Undergraduate frequently asked questions

Participating in Waterloo Ready

How do I register for Waterloo Ready in Portal?

Did you know you register for ALL Waterloo Ready events at once in Portal? We've created one convenient registration space.

  1. Log into the Portal using your WatIAM credentials. Make sure to add "@uwaterloo.ca" at the end of your WatIAM username.

  2. Select all the sessions that interest you. This could include your Faculty Ready Day, Waterloo Ready webinars, Virtual Speed Friending and more.

  3. After choosing the events that suit you best, click "Next."

  4. Complete the registration questions and click "Submit Registration."

How do I access a virtual event after registering on portal?   

You must register in advance to access online events. After you register on Portal, there are two ways to access a virtual event.

Check your email

To find the event link in your email inbox, check the reminder email from Portal (prtladmn@uwaterloo.ca) for the session link.

The reminder email will be sent to your Waterloo student email address at 7:30 a.m. the day before the event. Click on the session link to join the event.

Note that if you have registered for multiple events, the event link will be different every time. 

Check Portal

To find the event link on Portal, follow these steps:  

  1. Select the Calendar icon to navigate to the calendar function
  2. Select My Calendar
  3. Select the date of the event (e.g. July 25)  
  4. Click on the event (e.g. Virtual Speed Friending)  
  5. The event link will display in a pop-up window  

How can I prepare for an in-person Faculty Ready Day?

FRD

Parking lot location and a high-level schedule of the day are posted on each Faculty Ready Day event page.

Before the event, you'll receive two emails with additional information:

  • A general email with suggestions about how to prepare and what to bring.
  • An event reminder specific to your faculty event with parking information and a detailed schedule.

If you have additional questions, please contact us.

How do I access my Waterloo Ready modules? 

LEARN modules will open on Monday, July 6, 2026. Log into LEARN with your WatIAM username and password to start exploring faculty-specific Waterloo Ready modules. 

Only students who have accepted their offer and been matriculated in the University’s records will be able to log in. LEARN access is updated weekly based on these records. 

If you’re unable to log in right away, try again the following week. If you’re still unable to access LEARN, contact us for help.

Getting ready for September

What is Two-Factor Authentication and how do I set it up?

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your University accounts by requiring you to verify your identity using a second factor (like your phone or other mobile device). You are encouraged to enrol in this service using the Duo Mobile App for the most secure and convenient 2FA experience. 

How do I access my @uwaterloo.ca student email?

As a new undergraduate student, your Microsoft 365 account will be auto-created once you matriculate in late June. To activate your student email, follow the instructions for accessing your Microsoft 365 account.

What does it mean to become "fees arranged"?

"Fees arranged"  means you have shown the University how you intend to cover your fees for the term and have made a commitment to pay all fees charged to your student account, even if financial aid is denied or reduced. Review how to become fees arranged for instructions.

How do I get Proof of Enrolment for my Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP)?

Once you officially select/enrol in courses for the upcoming term, you can produce your Proof of Enrolment letter in Quest. This letter will confirm your name, student number, program information and enrolment status. You can submit this Proof of Enrolment letter directly to your RESP company.

How do I get my WatCard?

Your  WatCard  is your official student identification card. It offers you access to services both on and off-campus. Apply online to pick it up when you arrive on campus. Please bring a piece of physical government-issued photo ID (not a photo copy or photo) during pick up. 

Please note: before applying for your WatCard, you must activate your @uwaterloo email account.

What does the WUSA Health and Dental plan cover? 

Full-time and part-time undergraduate students are automatically covered by the WUSA Health and Dental Plan. This includes international students, co-op students on officially recognized work terms, and students attending Waterloo on exchange. 

The WUSA Dental and Health Plan allows you to access a variety of health professionals and receive coverage for prescription drugs, vaccinations, diagnostic services, and medical equipment. Your plan also extends to vision coverage, travel coverage, dental care and a mental health and wellness support service, Empower Me. Review who's covered.

Please note: during the change-of-coverage period at the beginning of the term, you'll have an opportunity to opt-out of the plan (if you’re already covered by an equivalent health plan) or enrol your spouse/dependent children.  

Learn more about student extended health and dental insurance plans.

I am a BASE/iBASE student. What does that mean for me?

As a Bridge to Academic Success in English (BASE) or Intensive Bridge to Academic Success in English (iBASE) student, you are invited to all Waterloo Orientation and Waterloo Ready events.

Please note: iBASE students may not be able to attend some Waterloo Ready events as they may happen during your class time in the summer. Your Student Experience and Housing team at Renison will let you know which events you can attend.

BASE and iBASE students are encouraged to attend both International Orientation and First Year Orientation.

Accessibility

Where can I find accessibility information for in-person Faculty Ready Days?

Detailed accessibility information such as closest accessible washrooms, noise level, lighting and more is available in Portal. You can find it while or after you register. 

While you register

  1. Navigate to the registration form in Portal.
  2. Select the Faculty Ready Day in-person session you wish to attend.
  3. Select the question mark icon next to the session. This will open a pop-up window with event details, including event-specific accessibility information.

After you register

  1. Log into Portal.
  2. Select "Calendar" from the menu (on the left side of the screen on the desktop website). 
  3. Use the arrows at the top of the calendar (beside the name of the month) to navigate to the date of your Faculty Ready Day. You should see the event in the calendar. 
  4. Select the event to open a pop-up window with event details, including event-specific accessibility information.

What if I need academic accommodations?