Graduate Student Orientation
Welcome to the University of Guelph! Congratulations again on your admission to graduate studies at the University of Guelph! We’re excited to welcome you to our vibrant graduate community.
Starting graduate school is an exciting milestone, and Orientation is designed to help you transition smoothly into graduate studies. Throughout September, you'll have opportunities to meet fellow students, connect with faculty and staff, discover campus resources, and learn about the services and opportunities that will support you throughout your graduate studies.
Your Orientation Roadmap
As a new graduate student, you'll likely participate in three complementary orientation experiences. Each is designed to help you succeed in different ways.
University-Wide Graduate Student Orientation
Hosted by the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
This University-wide orientation brings together new graduate students from across the University and all academic disciplines. It's an opportunity to:
- Connect with graduate students from across a wide range of graduate programs and disciplines.
- Learn about graduate student services, scholarships, and professional development opportunities.
- Meet campus service providers and discover the resources available to support your academic, professional, and personal success.
Program & Department Orientation
Hosted by your College or Academic Unit
Your College and/or academic unit may also organize a program-specific orientation. These sessions provide important information about:
- Your graduate program and degree requirements
- Academic expectations
- Faculty and staff members, departmental resources, and community
If you haven't yet received details, please contact your Graduate Program Coordinator or Graduate Program Assistant of your program.
Welcome Activities by the Graduate Student Association (GSA)
The Graduate Student Association welcomes new students through a variety of social events, networking opportunities, and activities throughout the semester.
Visit the GSA website to learn more about upcoming events and ways to get involved.
OGPS Graduate Student Orientation Fall 2026
What You'll Experience
During the Orientation, you will:
- Hear from University leaders as they officially welcome you to the University of Guelph and share their vision for graduate education.
- Discover scholarships, funding opportunities, professional development programs, and student supports available throughout your graduate studies.
- Meet campus partners and learn about the services and resources available to help you succeed.
- Build connections with graduate students from across the University through interactive activities and informal networking.
- Enjoy complimentary coffee and lunch while continuing conversations with your new graduate community.
Date, Time, & Location
Date: Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Peter Clark Hall (PCH), Basement, University Centre
Lunch: TBC
Schedule
9:00 am – Coffee, Refreshments & Campus Partner Fair
10:00 am – Opening, Welcome from Indigenous Initiatives
10:10 am – Welcome from the President and Vice Chancellor
10:20 am – Welcome from the Assistant Vice-President, Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
10:30 am – Campus Partner Presentations
11:00 am – Interactive Group Activity
11:15 am - Campus Partner Presentations
11:50 am – Closing Remarks
12:00 am – Lunch
Prize Giveaways
Register and attend for your chance to win:
- One $500 Tuition Credit
- Five $100 University Bookstore Gift Cards
- One University of Guelph Hoodie
Register Today
To help us prepare for lunch and the event, please register in advance.
