First Year Orientation

Orientation is your opportunity to build further connections with your classmates and other UWaterloo students, be introduced to the unique traditions at UWaterloo and in your faculty, and learn more about what Waterloo has to offer. You will also have the opportunity to get to know your campus and explore the larger City of Waterloo community. 

We think Orientation is an important part of your first-year experience at Waterloo - but don't just take our word for it!  

Orientation registration opens August 2026. Once you have confirmed your Orientation registration, your personalized schedule will be available in your Portal Calendar. New undergraduate students are encouraged to attend all days of Orientation. 

You'll have the opportunity to participate in exciting events and connect with fellow Warriors. Some things you can look forward to are: 

• Show your spirit in black and gold to support the Waterloo Warrior's varsity football team in their game against the Carleton Ravens. 

• Attend faculty-specific events and learn traditions to help you connect with your classmates 

• Attend the Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA) First-Year Fair to learn about your student association and win prizes  

• Foodies prepare — keep an eye out at events for a variety of local food trucks 

• A performance by fellow students about the ins and outs of university life, called To Be Honest: The Musical

• So much more! 

The Orientation Fee is included in your fall term fee statement in your Quest account. The fee will be posted in summer 2026. This will cover your Orientation kit as well as 25+ events you’ll be able to attend! 

Not able to join?

If you cannot attend Orientation, please make sure to opt-out of the Orientation Fee through your Quest account prior to paying your fees. Please see the Undergraduate Important Dates Calendar for applicable deadlines to opt-out of your various refundable fees.  

International Orientation will take place in August. At International Orientation you'll:

• Learn about the services supporting you at Waterloo
• Travel around the region to pick up essentials
• Access immigration support
• Learn about Canadian culture 

You can register for International Orientation at the same time you register for First Year Orientation. Once you register, event information will be available in your Portal Calendar. There is no cost associated with International Orientation. 

• Waterloo Ready offers online events, including webinars and speed friending sessions, throughout July and early August. 

• Follow @uwaterloolife and .@yourwusa to learn more about campus life and connect with your campus community.  

Orientation is a completely dry week (no alcohol/drugs). This policy applies regardless of age. Students found to be drinking before an event, at an event, or arriving intoxicated to an event, will not be allowed entrance, have their wristband removed, and Orientation privileges revoked for the remainder of the week.

We acknowledge that some individuals may not adhere to this policy. In that event, we encourage you to practice harm reduction. Do not put your own or others safety at risk. In the event of an emergency, contact the Special Constable Service or call 911. Your dons are also trained to help you in the event of an emergency.