OneDrive in Canvas Overview

The OneDrive app in Canvas streamlines assignment management by allowing educators to create, share, and collaborate on files without leaving Canvas.

OneDrive in Canvas Availability

OneDrive in Canvas is available for all instructors of Canvas courses.

Students can use OneDrive for Students with limited features (linking only, no embedding).
Tech support is provided by the UIW Help Desk.

OneDrive in Canvas Considerations

Use Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome for the best experience. If issues arise, clear your browser cache or switch browsers.
Embedding vs. linking: Embedding shows content directly in Canvas; linking opens it in a new tab. Embedding is preferred for better in-course viewing.
Files inserted from OneDrive are copies. Changes to the original file will not update the version in Canvas.
Instructors have editing permissions; students can only view the inserted files.
Inserted files support course copies, don’t expire, and don’t count against Canvas’s 2GB course storage limit.

OneDrive in Canvas Guides

Overview: Use OneDrive in Canvas
Use the OneDrive app to share files in Canvas
Create a template-less assignment
Collaborate using OneDrive files
Add Microsoft files to your course modules
Grade Microsoft files with Canvas SpeedGrader

OneDrive in Canvas FAQ

What should I do if course participants see an error when viewing content?

If students encounter errors with embedded content, try the following:

Have them clear their browser cache and history. The Help Desk can assist.
Make sure browser settings allow cookies for Canvas.
If problems persist, use the “Link” option instead of embedding. Links usually avoid these issues.

Is OneDrive in Canvas available to students?

Yes. Students see it as “OneDrive for Students” in the Rich Content Editor. They can insert files as links only; embedding is not available.

How does OneDrive in Canvas work?

When a OneDrive file is added to Canvas, it becomes a separate copy that no longer syncs with the original.

Can I change permissions for files added through OneDrive in Canvas?

No. Student access is always view-only. Instructors can edit. For other permission options, share files directly through OneDrive.

How can I update a file I added to my course?

You can:

Edit the file directly in Canvas.
Delete it and upload a new version.

What’s the difference between linking and embedding?

Linking: Adds a link that opens the file in a new tab—best for Word docs or PDFs.
Embedding: Displays content directly in Canvas—ideal for PowerPoints or videos.

Will OneDrive files still work if I copy the course?

Yes. OneDrive app files are preserved in course copies and do not expire. Still, review content each term to ensure it's current.