Universiteit Leiden

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Student account (ULCN)

As a student of Leiden University you are provided with a student account (ULCN account) that allows you to access a variety of systems such as uMail, uSis, Brightspace and library catalogues, as well as the physical workstations within the university.

Within two or three days of registering in Studielink or via the student administration department, you will receive your username by email.

No account details received? Get in touch with the Front Office Student AffairsAlso check that your contact details are correct in Studielink. If not, update them right away to ensure you receive all future correspondence.

Note that you will only be able to use your account after (re)setting your password via Account Self Service:

Also set up an authenticator app for additional authentication (MFA). This will enable you to re-set your password at a later date in case of loss or expiry. You also have the option of entering your mobile phone number so you can receive a new password by text message.

To log into many university systems you now need to use Multi-factor authentication (MFA). This means that as well as entering your username and password, you also need to confirm your identity via an additional method.

Three methods available

You can use one of the following three methods of authentication:

  1. The NetIQ Advanced Authentication app
    This is the easiest method. You will receive a push notification then simply need to click on accept.
  2. Another authentication app
    For example from Google or Microsoft. The app generates a code which you then have to enter.
  3. Your personal email address
    Via this method you will receive a code by email. To enable email authentication, your personal email address (different to your university email address) must be registered in Account Services. If this is already the case, you can use this method right away without taking further steps. If this isn’t the case, you will need to add your personal email address under ‘Contact method for password recovery’.
    Note: if you choose this method, we advise you to also install a second method.

 Setting up MFA

  1. Go to Account Services and click on the ‘Multi-factor authentication’ tile.
  2. Set up your preferred method of authentication by following the instructions.
  3. In Account Services, go to the ‘Multi-factor authentication’ tile again, select the method you have just set up and check it is working. 

Having difficulties? Take a look in the manual or watch the instruction video below.

Setting up MFA

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Set up MFA in time

Be aware that it takes around 15 minutes to set up MFA, so don’t wait till just before you need to log in. 

If you forget your password or if it expires, there are two ways of resetting it. 

  1. Go to Account Services and reset your own password.
  2. Get in touch with a Helpdesk. You can then receive your password via one the following methods:  
    • By post: first check your address is correct in studielink or via the Student Affairs Front Office.
    • By text message: this is only possible if you previously entered a mobile phone number in Account Services.
    • In person at the Helpdesk: remember to take your LU-Card or another valid ID along with you!

Passwords need to be changed regularly. You’ll receive a reminder to do so by email. You can change your password in Account Services.

If you cannot log into the Account Services page to change your password, then you can often solve this by using a different browser (Chrome, Firefox of Internet Explorer). If that doesn't work, then clearing your browser’s cache might help.

If you’re having trouble logging-in take a look in our FAQs for log-in tips.

The use of your account and the university’s ICT facilities is governed by a code of conduct. By logging into the university’s ICT facilities with your account you agree to abide by this code of conduct. Measures will be taken in the event of misuse. You must also abide by the house rules of the building in which you find yourself. 

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