International Orientation 2024

Yes, you will need to register for International Orientation. Keep an eye on your UWaterloo email for more information on how to register.

We strongly encourage you to attend both International Orientation and Waterloo Orientation. International Orientation will get you set up for life in Canada with activities and sessions planned specifically for your needs; while Waterloo Orientation will help you get connected with your faculty and the greater Waterloo campus. Both orientations have some once-in-a-lifetime events that you don't want to miss! 

No, there is no additional fee associated with International Orientation. 

If you identify as an International Student beginning your undergraduate studies at UWaterloo, then you are eligible for International Orientation! This includes students who:

• Are Canadian Citizens but spent most of their life outside of Canada
• Completed high school in Canada but hold citizenship from another country
• Completed high school outside of Canada
• Are completing a BASE or iBASE program.

Students who are studying at the University of Waterloo on an International Exchange/Study Abroad term and have completed one or more years at an institution in another country are not eligible for International Orientation and should register for Exchange Orientation.

International students in graduate programs (Master's, PhD or other) should register for Grad Orientation.

You don't have to attend every event, but we strongly encourage that you attend as many as you can! These events are carefully planned with the needs of international students in mind to make sure that you have a seamless transition and set yourself up for success at Waterloo!

We will be hosting a Late Arrival Welcome in late September for students who are unable to attend International Orientation. Keep an eye on your UWaterloo email for details once you arrive or reach out to ise@uwaterloo.ca for details in September. 

We recommend arriving on or before August 31, however if you arrive on September 1 or 2, you will be able to join in on the fun and attend Waterloo Orientation. Before you plan your flight, make sure that you can move into your accommodation when you arrive. Most leases begin on September 1, so you may need to book a short-term accommodation if you arrive before this. If you are living on-campus, connect with Campus Housing to secure your move-in time slot.