Before You Arrive
- What is Welcome Week?
Welcome Week is UPEI’s official welcome to new students! It’s a week full of orientation sessions, social events, campus tours, faculty meet-and-greets, and opportunities to make friends before classes begin. Whether you’re coming from across the street or across the world, Welcome Week is designed to help you feel at home on campus.
- Do I need to register for Welcome Week?
Yes, you do!
You can register here: Welcome Week 2026 INCOMING Student Registration
Registering helps us plan events, food, swag, and activities so we can give you the best Welcome Week experience possible.
- What should I do if I arrive late to Welcome Week?
No worries! Life happens, flights get delayed, and travel plans change.
You can join Welcome Week activities at any point throughout the week. Check the schedule, find an event that interests you, and jump right in. There will always be someone happy to help you catch up.
- Is Welcome Week only for first-year students?
Not at all! While many events are designed with first-year students in mind, transfer students, international students, mature students, and even some returning students are welcome to participate in many activities.
- I’m an international student. Is there support available for me?
Absolutely!
UPEI offers dedicated support services for international students. Welcome Week is also a great opportunity to meet other students from around the world, learn about campus resources, and get familiar with life in Charlottetown and at UPEI.
Welcome Week Events
- Do I have to attend every Welcome Week event?
Definitely not!
Welcome Week is designed to be flexible. Attend the events that interest you most, try something new, and build your own experience. That said, we’d encourage you to attend as much as you can—you never know which event might introduce you to your future best friend, study group, or favourite campus tradition.
- Do I need to register for individual events?
Some events require registration, while others are drop-in.
Check the event descriptions carefully and keep an eye on Welcome Week communications for details.
- What should I bring to Welcome Week events?
Usually just yourself!
A water bottle, your phone, comfortable shoes, and a positive attitude are always good ideas. For outdoor events, dress for the weather—PEI has been known to give us all four seasons in a single day.
- Will there be food at events?
Many Welcome Week events include snacks, meals, or refreshments.
Check the event details for specifics. And yes, free food tends to attract a crowd, so arriving a little early isn’t a bad strategy.
- What happens if it rains?
Many outdoor events will move indoors or be adjusted if weather conditions require it.
Any changes will be communicated through social media, email, and Welcome Week updates. Rain may slow us down, but it won’t stop the fun.
- Can I bring a friend, family member, or guest to events?
It depends on the event.
Some activities are designed specifically for UPEI students, while others may welcome guests. Check the event description or contact the organizers if you’re unsure.
- Do Welcome Week events cost money?
Most Welcome Week activities are included as part of your student experience.
Occasionally, special events may have a fee, but any costs will always be clearly listed in the event description.
- Will photos be taken during events?
Yes, some Welcome Week events may have photographers or videographers present.
Photos and videos may be used for promotional purposes. If you have concerns about being photographed, please speak with event organizers.
Campus Life & Getting Around
- Where are my classes?
We don’t know just yet!
Final classroom locations will appear in MyUPEI closer to September. Once they’re available, you’ll be able to see the building and room number for each class.
Don’t worry if you get lost on your first day—it’s practically a UPEI tradition. Welcome Week leaders, staff, and fellow students will be happy to help you find your way.
- When do classes start?
Classes begin on September 8, 2026.
Be sure to check MyUPEI regularly for any updates to your schedule.
- How do I find my way around campus?
The campus map will become your best friend.
Take advantage of campus tours during Welcome Week, and don’t be afraid to ask for directions. Our Welcome Week leaders are experts at helping students find buildings, classrooms, and occasionally themselves. Not only that but another tab on our website has a specific Map for studens that show you our support services!
- I’m living in residence. Do I still attend Welcome Week?
Absolutely!
Residence programming and Welcome Week activities work together to help you meet people and settle into campus life. We encourage you to participate in both. Some events will even be right where you are in residence! So, keep an eye out!
- What if I don’t live in residence?
That’s completely okay!
Welcome Week is for everyone, including commuter students. Many events are designed to help all students connect and become part of the UPEI community, regardless of where they live.
- Where can I park on campus?
Parking information can be found through UPEI Parking Services.
If you’re bringing a vehicle to campus, make sure you understand parking regulations and permit requirements before classes begin.
- Is there a dress code?
Most events are casual.
Comfortable clothing and comfortable shoes are highly recommended. If you received a Welcome Week or UPEI t-shirt, wearing it on the first day is a great way to show your Panther pride and easily spot other new students.
Academics & Student Resources
- How do I get my UPEI student ID?
You can get your student ID through Student Services. You will have your photo taken at either the PAC or the Chi-Wan Young Sports Centre, and you’ll receive your student ID there.
Your student ID is your key to many campus services, including library access, exams, student discounts, and more. Watch your UPEI email for instructions about when and where to pick it up.
- How do I connect to UPEI Wi-Fi?
Connect to the network called eduroam.
Use the same username and password you use for Moodle and MyUPEI. Once you’re connected, you’ll have internet access across campus—and perhaps most importantly, you’ll be able to stop using your mobile data.
- What is the UPEI Student Union (UPEISU)?
The UPEI Student Union represents students and supports student life on campus.
They organize events, advocate for students, support clubs and societies, and offer various services throughout the year.
Learn more here:
UPEISU (UPEI Student Union)
- Where can I buy textbooks?
Textbooks and course materials can be purchased through the UPEI Bookstore.
Keep in mind that some courses use digital resources, while others may not require a textbook at all. Check your course syllabus before buying materials.
- How do I join clubs and societies?
One of the best ways is through the Back to School Fair, where you’ll have the chance to meet student clubs and organizations from across campus.
You can also browse opportunities online through:
Clubs & Societies – UPEISU
Whether you’re interested in gaming, volunteering, cultural groups, academics, sports, or something completely different, there’s probably a club for you.
- What if I need help finding a service on campus?
Whether you’re looking for academic support, health services, accessibility accommodations, residence assistance, or anything else, our Welcome Week leaders and staff can point you in the right direction.
If we don’t know the answer, we’ll find someone who does.
Health, Wellness & Support
- What if I don’t know anyone?
You’re in excellent company.
Many students arrive at UPEI knowing absolutely nobody. Welcome Week is designed specifically to help people meet each other, and chances are the person standing beside you is hoping someone says hello first.
A simple “Hi, what’s your name?” goes a surprisingly long way.
- What if I feel nervous or overwhelmed?
That’s completely normal.
Starting university is a major life transition, and it’s okay to feel excited, nervous, overwhelmed, or all three at once.
Take things one event at a time, give yourself permission to rest when needed, and remember that support is always available.
- What if I need a break?
Take one. Seriously.
University can be exciting, but it can also be exhausting. We have a rest station where you can grab a drink, find a quiet spot, take a walk around campus, or skip an event if you need to recharge.
Welcome Week isn’t a competition—it’s about helping you feel comfortable and connected.
- What if I feel sick during Welcome Week? What if I need medical assistance? Where can I find mental health and wellness supports?
The Health and Wellness Centre is located in the W.A. Murphy Student Centre (Building #3 on the campus map), second floor, north end.
Email: healthcentre@upei.ca
Phone: 902-566-0616
Whether you’re feeling physically unwell, experiencing stress, or simply need support, the team is there to help.
- Who do I contact for accessibility services?
If you require accommodations for Welcome Week activities or throughout your studies, contact Accessibility Services as early as possible.
Phone: 902-566-0668
Email: accessibility@upei.ca
Their team can help arrange accommodations and answer questions about accessibility supports available at UPEI.
- Who are the Welcome Week leaders?
Welcome Week leaders are student volunteers who help guide activities, answer questions, and make sure everyone feels welcome.
Think of them as your friendly campus experts. If you’re unsure where to go, what to do, or whether you’re in the right place, they’re a great place to start.
- Who can I ask if I have a question during Welcome Week?
Anyone wearing a Welcome Week Leader, Volunteer, or Staff badge is there to help.
No question is too small. Whether you’re trying to find a classroom, locate a washroom, or figure out where the free pizza is, we’re happy to help.
- Who do I contact in an emergency on campus?
To report an emergency or suspicious activity, contact UPEI Security Services immediately. Or if you have the UPEI Safe app — which we recommend EVERY student have — there are supports throught there!through
Security Services Dispatch: 902-628-4357
From an on-campus phone: Dial 0384
There are also blue emergency poles located throughout campus that provide direct communication with Security Services.
- How can I stay updated during Welcome Week?
Follow our social media channels, check your UPEI email regularly, and watch for announcements throughout the week.
If something changes, that’s where you’ll hear about it first.
- What’s the best way to get the most out of Welcome Week?
Say yes to opportunities.
Try a new activity, introduce yourself to someone new, attend events you normally wouldn’t consider, and explore campus.
You don’t need to do everything—but the more you engage, the more likely you are to find your people, your interests, and your place at UPEI. 🐾