Email Migration

Exchange Online Migration CSV Format for Administrator Credentials

Bushra ParveenBushra Parveen Oct 23, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to know the correct CSV format for migrating to Exchange Online, specifically whether an administrator credential can be used in place of individual user passwords.

Exchange Online Migration CSV Format Using Administrator Credentials
Product
Exchange Online
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Setting up a batch email migration to Exchange Online using a CSV file for user provisioning and authentication.
Observed behavior
The legacy Domain/Admin_UserName/User_UserName format fails or is unsupported for Exchange Online, requiring a different standard format.
Before you start

Ensure you have global administrator access to your Exchange Online environment and determine the specific migration endpoint required for your tenant before creating your batch file.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Standard Supported CSV Format

Exchange Online requires standard column headers with individual user credentials for basic migrations, rather than legacy administrative credential formats.

The legacy Domain/Admin_UserName/User_UserName format is primarily designed for certain on-premises Exchange scenarios. Exchange Online generally does not support substituting a single global admin credential for individual user passwords within the legacy CSV batch format.

1
Open a spreadsheet application

Launch your preferred spreadsheet tool, such as WPS Spreadsheet, to create a new blank workbook.

2
Create column headers

In the first row, type the exact following headers in columns A, B, and C: EmailAddress, UserName, Password. Do not include spaces before or after the text.

3
Input user data

Fill out the subsequent rows with the destination email address, the source username, and the specific account password for each user.

4
Save as CSV

Click File, choose Save As, and ensure the format is set strictly to CSV (Comma delimited) before uploading to the Exchange Admin Center.

Use the Standard Supported CSV Format
Authentication Limitation: If managing individual passwords is not feasible for your organization, you cannot use this basic CSV method. You will need to utilize modern hybrid migration endpoints.
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  1. 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package.
  2. 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to set up the suite on your device.
  3. 3. Edit your CSV: Launch WPS Spreadsheet to create or edit your Exchange Online migration list accurately.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a single admin password for all users in an Exchange Online migration CSV?

No. Exchange Online generally does not support using one administrator credential (like Domain/Admin_UserName/User_UserName) in place of individual user passwords within a basic CSV migration format. You must provide specific passwords or use modern hybrid migration endpoints.

What are the exact column headers required for a basic Exchange Online CSV migration?

The documented format requires three specific column headers typed exactly as follows: EmailAddress, UserName, and Password. These must reside in the first row without trailing spaces.

Why is my CSV migration batch failing in the Exchange Admin Center?

Failures frequently occur due to improper formatting. Ensure your file is saved as a standard CSV (Comma delimited), has no hidden spaces in the headers, and strictly uses the EmailAddress, UserName, Password format instead of legacy admin formats.

Where can I request feature support for delegated administrator authentication in CSV batches?

You can submit feature requests and feedback directly to the product team via the official Microsoft Exchange Online feedback portal to advocate for enhanced migration options.