[Blocker] Unable to re-verify student status: Documents linked to inaccessible account (Lost 2FA)

[faverapedro]

Hi everyone,

I am facing a blocker regarding my GitHub Education application and I need guidance on how to proceed without violating the duplicate account rules.

The Context: I previously had the Student Developer Pack active on an old account. However, due to hardware theft, I lost access to my 2FA (Authenticator) and recovery codes. I have exhausted all recovery options and that account is permanently inaccessible to me.

The Issue: I created a new account to continue my coursework. When I attempt to apply for the Student Developer Pack with my current university documents, the system rejects the application, stating that these documents/benefits were already claimed by another account (my lost one).

The Question: Since I cannot log in to the old account to cancel the benefits or unlink my academic ID, is there a specific channel or process to request the unlinking of my credentials from the “zombie” account? I want to ensure I am compliant and can verify my student status on my active account.

Note: I can provide proof of enrollment and identity privately, but I cannot access the original account to open a support ticket.

Thank you.

[Levi-o1o1]

Yes — there is a proper channel to resolve this, and it does not violate duplicate account rules if handled through GitHub Support.
You must not try to bypass the system yourself. GitHub needs to manually unlink your education benefits from the inaccessible account.
Contact GitHub Support
You do not need access to the old account to do this.