Change your password

You can change your password online. You must change your password at least once a year.


Change your password
  • Get help changing your password
  • Can't sign in after changing your password? Please wait a few minutes and try again, as some of our services can take up to 30 minutes to update.

Manage your account

Email address

Your Essex email address is your username with @essex.ac.uk after it. You can't change this email address.

If you prefer to use something like firstname.lastname@essex.ac.uk as your email address, you can set up an email alias.

Passphrase and external email address

You can register a passphrase and external email address to help recover your account if you forget your password.

Multifactor authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an extra layer of security when you sign in, protecting your account from unauthorised access.

Personal Record Identifier (PRID)

Your Personal Record Identifier (PRID for short) is emailed to you when you start at Essex. Some services require your PRID to sign in.

If you forget your PRID, here's how you can find it:

  • Go to www1.essex.ac.uk/myessex and sign in with your Essex username.
  • On the Details page, in the Your personal details section, your PRID is at the top.

New staff: getting your account

We'll send you an email to let you know when you can get your account. This email contains your Personal Record Identifier (PRID for short), which you'll need to set up your account.

Please set up your account before your start date.


Set up your account
  • Don't have your PRID? If your start date is less than a week away, speak to your line manager.
  • By using your account you agree to our IT Acceptable Use Policy.

Temporary accounts for visitors

Visitors who need temporary, short-term (less than two weeks) access to IT services may be eligible for a temporary account.

Leaving Essex

Your account closes when you leave Essex. When this happens, you won't be able to use your account and you will lose access to services, files and resources,

You must follow the University's staff leaver’s process to prepare for your account closure.

  • The closing date for your account is sent to you by email.
  • If your leaving date is wrong or if your account has been closed incorrectly, please contact staffing@essex.ac.uk
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