A Unique ID is a permanent identifier that connects a Schoology account to your external systems, such as SIS, LDAP, or import files. It ensures that updates, enrollments, and authentication match the correct person.
Every user in Schoology needs an account with a Unique ID.
Why unique IDs matter
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When you import a CSV file, Schoology uses the Unique ID to match rows to existing accounts. Without a match, Schoology creates a duplicate account.
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Single sign-on systems pass the Unique ID to identify which Schoology account to log in.
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Your student information system uses Unique IDs to keep enrollment and demographic data current.
Plan your Unique ID strategy
Before adding users, decide which identifier to use as the Unique ID:
|
Option |
Best for |
Considerations |
|---|---|---|
|
SIS student/staff ID number |
Organizations with a SIS integration |
Most reliable — already unique and persistent across years |
|
Email address |
Higher education or small organizations |
Can change if a person's name or domain changes |
|
District-assigned username |
K-12 districts without SIS integration |
Works well if usernames are stable and unique |
Plan your account structure
Before populating data, confirm:
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Which buildings or schools need separate administrator accounts
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Whether parents or family members need accounts and what role they should receive
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How you handle staff who work across multiple buildings (they need one account, not one per building)
Next step
After planning your Unique ID strategy, choose a data population method to add users, courses, and enrollments. See the pages below for guidance on each method.