Canva provides users with the tools to create content ranging from images, videos, and gifs to posters, websites, booklets, and multimedia presentations among other options. As you begin to use Canva, you may have questions about using the application.
NOTE: Canva will be going live on December 10th, 2025. Any early requests for accounts will not be processed until that date.
This page will detail the Frequently Asked Questions for Canva and will be updated as more questions are received.
General
Can I use the desktop app and/or mobile app with my UCSF account?
- No, Canva is web accessible only.
What will happen to my existing designs in my personal account once I join my UCSF Team?
- All your existing designs will remain intact and accessible in your personal account. Canva does not delete user content. For guidance on transferring content from your existing account to your new UCSF account, please refer to the instructions below.
How can I transfer my content from my personal account to my UCSF one?
- Canva provides users with the ability to copy Canva designs, files, and folders from one account or team to another. Learn more about the process for transferring content between accounts.
Can I merge accounts?
- Currently, there is no way to merge accounts. However, the interface allows users to toggle between multiple accounts.
I want to share a Canva account in my department. Can I use a resource account with Canva?
Canva cannot not be purchased for UCSF resource accounts as these email accounts cannot authenticate to Canva and departments should purchase individual accounts to collaborate on projects in Canva.
Submitting a refund request
If you are a UCSF staff member that purchased a Canva account within the last twelve months using your UCSF email address, you may be entitled to a refund for the remaining months. Review how to request a refund in Canva.
Will documents created in Canva be sharable with others in UCSF who do not have Pro accounts?
- Yes, documents can be shared via a link with anyone who has a free Canva account. Additionally, you can download your designs and share it universally. Learn more about sharing and collaborating in Canva.
I am receiving an error message saying ‘Looks like you don’t have access’ when I try to log in. How can I address this?
- Verify the UCSF email address being used is correct (NOTE: Canva accounts are linked to your [email protected] email address) and you have acquired the appropriate license.
- Double-check that you are entering this email correctly when attempting to log in.
- Determine which license you need. Learn more about Canva licenses.
Do I need to obtain permission to use UCSF Trademarks/copyrights if they are included in my work before publishing?
- UCSF users will have access to UCSF branded templates and logos that include approved colors, fonts, etc., and are recommended. If a design that includes the UCSF logo or name is not based on one of these templates, a draft should be submitted to [email protected] for review.
Switching a Canva account email
- If you are using a ucsf.edu email account but do not want to be included in the UCSF team, is it possible change the email log in information to a personal email account that is a non-UCSF email address. Learn how to switching your Canva account email.
Does Canva meet UC Accessibility requirements?
- Yes, Canva complies with UC Accessibility requirements as part of our contracting process. Learn more about Canva's Accessibility Standards.
Is there a method to ensure that my Canva designs are digitally accessible?
- UCSF prioritizes making all content accessible. When you create using Canva, check your work using the integrated design accessibility tool. Also consult UCSF’s Digital Accessibility Project for guidance on WCAG compliance.
What data security measures are included in the Canva agreement?
- By default, your work in Canva remains private unless you choose to publish it to a shared folder.
- Canva is not permitted for use with information classified as P3 (Sensitive) or P4 (Restricted), please avoid including such data in your Canva projects. For more information about these types of data, review the UCSF protection level classifications.
What data can I upload to and share on Canva?
- Do NOT share any content on Canva that you or someone else would prefer to keep private.
Have the Canva AI features been approved for use at UCSF?
- Currently, Canva Magic Studio is not enabled to ensure the safety and security of your data. IT Security will be conducting testing to determine if the AI features can be unlocked while adhering to UC policy and safeguarding the campus community.
What if I already have a personal Canva Pro license?
- If you have a personal Canva Pro license, you may request a prorated refund for the remaining duration of your subscription term by submitting a Canva customer service request.
How can Learners obtain a free Canva Pro license?
- Learners will automatically gain free access to a Canva Pro account upon logging in via Single Sign-On (SSO). Review the Getting Started Guide for Learners for more information.
What happens to student accounts upon graduation?
- Learners will lose access to their free Canva account within 6 months of graduating.