Kickstart Fall 2026 with Confidence!
Our new GradForward series at York University offers a comprehensive lineup of 30-minute virtual sessions designed to support both incoming and continuing graduate students. Scheduled from September 8 to September 11, 2026, these sessions cover essential topics such as scholarships and awards, graduate funding, academic integrity, professional skills development, student affairs, and effective use of graduate portals. Led by experienced faculty and staff, the series aims to equip students with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate their graduate studies successfully. All sessions are free and accessible via Zoom, providing an excellent opportunity for students to engage with the University's support services and build a strong foundation for their academic journey.
TOPIC: Scholarships & Awards
DATE: Wednesday, September 9, 2026
TIME: 10:00 am - 10:30 am ET
Host Team: Graduate Awards & External Scholarships
Details of Session: In this session, learn about information on awards, scholarships and other financial sources that you can apply to through the Financial Aid, Awards and Scholarships (FAAS) system at York.
TOPIC: Graduate Funding
DATE: Wednesday, September 9, 2026
TIME: 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm ET
Host Team: Graduate Finance & Funding
Details of Session: In this session, learn about information on funding graduate education, scheduling an appointment with your Graduate Funding Advisor, and the Financial Aid, Awards and Scholarships (FAAS) system at York.
TOPIC: Academic Integrity & Professional Skills Development Opportunities
DATE: Thursday, September 10, 2026
TIME: 10:00 am - 10:30 am ET
Host Team: Graduate Academic Affairs
Details of Session: In this session, learn about the mandatory Academic Integrity Module for new graduate students and related resources to assist you in your new academic journey. Building off these, the session will then focus on helpful resources and involvement opportunities to support your academic and career goals, including the Graduate and Postdoctoral Professional Skills (GPPS) program and the Individualized Development Plan (IDP).
TOPIC: Graduate Supervision
DATE: Monday, September 10, 2026
TIME: 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm ET
Host Team: Graduate Supervision Support Hub
Details of Session:In this session, learn the roles and responsibilities of both students and supervisors in fostering a productive and professional academic relationship.
TOPIC: Graduate Student Wellness Services
DATE: Friday, September 11, 2026
TIME: 9:00 am - 9:30 am ET
Host Team: Graduate Student Wellness Services
Details of Session: In this session, learn about FGS' Graduate Student Wellness Services and how it aims to support and enhance your mental health and well-being during your studies.
TOPIC: Navigating Graduate Portals for FGS Processes
DATE: Friday, September 11, 2026
TIME: 11:00 am - 11:30 am ET
Host Team: Continuous Improvement
Details of Session: In this session, obtain a walk through our graduate portals and discover how to use them for specific FGS processes.
TOPIC: Student Affairs
DATE: Friday, September 11, 2026
TIME: 1:00 pm - 1:30 pm ET
Host Team: Graduate Student Affairs
Details of Session: In this session, learn about the key processes and policies that impact you around registration, graduate milestones, and processes like petitions. Get a brief look at some key timelines you will experience as a graduate student.
