Students at Orientation

New Student Orientation Events

We look forward to meeting you!

Events Overview

UCalgary’s two-day New Student Orientation is over two days, Thursday, Aug. 27 & Friday, Aug. 28, 2026.

Orientation 2026 is set to leave the bar high, as you'll experience staple UCalgary events. From the notable Pep Rally to the tasty Orientation BBQ and UCalgaryStrong Carnival – you'll not want to miss it!

Session Registration Details

  • All sessions are first come, first served.
  • Registration is open now.
  • No additional seats will be added, and no waitlists are available.
  • Only students who have successfully registered will be scanned and admitted into sessions.

DAY 1 - Aug. 27, 2026


Morning
 

Welcome and Pep Rally

 Join us for your official welcome to the University of Calgary!

Pep Rally

Get energized at the rally, meet your fellow incoming students, and practice your faculty chants. Don’t forget to pick up your faculty t-shirts and show your pride.

BBQ

Hungry after all that cheering? Lunch is on us!

Head to the TFDL Quad or Dining Centre Quad right after the Pep Rally for the New Student BBQ - free food, good vibes, and new friends guaranteed.

Students at the Pep Rally

UCalgary New Student Orientation 2026 is proudly supported by RBC on campus, our New Student Welcome & Experience Partner. RBC's generous investment helps create meaningful opportunities for incoming students to connect, build community, and begin their university journey with confidence.

RBC logo

Afternoon

Equip yourself with essential skills for your academic career, wellbeing, personal development and beyond for your next years at university.

Breakout sessions

U Need FRIES With That: Sex, Consent and Relationships on Campus

U Need Fries With That tells a hilarious, relatable, and heartfelt story about the experiences of four students as they enter their first year of university. The audience will be taken along for the ride as each character learns to navigate new friendships and roommate dynamics, experiences of adjusting to a new country, and explore deep personal questions about their identity. Students who attend the Welcome Ceremony and Pep Rally will also have the chance to win exclusive U Need Fries With That swag!

Speed-Friending: The Adventure Begins

In this activity, students will get to break the ice and have many, brief conversations with fellow students.  They will also learn a bit about how to overcome any shyness and worries that might get in the way of taking the first step in meeting new people at university.  Come on out, practice some social courage, and make some new connections with fellow students!

Set Yourself up for Academic Success

Classes start next week - so what do you need to do to start strong?

Join the team from the Student Success Centre to learn strategies to manage stress, organize your learning and efficient study habits. Using examples related to your courses, we will walk through how to approach your studies to have a successful semester

Not Just Free Popcorn: Get to Know Your Students’ Union

Join us to meet your Students' Union Execs and learn what the SU does for you. You'll leave knowing what supports and services are available, the advocacy we are engaged in on students' behalf, how you can get involved in the SU, and some exciting events coming up! You might even score some free popcorn too.

An Introduction to Generative AI for New University Students

Are you a new university student? Do you have questions about generative AI? This session will explore gen AI at UCalgary and help you understand your responsibilities as a student on proper gen AI use.

Designing Your UCalgary Experience

University is full of possibilities—but where do you begin? In this fun and interactive workshop, you'll explore your interests, imagine exciting futures, and map out different paths your UCalgary experience could take. Using Life Design activities, you'll dream big, reflect on what matters most to you, and create a plan for making the most of your time at university.

Learning That Sticks: The Power of Signature Experiences

Are you ready to try something new and shape a degree experience that truly reflects who you are and where you want to go? This workshop introduces students to the power of Signature Learning Experiences-high-impact opportunities that let you customize your academic journey through global experiences, entrepreneurial thinking, experiential learning, and undergraduate research.

Your Roadmap: Student Essentials

Discover the key steps to navigating your first year, from important dates to finding the right supports when you need them. Led by Enrolment Services, this session highlights the resources, people, and opportunities that will support you every step of the way. Whether you're feeling excited, unsure, or a bit of both, you’ll leave feeling prepared, empowered, and ready to make the most of your UCalgary experience.

Know Your Status: An Immigration Essentials Workshop for New International Students

New to Canada as a student? This workshop is designed just for you. We'll cover the basics of your study permit and immigration conditions, what it means to maintain your status, and how to navigate common situations you might face as an international student at UCalgary. Whether you just arrived or are still settling in, this is a great first step to feeling informed and supported.

New to Calgary: Your Essential Settlement Checklist

Whether you’re a domestic or international student, join us for a step-by-step walkthrough of important tasks to help you get settled and set up for success in Calgary.

Return to Learn: Navigating university as a mature student

Coming back to university after a time away from studies brings its own unique mix of excitement and questions. Join Shawna Bava, Director, Centre for Career & Personal Development for a conversation about the common experiences mature students face when returning to academic life. You'll walk away with practical strategies for managing the transition and have the opportunity to connect with peers. 

Panels

Staff-led panels

Meet your UCalgary support squad! Hear from staff as they answer a series of pre-prepared questions designed to help you navigate university life with confidence. 

  • Wellness 101: Taking Care of You at University- A Wellness Panel with Student Services Staff

Student Stories panels

Gain inspiration and insight from experienced UCalgary students as they share their personal journeys. Learn how they shaped their paths and get tips on how to start strong and make the most of your own. 

  • Real Students, Real Talk, Real Support: A Wellness Panel with UCalgary Students

Evening

Kick off the school year with the Dinos! This year, the UCalgary Dinos soccer team takes on the MRU Cougars at McMahon Stadium.

  • 3:30 p.m | Head to the TFDL Quad for the Students' Union checkpoint. Grab a drink, then follow our resident DJ and the music as we make our way to the soccer game!

  • 4:00 p.m. | Walk over to McMahon Stadium

  • 4:30 p.m |Kickoff with the Dinos! Who will take home the Orientation Cup?!

This event is FREE for all students – bring your friends and show your Dino pride!

Students at KICKOFF

DAY 2 - Aug. 28, 2026


Morning

Faculty Sessions 

8 a.m. – 12 p.m. (times vary across faculties)

Head to your faculty to meet your Deans, advisors, and supports. Get familiar with your program requirements and launch into your UCalgary journey.

The Great Dino Challenge

11–1 p.m.

Come ready to participate in this interactive scavenger hunt (using the Goosechase app) designed to help you explore campus, discover student resources, and connect with other students. Test your skills, make friends and compete for exciting prizes!

$10 all-you-care-to-eat at The Landing

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.


Afternoon

Step right up to the UCalgaryStrong Carnival

1–3 p.m.

Celebrate the start of your university journey with games, music, prizes, and more. 

Test your skills at a midway game, take a picture with friends, grab a sweet treat, and soak up the energy at the carnival.  

This is your chance to kick back, have fun, and make new memories.

Students getting a caricature done



Can't figure where to go?

Use our interactive tool to find specific locations on campus or ask someone wearing a red Ask me button.

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