Canvas Submissions

How to Submit Online Assignments

You can submit online assignments in Canvas using several submission types. Instructors can choose what kind of online submissions they want you to use. You may also have the option to resubmit assignments if your instructor allows.

Files uploaded using the Rich Content Editor count toward your user storage quota. Any attachments added as part of a graded assignment submission are also copied to your user files but are not counted against your user quota. However, once the file has been uploaded as a submission, you cannot delete the file. Submitted files are stored in the Submissions folder.

Before submitting an assignment, you may want to review all assignment information, such as the assignment rubric, if any.

This lesson shows how to turn in a standard online assignment. Learn how to submit a peer review assignment.

Third-Party File Application Submissions

You can submit assignments from Google Drive, Dropbox, or another third-party service via your desktop computer in one of two ways:

1. Download the file to your computer and submit as a File Upload
2. Share the file, copy the file URL, and submit as a Website URL

Mobile Submissions

You can also submit assignments using your Android or iOS device.

Notes: 

• Depending on the assignment submission type set by your instructor, not all file types may be available for your assignment submission.
• Not all of your assignments may be submitted online. If you cannot see the Start Assignment button, your instructor may want you to submit your assignment in a different way or the availability date has passed. View the description of the assignment for instructions, or contact your instructor for assistance.
• Canvas does not support file uploads larger than 5 GB.
• If enabled in your account, Canvas plays a celebration animation (confetti) when you submit an assignment on time. However, if you prefer, you can disable this feature option in your user settings.
• If the assignment you are accessing displays differently, your assignment may be using the Assignment Enhancements feature.
• Group assignments do not support the student annotation submission type.

For more information about assignments in Canvas, see: https://guides.instructure.com/m/4212/l/41972-how-do-i-submit-an-online-assignment

Best Practices

• Don’t wait until the last minute. Know when the work is due and leave yourself plenty of time.
• Make sure you have a dependable internet connection; WIRED rather than wireless if at all possible.
• Use a recommended browser (Chrome or Firefox) with the latest updates.
• If you encounter any unexpected behavior (error messages, inability to log in, etc.,) take a screenshot of the problem and any error message, then save this file. This is important so that your instructor knows your problem is legitimate, and to assist the UF Help Desk in helping you fix the problem.
• After discussion post or assignment/quiz submissions, always double check that the post or submission was successful.
• Do not use the Canvas mobile app for posting or submitting, as app reliability can cause issues.
• It is recommended that you take online assessments during UF Computing Help Desk hours whenever possible. If you have a problem while taking an Assessment, log out and log back in as quickly as possible. If the assessment is timed, the timer will continue to run while you are logged out. If you still encounter difficulties, take a screenshot of the problem so the Help Desk can investigate and you will have proof of the problem for your Instructor. Call the UF Computing Help Desk (352-392-4357) immediately.

File Size

Canvas submissions have a standard file size limit of 500 MB per file, though instructors may impose stricter limits. Video and media assignments may have unique size constraints. Students should compress large files, export them in smaller formats, or use cloud storage links if allowed by the instructor.

_____________________________________________