Create a New Friend Account (Starting Feb. 25, 2026)

Environment

U-M Friend accounts, Okta Sign In

Issue

How to create a new Friend account in Okta starting February 25, 2026.

Resolution

Create a New Friend Account

1. Open the following link to sign up for a Friend account (opens in new window). <link forthcoming - will be direct link to target of FA option in UAS>
2. Enter your First name, Last name, and Email address.
3. Click Submit.
4. Navigate to the sign-in page for a U-M service you wish to access with your Friend account. 
5. Enter the email address used in step 2 and click Next.
6. Click Send me an email. A message is sent to the email address entered above.
7. Open the email message and click Sign In. 

Note: Alternatively, copy the verification code in the email message. On the Okta Sign-in page, click Enter a verification code instead, paste it in the field provided, and click Verify.

7. Click Password - Set up.
8. Enter a password and re-enter the password in the fields provided.
9. Click Next.

Request Service Authorization

Once you’ve created a new Friend account, you must be authorized to use each desired service by the appropriate service provider. Common examples include:

• Parents/Family authorized to access student account information, including tuition bills: Your student must authorize your new email address through Wolverine Access.
• Admission applicants: Verify your new email address/Friend account in Wolverine Access. 
• Canvas courses: You must be enrolled in a Canvas course with your friend account email address in order to access Canvas. 

Sign in with a Friend Account

Once you’ve been authorized to use a U-M service, you can complete Okta Sign In using your Friend account email address and password.

Additional Information

If you previously had a U-M Friend account and need to create a new one:

• If you create the account using the same email address, you can sign in to all services you have been previously authorized for. 
• If your email address has changed, see Friend Account Email Changes. 

Need additional information or assistance? Contact the ITS Service Center.