Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) at GCCCD
Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District has deployed single sign-on (SSO) for access to GCCCD resources. This means almost all resources and services are tied to one account. To protect your data and privacy, multi-factor authentication (MFA) is now required to log in to your account. Learn more below.
What Is MFA?
MFA, or multi-factor authentication, is a method to ensure that only you have access to your account. Users are prompted for a second verification method after their password is entered.
How to Set Up MFA
All users will need to set up MFA in order to access or manage their @gcccd.edu SSO account. There are currently two options to do so:
Option 1 - Using a Phone Number and Personal Email
For this option, you will set up a phone number and a personal email address.
When you log in for the first time, you will be prompted to set up your MFA. When you are asked to download and set up an app, look instead for an option that reads I want to set up a different method.
This will allow you to use your phone number to receive a six-digit code. You will have to repeat the process to add a personal email address as well (to be used for password reset requests).
*Note: At least a phone number and email address are required to manage your own password/account.
Option 2 - Set Up the Microsoft Authenticator App
For this option, you download and set up a smartphone app, then confirm your phone number.
Users that do not have consistent cell service or do not wish to receive a text may download and set up the Microsoft Authenticator app by carefully following the Microsoft Authenticator setup guide .
Utilizing the Authenticator app enables users to access GCCCD resources by entering their password and then approving a notification on their device.
To Switch from Using the App to Using a Phone Number
If you are already using the Authenticator app and wish to change to receiving a text message instead (for instance if you plan to upgrade or purchase a new device), you will need to change your default sign-in method:
- Start by accessing
- Log in to the website above with your @gcccd.edu SSO credentials to view your methods. If your phone number is not present, add it using the + Add sign-in method option. Do the same thing to add a personal email address, if one is not listed.
- Find the text that reads Sign-in method when most advisable is unavailable: and select the Change link. You will be presented with a dialog box. Select Phone - text from the drop-down menu and confirm your phone number.
- Now locate the row(s) listing the Authenticator app and your device details. Select the Delete button for each listing of the Authenticator app.
- Once all Authenticator entries are deleted, you may remove the app from your phone. Do not delete the app if you use it for other accounts.
The next time you sign in, you will be prompted to receive a text message for verification.
MFA Required to Unlock or Reset Account/Password
By or utilizing the Authenticator app users may reset their own @gcccd.edu SSO password by visiting
Simply enter your @gcccd.edu email address and follow the on-screen prompts. Reset your account password if you get locked out, forget it, or suspect malicious activity.
Passwords must be 16 characters or longer. Resetting or updating your @gcccd.edu SSO password will affect Self-Service, Canvas, GCCCD email, Workday, printing, campus computers, Wi-Fi, Library database access, and more.
*Note: Passwords may be changed no more than once every 24 hours.
Users without MFA fully enabled on their account must contact their Help Desk for password/account assistance.
Following these log-in procedures will help secure your personal data and keep our colleges safe.
Need Assistance?
If you encounter any difficulties in completing MFA set up or adding security factors, contact your appropriate Help Desk for assistance.
Cuyamaca College
Email Cuyamaca Help Desk at c-helpdesk@gcccd.edu. You may also call the Cuyamaca Help Desk at (619) 660-4395.
District Services
You may email District IT Help Desk at helpdesk@gcccd.edu, or call the District IT Help Desk at (619) 644-7547.
小优传媒
Email Grossmont's Help Desk at g-helpdesk@gcccd.edu or call Grossmont Help Desk at (619) 644-7742.