StarID Overview and Password Management
Your StarID is your primary login for essential services at Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU). It is unique to you and should be kept secure at all times.
You use your StarID to access:
- E‑Services
- Wireless and wired campus networks
- D2L Brightspace
- SMSU email
- Campus computers and other university systems
You can use the StarID Self Service website to activate your StarID, reset your password, or look up your StarID.
StarID Self Service:
Manage your StarID (activate, reset, or look up)
Important: This website is the only approved method to properly reset or update your StarID password. The Technology Resource Center (TRC) cannot reset your password for you.
Password Changes and System Syncing
After changing your StarID password, it may take up to 30 minutes for the update to sync across systems such as:
- Office 365 Email
- E‑Services
- D2L Brightspace
Once your password changes, you may be prompted to sign in again to these services using your new StarID password.
What Your StarID Gives You Access To
Your StarID allows you to use many SMSU resources, including:
- Campus computers, printers, and scanners
- Online access to your class schedule
- Your SMSU email account
- Campus‑wide wireless network coverage
- Online courses through D2L Brightspace
- Software downloads available to current students
Many of these services are also accessible off campus through the SMSU website.
StarID Password Reset: Quick Steps
To activate your StarID or reset your password:
- Go to the StarID Self Service website
- Select one of the following options:
- Reset My Password
- Activate My StarID
- What Is My StarID?
- Choose a verification method (such as Tech ID or email address).
- Enter the requested information and create your new password.
Detailed Password Reset Instructions
Step 1: Start the Reset Process
Step 2: Choose a Verification Method
You will be asked how you want to verify your identity. The two most common options are:
Option 1: Tech ID
- Requires your 8‑digit Tech ID (found on your SMSU student ID card)
- This is not your StarID
- Requires your Social Security Number (SSN)
Option 2: Email Address
- Requires your personal email address
- This is the email you used during the registration process
- Do not use your SMSU email address
Both methods will guide you through additional steps to reset your password.
Step 3: Verify Your Password Reset
After resetting your password:
- Return to StarID Self Service
- Select Sign in to Profile
- Sign in to confirm your password was successfully updated
If You Cannot Use the Online Reset Options
If you are unable to reset your password using the methods above, you must schedule a Zoom call with the Technology Resource Center (TRC) for identity verification.
Identity Verification Requirements
- An active camera is required
- You must present a state‑issued ID, passport, or driver’s license
- The photo on the ID will be compared to you during the call
- TRC staff will provide a verification code
Once you receive the verification code:
- Return to the StarID Self Service site
- Select I have a verification code
- Continue with the password reset process
StarID Password Requirements
StarID passwords follow Minnesota State security guidelines and must meet the following criteria:
- Changed at least every 180 days
- Between 8 and 128 characters
- Use at least 3 of the following character types:
- Uppercase letters
- Lowercase letters
- Numbers
- Special characters (for example: ! @ # $ % ^ & * ( ) _ +)
- Must not have been used previously
- Must not contain your first or last name if longer than 2 characters
StarID Password Expiration Notices
You will receive email reminders before your password expires:
- 21 days before expiration
- 7 days before expiration
- 1 day before expiration
These reminders are sent to your preferred email address.
Need Help?
If you need assistance or have questions:
- Contact the Technology Resource Center (TRC)
- Email or message the TRC for support with StarID‑related issues
You can also review additional information on the StarID Help and Frequently Asked Questions page: