UMass Boston

Canvas Resources for Students

What is Canvas?

Canvas is UMass Boston’s web-based learning management system (LMS) that connects students and instructors. It is the digital home for course content, assignments, and communication and is used by thousands of learning institutions to create, manage, and share online course materials  Canvas streamlines all the digital tools and content that teachers and students use, for a simpler and more connected learning experience. 

24/7 Help for Canvas

Students have access to Canvas support through the Help link located on the Canvas global navigation menu, accessible from any course. Available formats are phone and live chat:

Access Canvas on a computer

To access Canvas, navigate to https://umassboston.instructure.com and log on with your UMass Boston email username and password.

Check Browser

Be sure to use an approved browser for the best experience with Canvas. For the best results, use the latest versions of Chrome or Firefox.

Access Canvas on a mobile device

The Canvas Student app allows students to access their courses and groups using a mobile device.  Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android), search for Canvas Student, and download the app. View information about the Student app.

Note: Canvas has user guides for iOS and Android that address many frequently asked questions. 

  • Open the Canvas Student app.
  • Select the 'Find my school' button.
  • Enter University of Massachusetts Boston in the search field.
  • Log on with your UMass Boston email username and password.

Get Oriented

This Canvas Overview video is a good place to start to learn how to navigate through the general areas in a Canvas account.

Edit Profile

Customize your Canvas profile to establish your learner presence and connect with peers: User Settings in Canvas

Edit Notifications

In Canvas, you can customize your account notification settings to stay organized and up to date with course activity: Review and choose notifications.

Complete Learning Activities

Completing graded assignments and activities in Canvas is straightforward. These tasks will typically be accessible through their respective module pages, making it easier for you to navigate and stay organized. 

View Grades

As you participate in graded activities, you can view your grades and view the feedback provided by your instructor. View resources about Grades in Canvas.

Canvas Student Support Resources

The Canvas Student Guide will guide you, step by step, through the numerous Canvas features offered to students.

The Student Video Guide  includes a more detailed overview of the Canvas features available to students.

More Video Tutorials 

Canvas Resources for Students is an excellent collection to share with students. It contains short video demonstrations on key tasks in Canvas, including participating in discussions, submitting assignments viewing grades, and more: Canvas Resources for Students

24/7 Help for Canvas

Students have access to Canvas support through the Help link located on the Canvas global navigation menu, accessible from any course. Available formats are phone and live chat: