How to Log In as a Special Purpose Account (SPA)
Special Purpose Accounts (SPAs) allow colleagues to collaborate easily and securely across various campus services. To log in as a SPA, you will use your personal credentials with a specific "+" modifier.
STOP! Read this before logging in
You cannot log in as a SPA if you are currently logged in as yourself.
Before attempting to log in as a SPA, you must:
- Log out of all existing CalNet sessions and open a new browser window, OR
- Open an Incognito or Private browser window.
Navigate to the website or service you want to access and follow one of the methods below at the CAS login screen.
Method 1: Two-Part "+YourCalNetID" Login
This is the most common method. It allows you to see a list of all SPAs you are authorized to use.
- At the CAS login screen, enter a "+" followed by your personal CalNet ID in the CalNet ID field.
- Enter your personal CalNet passphrase.
- A selection panel will appear. Click the drop-down box to see the list of SPAs you are allowed to access.
- Select the desired SPA CalNet ID and click Sign In As.
Method 2: One-Part Direct Login
If you already know the specific name of the SPA, you can log in directly without using the selection dropdown.
- In the CalNet ID field, enter the SPA name, followed by a "+", followed by your personal CalNet ID.
Example format:spa-name+yourid - Enter your personal CalNet passphrase.
Troubleshooting: Don't see a CAS login page?
If the CalNet authentication page does not appear and you are taken directly into an application, you are likely already authenticated as your personal account. You must log out, use a different browser, or use a private/incognito window to trigger the SPA login process.
Contact Us
- Management: To create SPAs or manage membership, use the Special Purpose Accounts Admin App.
- Support: For questions regarding SPA CalNet IDs, contact itcsshelp@berkeley.edu.