Importing an ICS file into Google Calendar is simpler than you might think. All you need is the ICS file itself and access to your Google Calendar. In just a few quick steps, you can have all the events from the ICS file neatly added to your calendar.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Import ICS File into Google Calendar
Before we dive into the steps, let’s clear up what we’re aiming to achieve here. Following these steps will allow you to add all the events from an ICS file, which is a universal calendar format used by several email and calendar services, into your Google Calendar.
Step 1: Open Google Calendar
Go to Google Calendar in your web browser.
You’ll need to be signed into the Google Account that you want the calendar events to be added to. If you’re not already signed in, do so now.
Step 2: Find the ‘Settings’ option
Click on the gear icon in the top right corner, then select ‘Settings’.
This will take you to the settings menu where you can manage various aspects of your Google Calendar.
Step 3: Select the ‘Import & export’ option
On the left-hand side, you’ll see a menu. Click on ‘Import & export’.
This is where you can add new calendars or import events into your existing calendars.
Step 4: Click on ‘Select file from your computer’
Under the ‘Import’ section, you’ll see a button that says ‘Select file from your computer’. Click on this.
A file explorer window will open, allowing you to navigate to the ICS file you wish to import.
Step 5: Choose the ICS file and select ‘Open’
Find the ICS file on your computer, select it, and then click ‘Open’.
This will upload the ICS file to Google Calendar and prepare it for import.
Step 6: Choose which calendar to add the events to
Use the drop-down menu to select the calendar you want to add the ICS events to.
If you have multiple calendars, make sure to choose the one you want the events to appear in.
Step 7: Click on ‘Import’
After selecting your calendar, click on the ‘Import’ button.
Google Calendar will now process the file and add the events to your chosen calendar.
Once you’ve completed these steps, the events from the ICS file will be added to your Google Calendar. You’ll be able to view them alongside your other events, edit them, or delete them if necessary.
Tips for Importing ICS File into Google Calendar
- Make sure the ICS file is not corrupted and is formatted correctly to avoid any import issues.
- If you have trouble with the import, try opening the ICS file in a text editor to check for errors.
- Be aware that importing a large ICS file may take some time, so be patient.
- If events are not showing up after the import, refresh your Google Calendar or check your ‘Settings’ to make sure they were added to the correct calendar.
- Remember, you can always delete events or the entire calendar if you accidentally import the wrong file.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ICS file?
An ICS file is a universal calendar format used by several programs including Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, and Outlook.
Can I import an ICS file to Google Calendar on my phone?
Currently, Google Calendar on mobile devices does not support importing ICS files. You’ll need to use the web version.
What if the events don’t show up after importing?
If the events don’t appear, try refreshing your calendar. If they still don’t show, check to make sure you chose the correct calendar during the import process.
Can I import an ICS file that’s stored on a cloud service?
Yes, as long as you can download the ICS file to your computer, you can import it into Google Calendar.
Can I edit events after importing them?
Absolutely! Once the events are in your Google Calendar, you can edit them just like any other event.
Summary
- Open Google Calendar in web browser
- Access ‘Settings’
- Select ‘Import & export’
- Choose ‘Select file from your computer’
- Select ICS file and ‘Open’
- Pick the calendar to add events to
- Click ‘Import’
Conclusion
In today’s fast-paced world, staying organized is key. That’s where importing an ICS file into Google Calendar comes in handy. Whether you’re syncing holiday dates, scheduling work meetings, or planning social events, this feature ensures you have all your important dates in one place, accessible from all your devices. With this guide, you’re now equipped to streamline your schedule management, saving you time and hassle. And remember, Google Calendar isn’t just for appointments and meetings; it’s a powerful tool that, with a bit of creativity, can help you manage virtually every aspect of your life. Happy scheduling!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.