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.

Paying Your Tuition Fees

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.

Preparation Checklists

Check off the tasks in each category before you start to make sure you're prepared for your first day!

Set Up Your Tech

Campus Essentials

Funding and Financial Aid

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. These sessions are intended for students starting winter 2025.

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

Brantford

Tuesday, Jan. 7 | 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

One Market, OM100

Register for Orientation!


Find out more information about Orientation on the Registration webpage.

Online

Wednesday, Jan. 8 | 7 - 9 p.m. ET

Zoom

Register for Orientation!


Find out more information about Orientation on the Registration webpage.

Waterloo

Friday, Jan. 10 | 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Senate and Board Chambers

Register for Orientation!


Find out more information about Orientation on the Registration webpage.

Connect with Us

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

Aspire logo against patterned background