How to submit an assignment on Moodle
Moodle's two-step submit catches everyone — here's how to make sure your work is actually 'Submitted for grading.'
Last updated June 1, 2026
Moodle has a two-step submission that quietly costs students marks: uploading a file is not the same as submitting it. Here's the full process so your status reads 'Submitted for grading,' not 'Draft.'
- 1Open the assignment activity
From your course page, click the assignment (the hand-holding-paper icon). You'll see the instructions and a 'Submission status' table.
- 2Click 'Add submission'
This opens the upload area. Drag your file into the box or click the file icon to browse. For text submissions, type into the online text editor.
- 3Save your changes
Click 'Save changes.' Your status now reads 'Draft (not submitted)' — you're not done yet.
- 4Click 'Submit assignment'
This is the step that actually turns it in. If your professor enabled it, you'll confirm a statement, then the status flips to 'Submitted for grading.'
- 5Verify the status
Check the 'Submission status' row reads 'Submitted for grading' and note the timestamp. If it still says 'Draft,' it hasn't been submitted.
Draft vs Submitted — the trap
Uploading a file only saves a draft. Moodle won't show it to your grader until you click 'Submit assignment.' Once submitted, many courses lock further edits — so upload your final version, then submit.
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Frequently asked questions
My Moodle assignment says 'Draft' — did it submit?+
No. 'Draft (not submitted)' means your grader can't see it. Open it, click 'Submit assignment,' and confirm the status changes to 'Submitted for grading.'
Can I edit after submitting on Moodle?+
Only if your professor allows it. Many assignments lock on submission, so upload your final draft before you submit.
What file types does Moodle accept?+
It's set per assignment — the allowed types show in the upload area. PDF and .docx are the safest bets.