Get Ready

What should I do before classes begin?

Congratulations on joining UCalgary, we're glad to have you be part of our community! As you gear up for the start of university, learn about expectations, opportunities, services and timelines before you arrive.

Download your first-day checklist
Student on a laptop

First Year Resource Guide (FYRG)

Your FYRG will be your go-to for information about academics, extra-curricular opportunities and personal wellness at the university.  Each module will focus on a different aspect of university life and will get you ready for what’s in store for you at UCalgary. Learn more UCalgary insider tips on the FYRG launching July 16! In the meantime, be sure to complete your IT account registration and get started with D2L.

IT account registration
New Student Registration Assistance team

New Student Registration Assistance (NSRA)

The NSRA is a service offered by a team of upper year students who will be assisting all incoming students until August 29. Whether in-person or online, they will help you understand and plan for course registration.

Book an appointment
Students sitting outside in the summer

Summer Series

Get to know your supports on campus as a student at UCalgary! These Pre-Orientation events will be crucial in your transition to university this summer as you’re introduced to UCalgary student services and more.

View upcoming sessions

UCalgary Essentials

IT Username

Your IT username is what you'll use to log in to your UCalgary email and D2L. You'll also need it to register for courses, pay your fees, and more. Setting up your account is crucial for incoming students as this will give you access to the First Year Resource Guide (FYRG).

Set up your IT username

Desire2Learn (D2L)

Desire2Learn is UCalgary’s online learning management system for students. D2L is where you’ll find course content, submit assignments and take quizzes for all of your classes.

Get started with D2L

Unicard

Your Unicard is your campus identification card. You’ll need it for writing exams, accessing the library and the gym, using your meal plan and more.

Find out where to get your Unicard

UPass

If you're a full-time student, your tuition includes a UPass, which is an unlimited transit pass. To get your UPass, you’ll need to get your Unicard first.

Find out where you can get your UPass

New student checklist

Check-out your “First Year Resource Guide" in D2L

Don't forget to visit your FYRG on D2L. Once you’ve set up your IT username and have gotten started with D2L, you’ll be set to go!

Log in to D2L

Register for Orientation

Gear up for the start of classes by meeting other students in your cohort. Come and learn all about academics and the campus community through events, workshops and more.

Check back at a later date with Registration opens.

Get involved now

Connect to your First Year Resource Guide:

  1. Sign into the course by visiting D2L.
  2. Log-in using your UCalgary IT username and password
  3. Once on the homepage, click on the square grid icon at the top next to the notification icon.
  4. In the drop-down menu, click "Your First Year Resource Guide" for access.

FAQ section for parents and guardians

Whether this is your first time navigating university life or you are a seasoned supporter, we have gathered key resources and information to help guide you through this transition. Here, you will find important links, deadlines and checklists to keep you informed and connected.

Encourage your student to complete the pre-arrival checklist.

Download the Pre-First Day checklist

Download checklist

Residence Services has prepared some information on how to best prepare and what to bring, find it here.

Book a campus tour here.

Visit the Student Experience and Support (SES) website to understand how units on-campus support and enhance various aspects of student life and wellbeing.