Frequently Asked Questions
Just can't get enough SGS? If our FAQs don't have the answer, you can also check out the SGS Facebook Page for more updates and information!
NEW STUDENT GROUPS
How do I find a student group to join?
Log on to BearsDen, and look at the organizations list to search for groups by name, description, or even common interests! If you still can't find the group you want, send us an email to see if we know of any groups that might fit your bill. If we can’t help you find one, we can help you start one!
How do I start a student group?
The first step is to make sure that you aren't duplicating another group on campus. Ask around, but most importantly: check BearsDen! Once you've logged in with your CCID and password, click on "Organizations" in the top tool bar to navigate the full list of current active student groups. If you find a group that is already doing what you have in mind, click on the "About" tab on their profile page to contact them about joining!
If you don't see a student group that already exists in the niche you're interested in, head back to the "Organizations" page. On the left-hand side underneath the tool bar, there will be a grey "REGISTER" button with a clipboard icon. Click on that, and fill out this form. Some things you'll need before you can register to be an officially recognized group:
- at least 10 U of A students that want to be in the new club
- a mission statement or other short description of the mandate of your club
- a constitution
You can find the full list of requirements and regulations, as well as some handy resources, on our Registration page!
Is there a deadline to register a new group?
No: New group registrations are processed in a rolling deadline. It is easiest for us though, if you register as close to your intended elections month as possible! If your group needs a rush on registration, please come talk to us to see what we can do for you. Note: Registration for new groups may be put on hold during our highest volume registration period, usually in April - May. Keep your eye on our social media, subscribe to our newsletter, or check the Registration page for updates.
Okay, I've submitted an application. Why isn’t my student group showing up when I search them on BearsDen?
New Organizations will not show up on BearsDen searches until the registration has been approved. If your new student group has been approved, and is not showing up in BearsDen searches or on the Organization list, please contact us! It is likely a clerical error with switching your group’s organization type in the database.
EXISTING STUDENT GROUPS
START HERE. Then come back if your question hasn't been answered: it's probably below!
Does registering my club with the University mean that my club is a charity or registered non-profit organization?
No. There are some student groups that are affiliated with charities recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), and some student groups that are, themselves, charities that are recognized by the CRA, but registering for club recognition does not grant charitable organization status. For more information on how you can register your club with the Alberta Societies Act, click here; for information on how to get your club recognized as a charity with the Canada Revenue Agency, click here.
I'm trying to reduce waste and make my group's operations more sustainable. Any tips?
Definitely! Our fellow Students' Union Service, Sustain SU is a great resource for your group. Sustain SU can provide you with information on sustainable practices, tips on waste reduction around campus, and reusable dishes for your events. Contact Sustain SU for more tips and tricks.
Can I get a website or email address for my group?
Once your group is registered for the current year, please visit the IST website to set up a CCID for your student group. The process is now completely online! Send a request to IST.
I have no idea what I'm doing.
That's totally okay. Drop by our office and we can have a chat - if your executive left you with no contact information for your bank, we can look it up. If you have no idea how to access your group's website, we'll help you out. If you've lost your 45-page constitution to some demon-virus on the internet, we'll help you get a new one going. If SGS can't help you, we'll be able to find someone who can - so don't hesitate to send us an email, give us a call, or drop by the office!
Phone
780-492-9789
Email
clubs@su.ualberta.ca
09:00am - 5:00pm
Monday to Friday
Student Group Services Office
0-81 Student Life Central
Students' Union Building
University of Alberta
8900 - 114 Street NW
Edmonton, AB
T6G 2J7
