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Jump Start Vancouver’s frequently asked questions

Eligibility 

Can I participate in the Jump Start program? 

The Jump Start program is designed for students who are transitioning directly from high school to university. You are eligible to participate if you meet any of the following criteria: 

  • You are entering UBC directly from high school or CEGEP 
  • You have taken a gap year of up to two years after high school 
  • You have completed no more than 4 months of post-secondary study (e.g., UBC Summer Session courses) 

If you have any questions about eligibility or if you have issues with registration, please email us at orientations.jumpstart@ubc.ca  

Residence stream

Can I register for Jump Start before I get my Winter Session housing offer?

Yes, you can register for Jump Start before you receive and accept your housing offer. The fee for meals and housing during Jump Start is paid when accepting your Winter Session housing offer.

Indigenous students 

I am an Indigenous student, what do I need to know about registering for Jump Start? 

If you are an Indigenous student and have self-identified in UBC’s Workday system, the Jump Start program fee of $75 (+ tax) will be waived. 

International students

I’m waiting for an update on the status of my Visa application. Can I register for Jump Start?

Yes, you can still register for Jump Start while you wait on the status of your visa application.

Transfer students 

Can transfer students participate in the Jump Start program? 

The Jump Start program is designed specifically for students transitioning directly from high school to university academics. As a result, registration for Jump Start is not open to transfer students. 

Transfer student’s orientation to UBC happens during Imagine UBC on Tuesday Sept 8. This will be an opportunity for you to familiarize yourself with the campus and meet other transfer students.  You will receive information about Imagine UBC closer to the event. 

Options for financial support 

Are there any financial support options for me? 

If cost is a barrier to participating in Jump Start, financial support is available. Your Enrolment Services Advisor (ESA) can help you explore payment plans, fee deferrals, or full fee waivers based on your situation. Reach out to discuss your options and get support. 

Program schedules 

How long does Jump Start run each day? 

For students living in residence, typically, the days start around 9:00am and the main programming ends around 4:30pm. Following that, there are various social programs available for students to choose from approximately 7:00pm to 9:00pm. The schedule includes meal breaks and other breaks throughout the day. 

For students commuting to campus, typically the days start around 9:00am and end around 5:00pm. There are optional social activities in the evening.

Event attendance 

Is it okay if I miss an event during Jump Start? 

We understand that you may be busy, and it is completely okay if you miss an event during Jump Start. However, we highly recommend attending as many events as possible to fully benefit from the program and make the most of your Jump Start experience! Make sure to tell your orientation leaders if you cannot attend any event. 

Residence stream 

Move-in date 

When is the move-in date? Do I need to apply for an early move-in? 

The move-in date for Jump Start students in residence is Tuesday, September 1st. There is no additional application for early move-in. It is important to note that students cannot move into UBC housing before September 1st, 2026.

Late arrival 

What should I do if I am unable to move into residence on September 1st as a Jump Start residence student? 

For Move-in Day, you will need to reserve a move-in time slot. Details on how to reserve your check-in time will be sent to you in August. If you arrive after 3pm, you can still move in by checking in at your residence area front desk upon arrival.

We strongly recommend residence students arrive no later than the evening of Tuesday, September 1st, so that you have enough time to connect with your group and participate in the program. However, we understand that there may be situations where this is not possible. If you are unable to arrive on the specified move-in date, you will still be able to check in at a later date. Simply go to your residence area front desk to check in upon your arrival and they will assist you with checking into your residence room. You will receive your welcome pack, including your UBC card, during the check-in process. 

Please note that the front desks are closed from 11:00pm until 7:00am, so it is not possible to check in during these hours. 

The additional Jump Start housing and meals fee for residence students remains the same, even if you are moving in late. 

Housing after Jump Start 

Will I be able to live in the same room after Jump Start? 

Yes, the room you are assigned during Jump Start is the same for the rest of the year. This means that you can continue to live there in the time between Jump Start and when classes begin (September 5 – 8). The Jump Start fee will cover your meals and accommodation for the time in between when Jump Start ends and when the non-Jump Start students move in. 

Commuter stream 

Which stream am I part of if I live at University Village or Wesbrook Village? 

If you live in University Village or Wesbrook Village you are considered a commuter student. You are therefore eligible to be part of the Collegia program and would be in the commuter stream for Jump Start.