Meet your Graduate Student Association
We're excited to introduce you to your Graduate Student Association (GSA)—the official representative of graduate students at the University of Waterloo. The GSA provides services and community for you and advocates for the betterment of the graduate student experience at Waterloo.
What services does the GSA offer?
The GSA provides a range of supports and services, including legal and income tax aid, supplementary health and dental coverage, transit passes, academic advising, and more.
How does the GSA advocate for you?
From affordable housing initiatives to graduate worker unionization to the creation of an Ombudsperson Office, the GSA is working on many fronts to improve the quality of education, academic experiences, and social relations for you. Learn more about GSA's resources.
How can I connect with the GSA?
For questions about accessing GSA services or navigating university policy processes, fill out their contact form or drop by their office in the Student Life Centre, SLC 3222, to get the assistance you need!
Interested in getting involved with the GSA during your graduate studies? Explore current opportunities to get involved or connect with your departmental GSAto learn about opportunities within your department.
Visit the Graduate House
Owned and operated by the GSA, "Grad House" is a social hub for graduate students to enjoy a home-cooked meal, meet with peers and colleagues, or just spend some time away from the office or lab. There are always events taking place, and if you opt-in to pay your Grad House fee, you'll be eligible for grad student pricing and free coffee throughout your term.
BIPOC Student Collective
The BIPOC Student Collective is a new virtual space that centres the academic and social experiences and needs of Black, Indigenous, and POC (People of Colour) graduate students. Facilitated over Discord, the group aims to:
- serve as a safe space for BIPOC 2SLGBTQIA+ students;
- foster intergenerational support and mentorship between faculty and students;
- facilitate peer-to-peer support between graduate students and undergraduate student-led equity deserving groups; and
- identify opportunities for professional and academic development.
Mark your calendar
Here's what's coming up:
| Date | Event | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Apr 3+ | Enrol in classes | Graduate students can enrol themselves in classes using Quest from April 3, 2023 to May 28, 2023. Review the schedule of classes to find out which courses are being offered. |
|
Apr 6 |
International students' webinar | Hear from members of the immigration consulting and international student experience team and learn about supports and services available to you as an international student. |
| Apr 7 | University holiday closure | University offices are closed for Good Friday. |
| Apr 24 | Tuition and fees due | Deadline to opt out of optional and voluntary fees and have a "Fees Arranged" status on Quest. |
| May 3 | Welcome with GSPA and GSA webinar | Hear the latest updates from the Associate Vice-President, Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA) and the Graduate Student Association (GSA). |
| May 8 | Classes begin | Check your course schedule in Quest. |
That's all for now, but keep an eye out for another update next week!