Once a student submits their deposit (starting around April 1), they will receive instructions for setting up their Rensselaer Computing System (RCS) user ID. Instructions are sent to the email address provided on their application. 

The RCS ID and Password will be used to access your Rensselaer email account and Student Information System (SIS). Students will use SIS to register for classes, check registration status, add or drop classes, view weekly schedules and grades, request transcripts, and obtain a parking permit.

Students are encouraged to check their email daily for updates and next steps so they don’t miss anything.

Students who deposit after April 1 will receive the instruction for setting up their RPI email within 5-7 days. Early Decision I and II students will also receive the instructions in early April.

Follow the step-by-step process to set up your email, enroll in required services, and access helpful tools.

1. Retrieve Your RCS ID and Temporary Password
   • Visit this website and follow the instructions to retrieve your RCS ID/email account and temporary password.
2. Change Your Password
   • After retrieving your credentials, change your temporary password to a secure password of your choice. Wait at least 15 minutes for the password update to take effect.
3. Enroll in two-factor authentication
   • Once your password is updated, enroll in Cisco AnyConnect Duo (Duo), which is required for secure access to many RPI systems.
4. Access Your RPI Email
   1. After enrolling in Duo, you can access your RPI email at outlook.office.com. Your email address format is: RCSuserid@rpi.edu.

Set Up Cisco VPN
    •    Install and configure the Cisco VPN, which is necessary for accessing various Rensselaer systems.
Activate Your RPI Box Account
    •    Activate your RPI Box account to take advantage of cloud storage and collaboration tools.
Explore Additional IT Resources
    •    Visit this IT information page for more resources and guidance tailored to new students.