Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orientation?

The mission of the Orientation Program is to create a positive educational and personal experience for new University of Alberta students.

Ultimately, the program will successfully aid in the transition of new students into university life and integrate them into the University of Alberta campus.

How does Orientation work?

When you get to campus on Monday morning, head to the room indicated in your confirmation letter or schedule.

Then, over the course of the next two days you and the other 20 new students in your team will experience the biggest and best Orientation yet.

With four fantastic presentations, a computer session, a campus tour and the loudest wrap-up ceremony in history, there is no better way to kickoff your University career.

When do I register?

Registration opens during the summer months and while it is best to register as soon as possible, we will accept registration online up until the days of Orientation. If you fail to register online, you may show up and register in person at Orientation.

I’m looking to get a head start on university life, is there anything for me?

Yes! Transition 2 University (T2U) is an online workshop designed to start your transition before you even get here! For more information visit www.ualberta.ca/t2u.

Why isn’t my faculty listed on the registration page?

• The faculties of Law and Medicine and Dentistry run their own student orientation programs and therefore students entering these programs do not attend High School Orientation or University of Alberta Exclusive (UAX).
• Augustana Faculty runs a New Student Conference at Augustana Campus in Camrose. For more information on the Augustana New Student Conference please click here.

Is attendance mandatory?

All new students are expected to attend. Orientation is a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and learn some of the 'ins and outs' of campus life.

Why is New Student Orientation two days long?

Orientation may be two days long, but with the amount of new material and essential sessions that new students need to attend, it's over before you know it. The tour and presentations are fun, energetic and well worth the time investment.

No need to worry about boredom: our program works on a rotating schedule, and you have an opportunity to customize your experience by selecting conference sessions.

Why is UAX only one day?

Mature and Transfer students are unique in that they already possess a lot of the learning and life skills vital to succeeding in the University environment.

Because of this, we can manage to fit everything they need to know into a half-day seminar.

If I’m a Mature or Transfer Student, can I come on either day?

No. Mature and Transfer Student Orientation takes place on one of either two days, depending on your faculty.

The sessions and schedules specific to your program will only take place on that day, so the days are not interchangeable. You can view your specific schedule here.

What do I have to bring?

Please bring your orientation schedule, class timetable and Campus Computing ID and password, which you will need during your tour and conference sessions as well as to access the computer systems. You can print this information off of Bear Tracks.

It is also advisable to pack a lunch if possible (there are over 50 food outlets on campus, but there will be 6,000 other people in line), dress for the weather and bring a backpack or bag to carry your SU handbook and other swag in.

What if I have more questions?

If you have any more questions please feel free to contact us.