Student Getting Started Resources

Below are some general questions and answers about Canvas, the Student role, and links to resources to help you be comfortable with Canvas. Visit the Student Guides to learn more.

Introduction

What is Canvas?

Canvas is a Learning Management System. To learn more about Canvas terminology and definitions, visit How does Canvas define the terms used to describe its features and functions? 

Because Canvas is a web-based system, it doesn’t need to be installed on your computer. However, you’ll want to make sure that your computer and web browser meet the basic requirements to run Canvas

What is the Student role?

In Canvas, the Student role is most commonly used to enroll users who will participate in a course for course credit. Users enrolled as students can view course content and participate in course assignments and communications. Students cannot view and participate in a course until it is published and the course has started.

Canvas for Elementary

Canvas for Elementary is a Canvas setting that displays a simplified interface and experience designed for younger learners. 

Canvas Guides

The Canvas Student Guide has over 200 articles that each answer a question that relates to using the Canvas interface as a student. Each article also includes Next and Previous links so you can easily navigate to related content.

Use QR Code to Log In

Theres a very simple way to log in to the Canvas Student app. In the web version of Canvas, if you click the Account link in the Global Navigation menu, you'll see a QR for Mobile Login link. After opening the Canvas Student app on your mobile device, scan that code. You will be instantly logged-in, without having to worry about connecting to your school and retyping your information.

Canvas Overview

Once your account is set up, take a minute to familiarize yourself with the Canvas user interface. The articles below show you how to navigate Canvas and use a few of the tools that link across all your courses.

Course Basics