Google Apps Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my MSU Google Apps access after I leave the school?
Upon leaving MSU, either due to graduation or due to no longer being employed by MSU, you will eventually lose all access to MSU Google Apps. Neither MSU nor Google makes backups of information stored on these services. MSU users should assume individual responsibility for regularly backing up information and data they store with Google.
This includes your all files stored within Google Drive, Google Docs, Google Slides, and Google Sheets, events created in Google Calendar, sites created in Google Sites, notes in Google Keep, forms created in Google Forms, classes created in Google Classroom, contacts present in Google Contacts, and the ability to communicate using your MSU Google Apps account within Google Hangouts, Google Chat, and Google Meet.
Before leaving the school, MSU IT encourages you to manually download/export any content you do not wish to lose. You may also need to transfer ownership of files to other members of your team or department. Refer to the following links for guidance on how to do so for each app:
When exactly do I lose my access to MSU Google Apps upon leaving MSU?
You will lose access to MSU Google Apps as soon as the MSU Registrar’s Office processes your unenrollment / unemployment. It is impossible to say exactly when this will happen, so MSU IT recommends proactively exporting and/or sharing your Google Apps files.
What additional services are offered with MSU Google Apps?
The MSU OGC (Office of General Council) has approved to provide additional services for MSU students, faculty, and staff. These additional services include Google Custom Search, Google Maps, Google Analytics, Google Ads (formerly AdWords), Google Groups, Google Scholar, and Google Takeout.
Access to these services must be requested on an individual basis by calling (517) 432 - 6200 to contact the MSU IT Service Desk. EXCEPTION - Google Scholar can be requested using this form (link).
How can I login to MSU Google Apps?
Please refer to the following document on instructions for logging into MSU Google Apps: KB 1156 (KB link).
Where can I get support for MSU Google Apps?
Support for issues regarding the portal or log-in problems is provided by MSU IT Services. Please call (517) 432 - 6200 to get in touch with the MSU IT Service Desk.
Other contact options for the IT Service Desk are available in the
Live Support Options section of the main
Client Portal page (link).
Support for the specific use of the programs and services are provided by Google:
Also, refer to the Google App Status Dashboard (link) if an outage is suspected.
Are MSU Google Apps HIPAA Compliant?
MSU Google Apps are not HIPAA compliant. Please avoid any use of Google Apps with confidential data other than educational records. Similarly, Google Apps should NOT be used for any information subject to U.S. export control laws.
See the Appropriate Use of the Michigan State University Google Apps Education Services (link) and the Cloud Computing” Services: Appropriate use of online software tools such as Google Apps, Gmail, and Microsoft Office Live (link) for additional guidance. See also MSU’s Policy on Access to Student Information (link).