IMAP Access

Some users prefer to use their University Gmail through a client like Microsoft Outlook, Mozilla Thunderbird, Apple Mail, etc. With Google Workspace, the preferred method for accessing your email is from a web browser like Google Chrome. IMAP with OAuth is available for Google if you prefer to use a client. IMAP access will enable automatically the first time you sign in to your VCU Google Workspace account. (IMAP is not available for users in clinical departments, Technology Services, and Public Safety And Security)

 

Client Settings:

VCU no longer supports IMAP-only or other Less Secure Apps connections. If your email client does not support "IMAP with OAuth," contact the vendor to request they add that feature. 

Click the links below to configure IMAP with an OAuth connection for your preferred client.

Configuration instructions for Thunderbird

Configuration instructions for Outlook

Configuration instructions for Apple Mail

 

General configuration settings and steps for all other mail applications:

1. Add an account as a "Google" account.
2. Use the following configuration settings (if prompted):
   • IMAP server: imap.gmail.com
   • Port: 993
   • Security type: SSL/TLS (always)
   • SMTP server: smtp.gmail.com
   • Port: 465
   • Security type: SSL/TLS (always)
   • Requires Authentication: Yes (if available)
   • Name: Full name or VCU email address
   • Username (both incoming and outgoing servers): eID@vcu.edu
   • Password: eID password
   • Incoming settings:
   • Outgoing settings:
3. When prompted with Google sign-in, use your VCU email address, eID@vcu.edu, then select "Next."
4. When prompted by the Central Authentication Service, enter your eID and password and select "Login."
5. Review the permissions being given to the application and select "Allow."