Transition and Orientation | Orientation activities and resources for new students

Welcome to York University

Looking for orientation & transition programming? You're in the right place.

New Student Transition Programming
What Is Orientation?
Get a Taste of Orientation
Work/Study Kickstart Mentorship Program
Volunteer

Need a change of pace and a moment to relax? Meet new people, make connections, and have a break. Recharge with our fall and winter transition programming. Open to all current York students.

Check out our complete schedule below for dates, times, event descriptions and registration links.

Throughout the fall and winter we will be offering:

Movie nights
Crafting events
Games nights
and more!

Orientation happens two times throughout the academic year, once in the Fall term and another in the Winter term. Fall Orientation takes place near the end of August to the beginning of September, usually the week before classes begin. Winter Orientation, also known as Frost Week, takes place in January. Each orientation gives you the chance to connect with other students, get familiar with your academic program, and make long-lasting memories.

Orientation at York University features many events and programs, including:

Academic and faculty-specific orientations so incoming students can meet their peers and find out about faculty-specific resources.
Information sessions about accessing university services and support to assist your academic journey.
Social programming and activities throughout the week to facilitate friendships and fun!

Work/Study Kickstart - two girls working at a desk with pen and paper.

Interested in getting career-ready before classes begin? Join our Work/Study Kickstart Peer Mentorship program! This 6-week virtual program is designed to help you build confidence, develop job-ready skills, and receive support as you prepare for on-campus job applications and interviews. Along the way, you’ll be guided by experienced upper-year peer mentors and career staff and learn more about York’s Work/Study program. Register by June 26 to secure your spot!

Ready to get involved?

Join the Student Community & Leadership Development Volunteer Program!

Our volunteer program is designed to help York students build meaningful experience, strengthen leadership skills, and contribute to a community that makes a real impact. Whether you’re looking to develop your resume, explore new interests, or meet new people, this program gives you the opportunity to grow personally and professionally.

Learn more

Quick Links

College Finder

Social Orientation

Make new friends, become comfortable at York and make the most of your university experience. Join the fun at Social Orientation, as offered by your College/Faculty. During this week-long event, you’ll have the option to participate in a wide range of social activities including sports challenges, carnivals, live performances and fun trips. You’ll discover there's no better way to meet new people and familiarize yourself with York University than to attend O-Week. Find your Orientation Week now.

Academic Orientation

Academic Orientation is hosted by your faculty, based on the undergraduate program you are in. It is mandatory to attend. Academic Orientation consists of sessions where you can meet fellow students and faculty members, as well as learn more about your academic program and resources available to you at your faculty and across the university. Explore Academic Orientation now.

Priority Communities

Behind all our efforts is a dedication to decolonization, equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Whether you identify as:

we want to ensure that you are seen and feel welcomed.

Residence Orientation

Residence Orientation is a mandatory orientation for all incoming students living in residence. It consists of various social and educational activities that contribute to a memorable residence experience. Sessions will include explaining resources and support available to residence student, as well as the chance to meet other students living in the same residence.

Learn about living at York

Parents & Family

Parents, families, and guardians - learn how you can support your student while they are at university.

Join the Community

2027 Winter Orientation

Jan 4
Jan 5
Jan 6 - Winter Welcome
Jan 7
Jan 8

Winter Welcome: Winter Orientation Day

Kick off the new semester with Winter Welcome — your gateway to an exciting and successful start at York!

January 6, 2027
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Vari Hall Rotunda

Winter Welcome brings together campus partners, student services, and college teams to help new and returning students discover the resources, opportunities, and supports available at York.

Whether you're looking to connect with academic departments, find involvement opportunities, or learn about essential student supports, this event is your one-stop welcome hub.

Music, interactive activities, giveaways, sponsor booths, and tons of free snacks and drinks to keep you energized. Meet student leaders, staff, and peers who are here to support your journey and help you feel at home on campus.

We can’t wait to welcome you!

2026-27 Fall/Winter Student Transition Programming

Movie Nights
Crafts
Game Nights

Movie Night: Project Hail Mary

Get ready for an out-of-this-world movie night!

Project Hail Mary

October 21
4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Ross N102 Nat Taylor Cinema

Come enjoy snacks, games, and giveaways! Whether you’re bringing friends or flying solo, this is the perfect way to get cozy for fall and kick back after classes.

Halloween Movie Night: Obsession

Kick off the spooky season!

Obsession

October 28
4:30 -7:30 p.m.
Ross N102 Nat Taylor Cinema

Come and enjoy snacks, games, and a chance to win prizes at our Reptilia-sponsored event.

Movie Night: Hunger Games The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

With mid-terms all finished and you deserve a break!

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

November 18
4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Ross N102 Nat Taylor Cinema

Kick back and relax with some free snack and beverages to enjoy with a fun movie night.

Winter Movie Night

With the weather getting colder and the days getting shorter. You deserve to take a break and enjoy a peaceful evening off.

January 21, 2027
4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Ross N102 Nat Taylor Cinema

Snuggle up with a blanket and sip on some free hot chocolate.

SCLD's Spooky Craft Corner

Drop by our kiosk for a Halloween and fall-themed craft session! Get creative with origami and colouring, make something festive, and take a break from your day.

October 28
Vari Hall Kiosk
12 –2:00 p.m.