University Password Requirements

Overview

This information can also be found at: https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/is/infosec/standards-password 

Detailed Information

Password Security Guidelines

MU passwords must:

  • Be 8-26 characters in length
  • Contain at least one character from at least three of the following:
    • lowercase letters: a-z
    • uppercase letters: A-Z
    • digits: 0-9
    • special characters: ? . _ - ~ + = $ !
      • NOTE: Some applications will not accept commas for special characters; therefore, we recommend selecting from one of the other examples provided

Passwords cannot:

  • Contain any spaces.
  • Be the same as the prior password regardless of case.
  • Be a 5-character or longer word found in the dictionary.
  • Be the same as any part of your name or user ID regardless of case.
  • Contain symbols other than the special characters specified above.
  • Contain campus-related terms such as tiger, Truman, Jesse. Each campus will provide words that will be prohibited under this category.

In order to easily remember a more complex password, you may consider using the first letter of each word in a sentence or phrase (e.g. idwtF15! I don't want the Freshman 15 !)

For Additional Assistance

Please submit a ticket or contact the Help Desk at (573) 882-5000.