How Can We Help?
Search for answers or browse our knowledge base.
Embed a PDF in Blackboard
iFrames
Some documents (e.g., the syllabus, the course schedule, etc.) may be frequently viewed by students. It can be a little time-consuming to have to download a document in order to, for example, view a due date. Embedded PDFS, using iFrames, will display the document right within blackboard. Multipage documents will include a scrollbar. iFrames allow users to view the document without downloading, while still having options to download or print, as in this example:
Upload PDF to Content Collection
Prior to beginning the steps below, save the document you want to embed as a PDF (in Word, click File > Export > Export > Create PDF/XPS Document).
- In the course click Content Collection in the Course Management menu
- When the Content Collection menu expands, click the name of the course
- Click Upload
- Click Upload Files
- Click on the down arrow beside the file you just uploaded to access the menu for that item
- Click Edit Settings
- Copy the whole address listed beside Permanent URL, you’ll need it in step 14
- Navigate in the course to where you want this to embed this file
- Hover over Build Content
- Click Item
- Give the item a name
- In the full edit menu, click the source code button < >.
If you do not have the full edit menu and cannot see the source code button, click the ellipses (three dots) at the far right on the top menu bar)
- In the Source Code overlay window that appears type the following
<iframe width="100%" height="600" src="
- Paste the Permanent URL (from step 7) and close the code with
"></iframe>
The final product should look like this:<iframe width="100%" height="600" src="https://cvcc.blackboard.com/bbcswebdav/xid-20067045_1"></iframe>
- Click Save.
You can type text before or after the newly embedded document. It is recommended that you include a sentence with a hyperlink for downloading the document directly (like in the example above).
For further help with any of these directions, if you have any questions, or would like any assistance, please contact the HelpDesk by email at or at 828-327-7000 ext. 4444.