Jump Start

2026 program updates: We are excited to share that some exciting changes are coming to Jump Start this year. Details on this page may change — check this page later this spring, and keep an eye on your email inbox for the latest updates.

Why attend Jump Start?

Open to all new students beginning their studies at UBC this September, UBC’s flagship multi-day orientation is designed to introduce you to university life, your faculty, and new friends.

Make friends

Jump Start will help you connect with campus life, learn about opportunities available to you, and meet other new students. It’s a great way to make friends before classes start through a mix of fun social activities and academic workshops. 

Prepare to learn

Resources on campus: You will learn about support resources for a successful transition to university, understand expectations and policies specific to UBC, and connect with faculty members, staff, and other students who can support you throughout your time at UBC. 

Resources off campus: Build a sense of belonging at UBCO and in Kelowna by learning about the city and its resources and opportunities through our workshops and your Orientation Leaders. 

Academic skills: Our academic success workshops are designed to welcome you to UBC’s academic environment. You will engage in workshops that will teach you the skills to succeed at UBCO and give you the opportunity to connect with faculty members before classes start! 

Get organized

We get it—there are a lot of things to take care of before starting university, like buying textbooks and getting organized. You may also want to explore work and volunteer opportunities and find activities that interest you. By taking care of the essentials early, you’ll have more time to focus on what matters later. 

Move in to residence: If you are will be living on campus, you will be able to move into your residence room on the first day of Jump Start (Wednesday).

Access services: We’ll have service providers right on campus so you can set up your mobile phone, buy textbooks and school supplies, open a Canadian bank account, or meet with advisors and other student support services.

Whether you’re planning to live on- or off-campus, Jump Start is your official welcome to life at UBC.

Wherever you’re planning to live in your first year, Jump Start gives you the opportunity to arrive early, get to know your new campus, and make some of your first university friends. You can enjoy scheduled group events with your classmates along with flexible sessions presented by student leaders and other campus experts.

Are you entering first year at UBC Vancouver? Find information about Jump Start for UBCV students.

Program details

2026 program updates: We are excited to share that some exciting changes are coming to Jump Start this year. Details on this page may change — check this page later this spring, and keep an eye on your email inbox for the latest updates.

Join us on campus each day for Jump Start programming, and in the evenings for optional social events.

• Connect with other students in small groups
• Meet senior students in your faculty
• Meet and get advice from UBC professors
• Attend workshops and sessions designed for academic success
• Explore campus and Kelowna

Early arrival

If you need to arrive to campus prior to Move-in Day, please reach out to information@housing.okanagan.ubc.ca to determine if you qualify for early arrival.

Transportation

On the first day of Jump Start (Move-in Day), we provide an airport shuttle from the Kelowna International Airport (YLW) to campus throughout the day at no cost. Once you arrive at the airport, check in at our UBCO Jump Start welcome desk (you can’t miss us!) for shuttle assistance.