---
title: Single Sign-On (SSO) for Staff (Google & Microsoft Accounts only)
description: Learn how staff can log in to Applicaa using Single Sign-On (SSO) with Google or Microsoft accounts. Step-by-step instructions, setup guide, and troubleshooting tips included.
---

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# Single Sign-On (SSO) for Staff (Google & Microsoft Accounts only)

## Single Sign-On (SSO) is now available for staff accounts in Applicaa. Staff can log in using their Google or Microsoft account instead of an email and password. This update improves security, simplifies login, and aligns with your school’s existing systems.

***Note:*** When SSO is enabled, two-factor authentication (2-FA) is automatically disabled for staff accounts.

**Who This Applies To**

- Staff accounts only (not students or parents).
- Staff emails must already exist in Applicaa.
- Only **active staff members** can log in via SSO. Disabled users will see an **“Account Deactivated”** message.
- Students continue using the standard login form.

#### **Setting Up SSO**

Before staff can use SSO, your school must activate it:

1. From your **Admissions+ dashboard**, click **Settings**.
2. Select **Security**, then **Login Settings**.
   
   ![](https://helpdesk.applicaa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-26-59-3315-PM.png?width=670&height=797&name=image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-26-59-3315-PM.png)
3. In the **Single Sign-On for Staff Accounts** section, you’ll see three options:
   
     - **No Single Sign-On** – leave SSO disabled.
     - **Google Workspace** – select if your school uses Google accounts.
     - **Microsoft 365** – select if your school uses Microsoft accounts.
       
       ![](https://helpdesk.applicaa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/undefined-Dec-15-2025-01-27-43-6303-PM.png?width=670&height=381&name=undefined-Dec-15-2025-01-27-43-6303-PM.png)
4. Choose the option that matches your school’s provider.
5. Optionally, enable **Session Time-outs** and set your preferred duration.
   
   ![](https://helpdesk.applicaa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-28-14-2218-PM.png?width=670&height=93&name=image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-28-14-2218-PM.png)

> **Note:** Once SSO is configured, all staff accounts will no longer be able to use their email and password to log in.

#### **Logging In with SSO**

1. Click **Staff Login** on the login page, **or** enter your email and click **Login**—you will be directed to the **Staff Login** page.
   
   ![](https://helpdesk.applicaa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-29-11-5815-PM.png?width=670&height=370&name=image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-29-11-5815-PM.png)
2. Depending on your school’s setup, click **Sign in with Google** or **Sign in with Outlook**.
   
   ![](https://helpdesk.applicaa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/undefined-Dec-15-2025-01-30-19-0762-PM.png?width=587&height=749&name=undefined-Dec-15-2025-01-30-19-0762-PM.png)
3. You will be prompted to select the account you wish to use—make sure to choose your **school email account**.
   
   ![](https://helpdesk.applicaa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screenshot_3-png.png?width=1229&height=522&name=Screenshot_3-png.png)
4. Once selected, you will be logged in successfully and redirected to your **dashboard**.

> **Note:** If you attempt to log in during embargo times and do not have permission, an error message will appear explaining that access is not allowed at that time.
> 
> ![](https://helpdesk.applicaa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-32-20-3591-PM.png?width=438&height=249&name=image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-32-20-3591-PM.png)

#### **Failed Login Attempts**

Next to **Login Settings** is the **Failed Login Attempts** tab. This allows admins to:

- View all failed login attempts made by staff.
- Use the **search and filter functions** to track attempts efficiently.

![](https://helpdesk.applicaa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-43-51-2737-PM.png?width=670&height=388&name=image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-43-51-2737-PM.png)

**Note:** The system will **automatically lock accounts** after **5 failed login attempts** to enhance security.

#### **What Happens If Something Goes Wrong?**

#### **1. Account Not Found**

If your email is not registered in Applicaa:

*"Account Not Found  
We couldn't find a staff account associated with \[email\].  
Please contact your system administrator to have your account added."*

#### **2. Disabled Staff Account**

If your account is **inactive or disabled**, you will see:

*"Account Deactivated. This staff account is no longer active. Please contact your system administrator."*

*![](https://helpdesk.applicaa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-33-28-7106-PM.png?width=439&height=109&name=image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-33-28-7106-PM.png)*

#### **3. Attempting Email/Password Login After SSO Activation**

Traditional email/password login is disabled. You’ll see:

*"This school has enabled Single Sign-On for all staff accounts. Please log in by clicking the \[Google/Outlook\] button below."*

Only the SSO buttons will be active.

![](https://helpdesk.applicaa.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-34-36-3880-PM.png?width=430&height=162&name=image-png-Dec-15-2025-01-34-36-3880-PM.png)

#### **Benefits of SSO**

- Faster, simpler login process
- No need to remember separate passwords
- Improved security aligned with your school’s identity providers
- Reduced login errors and support requests
- Two-factor authentication (2-FA) is automatically handled when SSO is active

#### **Tips for Staff**

- Ensure your **staff email is registered** in Applicaa before using SSO.
- Always use the **Staff Login** section for SSO; students should not use these buttons.
- If you encounter any login issues, **contact your system administrator**.

SSO is now the standard way for staff to access Applicaa. Use your Google or Microsoft account to log in, and enjoy a faster, safer, and more convenient experience.

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