First Year Orientation

Sunday, August 31 - Saturday, September 6, 2025

Remote video URL

Are you an incoming undergrad starting in September 2025? Save the date for First Year Orientation!

Registration opens in August.

The people that I met during Orientation are the ones I call family now and are the ones that pushed me to achieve things I never thought I could.

2019-21 Orientation Leader

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why should I attend Orientation?

Orientation is your opportunity to build further connections with your classmates and other UÀ¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ students, be introduced to the unique traditions at UÀ¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ and in your faculty, and learn more about what À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ has to offer. You will also have the opportunity to get to know your campus and explore the larger City of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ community. 

We think Orientation is an important part of your first-year experience at À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ - but don't just take our word for it!  

Orientation  has been and continues to be one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences of my time at the University of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ. It not only gave me the sense of community, but also a sense of belonging.

2018 Orientation participant 

What is the schedule for Orientation?

Orientation registration opens August 11. Once you have confirmed your Orientation registration, your personalized schedule will be available in your . New undergraduate students are encouraged to attend all days of Orientation.  

Start dates

  • Check-in for Orientation begins on Saturday, August 30
  • First Year Orientation events kick off on Sunday, August 31. Orientation concludes on Saturday, September 6.
  • International Orientation takes place August 28-29. 

  • Classes begin on Wednesday, September 3. Events that occur after classes begin are scheduled so that you can drop-in and participate before, between or after your classes.  

What events and activities are part of Orientation?

You'll have the opportunity to participate in exciting events and connect with fellow Warriors. Some things you can look forward to are: 

  • Show your spirit in black and gold to support the À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ Warrior's varsity football team in their game against the Carleton Ravens. 

  • Attend faculty-specific events and learn traditions to help you connect with your classmates 

  • Attend the À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA) First-Year Fair to learn about your student association and win prizes  

  • Foodies prepare — keep an eye out at events for a variety of local food trucks 

  • A performance by fellow students about the ins and outs of university life, called To Be Honest: The Musical

  • So much more! 

Does orientation cost anything?

The Orientation Fee is included in your fall term fee statement in your Quest account. The cost is $137.67+HST. This covers your Orientation kit as well as 25+ events you’ll be able to attend! 

Not able to join?

If you cannot attend Orientation, please make sure to opt-out of the Orientation Fee through your Quest account prior to paying your fees. Please see the Undergraduate Important Dates Calendar for applicable deadlines to opt-out of your various refundable fees.  

I'm an international student. Are there orientation events to help me get settled in Canada?

International Orientation will take place August 28-29. At International Orientation you'll:

  • Learn about the services supporting you at À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ
  • Travel around the region to pick up essentials
  • Access immigration support
  • Learn about Canadian culture 

You can register for International Orientation at the same time you register for First Year Orientation. Once you register, event information will be available in your . There is no cost associated with International Orientation. 

How can I connect with other incoming students, upper year students and À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ staff before I arrive?

  • À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ Ready offers online events, including webinars and speed friending sessions, throughout July and early August. 

  • ¹ó´Ç±ô±ô´Ç·É  and . to learn more about campus life and connect with your campus community.  

Can I consume alcohol or drugs at Orientation events?

Orientation is a completely dry week (no alcohol/drugs). This policy applies regardless of age. Students found to be drinking before an event, at an event, or arriving intoxicated to an event, will not be allowed entrance, have their wristband removed, and Orientation privileges revoked for the remainder of the week.

We acknowledge that some individuals may not adhere to this policy. In that event, we encourage you to . Do not put your own or others safety at risk. In the event of an emergency, contact the Special Constable Service or call 911. Your dons are also trained to help you in the event of an emergency.

À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ Orientation is a partnership between the , the Student Success Office (SSO), and the University's six faculties.