Student Information

Accessing Canvas

VSU Canvas online

Log into Canvas Online

Login with your VSU email address and Password

Canvas Student Mobile App


Download the Mobile APP (IOS)

Download the Mobile App (Android)

Getting Started in Canvas


In this tutorial, you'll discover how to navigate your Canvas Dashboard and use Global Navigation links. Additionally, you'll learn how to move around a course and access assignments.

Getting to Know Canvas


Using the Dashboard

Submitting Assignments

Replying to Discussions

Taking quizzes

If enabled by your instructor, your quiz might require the use of the Respondus Lockdown Browser.


Checking your grades

Using Studio media

Configuring Your Account


Editing User Profile

Manage Canvas Notification

Canvas Training

Student Self-Paced Course

  • The "Passport to Canvas" course is crafted to acquaint you with Canvas, the learning management system designed for online and in-person courses.
  • It is structured as a self-paced module, allowing you the flexibility to progress at your own convenience. The anticipated completion time for this course is approximately 2-4 hours. Key topics covered include:
    • How to get started in Canvas
    • Course Participation
    • Assignments in Canvas
    • Collaborations in Canvas
    • External Applications

View Self-Enrolled "Passport to Canvas" Course

Canvas Student Orientation Course

  • A Canvas Student Orientation Course is located on your Canvas dashboard. This course will help you navigate Canvas, explore its tools, and gain confidence for your academic journey. Once you complete the course, you’ll receive a digital badge to recognize your achievement. Be sure to check your dashboard and start today!
  • How Do I Access Canvas Student Orientation?
    • Head to vsu.instructure.com
    • Log in with your VSU email address and password
    • Once you’ve logged into Canvas, click on the Dashboard button in the left navigation bar.
    • Select the “Student Orientation” course and follow the directions.
    • Have an awesome learning experience.

Questions? Contact the Help Desk at (804) 524-5210; email: VSUStudentHD@vsu.edu

Canvas Student Guides

The Instructure Community guides offer straightforward yet thorough instructions for all Instructure software products.

These guides are crafted, organized, and consistently updated by the dedicated Instructure Community Team.

Canvas Student 10-Step Checklist

  1. Sign in
    to your Canvas account using your VSU ID and Password
  2. Explore Dashboard:
    Navigate to the Global Navigation Bar, select Courses, and then click on Announcements.
  3. Update your Settings:
    Set your preferred language, add your pronouns, and ensure you've selected the correct time zone.
  4. Set Notifications:
    Personalize your course notifications to receive the latest information through your preferred communication channels.
  5. View Announcements:
    Locate the Announcements tab and review any announcements posted by your professors.
  6. Check Assignments:
    Familiarize yourself with your initial assignments and their due dates. Consider filtering them by course name for easier organization.
  7. Explore the Grades page:
    Organize grades by due date, assignment group, module, and title.
  8. Access Discussion Board:
    Explore the functionalities of the Discussion Board.
  9. Send an e-mail:
    Get to know Canvas Inbox and send a message to one of your classmates.
  10. Download the Student Canvas App:
    Access all your favorite courses using your mobile device.

Additional Resources

  • Canvas Community
    • Explore Instructure products, exchange best practices, and connect with a global community to learn from fellow members worldwide.
  • Canvas Support
    • Contact the VSU Helpdesk for Canvas support or if you have any inquiries about your account.