Questions
- How do I use Okta Verify to log in to Bowdoin services?
- What do I do when Okta asks me to verify my identity after entering my password?
- How do I approve an Okta login request on my phone?
- What is the difference between a push notification and a passcode in Okta Verify?
- How do I get my one-time passcode from the Okta Verify app?
- Can I approve an Okta notification from my iPhone or Android lock screen?
- What should I do if I receive an Okta push notification that I did not request?
Environment
This article applies to all Bowdoin faculty, staff, and students who have already enrolled in Okta Verify. Okta Verify is required as a second factor when signing in to most Bowdoin services, including Canvas, Outlook, and Campus Groups. Applies to iOS and Android devices.
If you have not yet set up Okta Verify, see Enrolling in Okta Verify for New Accounts in the Related Articles section first.
Resolution
Go to login.bowdoin.edu in your browser, or navigate directly to any Okta-protected Bowdoin service such as Canvas or Outlook. Enter your Bowdoin username and password when prompted.
After entering your credentials, Okta will prompt you to verify your identity using a second factor. Two methods are available: a push notification or a one-time passcode.
Method 1: Approve a push notification
- When prompted, choose Send Push on the login screen.
- A notification will appear on your phone from the Okta Verify app.
- Tap the notification to open a screen asking Did You Just Try to Sign In? and tap Yes, It's Me.
Approving from your lock screen: On iPhone, you can tap and hold the notification on the lock screen, then tap
Yes, It's Me when the options appear. On Android, you can view the notification from the lock screen but must unlock your phone before approving.
Received a push you didn't request? Tap No, It's Not Me immediately. An unexpected push notification may mean someone else is attempting to access your account. Contact the Service Desk at (207) 725-3030 if this happens.
Method 2: Enter a one-time passcode
- When prompted, choose Enter Code on the login screen.
- On your phone, open the Okta Verify app. Tap the eye icon next to your Bowdoin account entry. Okta Verify will ask you to authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode before revealing the code.
- Type the six-digit code shown in the app into the Enter Code field in your browser and click Verify.
Note: One-time passcodes expire after a short period. If the code does not work, wait for the app to generate a new one and try again.
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.