I uploaded a PDF to my files -- it's published. I created a link to the PDF in a page -- it's published. In student view I click the link and a page pops up -- "unauthorized."
Link:
Result (in student view):
How can I authorize my students to view the files (PDF, etc)?
Thank You!
Matt
For the "unauthorized" error....I experienced the same thing. I did not find the cause (yet) but found that if I cleared the link and linked to it again, the file would download properly for students.
R/
JB
Hello Matt Mackay 
I hope this information will be of help to you, Matt. Please let Community members know if you have any questions about this...thanks!
Sorry I can't answer your question. I am experiencing the same problem.
The pdf file is published in Files, a link to the file is pasted in a Content Page, the Page is published, and the Module the Page is in is published. When in student view and I click on the link, this "Access Denied" message appears: