Fall 2026 is around the corner, and Niagara College is preparing to welcome students back to campus with a range of start-of-term activities and supports designed to help them transition smoothly into NC life.
Fall Orientation is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 8, with classes beginning Wednesday, Sept. 9 at both campuses (unless otherwise noted by the program area).
Program information sessions
Program information sessions will take place on Orientation Day (Sept. 8) at both campuses. These sessions are a key opportunity for students to prepare for their academic journey and will cover:
- Course overviews, Teaching Learning Plans (TLPs), required supplies, and expectations for the first day of classes
- Navigation of Brightspace and student responsibilities for academic success
- Co-op information (where applicable), including how to secure placements, use the MyCareer portal, and connect with Co-op Consultants
- Answers to any outstanding questions before classes begin
To learn more about program information sessions, click here.
Pre-Orientation programming
A variety of virtual and in-person sessions are available throughout July and August to help students prepare in advance of their first day of classes.
Virtual Pre-Departure sessions:
Hosted by Student Engagement, these sessions support international students as they prepare for their first semester and life at NC. Students can explore services, ask questions, and build confidence ahead of arrival.
Fall 101:
An overview of everything students need to know to get started at NC, including Orientation, TLPs, and ways to get involved in student life.
Timetable support sessions:
Students can attend Timetable Help Sessions and Timetable Selection 101 for step-by-step guidance on selecting and understanding their timetable, with opportunities to ask questions and receive support.
Communication Tools 101:
An introduction to Brightspace, the MyNC portal, and student email, including a live Q&A.
For more information about Pre-Orientation sessions and to register, click here.
KickSTART returns with a new format
KickSTART will return with an updated format this year, running from August 24 to Sept. 4. Each day will focus on specific academic schools and program areas, giving students the opportunity to connect with classmates ahead of Orientation.
Designed to help students “kickstart” their success at NC, the program allows them to complete key pre-term tasks early, including:
- Picking up student ID cards
- Registering lockers
- Visiting the campus bookstore (Welland campus)
- Learning key college systems (Brightspace, MyNC, Outlook)
- Participating in campus tours and locating classrooms
- Meeting peers and building connections
Each session will include a dedicated check-in, icebreakers, a Communications 101 learning session, campus tour, and academic advising session.
While students participate in sessions, Student Engagement will also host informal parent and supporter sessions from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. These sessions provide parents and supporters with an opportunity to learn more about the NC student experience, ask questions and connect with others who are supporting students through the same transition, helping them feel informed and confident as their student begins their NC journey
By attending KickSTART, students can reduce wait times on Orientation Day and start the term feeling prepared and confident.
Academic schools are encouraged to get involved by joining icebreaker sessions, connecting with parents and supporters, or engaging with students during campus tours.
For more information or to participate, contact Michelle Silk at [email protected].
For more information about KickSTART, including the full schedule, and to register for a session, click here.
Transition Peers program
The Transition Peers program will return in mid-August, connecting new students with experienced peer mentors (Level 2+) during the final two weeks of August and the first four weeks of September. These volunteers help students navigate campus resources, answer questions, and build a sense of belonging as they adjust to college life.
Additional information will be available closer to the program’s launch here.
Submit your Orientation events
Departments hosting events during the first week or month of the Fall term are encouraged to submit their events for inclusion in official Orientation listings. Events can also be shared on NC Engage, the College’s student engagement app, to increase visibility and participation.
To submit an event or learn more, contact Marilia Welter, Student Engagement Coordinator, at [email protected].
Employees are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these programs and supports to help guide students to the resources they need for a successful start to the term.
Learn more about NC’s Orientation and start-of-term activities and programming here.
