New Students | Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies

New Students

Welcome, New Graduate Students

Congratulations on your admission to graduate studies at the University of Guelph. This guide will help you complete key steps, stay organized, and prepare for campus life.

Use this page as your starting point and return to it throughout your first term.

Start here: Complete the steps below as early as possible. Some items may depend on your program, student type, or admission conditions.
Step 1

Before You Register

Start with the essentials.

For everyone

Understand your program road map

  • Review the Graduate Calendar for program requirements, course descriptions, academic policies, and key deadlines.
  • Use the calendar to plan your courses, understand your responsibilities, and stay on track to complete your degree.
  • Connect with your faculty advisor or department or school before choosing courses.

If this applies to you

  • Provide official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions listed in your admission offer.
  • Transcripts must be sent directly from the issuing institution in a sealed envelope and show courses taken, grades received, and degree conferred.
  • If your final transcript does not show that your degree has been conferred, provide an official letter confirming that degree requirements are complete and stating the convocation date.
  • If you are completing, or have completed, a degree at the University of Guelph, the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies will obtain your final official transcript on your behalf.
  • If your degree is still in progress, submit an official interim transcript and a Registrar's Office letter confirming completion of degree requirements and the date your degree will be conferred. Once received, your final transcript deadline may be extended until after convocation.
  • New international course-based master's students admitted from Fall 2026 are required to pay a $2,000 CAD tuition deposit before registering for courses.
    • The deposit applies to your first semester and is not required if you previously studied at the University of Guelph or Guelph-Humber.
    • The deposit is applied to your tuition balance and is non-refundable unless your study permit is denied. Review the preferred payment methods and the Student Financial Services website for details.
  • Apply for your study permit as soon as you receive your Offer of Admission. As of 2026, Provincial Attestation Letters, or PAL/TALs, are not required for master's or PhD study permit applications in Canada.
  • Review the pre-arrival checklist through International Student Experience. For immigration advising, email gpsadvisor@uoguelph.ca.
  • Student Housing Services offers on-campus options for graduate students.
  • As of 2026, newly admitted international graduate students who are new to U of G and enrolled in a master's program are guaranteed on-campus housing for the duration of their studies. International PhD students are guaranteed on-campus housing for their first year only.
  • Review the How to Apply to Residence page for details.
  • Off-campus options are available through Off-Campus Living and the Guelph Campus Co-op.
Step 2

Registration

Complete your academic and financial setup.

For everyone

Complete academic integrity training

  • All new graduate students, and returning students after withdrawal, are automatically enrolled in UNIV 7100, Academic Integrity for Graduate Students.
  • The online course opens on the first day of scheduled classes.
  • Complete the course by the 20th class day. Review the Academic Integrity Course Guide for details.

Register for courses

Review fees and funding

Additional situations and resources

If you are in a Non-Degree program, you cannot register for courses through WebAdvisor. Complete a Graduate Add/Drop - Course Waiver Request and submit it to your department for signature and submission to Enrolment Services.

The McLaughlin Library supports writing, studying, presentations, research, scholarship, and data skills. Graduate students can also book research carrels and study offices through the Library website.

Some graduate programs and courses are fully online or blended. Use CourseLink to access course materials, submit assignments, and connect with instructors and classmates. Additional support is available through Continuing Studies online learning.

Step 3

Get Ready for Campus Life

Set yourself up for a smooth start.

For everyone

Keep your address updated

  • Keep your address information current in WebAdvisor.
  • University mail is normally sent to your academic department while you are a registered graduate student.
  • If you are studying at a distance, are part-time, or cannot access your department mailbox, you may request that mailings be sent to an alternate address.

Get your Campus Card

  • Your Campus Card is your official University of Guelph identification card.
  • It gives you access to services such as the Library, Athletics, residence services, meal plans, and the bus pass.
  • Request your Campus Card online and pick it up from the Campus Card Office in the University Centre, Level 0.

Attend graduate orientation

Graduate Orientation helps you meet other students, explore campus, learn about services and resources, and prepare for graduate school. Sessions offered by the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies and by academic units typically take place in September. Watch your email for details and registration information.

Explore student supports

  • Student Experience and campus partners offer support for leadership and engagement, equity and inclusion, Indigenous student supports, health and wellness, multi-faith services, academic skills, career planning, and family care responsibilities.
  • Connect with campus services and the Graduate Students' Association.
  • If you have family care responsibilities, resources are available to help you balance your academic goals with parenthood or family responsibilities.

Settle into life in Guelph

Guelph is known for safety, green spaces, and a strong sense of community. Learn more about living in Guelph, including transportation options and community resources.

Need help?

Complete your next steps early, explore available resources, and connect with your program department. If you have questions about your graduate program at the University of Guelph, email gradonln@uoguelph.ca.