Moving into residence is an exciting milestone, and we’re here to help make your arrival as smooth as possible. This page includes everything you need to prepare for move-in day, including information on arrival times, parking, key pickup, check-in and things to bring.

On this page

Review the general information for moving in to residence and use the navigational links to easily access specific sections on this page. 

General information

Before you arrive for move in

The official move-in period runs from September 3 to 5, 2026. But if you’re assigned to an 8-month residence, you could choose to move in as early as August 19

Before selecting your move-in date, be sure to review the information for your residence and planned arrival period. Move-in procedures, available services and campus operations might vary depending on when you arrive. 

Before arriving on campus, make sure you’ve completed the following: 

  • Sign into the Housing Portal and select your arrival time slot before August 31. Choose quickly since it’s first-come, first-served. 
  • Save a digital or printed copy of your arrival pass (in the Housing Portal) once you’ve completed the pre-arrival process. 
  • Order your uOttawa student card before August 9. 
  • Review what to bring to residence
  • If you have any roommates and have received their contact information, reach out to discuss your moving-in plans. Note: Not all residents agree to share their contact information before move-in. 
  • Download the uOttawa safety app, SecurUO

Documents you need to bring: 

  • Your arrival pass 
  • A government-issued photo ID 
  • Your student information (student number) 
  • Your student card if you have it already — if not you’ll get it when you check in. 

Early move-in: August 19 to September 2

Find move-in information by selecting your residence. Note that there is no move-in on August 23, 30 and 31.

Move-in instructions: September 3, 4 and 5

Late arrivals: September 6 and later

If you plan to arrive on or after September 6, report to the following areas: 

  • Rideau Residence: Rideau reception 
  • Friel Residence: Friel reception 
  • All other residences: 90U reception 

Once you’ve moved in

If you have one or more roommates, you might be the first to move in. Remember that your roommates could arrive days or even weeks later. Please keep common spaces clean and uncluttered, and use only your assigned bedroom and designated storage areas so everyone has space to settle in comfortably. 

Contact Housing Services

Client services

90 University Private, Room 143
Ottawa ON, K1N 1H3

613-562-5885
1-888-564-4545 (Canada/United States)

[email protected] 

Assignment and Off-campus housing

90 University Private, Room 145
Ottawa ON, K1N 1H3

May 8, 2026 to August 7, 2026 
9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

August 10, 2026 to May 7, 2027 
9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Closed on weekends and holidays

613-562-5885
1-888-564-4545 (Canada/United States)

[email protected] 

Summer accommodations

Group reservations:
613-562-5800 ext. 4424
[email protected]

Individual reservations:
1-888-564-4545 (Canada/United States)      
[email protected]

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