File Upload Assignment: Submit OneDrive Files via Microsoft Education
This guide explains how to submit files saved in OneDrive using the Microsoft Education option in a Canvas Assignment.
Before submitting your work, carefully read all instructions provided in your Canvas course. Assignment settings vary based on what your instructor has selected, so always confirm expectations. If you're unsure, contact your instructor directly.
Students can add Microsoft OneDrive files to Canvas in a few ways:
-
File Upload (this guide): Use the Microsoft Education option to upload OneDrive files into Canvas assignments.
-
Microsoft Education in Collaborations: Used for collaborative documents shared among course participants.
For comparison, here are other types of Canvas Assignments you may encounter:
-
No Submission: No submission required or accepted in Canvas.
-
Text Entry: Compose responses directly in Canvas using the Rich Content Editor. You may also use the OneDrive for Students app here.
-
Website URL: Paste a link to a website or cloud-hosted file.
-
Media Recordings: Record or upload audio/video content as your submission.
-
Student Annotation: Annotate a document provided by your instructor within Canvas.
-
External Tool: Submit through a third-party integration such as textbook platforms or publisher tools.
How to Submit a OneDrive File via Microsoft Education
Tip: Use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge for the best experience.
Before starting, make sure your work is saved to your UIW OneDrive account (not a personal Microsoft account). Learn how to save to your UIW OneDrive.
Step 1: Navigate to the Assignment
Go to your Canvas course and find the assignment. You may find it under the Assignments tab or within a Module.
Step 2: Open the Assignment
Open the assignment title to open the submission screen.
Step 3: Choose Microsoft Education
Select Microsoft Education. This will launch your OneDrive window.
If prompted, sign in with your UIW email and password (e.g., @student.uiwtx.edu).
If you don't see the login screen, make sure your browser allows pop-ups. Chrome or Edge work best.
Step 5: Select Your File
Browse your OneDrive to find the file you'd like to submit. Select it, then click Submit. You can only select individual files, not folders.
Step 6: Submit Your Assignment
Once your file appears under File, should the assignment allow it, you can upload more files by repeating the steps above.
When you’re ready, add any additional submission comments, then select Submit Assignment.
File Upload: Microsoft Education FAQ
Why should I use Microsoft Education to submit a file?In most cases, assignments require writing, presentations, or submitting videos. At UIW, Microsoft apps cover these use cases with apps like Word, Clipchamp, and PowerPoint. These files will already live in OneDrive, so using the Microsoft Education app to submit right from the cloud makes sense in most cases.
Alternatively, If you experience errors or reach a file size limit (5GB) when uploading directly, using Microsoft Education to select files from OneDrive is often more reliable and avoids storage issues.
Where can I find instructions for other Canvas assignment types?Visit the Canvas Student Guide for help with all submission types, including:
How do I know my assignment was submitted successfully?After submission, you should see a confirmation on the page. You can also view your submission under the assignment details.
View submission confirmation guide
How do I know when my assignment has been graded?When grades are posted, you'll see a notification in the Grades section of the course. Look for a checkmark or grade next to your assignment.
Learn more about grade notifications
Can I download all of my submitted assignments?Yes, you can download all your submissions from current and past courses as a ZIP file. Instructor comments and annotations are not included.
Download submissions from all courses
Can I use a personal Microsoft account in Canvas?No. Always use your UIW-issued Microsoft account to avoid errors and ensure access to OneDrive and other services.
Who can help if I have login or access issues?Contact the UIW Help Desk for assistance with Microsoft account or password issues.