Winter Exchange and Study Abroad Orientation | Welcome Warriors

Join us in January

You’re ready. You’re about to join a community of current exchange and staff, and we have numerous activities and events planned to help you feel right at home.

You'll have the opportunity to:

Learn about Canadian classroom experience
Get familiar with campus
Learn about what UWaterloo has to offer, and
Connect with other exchange students.

I really enjoyed the orientation days as well and the social activities! It was a great way to introduce WU and connect with other exchange students.

Mei Stagaard Therkelsen - DTU student from Denmark

Schedule

2026
1. Jan
  1. Day 1: Exchange Orientation Welcome
    
    January 5
    
    Start your journey by signing in to Exchange Orientation and joining the Waterloo Exchange Info Session. You'll have a variety of sessions throughout the day to get acquainted with your peers and learn more about Waterloo:
    - UHIP and Wellness session at 11:30 a.m.
    - Lunch with advisors at 12 p.m.
    - Learn how you can Get involved at 1:15 p.m.
    - Exchange Social at 2 p.m.
  2. Day 2: Hot Chocolate Social
    
    January 6
    
    Kick-off your exchange term and the cold January with a cozy Hot Chocolate Social!
  3. Day 3: Tote Bag Painting
    
    January 7
    - Drop-in and meet your Global Learning Coordinators to ask any questions you many have or just to say hello!
    - Get creative and join us for a tote bag painting session! Drop by to design your own tote bag and meet other exchange students in a relaxed and fun atmosphere.
  4. Day 4: Tea and Timbits
    
    January 9
    
    Warm up with cozy hot drinks and enjoy some tasty Timbits! Drop in to connect with fellow exchange students and make new friends in a casual setting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I Need to Register/Sign up for Exchange and Study Abroad Orientation?

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

Do I Have to go to Exchange and Study Abroad Orientation?

We strongly encourage you to attend Exchange and Study Abroad Orientation as it will get you set up for life in Canada with activities and sessions planned specifically for your needs.

Do I Have to Pay for Exchange and Study Abroad Orientation?

No, there is no additional fee associated with Exchange and Study Abroad Orientation.

If I Register for Exchange and Study Abroad Orientation, Do I Have to Attend Every Event?

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 Exchange and Study Abroad students in mind to make sure that you have a seamless transition and set yourself up for success at Waterloo!

I Won't be Able to Attend Exchange and Study Abroad Orientation Due to Visa/Study Permit Delays. Is There a Way That I Can Still Get This Information?

We host a Late Arrival Welcome a few days after the start of term for students who are unable to attend Exchange and Study Abroad Orientation. Keep an eye on your UWaterloo email for details once you arrive or reach out to studyabroad@uwaterloo.ca for details.

When Should I Arrive in Canada for Exchange and Study Abroad Orientation?

We recommend arriving before or on the morning of Orientation. Before you plan your flight, make sure that you can move into your accommodation when you arrive. Most leases begin on the first day of the month, 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.

Have questions? Contact us

Exchange + Study Abroad Orientation is a partnership between the Student Success Office (SSO), and the University's six faculties.