Canvas Access Begins December 1 — What Students Need to Know for Spring 2026
Introduction
UIC Transition to Canvas LMS
UIC is officially moving from Blackboard to a new learning management system, Canvas. Canvas offers modern, intuitive tools that make assignments, grading, communication, and collaboration easier for both students and instructors—whether you're on a laptop or a mobile device. You’ll be able to access everything you use every day in one place.
Starting December 1, you will have access to Canvas. Student training and help resources are available on your Canvas Dashboard, and you can also visit Learning Technology Solution's Student Guide to Using Canvas for tutorials, FAQs, and support.
Student Guide to Using Canvas
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How to Access Canvas
Log in at canvas.uic.edu using your UIC NetID and password.
Where Your Courses Will Be
Beginning Spring 2026, some of your courses may be taught in Canvas while others remain in Blackboard. Throughout Spring, Summer, and Fall 2026, you may see courses in either Blackboard or Canvas, depending on your instructor’s discretion.
Here’s How to Stay on Track:
Watch for Instructor Announcements
If your instructor is teaching in Canvas, they will post an announcement in Canvas once the course is published, and you’ll also receive it by email in your UIC inbox. In Blackboard, your instructor will post an announcement with a direct link to the Canvas version of your course.
Check Both Canvas and Blackboard at the Start of the Semester
If you’re unsure where a course is located, log into both systems during the first week of classes.
Explore Canvas Early
Even if most of your classes remain in Blackboard this spring, log into Canvas early so you know exactly where each course lives.
When in Doubt, Reach Out to Your Instructor
If you’re unsure which system your course is using, email your instructor directly—they can confirm where to find your class.
Looking Ahead
Over the next year, more courses will gradually move into Canvas. During Spring, Summer, and Fall 2026, courses may appear in either Blackboard or Canvas as we transition. By January 2027, Blackboard will no longer be used for instruction, and all UIC courses will be taught in Canvas.