Orientation
Welcome to the Okanagan College community
We're excited for you to dive into the dynamic blend of academic, social, and cultural experiences that await you here! Whether you're pushing the boundaries of your studies, making lasting connections, or exploring vibrant cultural activities, this is the place where you'll grow, learn, and thrive.
Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and supported every step of the way!
We are proud to have an Orientation program that runs year-round to ensure all students have a great ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃexperience!
Join us for Welcome Day
Welcome Day celebrations will happen across all campuses on September 2nd. Celebrations are open to all students, both new and returning.
You’ll have the chance to:
- Meet new friends, classmates, staff, and your new campus community
- Discover what makes ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃunique
- Learn more about your program and academic resources
- Get involved and start your journey with confidence
Program Sessions
One of the key features of Welcome Day is the Program Sessions — special gatherings designed for students in specific programs. During these sessions, you’ll meet your instructors, connect with classmates and get a sneak peek at what your courses will look like. It’s your chance to learn how your program is structured, what to expect in your first semester, and who to go to if you need help along the way.
Don't have a Program Session?
That’s okay — not all programs have a scheduled session on Welcome Day. But there’s still so much value in attending. The day includes student services info, fun activities, free food and opportunities to meet other new students and staff. Even without a program session, you’ll still leave feeling more connected, more informed, and more confident about your first week.
Locations + Times
Business
- 8:30 - 9:00 a.m. – Check-in at the E Building (atrium)
- 9:15- 11:00 a.m. – Business sessions (E building)
Science & Technology
- 10:30– 11:30 a.m. – Start in theatre (S- 104)
- 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – Breakout rooms
- Computer Science - B 131
- Math - B215
- Physics - A128
- Mechanical Engineering - C120
- Water Engineering and Techology (WET) - CA 105, C140A, C158
- Civil Enginering - C168, C184
- Electronic Engineering Technology - C314
- Infrastructure & Computing Techology - C326
- Biology - C376
- Chemistry - C388
Continuing Studies
- Audio Engineering & Music Production (AEMP)
- 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
- A141, A142
Office Administration
- Bookkeeping/ Accounting Technician (BAT)
- 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
- E 408
- Paralegal Year 1 & Legal Administration Cert
- 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
- E415
Arts (morning)
- Accessible Education & Training Program
- 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
- B129
- Applied BA: Community Research & Evaluation:
- Meet & Greet:
- 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
- E403
- Meet & Greet:
ARTS - All programs (afternoon)
- 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
- E Building (rotating rooms)
- E202, E 207, E 208, E 213
Updating information, please return here closer to Sept 2
Updating information, please return here closer to Sept 2
Some programs will be setting up a booth during Welcome Day! They are looking forward to connecting with you and answering any questions.
Steps for a smooth transition into OC
1. Access your Online Accounts
is the main portal to access web-based information like proof of enrollment, photo ID, course schedule, and tuition balance. You will also find your student email in your myOkanagan account.
is the College’s online learning platform providing access to online course materials and more.
to keep up with ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃnews, events, and class communication.
Multifactor Authentication - MFA is a key tool in cybersecurity, protecting institutions from growing threats and providing a more secure experience for users.
If you have any issues or questions, please contact IT Services
2. Prepare for your Courses
Plan Ahead is designed to facilitate a smooth transition into planning for your future. To facilitate a more efficient registration process, please attend the sessions either in person or online.
How to register will give you steps, timelines, and resources on how to successfully complete your next steps to join ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃ
Connect with the Registrar's Office for more information about admissions, student forms, transfer credits, transcript requests, and more.
3. Tuition Fees, Financial Aid + Awards
Financial Aid and Awards can help funding options for students through awards, student loans, government grants, emergency funding and Youth In Care. This department can provide appointments to students both virtually and face-to face.
View Important dates and Tuition and fees to navigate deadlines and resources.
Pre-Arrival Guide (Domestic)
- Accept your offer of admission in your account and pay tuition deposit
- Seek help with Education Advising for education planning, registration, admissions, and career discovery
- Attend a Plan Ahead session to build your course schedule and keep track of registration time
- Apply for Student Loans (book appointment or attend virtual drop-ins)
- Pay Tuition and fees by deadline
- Set up your semester for success if needing Housing options, Childcare support, Indigenous Services or Disability Access Services
- Follow us on Socials for information and events
- Order textbooks & course material online through the
- Pay Tuition and fees by deadline
- Read the Student handbook for your rights and responsibilities
- Opt out of health & dental benefits (K,P,SA or (V)by the deadline, if eligible
- Sign up for Recreation and Student Life Fitness/Gym pass (K.P)
- Campus job postings will be through OC Student Works
- Looking for student verification? Verification of enrolment - Domestic students
- Parking and transportation:
- Purchase an online parking permit (K,P,V)
- Buy a bus pass from your Students' Union (K,P,V)
K- Kelowna campus P- Penticton campus SA- Salmon Arm campus V- Vernon campus
- Meet new people and attend Orientation events
- Check out the Recreation and Student Life for fun, creative, and social events
- Campus Maps (K,P,SA,V)
- Connect with your (K,SA,P) and (V) for campaigns, food security, advocacy and events
- Head to Important dates regarding class changes, registration, schedules, exam dates and payment deadlines
- Careers Hub will develop your job skills and create work opportunities
- Library for academic support (tutors, booking study rooms, borrow equipment, and research help
- Success Centre helps individuals to develop skills for classes and future jobs
- Find campus food options at Food Services (P,V,K) or free options at OCSU Pantry (K)
K- Kelowna campus V- Vernon campus P- Penticton SA- Salmon Arms
Events
Useful Links for New Students
Any Questions?
- Use our pop-up CHATBOT Virtual Assistant on any website page
- Contact Us directly!
Parental Resources
As your student progresses through college, we recognize your desire to continue supporting their success. While they gain essential independence and important privacy, a variety of resources remain available to you.
- Attend our Plan Ahead parent's information session
- Education Advising for your student's academic success
- Important dates reminder parent's information session
- Learning resources with the Success Centre
- Supporting your student's Health and Wellness
- Your student's Health and Safety with the ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃSafe mobile app
- Supporting your student's Disability Access Services
Sponsorship opportunities
Community meets campus
Investing in the next generation of professionals is one of the most impactful decisions a business can make. At Okanagan College, we believe in building strong partnerships with the community to help shape the skilled workforce of tomorrow. Through our sponsorship programs, businesses have a unique opportunity to support education, strengthen industry connections, and create meaningful impact, both socially and economically.
If you or your business is looking to make an impact with ºÚÁÏÌìÌÃstudents, please email our Orientation Coordinator at Orientation@okanagan.bc.