Step 1: Import Existing Content

Start in the blank course shell for the upcoming semester (this is usually created automatically 3-6 weeks before the semester starts).

On the course home page, click Import Existing Content (right side menu).

Import Existing Content button underneath Course Status

For Content Type, select Copy a Canvas Course.

Select Content Type dropdown menu, Copy a Canvas Course selected

Type the name of your previous course in the Search for a course field and select it.

Search for a Course box, with partially typed name of course visible and the full course name shown below

Check the box for Select Specific Content.
Check Adjust events and due dates.

You can set the Beginning and Ending Dates from the old course and new semester. Canvas will try to shift all due dates accordingly. Alternatively, you can Remove Dates and then set them up later.

Click the blue + Add to Import Queue button.

Select specific content radio button, Adjust events and due dates checkbox, Date Adjustments section, and Add to Import Queue button at bottom

Click the Select Content button in the Progress area.

Course import progress table, with Select Content button under Progress column heading

Select the content you would like to copy. For instance, many instructors will select everything except announcements. Then, click Select Content to confirm and copy your course to the new semester.

Select Content for Import window, with various options checked and unchecked

Optional: Fine-Tune Your Dates

Canvas will shift dates, but you should still review them:

Go to Assignments area of your course, click the three vertical dots in the top right, and click Edit Assignment Dates.

Assignments area of course, three dots in top right selected, Edit Assignment Dates highlighted

You’ll see a table with all assignments, quizzes, discussions, etc., and their due dates. You can easily edit all dates here. Make sure to click Save when you’re done.

Edit Assignment Dates table, with various course and due dates visible. Batch Edit and Save buttons in top right.

You can select multiple assignments and click Batch Edit to shift or remove due dates.

Batch Edit Dates window, with Shift dates selected

You can also navigate to the Calendar in the global navigation menu to drag and drop assignments to different dates easily.

Canvas calendar, with various assignments visible on a Sunday.

Use the View as Student button (top right of the Home page in your course) to preview your updated course and make sure all due dates and modules appear as expected.