As part of UBC’s ongoing transition to Microsoft 365, we are excited to announce the migration of all active students to Microsoft Exchange Online. This significant step aligns with UBC’s mission to provide modern, secure, and accessible tools for communication and collaboration.
What’s Happening?
Starting February 4, 2025, and running through March 25, 2025, all active student email accounts will transition from the current UBC Student Email system (webmail.student.ubc.ca) to Microsoft Exchange Online (outlook.office.com). This migration enhances the email experience for students with increased mailbox capacity to 20GB, improved integration with Microsoft 365 tools, and stronger security protocols.
What Is Changing for Students?
- New Email System: Student email accounts are transitioning from the current UBC Student Email system (webmail.student.ubc.ca) to Microsoft Exchange Online (outlook.office.com).
- Increased Mailbox Storage: Mailbox size will increase from 1.5GB to 20GB, providing more space for emails and attachments.
- New Login Portal: After migration, students will access their email via outlook.office.com using their cwl@student.ubc.ca login ID and CWL password.
- Updated Email Settings: Students will need to reconfigure their email on mobile and desktop devices to connect to Exchange Online.
- Improved Security: Exchange Online provides enhanced security features, including multi-factor authentication and advanced spam filtering.
- Integration with Microsoft 365 Tools: Students will benefit from seamless integration with other Microsoft Office applications.
- Global Accessibility: Email will now be accessible worldwide without the need for a VPN, ensuring students stay connected wherever they are.
What Is Not Changing for Students?
- There will be no impact to students’ Microsoft Teams, Canvas, Workday, or any system other than their UBC Student Email.
What Students Need to Do?
- Before Migration: Nothing. They simply need to be aware of the M365 Student Migration Info Page.
- After Migration: They will need to visit outlook.office.com and log in using their cwl@student.ubc.ca login ID and CWL password, and reconfigure their email settings on mobile and desktop devices. Setup guides and troubleshooting resources will be available on the M365@UBC Student Migration Page to assist them.
How Will Students Know
- A general communication will be going out to students to inform them of the migration, followed by 7-day, 3-day, 1-day, and post-migration emails for each of the migrating groups.
- The UBC Student Email Webmail landing page (webmail.student.ubc.ca) will have a notification informing them of the migration, and those who get migrated and try to log in will get redirected to outlook.office.com.
- The IT.UBC.CA homepage and the UBC Student Email Service page will also contain posts and messaging informing students of the migration activities and directing them to the Student Migration info page.
Support and Resources
We understand that transitioning to a new system can come with questions and challenges. UBC IT is here to support you every step of the way:
- Visit the M365@UBC Student Migration Page for detailed instructions, how-to videos, and FAQs.
- Contact the UBC IT Helpdesk at 604-822-2008 or submit a ticket via the Self-Service Portal.
Looking Ahead
This migration marks another milestone in UBC’s journey toward fully embracing Microsoft 365. With Exchange Online, students will have access to a more reliable, secure, and feature-rich email platform designed to meet their academic and professional needs.
Stay tuned for further updates as we share more information about the migration process and the exciting benefits that await.
