Classic vs New Quizzes in Canvas
When instructors create a quiz in Canvas by clicking the Quiz button on the Quizzes page, a pop-up prompts them to select a "Quiz Engine," choosing between Classic Quizzes and New Quizzes. Understanding the differences is important, as each offers different features, limitations, and long-term implications.
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Classic Quizzes is the original Canvas quizzing tool. It remains available but is being phased out gradually. No formal end-of-life date has been announced yet.
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New Quizzes is Canvas's modern quizzing tool, offering additional question types, flexible settings, and an improved user interface. Instructors are encouraged to adopt New Quizzes unless their course requires a Classic-specific feature.
For a side-by-side feature breakdown, review the Canvas Comparison Chart: Classic vs. New Quizzes.
How to Distinguish Between Classic and New Quizzes
When reviewing quizzes in your course, you can tell the difference by looking for the following:
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New Quizzes will have a small "solid rocket" icon next to the quiz name.
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Classic Quizzes will have a "hollow rocket" or no special icon.
You can also verify the engine by opening the quiz settings: New Quizzes have a "build" option, which is another primary distinguishing factor.
Key Limitations of New Quizzes
Accessibility Concerns
Some question types—such as Hot Spot, Matching, and those using table headers—currently have unresolved accessibility issues. Instructure plans improvements in 2025. Consider alternative question types for students using screen readers or assistive technology.
No Native Survey Question-Type
New Quizzes does not support true survey-style quizzes (no correct answers). However, you can simulate a survey by setting questions to zero points and adjusting feedback settings.
No Option to Convert Back
Once a quiz is created in New Quizzes, it cannot be converted back to Classic Quizzes. If you migrate a Classic Quiz to New Quizzes, the migration is permanent. Plan carefully when creating new assessments.
Classic vs. New Quizzes FAQ
Is there a date when Classic Quizzes will no longer be available?
No end date has been announced yet. However, New Quizzes will eventually replace Classic Quizzes. Instructors are encouraged to become familiar with New Quizzes now. UIW Canvas Support will communicate any major changes or timelines. For help, contact UIW Canvas Support.
Why don't I see the option to choose Classic or New Quizzes?
If you do not see the engine selection pop-up, a previous choice was saved. To reset it:
- Go to the Quizzes page in Canvas.
- Click the three dots next to the +Quiz button.
- Select Reset Quiz Engine Choice.
Where can I learn more about New Quizzes?
