Laurier 101: Spring Start Incoming Student Support

From the moment you accept your offer through to your first week of classes in May – and beyond – we’re here to support you.

Laurier 101 is a campus-wide program designed to help you and your supporters prepare for life at Laurier, both inside and outside the classroom.

We’ll guide you through the course registration process, share resources to help you navigate university learning, and introduce you to what it means to be part of the Laurier community. Stay connected and stay golden as you get ready for your start this spring. We can’t wait to meet you!

Take a sneak peek at what’s coming this season and get excited as you prepare for May.

We've Got You!

Laurier's network of student support is here to help you navigate the steps to becoming a Golden Hawk, so you arrive feeling prepared to thrive.

Our Student Success team will walk you through what you need to do before your first day of classes. 

Students walking on Waterloo campus in summer

Your Spring Start Checklist

Your first day of classes is May 4, 2026.

Laurier Logistics

 Submit your final official documents to admissions.

 Activate your MyLaurier student email account (password sent to personal email).

 Activate your Laurier Zoom account.

 Upload your picture to OneCard photo.

 Explore off-campus student housing options.

 Apply for OSAP.

 Register with Accessible Learning (if applicable).

 Install Microsoft Office 365 for free.

Course Registration

 View the Course Registration Guide and Academic Calendar to determine your program requirements.

 Visit the Incoming Transfer Students webpage to learn how transfer credits fit within your degree (if applicable).

 Watch the Course Registration Playlist or email laurier101@wlu.ca for course registration support. Virtual appointments available as needed.

 Register in your courses on LORIS. You can register for courses about 48 hours after you accept your offer of admission.

 Pay your Tuition and Fees by the first day of classes.

Prepare for Your First Day

 Purchase textbooks and course materials.

 Join LOCUS to connect with your community of off-campus students (if applicable).

 Check out the Students' Union to learn more about clubs and associations.

 Familiarize yourself with the students.wlu.ca website.

 Learn about academic support resources on campus like Math and Course Support, Writing Support, and Study Skills Support.

 Attend Orientation events.

Preparing for University

Spring Welcome: Start Strong in May

The Spring Welcome: Start Strong In May webinar is designed to help make the transition to university life easier by reviewing everything you need to know before you start your classes in May. We'll chat about what to expect from your first lecture, how to effectively navigate MyLearningSpace, and why your syllabus is the most important resource for each course. You'll also be introduced to the resources and services available to support you in your first term at Laurier.

Registration link will be provided soon.

Accessible Learning: Accommodations for Students with Disabilities

Are you a student with a documented or suspected disability? Did you use academic accommodations in high school? Will you require academic accommodations at Laurier?

If you answered yes to any of the above, you will want to watch the recording of our Accessible Learning: Accommodations for Student with Disabilities webinar. You will gain insights into how high school and university learning systems differ, how to register with Accessible Learning and what documentation you’ll need. You will also get answers to lots of popular questions covering topics like funding, privacy, and Laurier's approach to individualized accommodation planning.

Watch the recording.

University Preparation Resources and Modules

Before you start your courses make sure to complete the University Preparation Modules. These self-paced modules are designed to help you build a strong foundation for academic success and feel ready to make the most of your time at Laurier.

Modules include: Academic Preparation, University Calculus Readiness, Academic Integrity, Generative AI Literacy, and Consent is Golden 101

Laurier 101 Blog

Four of your Laurier 101 hosts: Anne, Ella, Hailey, and Leah know you have lots of questions about starting at Laurier, and they have the answers!

Check out our Laurier 101 Blog, where they share their experiences as senior students about things they wish they knew when they were in first year.

Students lying on grass with notebooks and laptops

Spring Orientation

Spring Orientation is your chance to join the Laurier 101, Students' Union and LOCUS teams throughout the month of May as we welcome you for the spring term.

If you are a first-time student this term this program is for you. 

Orientation dates for spring 2026 are coming soon

Parents and Supporters

(Psst! Students! Share this info with your parents and supporters).

Your student's first year at university will no doubt be a journey of many new experiences, and we know that you are eager to support them through each milestone. We have all the information you need to support your student.

Want to stay in the loop as your student begins their Laurier journey? Subscribe to our monthly Parents and Supporters Newsletter

Parent and student hugging

Stay Connected

Let's share the #LaurierLove with other incoming students. Follow Laurier's social media accounts to see what our community is up to. 

 @Laurier
 @wilfridlaurieruni
 @LaurierStudentSuccess
 wilfridlaurieru
 Wilfrid Laurier University
 LaurierVideo

Still have questions? Send us an email at laurier101@wlu.ca.

Four students taking selfie