Incoming Graduate Student Support

The weeks and months leading up to your first days of graduate classes are full of things to do and to take note of. Through Aspire programming, we're here to help you be prepared.

The incoming student page has important dates and resources to set you up for success. There are workshops that you can attend to learn about and connect with graduate support services.

On this page: 

You've Accepted Your Offer... Now What?

You've accepted your offer to graduate studies at Laurier, here are some next steps you can take to continue on your graduate student journey.

Register for Your Courses

Graduate course registration is now open. 

There are some things that you'll need to consider before course registration opens. Whether you're writing a thesis or doing the coursework options for your grad studies, preparation is key: 

Next step: Register for your courses on LORIS, Laurier's information system for all things registration and finances.

Explore and Apply for Funding

Whether you're pursuing a master's or PhD, navigating tuition payment can be overwhelming. That's why we've gathered some tips on how you can explore scholarships, bursaries and awards, and the steps you can take to apply for the awards.

For students with a funding offer, view and accept your funding on LORIS.

Preparation Checklists

Check off tasks for each month to make sure you're prepared for the start of the term.

August Checklist

Feel free to look ahead and complete tasks on future checklists. Missed a checklist? Don't panic, there's still time to catch up. 

Laurier Crash Course

The Laurier Crash Course your introduction to all things grad school. It is a series of webinars and workshops designed to equip you with the knowledge and resources you need to thrive in your graduate studies. Whether you're a seasoned researcher or a new scholar, we've got you covered.

Laurier Crash Course sessions are helpful to you so you can:

  • Learn how to make the most of your grad school experience.
  • Meet other grad students, which can lead to collaborations and valuable insights.
  • Feel more confident navigating the challenges of grad school – from writing your thesis to presenting at conferences.

To register for and attend the sessions, make sure you set up your Laurier Zoom account.

So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendar, grab your favourite beverage and join us online.

Laurier-branded notebook next to laptop.

Attend Graduate Orientation

Graduate Orientation is a chance for you to get to know the graduate student community. We'll cover everything you need to know and provide you with success tips and resources.

Check out the snapshot of our schedule for the campus you're planning to attend. To see full details and to register, select the registration link.

Online

Aug. 28, 2024 at 7 p.m. ET

Register for online orientation


Learn about services and resources available for students studying in online/remote program.

In this two-hour session, you'll learn about resources available to you to support your graduate studies and meet some of your peers, staff and faculty in your program.

Waterloo

Sept. 3, 2024

Register for Waterloo orientation


Registration and Morning Reception
 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
 Turret

PSAC Welcome
 9:15 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.
 Paul Martin Centre

Opening Remarks, Keynote and Workshops
 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
 1E1

Lunch
 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
 Senate and Board and Paul Martin Centre

Graduate Student Support Resource Fair and Program Welcomes
 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
 Upper Concourse

Brantford

Sept. 4, 2024

Register for Brantford orientation


Registration and Morning Reception
 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
 TBD

PSAC Welcome
 9:15 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.
 RCE202

Opening Remarks, Keynote and Workshops
 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
 TBD

Mayor's Lunch
 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
 TBD

Academic Program Welcomes
 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
 TBD

Connect with Us

For questions about graduate student orientation or your transition to graduate studies, you can contact us at gradorientation@wlu.ca

Once you begin your academic journey at Laurier, take the opportunity to connect with us in the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (FGPS) Office! Be sure to follow FGPS' social media accounts and share your graduate student journey with us.

E: fgps@wlu.ca

T: +1 548 889 5574

Book an appointment.

Aspire logo against patterned background