Access Okta Apps as a New Student and Resolve Limited Access Issues

Questions

  • Why can't I access certain apps in Okta as an incoming student?
  • When will new students receive full access to all Okta applications?
  • What should I do if I get an access error message in Okta?
  • Is it normal for incoming students to have limited app access before July?
  • Who can I contact if I continue having trouble accessing my required applications?

Environment

This article applies to new or incoming students who are registering or beginning studies at Bowdoin using Okta as a single sign-on (SSO) platform to access various campus applications and services. It is specifically relevant from early spring through late June, before the new student account permissions shift in July. During this period, it is common for students to experience limited access to certain apps such as Canvas and other resources within Okta. Students may see an access error or permission denied message when attempting to open some apps prior to this scheduled update.

Resolution

  1. Understand the timing: Full access to all Okta-connected applications, including course systems and additional campus tools, is typically granted in July. Until then, new student accounts may only have access to a limited set of services.
  2. Check your available apps: Log in to Okta and review the list of accessible applications. If some icons appear grayed out or prompt with a permission error, it is likely due to your incoming status.
  3. Wait for update: If you receive an access error, there is usually no action required on your part. Permissions are updated automatically for all incoming students in July.
  4. Try again after the transition date: After July, log in to Okta again to confirm that you now have access to all student applications. Most issues are resolved at this point without further intervention.
  5. Contact support if issues persist: If you still cannot access required apps after July, or encounter errors unrelated to typical permission changes, reach out to the Service Desk for further assistance.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you can chat with Bowdoin Bot of contact the Bowdoin College Service Desk by phone at (207) 725-3030 or in person at the Tech Hub in Smith Union.

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