Frequently Asked Question

Your instructor will share a Zoom meeting in one of two ways: a clickable join link, or a Meeting ID with a passcode. This article shows you both, plus how to turn on your audio and video.

Before you start:

1. Install Zoom ahead of time so you are not rushing at class time. On a computer, go to zoom.us/download and install "Zoom Workplace" (the desktop app). On a phone or tablet, install the "Zoom Workplace" app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
2. You do NOT need to create a Zoom account or pay for anything to join a class. You can join as a guest.

Option A - Join from a link:

1. Find the Zoom link your instructor posted (often in Canvas, in an email, or on your course calendar).
2. Click the link a few minutes before class starts.
3. Your browser may ask to open Zoom. Click "Open Zoom Workplace" (or "Allow"). If nothing happens, click "Launch Meeting" again, or choose "Join from your browser."
4. If asked, type your full name so your instructor can take attendance, then click Join.
5. If the host has not started the meeting yet, you will see a "Please wait for the host" message - that is normal. Leave the window open and you will be let in.

Option B - Join with a Meeting ID and passcode:

1. Open the Zoom app.
2. Click "Join" or "Join a Meeting."
3. Type the Meeting ID (a 9 to 11 digit number) your instructor gave you, type your name, then click Join.
4. When prompted, enter the passcode exactly as given (it is case-sensitive), then click OK or Join Meeting.

Turn on your audio:

1. When you enter, Zoom may ask how you want to hear the meeting. Click "Join with Computer Audio" (on a phone, choose "Wi-Fi or Cellular Data" / "Call using Internet Audio").
2. Look at the bottom-left corner for the microphone icon. If it shows a red line through it, your mic is muted - click it once to unmute when you need to speak.
3. Please keep yourself MUTED when you are not speaking. This keeps background noise out of class.

Turn on your video:

1. Next to the microphone is a video camera icon. If it has a red line through it, your camera is off - click it once to turn your camera on.
2. If your instructor asks for cameras on, make sure you are in a well-lit, appropriate space.

Tip: Some classes have a "Waiting Room" - the host admits students one at a time, so give it a moment after you join. If your camera or microphone does not work once you are in, see our article "Why isn't my camera or microphone working in Zoom?"

If you're still having trouble, contact the Jersey College Help Desk at 201-645-1164 or itsupport@jerseycollege.edu.