Get Help Converting Files into Accessible Formats in Canvas
Posted December 18, 2025 in Uncategorized
It’s now easier to convert PDFs and other files into more accessible formats—directly in Canvas! We’ve integrated SensusAccess into Canvas to support the digital accessibility of course materials.
What is SensusAccess?
SensusAccess is a document conversion tool that transforms files into alternative formats. For example, it can convert a text file into an audio file. It can also remediate inaccessible documents—such as image-only PDFs, JPGs, PowerPoints, and LaTeX projects—and deliver them in more accessible formats
How to Use SensusAccess in Canvas:
- View your Canvas course.
- Navigate to Assignments, Quizzes, Pages, Files or Modules.
- Select the white “S” in a dark circle on the right side of the screen (the SensusAccess icon).
- In the Convert a file pop-up box, choose the conversion type you need.
- Select the Email button.
- Check your email to find the converted file, then upload it to the appropriate location in Canvas.
Converting PDFs with SensusAccess:
Remediating PDFs will likely be a common use of SensusAccess in Canvas. For the most accessible PDF format, select pdf – Tagged PDF (Text Over Image) in the Convert a file pop-up box.
How Does SensusAccess Differ from Ally?
Both Ally and SensusAccess are integrated into Canvas, but they serve different purposes:
- SensusAccess is a document conversion tool. It helps you change the format of your content to make it more accessible for all learners. Students can use SensusAccess on this page, but not from within Canvas; faculty can use it in both ways.
- Ally is primarily an accessibility checker. It identifies course content that needs adjustment and provides guidance on making that content more accessible. It also offers some alternative formats for documents and can help with writing image alt text. Students can also use Ally within Canvas to generate alternative formats for certain documents. Ally’s accessibility reports are visible only to the course’s instructor(s).
Together, these tools make it easier to create course materials that everyone can access, helping ensure all students can fully engage with yourcourse content.
Learn more
- Guides and Best Practices – from SensusAccess.com
Questions?
Please contact the Libraries’ Learning Innovations & Design Desk.