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Parents and family newsletter - September 2026
We’re excited to welcome both new and returning students (back) to campus this month! Whether your student is beginning their academic journey or working toward finishing their degree, Carleton has many resources to help them along the way. From academic resources and career planning tools, to supporting their wellness and getting involved in the community, there are many ways for your student to have a fulfilling academic year!
Important Dates and Deadlines
Mon. Sept. 7, 2026: Statutory holiday. University closed.
Tues. Sept. 8, 2026: Academic Orientation Day. Mandatory for first year undergraduate students.
Wed. Sept. 9, 2026: Fall term begins.
Tues. Sept. 22, 2026: Last day for registration and course changes (including auditing) in full fall, late fall and fall/winter courses.
Wed. Sept. 30, 2026: Last day to withdraw from full fall term and fall/winter courses with a full fee adjustment (financial withdrawal).
Refer to the academic year calendar for all upcoming important dates.
Ask Me - We're Here to Help
Faculty, staff and student leaders are ready to answer all your student’s questions about campus and Carleton! Your student can ask anyone wearing red Ask Me buttons questions about where their class is, how to navigate the tunnels or where to go for lunch. We’re all here to help.
Get Connected, Stay Connected
We’re here to keep your student connected to news, events and services to support their Carleton journey.
Students are encouraged to download or update Carleton Mobile, Carleton’s official mobile app for current students, to stay up-to-date with the latest student news and events, view class schedules and receive push notifications for emergencies, grades, class and exam changes, and campus life updates.
Carleton360 is the complete student experience hub. Using single sign on, Carleton360 gives students the ability to move between Carleton Central, cMail and Brightspace, in addition to accessing key services, without re-entering log in credentials.
First Year Connections
When students arrive at university, it helps to know there's someone to welcome them. First Year Connections matches first-year students with upper-year peer mentors who can answer questions, share their experiences and help students feel connected as they begin their Carleton journey. Registration is free and open until Thurs. Sept. 10, 2026.
Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)
If your student has applied for Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) funding, visit the Current Students website for information about disbursement, course load or academic progress requirements.
Budgeting for Student Life
Managing finances as a student can be challenging, but the Awards and Financial Aid Office has a list of online budgeting resources to help students and their families build a realistic academic year budget.
Your Student’s Co-op Work Term and Awards
If your student is currently in a co-op work term (or will be in an upcoming term) and is also receiving an award or scholarship, they should contact the Awards and Financial Aid office to defer their scholarship to their next study term.
Fall U-Pass
The U-Pass is a discount transit pass for eligible Carleton students, offering unlimited travel on OC Transpo and STO buses and trains for those enrolled in 1.5 credits or more in the fall and winter terms.
The Campus Card and U-Pass are a combined card. The fall U-Pass is activated automatically the first time students tap their card on transit.
Course Materials at the Campus Store
Your student can get their school supplies, including their textbooks and course materials at the Campus Store, Carleton’s on-campus shop.
Health and Counselling Services
Health and Counselling Services provides a wide range of physical and mental health services to students. The on-campus clinic is staffed by a dedicated team including family physicians, counsellors, GP psychotherapists, psychiatrists, a lab technician and supportive administrative personnel. Online booking through Telus Health Connect is available for regular appointments and urgent care needs. Clinic hours are Mon. to Fri. from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Concerned About a Student? We're Here to Help!
If you have concerns about a student’s well-being or feel they could benefit from some extra support, please submit a Care Report. This report connects students with Carleton University’s Student Care and Support Team, who will reach out and offer a meeting to share resources, guidance and support.
The Care Report is a great way for families and friends to flag non-urgent concerns about a student’s academic, personal, financial or emotional well-being. If there are immediate safety concerns or there is an urgent situation, please contact Campus Safety Services.
Student Mental Health Policy
Carleton University’s Student Mental Health Policy [PDF, 174 KB] was approved in October 2024 as required by the Strengthening Accountability and Student Supports Act, 2024. The policy outlines a campus-wide, inclusive approach to supporting student mental health and well-being and provides information on the programs, policies, services and supports available to students.
Student Mental Health Resources
Carleton remains committed to supporting positive student mental health and well-being, recognizing that every student’s needs are unique and ever-changing. The Mental Health and Wellness website is a great place to find helpful information, resources and details about the programs, services and supports available to students.
Registration Assistance
The Student Registration Assistance team is offering extended service hours until Tues. Sept. 22, 2026 to help your student with registration questions and concerns. Walk in service is available Mon. to Fri. from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the third floor lobby of Tory Building. Virtual assistance is available upon request between 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. for those unable to attend in person.
Fall Career and Networking Fair
The Fall Career & Networking Fair is on Wed. Oct. 7, 2026. Students can explore opportunities, gain insights from employers and practice their networking skills – all on campus.
Carleton Parents and Family Website
The Carleton Parents and Family website is dedicated to the family members supporting Carleton undergraduate students! On this website you will find information to support your student as they make the transition to university and all the way through to graduation.
Office of the Vice-President (Students & Enrolment)
503 Tory Building
1125 Colonel By Drive
Ottawa, ON, Canada, K1S 5B6
