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Permission & Access Issues

Fix OneNote Review Student Work Permission Error

Maira MehtabMaira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

Multiple teachers are encountering a permission error when attempting to use the Review Student Work feature in the OneNote desktop application, despite the feature working properly in OneNote for the web.

Product
Microsoft OneNote
Device & OS
Windows 11
Scenario
Reviewing student assignments using the OneNote desktop application in an educational environment.
Observed behavior
A permission error is displayed on the screen, preventing the user from reviewing student work on the desktop client, even though access functions normally on the web version.
Before you start

Ensure that your OneNote notebook is fully synchronized to the cloud and that you have a stable internet connection before attempting to reset your credentials or repair the application.

Solution 1Recommended

Clear Outdated Microsoft Credentials

Removing outdated or corrupted cached credentials can resolve synchronization and permission conflicts between the OneNote desktop app and the server.

Local Windows credentials can occasionally become outdated or corrupted, causing the desktop app to fail at authenticating specific features like Review Student Work.

1
Open Windows Credential Manager

Press the Windows key, type 'Credential Manager' in the search bar, and select the application from the search results.

2
Remove Microsoft Credentials

Navigate to the 'Windows Credentials' tab, scroll down to locate any saved credentials related to Microsoft Office or OneNote, click on them to expand, and select 'Remove'.

3
Restart and Sign In

Restart your computer to clear the active session, open the OneNote application, and sign back into your Microsoft account.

Sync Check: After signing back in, wait a few moments to confirm that your notebook is fully synchronized before testing the Review Student Work feature again.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Review Student Work function in the web but not the desktop app?

This discrepancy usually occurs due to local caching issues, outdated login credentials on your Windows device, or a corrupted desktop installation. The web version bypasses the local application and accesses the server directly.

Will clearing my credentials delete my OneNote data?

No, clearing credentials from the Windows Credential Manager only resets your login session. Your notes are stored safely in the cloud, provided they were fully synced beforehand.

What should I do if Online Repair does not fix the permission error?

If both resetting credentials and running an Online Repair fail, you should contact Microsoft Support. Be prepared to provide them with your specific OneNote version, your education license type, the names of the affected notebooks, and a full screenshot of the error message.