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Orientation

Welcome to YorkU - we're glad you're here!

Meet Normy the dragon - the Bethune College mascot

If you are a student in the Faculty of Science or Lassonde School of Engineering - welcome home to Bethune College!

What is a College at YorkU? “York is a big university. ​Colleges exist to help make a big university feel small. They are a place to study, hang out, and participate in a smaller, more intimate setting. They are a place where you can feel at home.” Learn more about the College system at YorkU.


Faculty of Science Academic Orientation

FAQs for Faculty of Science Academic Orientation @ Keele Campus

Your Academic Orientation is Thursday, September 3rd, 2026!

Save the date - more details to come.

  • Meet students, staff, and faculty from your program area.
  • Receive important information for getting started at YorkU.
  • Learn about programs and services available to support your YorkU journey.
  • Connect with other new students and your Peer Mentor.
  • Have a fun day!

Academic Orientation (1:00pm-5:00pm)

  • Willingness to participate in fun activities throughout the day.
  • Readiness to meet new people and take in new information.
  • Reusable water bottle - YorkU does not sell bottles of water on campus.
  • Something to capture notes/reminders with.
  • Small snacks will be provided during Academic Orientation - please bring additional food items with you as needed.
  • Pack light - you will be moving around throughout the day.

Optional Evening Programming (5:00pm-8:00pm)

  • At super time, you will have an opportunity to eat with your Mentoring Group. Please bring funds to purchase food on campus or pack a meal with you.
  • The evening Soccer Game is outdoors - pack any needed clothing or accessories for the weather.

Orientation Day is only for new students and you will not be able to bring a guest. Don't worry - you will meet lots of great people at your Orientation!

Parents, family members, and loved ones are invited to join in Parent & Family Orientation activities.

We've got you! Visit yorku.ca/orientation for details about Orientation for your Faculty or Campus.

Academic Orientation for Lassonde School of Engineering

Save the date! Tuesday, September 1st, 2026 & Wednesday, September 2nd, 2026


Social Orientation Week

Social Orientation Week 2026 runs from Sunday, August 30th - Sunday, September 6th.

Social Orientation is an optional (but highly recommended) week of activities hosted by your College Council full of great people and fun activities that you won't want to miss!

While most Orientation activities are free, there is a cost associated with Social Orientation Week. Find your Orientation Week now.


Orientation for Parents & Loved Ones

Is someone in your life starting their studies at York University? We're so glad you want to help!

Learn how you can support your student while they are at university through online resources and your very own Orientation event.


Population Specific Orientations

All new students are expected to attend their Academic Orientation. If you identify with any of the following populations, we encourage you to join in this additional session made just for you. We want to ensure that you are seen and feel welcomed.  


Summer Preparation Courses 

Summer Preparation Courses

The Faculty of Science offers Summer Transition modules for incoming students.

Math Background Quiz

This quiz is designed as a self-reflection tool to help you identify your mathematical strengths and obstacles


Orientation

Looking for Orientation programming? This is the place for you.

Start Strong YU

Important resources and essentials are compiled in one place for you here.

YU Start

Looking to enroll in your classes? Get started with course enrolment here.

Bethune College

Home base for Science and Engineering students. Learn about Bethune here.