Resources to Help You Prepare for University

The universities offer different programs and supports for many types of students. The resources on this page can help you adapt to life and studies at university.

Note: Eligibility criteria may vary by program.

This list is not definitive. Contact the appropriate university directly for more information.

York University

Career Centre

Career Services
Grade 12 Student; Admitted Student; Current University Student

York University's Career Centre is a team of professionals who work with you as a student and as a new graduate (up to 2 years after graduation) in the development of career self-management skills. We recognize diversity as a source of strength, and strive to create an environment that values inclusion and embraces the unique backgrounds and perspectives. We are committed to ensure you feel respected and heard.

Access workshops, programs, one-on-one appointments, networking events, career fairs, an online job board and other resources to help you clarify career goals and find professional opportunities.

Centre for Indigenous Student Services (CISS)

Other
Indigenous Individual

Centre for Indigenous Student Services (CISS)

The Centre for Indigenous Student (CISS) Services strives to create a sense of belonging and to support the academic, spiritual, physical, and emotional well-being of a diverse Indigenous student population. We provide a safe community space that offers culturally appropriate support services and programs to facilitate your success throughout your studies. 

Recognizing that our Indigenous students are from all corners of Turtle Island, we welcome and encourage all who self-identify as Indigenous to register with CISS to access our services and programs.

As a member of CISS, you have access to a variety of support services provided below:

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

  • Learning Skills and Career supports
  • Advice and Referrals
  • Writing Instruction

SPIRITUAL SUPPORT

  • Elder-On-Campus Program
  • Learning Skills and Career supports
  • Advice and Referrals

CULTURAL SUPPORT

  • Cultural Workshops include beading, moccasin, ribbon skirt, and hand drum making
  • Indigenousl Sharing Circle (Mentoring) Program
  • Tipi Site

PHYSICAL SUPPORT

  • Resource Room and Study Space
  • Photocopying, Faxing, and Printing Services
  • Access to Computers
  • Laptop Lending Program
  • Kitchen Facilities
  • Skennen’kó:wa Gamig

Community Safety

On-campus Services
Grade 12 Student; Admitted Student; Current University Student; Equity-seeking Individual; Indigenous Individual; Parent or Supporter

We take a holistic and intersectional approach to safety that reflects the diverse experiences of members of our community.  We are committed to working proactively to build safe and inclusive campuses.

Community Safety works closely with other departments and community partners to maintain safe and inclusive campuses through  a variety of progarms and services. 

goSAFE

goSAFE teams accompany York community members to and from any on-campus location, such as the Village Shuttle pick-up hub, parking lots, bus stops or residences. They will strive to meet you at your pick-up location within 10 minutes of your call and will gladly wait with you until your bus or transportation arrives or your car starts. Please note that children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

YorkU Safety App

Designed for York U students, faculty and staff, the free app provides one-stop access to all of the University’s safety resources, including a direct call to campus security and goSAFE, as well as information regarding the campus shuttle and other campus safety-related services.

Push notifications and the safety alert feature allow York University to communicate campus emergencies directly and immediately with users.

Blue Light Emergency Phones

Connect directly with Security or goSAFE using one of the Blue Light Emergency Phones located across campus. They are equipped with a blue light that flashes to make them highly noticeable when activated. Interactive maps of the Glendon and Keele campuses are available that include emergency phone locations.

Student Accessibility Services (SAS)

Other
Pre-Grade 12 Student; Grade 12 Student; Admitted Student; Current University Student; Equity-seeking Individual; Indigenous Individual; Parent or Supporter

Student Accessibility Services provides support and accommodations to students living with mental health, physical, sensory, medical and/or learning disabilities (who might have had an individualized education plan in high school).

Transitioning to University

We offer a variety of programs throughout the year to help you along with your family and support team to plan and prepare for the transition from high school to university. View Pre-University workshops and information sessions for students and families by visiting our website

Register with SAS

To explore your eligibility for academic accommodations at York and/or the Bursary for Students with Disabilities, you are encouraged to register with us as soon as you accept your admission offer and set up your Passport York account.

Visit the New to our Office page to learn how to register with us.

Student Community & Leadership Development

Orientation
Admitted Student; Parent or Supporter

Student Community & Leadership Development (SCLD)'s team is committed to help you get the most out of your university experience. 

We offer an array of tools, guidance, programs and workshops to ensure your growth and engagement in student life including:

  • YU START - our online new student transition program that will support you in learning about course enrolment, services and student life at York. 
  • Your York University orientation program 
  • York's student leadership program
  • Student clubs and organizations (350+)
  • Student government
  • And much more!

 

Student Counselling, Health & Well-being (SCHW)

Health and Wellness
Grade 12 Student; Admitted Student; Equity-seeking Individual; Indigenous Individual; Parent or Supporter

Our dynamic team of health care professionals, peer health educators and support staff collaborate to provide a range of health and well-being services that foster academic success, student development and an engaged community at York University.

The primary aim of SCHW is to support you in realizing and developing your personal potential, while managing the demands and changes that come with university life.

Student Counselling, Health & Well-being offers walk-in counselling, education and counselling groups, workshops, crisis support, mental health consultation and community referrals.

YU Prep

Other
Admitted Student

YU Prep is a series of online modules and workshops designed for incoming first year students. Developed and taught by York University instructors and student services professionals, YU Prep modules invite you to explore, study and engage with different subjects to support your successful transition to university. 

Modules are open to students of any program and provide a mix of academic instruction, skill-building and personal development opportunities. Choose subjects that support your interests and individual learning goals. 

Black Excellence at York University (BE YU)

Other
Equity-seeking Individual

BE YU provides Black students with supports to transition to university and maximize their student experience on the path to graduation. BE YU offers the following services: Mentorship, professional development workshops, professional opportunities and scholarships, financial literacy workshops and social events.

The success of Black students is our focus. We work hand-in-hand with campus partners and the York community to offer workshops, events, activities, and services aimed at enhancing the Black student experience. BE YU also connects students to student-led clubs and associations, faculty, staff, and services that promote Black excellence, a sense of community and connection.