and confirm your new password. If needed, refer to the password requirements above. Click Finish.
- You’ll receive an email confirming that your password has been set.
- After setting your password, review your multi-factor authentication methods and update them as needed. We recommend using the Microsoft Authenticator app for the best experience.
Current users: how to reset your password
- Visit Microsoft’s password reset page.
- Enter your Boise State username in the format username@boisestate.edu, complete the CAPTCHA, and click Next. (The CAPTCHA can be tricky. Unfortunately, we can’t change it.)
- Choose your preferred verification method. This process uses Microsoft Entra, so you’ll see the same verifications options you normally use for MFA.
- Follow the prompts to complete verification. If you receive a verification code, enter it and click Next.
- Enter and confirm your new password. If needed, refer to the password requirements above. Click Finish.
- You’ll receive an email confirming that your password has been reset. Remember to update your password on all of your devices.
Maildrop accounts: how to reset the password
Maildrop accounts are used as general department or office email accounts. Only the account owner can change the maildrop password.
- Visit Microsoft’s password reset page.
- Enter your maildrop email address, complete the CAPTCHA, and click Next. (The CAPTCHA can be tricky. Unfortunately, we can’t change it.)
- Microsoft will send an email to the owner’s Boise State account for verification. Click Email. (If you need to change the account owner, please contact the Help Desk.)
- Enter the verification code and click Next.
- Enter and confirm your new password. If needed, refer to the password requirements above. Click Finish.
- An email will be sent to the maildrop address and account owner confirming that the password has been reset.