Orientation Accessibility + Inclusion

We want all students to feel welcome and supported during orientation. If you need support to participate in orientation events or activities, help is available.

Getting support

1. Tell us what you need

When you sign up for orientation, you can indicate that you have accessibility and inclusion needs.

2. We’ll contact you

The Accessibility & Accommodations team will email your U of A account to learn more about your needs and discuss possible supports.

3. We'll help arrange support

Once the team understands your needs, they’ll work with you to arrange appropriate support for orientation.

What orientation events are like

Orientation includes a variety of activities with scheduled breaks. Here's a quick overview of what each one typically involves, so you can think about where you might need support:

Your orientation may include other types of events. If you're unsure about a specific event, contact the team.

Support that's already built into orientation

Flexible participation options

Some events offer different ways to take part, for example, online vs. in-person or different roles in group activities.

Microphones and presentation tech

Presenters use microphones and slides to make content easier to hear and follow.

Digital handouts

Materials are available electronically so you can read them on your device, zoom in or use a screen reader.

Other common accessibility and inclusion features

You can familiarize yourself with the common accessibility and inclusion features listed below. Each event will have a different selection of these features. Please check with the event leaders for details, and signage will guide you to their locations.

Can't find an accessibility feature at your event? Don't wait, speak to a staff member or volunteer right away. They're there to help.

Accessible seating

Accessible seating is available at orientation events to ensure that individuals with mobility challenges and specific needs are comfortable and able to participate. Look for the seated person symbol.

Accessible and all-gender washrooms

Single-occupancy washrooms with accessible controls for door opening and locking, and an emergency alert button. Signs with universal toilet and wheelchair symbols indicate accessible and all-gender washrooms.

Calm rooms

Shared, low-sensory spaces to take a break from orientation activities. Come decompress, breathe, or sit quietly. Signs with a crescent moon indicate calm rooms.

Low-sensory events

Low-sensory events offer participation options for students who prefer a low- or reduced-sensory experience, including dimmer lights, reduced noise, timed entry and other sensory-friendly options.

Signs with a closed-eye symbol indicate a low sensory event.

See the low sensory events and calm spaces schedule for more information.

Prayer rooms

Shared quiet spaces for student prayer to practice your faith or religious observances. Please remember to bring your prayer mat. All students welcome. Signs with a kneeling person symbol indicate prayer rooms.

Low-sensory events and calm spaces

If noise, crowds, or bright lights feel overwhelming, these spaces and events are for you. They're also just a good place to take a breather. You don't need a specific reason to use them.

Locations and dates coming in August.