1. Know your student number
Your nine-digit student number is included in your admission acknowledgment email, which also contains your uoZone login information. Keep it handy. You’ll need your student number often throughout your studies.
2. Enrol in your courses
After accepting your offer, enrol in your courses. Enrolment for fall 2026 and winter 2027 starts on May 19. To help you through the process, the regional mentoring team offers virtual support sessions during the week of May 11.
Information sessions on transfer credits are also offered from February to July for students who have received (or may receive) credits for studies in CEGEP or at another post‑secondary institution.
Learn more about course enrolment
Learn more about transfer credit virtual information sessions
3. Access your uOttawa email account
Your uOttawa Microsoft Outlook email account becomes active within 48 hours of you enrolling in at least one course. The University will use this account to communicate with you, so activate it as soon as possible and check your inbox regularly to stay informed about key updates and deadlines.
To access your uOttawa email account for the first time, sign in to uoZone using the uoAccess credentials in your admission acknowledgment email, and then select Open my @uOttawa.ca email account in the “Email” section.
Learn more about IT support for students
4. Register for academic accommodations (if needed)
If you have a temporary or permanent disability, you might be eligible for academic accommodations to support your learning. This could include adjustments that allow you to write exams, access course materials or participate in class. If you think you might need this support, email the Academic Accommodations Service at [email protected] as soon as you’ve enrolled in your courses, to get everything set up before the term starts.
Learn more about how to register for academic accommodations
5. Arrange housing
Whether you plan to live in residence or off campus, it’s important to plan ahead.
If you want to live in residence, there’s a separate application process and key deadlines apply. Once you’re admitted to residence, the uOttawa Housing team will follow up with information about room assignments, life in residence, contracts, insurance and move‑in dates.
If your preferred residence is full by the time you want to apply, or if you prefer to live off campus, we also provide resources to help you search for housing in the community.
Meal plans are available to all students, offering either unlimited Dining Hall access or the option to add funds to your uOttawa card and pay only when you eat on campus.
Learn more about on-campus housing and how to apply
Learn more about off-campus housing options
Learn more about student meal plans
6. Submit a photo for your uOttawa student card
After you’ve enrolled in your courses, submit your photo online so we can create your student card. You’ll need this card to move into residence and as your campus ID. It will give you access to public transit (U-Pass), the Dining Hall, the library, printing services and the gym, and you can use it as a debit card on campus. You can pick up your card when you arrive.
Learn more about how to submit a photo for your student card
7. Connect online with your regional student mentor
A student mentor from your region is here to support you. Having gone through the same experience you’re going through, your mentor can share practical advice and insights.
Starting on June 24, you can book a one-on-one online appointment with your regional mentor to discuss your plans, ask questions and receive personalized guidance. Not sure what to ask? Many students book a chat just to talk through what to expect. Choose a time that works for you and connect with the mentor for your region.
Regional mentors also offer orientation sessions in July and August, with tips on what to expect, what to pack and how to settle into the campus and city. You’ll receive full details by email when registration opens.
Book an online appointment with your mentor
8. Get to know your campus
Finding your way around uOttawa is easy. The University has three campuses: the main campus, the Lees campus (Faculty of Health Sciences) and the Roger Guindon campus (Faculty of Medicine), connected by a free shuttle bus. Explore our interactive campus map to get to know the buildings and campus layout.
Regional mentors offer campus tours for new students in July and August, so you can discover where your classes are, learn to travel between buildings and get comfortable on campus before the term begins. When booking your tour, be sure to select “Yes” to the question “Will you begin your studies at uOttawa in Fall 2026?” so you’re registered for the correct tour.
Find your way around campus with our interactive map
Learn more about the uOttawa shuttle bus
9. Register for the Airport Welcome
If you’re arriving by air, sign up for our Airport Welcome at the Ottawa International Airport. From August 17 to 28 (8.30 a.m. to 8 p.m. EDT), uOttawa current students will be there to greet you, answer your questions and help you get settled after your flight.
Register for the airport welcome
10. Update your personal information in uoZone
Make sure all your personal details in uoZone (login required) are accurate and up to date before arriving on campus. This includes your contact information (such as phone number and mailing address) and your emergency contact details. Keeping this information up to date enables the University to reach you quickly and helps ensure your safety and well‑being throughout your studies.
