New Student Checklist

Use the New Student Checklist to get organized and stay ahead as you prepare for university.

Before Classes Begin

  • Register for Welcome Week events and activities.
  • Contact your  to discuss your course options.
  • Get online! Set up your SMU computing account by obtaining an “” and SMU email to gain access to and 
  • Secure your account. on your account.
  • Apply for your University . You can pick your card up in September from the front desk of the Patrick Power Library. ID cards cannot be mailed. Please bring a piece of photo ID with you.
  • Connect with the  for student loan and other financial information.
  • Get connected with the SMU community! Talk to your Peer Success Coach, a student just like you who can help you with all things SMU.
  • Review your course registration and schedule details using .
  • Planning to live on campus? Apply or confirm your place in residence.
  • Students who require academic accommodations are encouraged to contact the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility to discuss their needs.
  • International students:
    • Contact the International Student Centre for help with settling into Canada, student visas and work permits, airport pick-up, and more.
    • : Ensure you arrange your airport pick-up in advance through the International Student Centre for a smooth arrival.
  • Download the SMUSafe App for important safety and closure alerts and provide instant access to campus safety resources.
  • Black and African-descended students: find supports, resources and the Black Student Advisor information on the Black/African Descended Community Hub
  • Indigenous students: find supports, resources and the Indigenous Student Advisor information on the Indigenous Community Hub.
  • 2SLGBTIQA+ students: find out about Pride at SMU, along with resources, supports and guides.

Your First Week of Class

  • Attend Welcome Week Events!
  • Attend your classes! Try introducing yourself to professors, TAs, and a few classmates.
  • Order your books and supplies at the .
  • Join a society based on your interests! Checking out the 
  • Pick up your through SMUSA and the SMUSA Info Desk in the O'Donnell Hennessey Student Centre. Students may be eligible to opt-out of the U-Pass and must opt-out during the opt-out period.
  • Learn about the  and download your plan card(s) on the . Students may be eligible to opt-out of the health plan during the opt-out period. Dependents can also be added to the plan(s) for an extra fee during this period. Contact healthplan.smusa@smu.ca with questions or to learn more.
  • Make sure to review your courses and finalize course registration details before the Add/Drop date
  • Review and pay tuition fees by the through the .