New VanguardID Setup Guide

Overview

VanguardID is your secure, single sign-on account used to access VGCC systems such as the myVGCC, Moodle, Watermark, Sharepoint (Employee Portal), Outlook (Email), Microsoft Teams, and other online services. This guide walks you through setting up your VanguardID for the first time, including password creation and multi-factor authentication (MFA) enrollment. The process typically takes just a few minutes and ensures your account is protected.

Prerequisites/Requirements

Your VanguardID / Username
Students will be provided this through their welcome email from Vance-Granville Community College. It will be sent to the email address provided on their application in CFNC.
Employees will be provided this information through HR, IT, or their Supervisor.
A temporary, initial password (see below)
Access to a personal device for MFA
A smartphone is recommended for using the Microsoft Authenticator app.
A reliable internet connection

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these instructions to set up your new VanguardID.

In your welcome email, locate your VanguardID. It will be needed to complete the following steps. If you did not receive a welcome email, you may use the information provided in this article to help you determine your VanguardID. You can also contact our support line for assistance.
In a new browser window (or tab), navigate to the myVGCC website: https://my.vgcc.edu/Student
When prompted, enter your VanguardID in the login box, and click the Next button:
Enter your initial password, when prompted, and click the Sign In button. The initial password is: 'Vg' + MMDDYY
MMDDYY is your birthdate.

For Example: If your birthdate is 05/18/1999. Your initial password would be: Vg051899
Note: Be sure to include leading zeros on single-digit months and days.
On the next screen, click the Next button to continue.
In the next few steps, you will set up your MFA. On your smartphone, go to the appropriate app store and install the Microsoft Authenticator app. Once finished, click the Next button.

NOTE: If you do not own a smartphone, you will need to reach out to VGCC IT Support for additional assistance. You will not be able to complete the VanguardID account setup at this time.
On the screen that follows, click the Next button.
The next screen will provide you with a unique QR code for your account.

Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smart device, and click the scan code button, and place the QR code on your screen in the center square on your smart device.

Once the QR code is scanned, your account will now display in the Microsoft Authenticator app (similar to the screenshot below). Click the Next button on the browser screen with the QR code to go to the next step.
Once you click Next on the browser screen, you will see a number displayed. Your Microsoft Authenticator app on your smart device will request that you enter that number.
NOTE: This is a random number, and it will change each time you attempt to log in to your account. Use the number on your screen, not the one in this example!
If successful, you will see a screen requesting that you update your password. Your new password must be at least 8 characters long and contain at least three of the four options. (1) Uppercase letter, (2) Lowercase letter, (3) Number, (4) Special Character (eg. * & ^ % $ # @ ! . - _ + = )
Click the Next button on the following screen.
Provide your phone number on the next screen, and wait for the system to text you a 6-digit code.
Enter the code that was sent through a text message on this screen.
Congratulations! You've successfully configured your VanguardID! When you click the Done button, you will be taken to the myVGCC website and logged in.

Troubleshooting Tips / Common Issues

Password not accepted

Make sure you’re entering the temporary password exactly as provided (case-sensitive).
If you previously attempted a password change, your temporary password may have expired — contact the IT Help Desk for a reset.

Microsoft Authenticator won’t register

Ensure your phone has a stable data/Wi-Fi connection.
Verify that push notifications are enabled for the Authenticator app.
If the QR code will not scan, choose “Enter code manually” in the app.

Stuck in a login loop

Fully close your browser and reopen it.
Clear your browser cache if the issue persists.
Try another browser (Chrome or Edge recommended).