How to submit an assignment on Brightspace (D2L)
Submit to a Brightspace Assignment folder and lock in the email confirmation that proves you turned it in.
Last updated June 1, 2026
Brightspace (also called D2L) collects work in 'Assignment' folders — what older versions called the Dropbox. Here's how to submit to one and get the email receipt that protects you if there's ever a dispute.
- 1Go to Assignments
From your course navbar, open 'Assignments' (or 'Dropbox' on older versions). You'll see a list of folders with due dates.
- 2Open the right folder
Click the assignment folder name. Read the instructions and check the due date and any submission rules.
- 3Add your file
Click 'Add a File,' then upload from your computer (or drag it in). You can add a comment for your professor in the text box below.
- 4Click 'Submit'
Hit the 'Submit' button. Brightspace processes the upload and records the time against the due date.
- 5Check for the confirmation email
Brightspace sends a submission confirmation to your student email with the file name and timestamp. Keep it — it's your proof the folder received your work.
Where students get stuck on D2L
Two things trip people up in Brightspace:
- Uploading the file but not clicking the final 'Submit' button
- Missing that the folder closed at the end date and no longer accepts files
Skip the folder hunt entirely
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Minutely delivers your assignment to your professor from your own email at the deadline, with a copy BCC'd to you as proof — no folder hunting required.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Brightspace the same as D2L?+
Yes — Brightspace is the current name for the platform made by D2L. The submission steps are identical whichever name your school uses.
How do I know my D2L assignment submitted?+
Brightspace emails a confirmation with your file name and timestamp, and the folder shows a 'Submitted' status. If you didn't get the email, re-check the folder.
Can I resubmit to a Brightspace folder?+
If the folder allows multiple submissions and hasn't closed, yes — just add the file and submit again. The latest submission is graded.