Proxy access
Some UT systems allow account holders to grant proxy access to another EID. The account holder (not IT) controls who has access. Check the specific application's settings or documentation for instructions.
Account Access
UT EID & Account Setup
Your UT EID is your electronic identity at UT Austin — the username and password used to access nearly every university system. New students must activate their EID and enroll in Duo Multi-Factor Authentication before they can use UT services.
At a Glance
Required ForAll UT systems
MFA ProviderDuo Security
AudienceStudents, Faculty, Staff
CostFree
Your UT Identity
What is a UT EID?
Your UT EID (Electronic IDentification) is the username assigned to you by UT Austin. It is used to log in to email, Canvas, financial aid, registration, library resources, campus Wi-Fi, and most other university systems. Think of it as your master key to UT Austin.
Your EID username
Your EID is a short alphanumeric identifier — for example,
jsmith or abc1234. You cannot change your EID username once it is assigned, but you can update your password at any time.Your EID password
UT requires a strong EID password. Passwords must be changed periodically. Visit the Strong Password page at ISO to update yours at any time.
Linked to your UT email
Your EID is tied to your official UT email address (
eid@utexas.edu). This address is used for all university communications, financial aid notices, and registration alerts — check it regularly.Multi-Factor Authentication
Why Duo MFA is required
All UT Austin systems require Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) via Duo Security. MFA adds a second layer of verification to your EID login — protecting your account even if your password is compromised. You must enroll in Duo before your first day to access Canvas, email, registration, and other university services. See the Multi-Factor Authentication page for full device options and guidance.
Enroll before you arrive
Many critical UT systems — including Canvas, UT Direct, and university email — require Duo MFA to sign in. Complete enrollment as soon as you activate your EID so you're ready from day one.
Enrollment
How to enroll in Duo MFA
Enrolling takes about five minutes. Have your smartphone nearby — it is the most common and easiest method. You can also enroll a landline, tablet, or hardware token.
1. Download the Duo Mobile app
Before you begin, install the free Duo Mobile app on your iOS or Android phone from the App Store or Google Play. The app is free and does not require a data plan once activated — it generates passcodes offline.
2. Go to the Duo Device Registration portal
Visit duo.utexas.edu in a web browser. This is the UT-specific self-service portal for enrolling and managing your Duo devices.
3. Sign in with your UT EID
Enter your EID username and password. First-time users will be prompted to begin enrollment automatically. If you are prompted with a Duo screen and have not yet enrolled any devices, click Start setup.
4. Click "Add a device"
In the Device Management portal, select Add a device. If this is your first enrollment, you will be guided through the setup process automatically. Returning users managing existing devices will see an option to add a new one.
5. Select your device type
Choose Mobile phone for a smartphone or tablet. Other options include Landline (for a desk phone or home phone) and Hardware token (a physical keyfob device available from the ITS Service Desk at Flawn Academic Center).
6. Enter your phone number and choose your platform
Enter your mobile number, then select your platform (iOS or Android). This associates your phone number with your Duo account. Confirm that the number is correct before proceeding.
7. Activate Duo Mobile
Open the Duo Mobile app on your phone. Tap Set up account, then Use a QR code. Point your camera at the QR code displayed in the browser. The app will confirm activation with a green checkmark.
8. Enroll a backup method
Strongly recommended — add a second device or method (a second phone, a landline, or a hardware token) so you can still authenticate if your primary device is unavailable. Return to duo.utexas.edu at any time to add or remove devices.
Delegated Access
Accessing systems on someone's behalf
In some situations, authorized UT staff may need to access a system on behalf of another person — for example, a department administrator completing a task for a faculty member. Delegated access is managed separately from EID credentials.
Shared service accounts
Departments that need shared access to a system or email account can request a service account EID through the ITS Service Desk. Service accounts are managed separately from personal EIDs and require a business justification.
Do not share your EID password
Sharing your personal EID password is a violation of UT's Acceptable Use Policy — even with colleagues or supervisors. If someone needs access to a system, use the proper delegated access process or contact the Service Desk. Use 1Password to securely store and share other credentials without exposing underlying passwords.
Support
Need help with your EID or Duo?
Most EID and Duo questions are answered in the UT Knowledge Base. For locked accounts, lost MFA devices, or anything not covered in self-service, contact the UT Service Desk. For ID Management–related requests (EID lookup, proxy access, service accounts), visit the ID Center directly.