Use Canvas for Your Classes

Canvas is where you’ll access your classes, assignments, and grades. Once your classes begin, you’ll use Canvas regularly to stay on track.

This page will help you understand what to expect and how to use Canvas effectively.

What Is Canvas?

Canvas is your online classroom. Your instructor will use it to share course materials, post assignments, and communicate with you.

What You Can Do in Canvas

View assignments and due dates
Submit assignments and quizzes
Check grades and feedback
Read announcements and messages
Participate in discussions or group work

Getting Started in Canvas

Log in using your Palomar student account
Open your course from the Dashboard
Read the syllabus and first announcements
Check your assignments and due dates

Before your classes begin, take a few minutes to set up your Canvas account:

Add a profile picture so your instructor and classmates can recognize you
Check your contact information
Set your notification preferences so you don’t miss important updates

Choose a few important notifications—like announcements and messages—to receive right away, and set others to daily or weekly so you don’t get overwhelmed.

Use the Canvas Inbox to message your instructor and classmates. Check it regularly, just like email.

Stay Organized in Canvas

Check Canvas regularly (often daily)
Read announcements and messages carefully
Use the Canvas Calendar to track due dates
Reply to messages within 24–48 hours when possible
Submit assignments early when you can

The Canvas Calendar helps you see what’s coming up. You can also connect it to your personal calendar if you want your deadlines in one place.

New to online learning? Get ready for online learning.

Get Help with Canvas

If you have trouble logging in or accessing your courses, reach out through the Palomar College Help Center. (If you are a CVC student, contact your Home College for help.) For questions about assignments or course content, contact your instructor.

Canvas also offers step-by-step guides if you want more detailed help. View the Canvas Student Guide.