Account Extensions

Questions

  • What is a Bowdoin account extension?
  • I'm leaving Bowdoin — can I get extra time to access my email and files?
  • How do I request a Bowdoin account extension?
  • Do I need approval to get an account extension?
  • I'm a student — can I get an extension after graduation?
  • My account extension was approved, but my account is still disabled — why?
  • How long after my last day will my account be re-enabled if I get an extension?
  • What do I have access to during an account extension?
  • Can I still access shared network folders or shared mailboxes during my extension?

Environment

Account extensions are available to Bowdoin faculty, staff, and students who need additional time to access their email and OneDrive files after their account is scheduled for disablement — whether due to graduation or leaving the college for other reasons. Extensions must be requested before the account is disabled.

Resolution

Who can request an extension and what approval is required

Eligibility and the approval process differ by role:

  • Students may receive a one-time extension only good until January 31 following their graduating year or 90 days, depending on which is earliest, without requiring formal approval.
    • Students who have already used their one-time extension also require approval for any subsequent request.
  • Faculty and staff require approval from Human Resources and supervisors before an extension can be granted.

Use the Account Extension Request service in the Service Catalog (see Related Services on this page) to submit your request.

Important: Extension requests must be submitted before your account is disabled. Once an account is deactivated, re-enabling it requires IT intervention and cannot be guaranteed same-day.

What to expect after an extension is approved

An automated process deactivates all accounts at or around 5:00 PM EST on the scheduled termination date. This step is required — it removes access to network folders, shared mailboxes, calendars, and other systems. It cannot be bypassed even when an extension has been approved.

If your extension is approved, your account will be re-enabled on the next College business day following the disablement.

Example: If your last day is a Friday, your account will be disabled around 5:00 PM that day. With an approved extension, it will be re-enabled the following Monday. If Monday is a College holiday, it will be re-enabled on the next business day.

What you can access during an extension

By default, an account extension provides access to:

  • Email (your Bowdoin mailbox)
  • OneDrive (personal file storage)

The automated disablement process removes all other access, including network folder permissions, shared mailbox access, and other online systems. Extensions are intended to give you time to move personal email, contacts, and personal files to an alternative storage location before your account is permanently deleted.

If you need specific permissions restored beyond email and OneDrive, contact the Service Desk to discuss options with the staff member handling your extension.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
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