New Student Quick Start Guide

Overview

Welcome to Vance-Granville Community College (VGCC)! This guide is designed to help new students set up and access essential technological resources, ensuring a smooth start to your academic journey. Follow the steps below to activate your account, set up security measures, and access student support services.

Prerequisites/Requirements

Official acceptance letter from VGCC
Access to a computer or mobile device with internet connectivity

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Locate your Student ID Number. Your Student ID number is located in the top right corner of your official acceptance letter, as seen in the example below.
Step 2: Retrieve Your VanguardID & Password. Access the VGCC VanguardID Lookup Tool. Provide your Last Name(2) and Student ID Number(3). Your Vanguard ID (username) will be displayed. NOTE: the initial password is typically set to a default format of "VGxxxx" where the "xxxx" represents the last four digits of your Social Security Number. It will look similar to VG1234. If you did not provide a SS#, then it will be the last four digits of your Student ID number.
Step 3: Log in to myVGCC. Your VGCC Email Address is your VanguardID (username) + @vgcc.edu. For example, vanguard1234@vgcc.edu. To log in to myVGCC, (1) navigate to the myVGCC site, (2) login using your entire email address, and the password. If successful, you will be prompted to configure multifactor authentication.
Step 4: Set Up Multifactor Authentication. To set up multifactor authentication, please follow the steps below. You may also refer to our Two-Step Verification PDF which includes QR codes you can scan to download the app, or watch our How To Set Up Multifactor Authentication Video.

Install the Microsoft Authenticator App -
- Android Devices: Install the Microsoft Authenticator App from the Google Play Store
- iOS/Apple Devices: Install the Microsoft Authenticator App from the Apple App Store

Follow these steps to add your VanguardID: (1) Open the Authenticator App. (2) Select the (+) in the upper right corner. (3) Point your camera at the QR code on the login screen or follow the instructions provided in your account settings. For additional information and support on the Authenticator App, visit the Download Microsoft Authenticator (microsoft.com) page.
Step 5: Change your password. Once you've successfully logged into myVGCC, (1) click the box with your VanguardID in the upper right corner. (2) Click Change My Password.

You will be taken to a "change password" screen. Your full email address will display in the "user ID field". Enter your "old password" and enter a new one in the "create new password" field. The new password must be between 6-9 characters.
On the change password page, if you see the "This page will soon no longer be available." message, click the "MySecurityInfo" link to be redirected to the new change password page.

Troubleshooting Tips / Common Issues

Incorrect Student ID: Ensure you are entering the exact number from your acceptance letter (including leading zeros).
Login Issues: Double-check your VanguardID and password for accuracy. If you forget your password, use the Password Reset Tool.
MFA Difficulties: Ensure your chosen device is accessible and has internet connectivity. Contact IT support if you encounter issues during setup.

Additional Resources

Support Options: Visit the Library on Main Campus (Building 2, Room 2223) Monday-Thursday 8am - 5pm and Friday 8am - 3pm. Call our support line at 252-738-3258 during normal business hours, or (866) 471-4255 after hours. You can also submit a support request, and we will contact you as soon as possible.