How do I export a Canvas course?

You can export a Canvas course to give to someone in another Canvas account, to upload to another institution's account at a later date, or to create a copy as a backup on your local computer. You can import an export file into Canvas at any time.

Exports are packaged as IMSCC ZIP files, which can only be opened by programs that support Common Cartridge files. You can also change the extension from .imscc to .zip and treat it as any other ZIP file.

Notes:

  • Canvas exports do not include backups of student interactions and grades. Grades can be exported separately as a comma separated values (CSV) file.
  • Some external app LTI tools such as Google Drive and Office 365 do not retain tool configurations in exported courses. You may consider copying the course instead.
  • Canvas does not support course export files over 20 GB. Courses over 20 GB in size will not export and will display an error message when you attempt to export.
  • Canvas for Elementary export packages retain the Canvas for Elementary theme.

Open Settings

Open Settings

In Course Navigation, click the Settings link.

Export Course

Export Course

Click the Export Course Content link.

Select Export Type

Select Export Type

In the Export Type heading, click the Course radio button [1]. Click the Create Export button [2].

Note: If you have previously exported the course, Canvas will display prior exports under the Content Exports heading.

View Export Process

View Export Process

View the progress bar. Exporting a course in Canvas may take a few minutes, depending on its size. You will receive an email when the export is complete.

Download New Export

Download New Export

When your download is ready, click the New Export link.

Note: Content exports expire after 30 days and can no longer be downloaded.