Winter Exchange + Study Abroad Orientation

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: 

  • Connect with other exchange and students

  • Learn about Canadian culture 

  • Get to know the services, resources and opportunities Waterloo offers you 

  • Settle into your new home at Waterloo 

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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

  1. 2025
    1. Jan
      1. Day 1: Optional Drop in

        January 2

        Start your journey by visiting the Global Lounge at the International Experience Centre (IEC). While there’s no formal programming, it’s the perfect opportunity to meet your Global Learning Coordinators. They’ll be available to chat, answer your questions, and help with any necessary document signing. Don’t forget to stop by and say hello!

      2. Day 2: Information Sessions and Social Events

        January 3

        Participate in a variety of sessions designed to help you settle into your new environment, with topics including:

        • Canadian classroom culture
        • Course enrollment
        • Fees and wellness
        • Getting involved

        Afterward, join us for lunch and stay for an afternoon filled with fun social events. It's the perfect opportunity to meet and mingle with other exchange students. We’re excited to see you there!

      3. Day 3: Tote Bag Painting

        January 7

        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 8

        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.

      5. Day 5: Pizza Lunch

        January 10

        Celebrate the end of Orientation Week with a pizza lunch alongside your new exchange friends. It’s a great way to wrap up the week, enjoy delicious food, and reflect on the start of your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

DO I NEED TO REGISTER/ SIGN UP FOR EXCHANGE + STUDY ABROAD ORIENTATION?

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

DO I HAVE TO GO TO EXCHANGE + STUDY ABROAD ORIENTATION?

We strongly encourage you to attend Exchange + 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 + STUDY ABROAD ORIENTATION?

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

IF I REGISTER FOR EXCHANGE + 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 + 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 + 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 + 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 + 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.