Getting Ready for September

As a new student in UBC Science, you’ve successfully registered for your courses for the upcoming school year…but now what?

1. Get Your Student ID Card (UBCcard)

Your UBC Student ID card (UBCcard) is essential for your years at UBC. You can use it for:

• Getting your Compass Card on campus
• Mandatory ID during midterms and final exams
• Free admission to UBC museums and gardens
• Copying, printing, and scanning self-service at UBC libraries
• Pre-loading money for on-campus services (e.g. UBC Bookstore, Food Services)
• Discounts on food and more

Get your UBCcard by applying online.

2. Obtain and Register Your U-Pass

Your U-Pass is a transit pass for Vancouver’s public transit system – get unlimited use of the buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus, paid for through your student fees. To apply for a U-Pass exemption (how to opt-out of the program), learn more here.

Getting your U-Pass benefit:

1. Purchase an adult-class Compass Card at the UBC Bookstore, TransLink’s FareDealers, or a skytrain station.
2. Request your U-Pass benefit for the upcoming month online. The request may take some time to process. 

Learn more about the U-Pass and how to transit beyond campus

3. Find out Where to Buy Textbooks

Each course requires a specific textbook for the term. Find your personalized book list online.

Tip: Wait until the first lecture before buying the book as your instructor may specify a certain edition that can be used. However, it is best to buy the textbook during the first week of classes so you have access to required pre-readings and can avoid potential shortages if the book sells out.

4. Prepare Your Lab Equipment

UBC Science students must complete courses with a lab component. You may need lab goggles, a lab coat, and lab manual(s) for your chemistry labs. Purchase them at the UBC Bookstore, second-hand from a UBC student, or in the Chemistry department. You may receive more info through emails from your Chemistry instructor or during your Chemistry lectures.

5. Set up Your Own UBC Email Address

All UBC students can set up their own UBC student email inbox. Send and receive mail from your @student.ubc.ca email address, or have @student.ubc.ca emails forwarded to your personal email account. Learn more.

6. WiFi Connections on Campus

When you are on campus, you may see three UBC WiFi connections available:

1. UBC Secure (recommended)
   1. Available to all UBC students with a CWL login
   2. To connect, use your CWL login info when prompted
2. UBC Visitor
   • Available to the general public (no need to be a UBC student)
   • To connect, enter a personal email address and accept the terms and conditions
3. UBC Private
   • Not available to UBC undergrad students

Having trouble connecting? Find support from UBC IT.

7. Learn about UBC Science Orientations and More

Participate in the Jump Start program to meet other students and learn about campus resources before the first day of class. Registration is required in advance. If you are not participating in the program, you'll join Imagine UBC where you'll be placed in an orientation group and have the opportunity to connect with fellow students during orientation activities. 

8. Download Microsoft Software

UBC Science students have free access to Microsoft software. Sign in with your CWL to download:

• Microsoft Office 365 (includes Word, Powerpoint, Excel, Outlook, etc)

9. Guide to First Year Science

When you've reviewed the information on the website, if you still have questions, you can drop in to Science Advising.