How can I download files or folders from a bCourses site?

A knowledge base article about How can I download files or folders from a bCourses site? provided by the UC Berkeley IT Service Hub - Knowledge Portal

Download a single file or folder

In the Files area of any bCourses site, users can download an individual file or folder following the instructions in the Canvas Guide: How do I download a file or folder? 

Bulk download files or folders

Bulk downloading files and folders is possible if you have at least two items selected in the Files tool. The Canvas Files user interface was updated in July 2025, and currently has two options: New Files Page UI and Old Files Page UI (see the July 21 Canvas Product Blog for more information). A switch back option is available through the end of 2025 before the New Files Page UI becomes the permanent view.

New Files Page User Interface

  1. In your course, select Files from the lefthand course navigation menu.
  2. Select the checkbox next to the folders and/or files you want to bulk download.
    • All files: On your keyboard, hold down the command (Mac) or control (PC) key and A (to select ALL files and folders) or click on the checkbox name to the Name column.
    • Specific files: Select the checkbox next to each folder and file you wish to download. 
  3. Once at least one item is selected, the actions toolbar will be visible in the top right above the files list. Select the downward facing arrow to bulk download the content as a zip file.

Old Files Page User Interface

  1. In your course, select Files from the lefthand course navigation menu.
  2. Select the checkbox next to the folders and/or files you want to bulk download.
    • All files: On your keyboard, hold down the command (Mac) or control (PC) key and A (to select ALL files and folders) or click on the checkbox name to the Name column.
    • Specific files: Hold down the command (Mac) or control (PC) key and click the blank space next to the files/folders name(s) you wish to download. Avoid clicking on the file names, as that will open up a preview of the file. 
  3. A toolbar for bulk functionality will appear at the top left above the files list. Select the downward facing arrow to bulk download the content as a zip file.