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. If you are an incoming international student, make sure you check out the International Student Support office for immigration assistance and travel information.
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.
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.
Pay your upcoming term invoice (tuition fees) by the due date to avoid late fees. Invoices are issued and can be found on LORIS once tuition fees have been assessed. Fees are assessed one month before the start of each semester.
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:
To register for and attend the sessions, make sure you set up your Laurier Zoom account. These sessions are intended for students starting Fall 2025.
So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendar, grab your favourite beverage and join us online.
Wednesday, June 4 from 7 to 8 p.m. ET on Zoom
Come celebrate the start of your graduate student journey! You'll learn about your next steps, meet your peers and get your questions answered.
Tuesday, June 17 from 9 to 10 a.m. ET on Zoom
View the recording!
In this webinar we cover important information about what documents to bring to the airport, getting to your campus, study permit conditions, work authorizations, health insurance, off-campus housing, and more!
Wednesday, June 18 from 7 to 8 p.m. ET on Zoom
View the recording!
You'll learn about internal funding options, from OSAP to bursaries to payment plans.
Thursday, July 10 from 7 to 8 p.m. ET on Zoom
View the recording!
Are you a student with a documented or suspected disability? Will you require academic accommodations at Laurier? If so, please join us for a live webinar hosted by Accessible Learning. Gain insights into how high school and university learning systems differ, how to register with Accessible Learning and what documentation you’ll need, and answers to lots of popular questions covering topics like funding, privacy, and Laurier's approach to individualized accommodation planning.
Monday, July 14 from 7 to 8 p.m. ET on Zoom
View the recording!
Learn about how to navigate the major external scholarship applications for students in doctoral programs.
Tuesday, July 15 from 7 to 8 p.m. on Zoom
View the recording!
In this webinar you'll learn about important housing terms, legally binding documents (i.e., the Standard Ontario Lease/tenancy agreement), subleases/sublets, search engines/platforms for off-campus student housing in Waterloo/Brantford/Milton, and how to avoid rental fraud/scams.
Thursday, July 24 from 7 to 8 p.m. on Zoom
In this webinar we will cover where to find your funding information, types of funding, understanding how you receive your funding, and an explanation of Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs), Research Assistantships (RA), and studentships.
Tuesday, July 29 from 7 to 8 p.m. ET on Zoom
Learn about academic supports and resources that past students have said were the most useful to know about early.
Wednesday, August 6 from 7 to 8 p.m. ET on Zoom
You're not in undergrad anymore! Here are some great tips about what you can do to survive the stresses and rigors of graduate school.
Thursday, August 21 from 7 to 8 p.m. ET on Zoom
Get excited, get to know each other, and we'll answer any last-minute questions you might have.
Fall Graduate Student Orientation is a chance for graduate students beginning their studies in September 2025 to engage with the graduate student community at Laurier. You'll have the opportunity to discover key strategies for success, learn about campus resources, and connect with fellow students, staff, and faculty.
Only register for the campus you will be attending in the Fall 2025 term since each orientation is customized for the campus/programs offered.
Date: Wednesday, September 3
Location: Research and Academic Centre
Registration is closed. If you’d still like to join us for Orientation, please email aspire@wlu.ca to check if space is available.
For International and Exchange Students Only. Join us bright and early at 8:30 a.m. for a great morning with a free breakfast, friendly faces, and fun connections. You’ll get the chance to meet your fellow international students, connect with our awesome team, and finally say hi in-person to your International Student Leader!
8:30 to 10 a.m.
One Market
Check-in, pick up your welcome pack, meet up with peers, get a snack, and prepare for the day.
9 to 10 a.m.
RCW lobby (Research and Academic Centre - West)
Public Service Alliance of Canada Local 902 is welcoming all new Graduate Teaching Assistants to Laurier! Join them to learn about the association and how they support your Graduate Teaching Assistant role.
9:15 to 9:45 a.m.
RCW202 (Research and Academic Centre - West)
Join us for opening remarks and a welcome from the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Dr. Brent Wolfe, to kick-off the day.
10 to 10:15 a.m.
RCE004 (Research and Academic Centre - East)
Building Everyday Resiliency with Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe
Join us for an engaging and inspiring session with Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe, a globally recognized speaker and scholar and an expert in resiliency, workplace wellness, and navigating stress. As one of the few educational behaviorists in the world, Dr. Hanley-Dafoe brings a rare blend of research-based strategies, powerful storytelling, and lived experience to help us better understand how to thrive in challenging times.
Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe will leave you feeling empowered and equipped to face adversity with confidence and clarity.
10:15 to 11:15 a.m.
RCE004 (Research and Academic Centre - East)
11:15 to 11:30 a.m.
Get to know your fellow graduate students, faculty, and staff and build connections across and within programs. It’s a great way to start forming your graduate community from day one.
11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
RCW lobby (Research and Academic Centre - West)
Join us for lunch, hosted by the City of Brantford's Mayor, Kevin Davis, and local councillors.
12:30 to 1:30 p.m.
Harmony Square
Meet some of the senior students in your programs and learn about their experience and strategies for success as graduate students.
1:45 to 2:45 p.m.
RCE004 (Research and Academic Centre - East)
Meet your classmates, program staff, and faculty, and learn about your program and supports available to you.
3 to 4 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
One Market Atrium
Date: Wednesday, August 27
Location: Zoom
Registration is required.
Please note: you must activate your Laurier Zoom account before registering for Orientation.
Join us for opening remarks and a welcome from the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Dr. Brent Wolfe.
7 to 7:10 p.m.
Get to know your fellow graduate students and build connections across and within programs. It’s a great way to start forming your graduate community from day one.
7:10 to 7:20 p.m.
Get an overview of key resources and departments for graduate students that you can access remotely.
7:20 to 7:35 p.m.
Learn about graduate school expectations, studying remotely, and how to stay well and succeed in your program.
7:35 to 8 p.m.
Meet your classmates, program staff, and faculty, and learn about your program and supports available to you.
8 to 9 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, September 2
Location: Lazaridis Hall
Registration is closed. If you’d still like to join us for Orientation, please email aspire@wlu.ca to check if space is available.
For International and Exchange Students Only. Join us bright and early at 8:30 a.m. for a great morning with a free breakfast, friendly faces, and fun connections. You’ll get the chance to meet your fellow international students, connect with our awesome team, and finally say hi in-person to your International Student Leader!
8:30 to 10 a.m.
The Turret
Check-in, pick up your welcome pack, meet up with peers, get a snack, and prepare for the day.
9 to 10 a.m.
Lazaridis Hall Atrium
Public Service Alliance of Canada Local 902 is welcoming all new Graduate Teaching Assistants to Laurier! Join them to learn about the association and how they support your Graduate Teaching Assistant role.
9:15 to 9:45 a.m.
LH1009 (Lazaridis Hall)
Join us for opening remarks and a welcome from the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Dr. Brent Wolfe, to kick-off the day.
10 to 10:15 a.m.
LH1001 (Lazaridis Hall)
Building Everyday Resiliency with Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe
Join us for an engaging and inspiring session with Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe, a globally recognized speaker and scholar and an expert in resiliency, workplace wellness, and navigating stress. As one of the few educational behaviorists in the world, Dr. Hanley-Dafoe brings a rare blend of research-based strategies, powerful storytelling, and lived experience to help us better understand how to thrive in challenging times.
Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe will leave you feeling empowered and equipped to face adversity with confidence and clarity.
10:15 to 11:15 a.m.
LH1001 (Lazaridis Hall)
11:15 to 11:30 a.m.
Meet some of the senior students in your programs and learn about their experience and strategies for success as graduate students.
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
LH1001 (Lazaridis Hall)
Get to know your fellow graduate students, faculty, and staff and build connections across and within programs. It’s a great way to start forming your graduate community from day one.
12:30 to 1:15 p.m.
Lazaridis Hall Atrium
1:15 to 2:15 p.m.
Lazaridis Hall Atrium
Choose your own adventure! Head to the resource fair to meet staff that support your journey, learn about programs and resources available to help you thrive, get tech support, pick up your OneCard, and/or head to your faculty/program events!
1:30 to 3 p.m.
Lazaridis Hall Atrium
Meet your classmates, program staff, and faculty, and learn about your program and supports available to you.
Wednesday, Sept. 3 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
LH2062 (Lazaridis Hall)
Wednesday, Sept. 3 from noon to 2 p.m.
45 Lodge St., Waterloo
Get connected with all the City of Waterloo has to offer! You are starting a new chapter of your life in Waterloo, join us for an evening of fun, food, and community. Discover your favourite new study spot, track down the Uptown businesses with the best student deals and find services that will help you feel at home in Waterloo.
Wednesday, Sept. 3 from 4 to 7 p.m.
Waterloo Public Square
For PhD Global Governance and Master of International Public Policy students.
Friday, Sept. 5 all day
Balsillie School of International Affairs
Friday, Sept. 5 from 1 to 4 p.m.
Wilf's
*Remember to check your student email for other orientation events!
For questions about graduate student orientation or your transition to graduate studies, you can connect with us at aspire@wlu.ca. Be sure to follow @lauriergradstudents on Instagram too and share your graduate student journey with us!
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! You can connect with us using the information below.
E: fgps@wlu.ca
T: 548.889.5574
