Help with Canvas

You may have to log into Canvas to access some resources. Just sign into Canvas with your CBU email and password.

If you receive a Canvas error, follow these directions. If you are using your mobile device and encounter an error signing into Canvas, click here.

Top Questions about Canvas

1) Why can't I log into Canvas?

  • If you're trying to log into Canvas and see the message "Unable to log into Canvas: Unauthorized" follow this quick fix.

  • If you're experiencing typical log in issues (no error message) then check the following:

    • Make sure you are using the same username and password you use for your CBU email

    • If your CBU username and password are not working, try changing your password. Click here for directions.

      • If you are still experiencing problems logging in, contact ITS Help: (901) 321-4438 or help@cbu.edu.

2) Where is my class on Canvas Dashboard?

If you don't see your course on the Canvas Dashboard, it could mean that you are not enrolled or that your professor has not published your course.

  • All CBU classes auto-publish on the first official day of the term. Some professors publish before the start of the term, but if you don't see your class -- wait until the first day of the term

  • Check Banner and make sure that you are enrolled in the course

  • Email the professor assigned to the course and inquire about when the course will be published

  • Contact the CBU Online Student Success Specialist at Lurene.kelley@cbu.edu or (901) 321-4456

3) How do I find assignments in my Canvas course?

The location of assignments and due dates can vary from Canvas course to course, depending on how your professor has designed it. See this document for guidance on the variety of ways assignments may be displayed in an online courses. Click here for the guide. If you are unable to locate assignments, it's always best to contact your professor for guidance.

Note: Only fully Online (OL) courses are required to have course assignments and detailed course information in the Canvas shell. If you are taking a Hybrid (HYB) or Traditional (TR) course, you may see a Canvas shell on your dashboard - but the professor may not be using it.

4) How do I upload a file as an assignment submission?

If your instructor allows file uploads as a submission type, you can upload a file from your computer as an assignment submission. Watch a 30-second video about how to do this and see more detailed instructions by clicking here.

5) Why can't I submit my work? or Why am I seeing an error message that says "This site can't be reached"?

Often, the answer to this problem is a simple one -- your device just needs a refresh. Follow these steps:

  • If you are close to your assignment deadline, email your professor immediately and let them know you are trying to correct a technical issue.

  • Make sure you are working in Chrome or Edge as your browser.

  • Test your device readiness for Canvas. Click this link to run those tests and updates. After that is complete, go to the next step.

  • Log out of Canvas.

  • Restart your device.

  • Try your submission now!

    • Still not working? Contact me: Lurene.Kelley@cbu.edu or (901) 321-4456. Include a screenshot or video of your problem of you can!

      • If it's after normal business hours, contact Canvas Help. They are available 24/7 and will automatically send you a transcript of your call. You can share this transcript with your professor to document your technical issue: (901) 318-3024

6) My Video Assignment Still Won't Load!

  • Make sure you have notified your professor about technical issues, especially if you are close to deadline

  • When working in Canvas, be sure you are using either Chrome or Edge

  • If a short video hasn't been encoded (uploaded) within a few minutes, refresh your browser window and double-check that the video recording did indeed fail - sometimes the video uploads perfectly but your browser doesn't "tell" you

  • If the problems persist, work around Canvas by recording and uploading video using your mobile device to wherever you store this content in the cloud (I use Google Photos). Then you can share a link as a way of allowing your professors and peers to view your video content

  • Still not working?

    • Contact the CBU Online Student Success Specialist at Lurene.kelley@cbu.edu or (901) 321-4456

    • If it's after normal business hours, contact Canvas Help. They are available 24/7 and will automatically send you a transcript of your call. You can share this transcript with your professor to document your technical issue: (901) 318-3024

7) How do I embed video/images to my Canvas assignments/discussions?

When you are submitting assignments to Canvas, you may be asked to embed images or video. Here are two guides to keep handy:

Student Tips for Video Conferencing and Video Submissions

Embedding Video/Images into a Canvas Assignment

How to Embed Images in a Discussion Reply

8) Why can't I use my Canvas mobile app?

If you see a message that says "Whoops.. Looks like nothing is here!" Do the following:

  • Go to the "hamburger" or the three lines in the top left of the red bar.

  • Click the "Canvas" icon

  • Choose "Sign in to one of the following sites:" and choose "Canvas"

  • Now, you should be able to sign on with your CBU email information.

9) Where can I learn more about Canvas?

The CBU Center for Digital Instruction has created this easy Canvas orientation to get you more comfortable with our online learning.

Click here to begin!

10) Where do I go for Canvas help?

If you're having problems with a Canvas course:

  • Contact your professor. Provide a screen shot or photo, if possible, of the problem. This can help your professor understand the problem.

  • If your professor is unable to assist you, contact the CBU Online Student Success Specialist: Lurene.kelley@cbu.edu (901) 321-4456

You can also call the Canvas Support line:

  • They are available 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Canvas Help is staffed by knowledegable people who will give you the best guidance possible around Canvas. They will also send you a transcript of your interaction, which you can share with your professor to document technical issues: (901) 318-3024

  • You can also live chat Canvas Help. Click here.

Not sure how to log-in to Canvas? Click here for help!

Canvas Around the Clock Support Line

  • Canvas experts are available 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Canvas Help is staffed by knowledgeable people who will give you the best guidance possible around Canvas. They will also send you a transcript of your interaction, which you can share with your professor to document technical issues: (901) 318-3024

  • You can also live chat Canvas Help. Click here.

CBU Canvas Help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to all CBU students. Call Canvas Support at 901-318-3024. Log into Canvas, click "Help" & you can live chat with Canvas Support.