Smart Start Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the day?

The Smart Start program runs from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., with optional tours offered at 3 p.m.

The day follows a specific schedule and provides students with the opportunity to get their Student ID Card, learn about student services, finance, residence/off-campus living, meal plans, etc., and to have their class schedule reviewed to ensure they are meeting program requirements.

Can I just “drop in” later in the day?

If you arrive late and/or leave early, you will be missing much of the scheduled programming. The day follows a specific schedule and provides students with the opportunity to get their Student ID Card, learn about student services, finance, residence/off-campus living, meal plans, etc., and to have their class schedule reviewed to ensure they are meeting program requirements.

I am not able to attend any of the listed Smart Start dates listed on the calendar, what should I do?

We encourage all students to attend Smart Start to get a full summer academic orientation program experience. However, if none of the program dates work for you, you can review Smart Start content on demand when our online programming starts in August. You can also book a one-hour campus tour of Brock on a day that works for you. Those tours can be booked through our website. At this time, students can ask any questions they might have prior to coming to beginning their studies. Please note, these tours cannot cover all content in the regularly scheduled Smart Start program. Students are also welcome to email smartstart@brocku.ca at any point during the summer for additional support.

How do I change my Smart Start date?

If you need to change your Smart Start date, simply email smartstart@brocku.ca with your full name, student number and your new preferred date.

How much does Smart Start cost?

Students who register for Smart Start program before June 1 qualify for our early bird pricing offer of $40. After June 1st, the cost of the program is $50 for incoming students. You are welcome to bring up to two guests at a cost of $15 per person. Pre-payment online is mandatory.

What is included in the fee?

The Smart Start fee covers print materials, programming costs, and an all-you-care-to-eat lunch in our Fresh Food Company residence dining hall. Parking in Zone 1 is complimentary for Smart Start attendees.

How can I pay for Smart Start?

Pre-payment for Smart Start is required. You can pay online at the time of registration or after registration using the link in your confirmation email. Accepted payments include Visa and Mastercard. If you have any questions, please email smartstart@brocku.ca.

Can parents and guests attend Smart Start?

Absolutely! Many students attend Smart Start with their family and friends, and programming is designed to give these guests helpful information as well. The cost per guest is $15, which includes print materials, programming, and an all-you-care-to-eat lunch in our Fresh Food Company residence dining hall.

Can I attend Smart Start on my own?

Sure! Students will have ample opportunity to meet other incoming students attending Smart Start.

I’ve already registered for Smart Start, but want to add a guest/guests. What do I do?

Each student is permitted to bring a maximum of two guests. Please email smartstart@brocku.ca to add a guest/guests to your registration. Please note that $15 will be added to the cost (per guest).

I’ve registered for Smart Start but have not received a confirmation email. What should I do?

If you don’t see a confirmation email in your inbox, be sure to check your trash/junk folders, just in case.

Still don’t see the email? Contact smartstart@brocku.ca with your full name and the email address and we will resend your Smart Start confirmation.

Where do I park?

Parking in Zone 1 is complimentary for Smart Start attendees. Please follow the directions on your confirmation email and look for our Smart Start Team Assistants in red polos for assistance.

What should I bring with me to Smart Start?

  • A physical piece of government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license, health card, passport, etc.) is required to get your Brock Student ID Card.
  • Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended for the campus tour portion of the day. And don’t forget to dress for the weather (umbrella and raincoats may be required).

How do I prepare for Smart Start?

  • Check your email regularly! Your Smart Start confirmation and parking pass will be sent to the email used to register.
    Residence assignments/waitlist information and course registration information will be sent to your Brock student email. Check this email frequently, as it is now the primary point of contact between you and the University as a Brock student.
  • Ensure that your password for your my.brocku.ca portal is up-to-date and written down somewhere (or memorized!)
  • We ask that all students create a full timetable prior to attending Smart Start; any required changes can be made during the Course Registration Review portion of the day; however, as the summer progresses, classes will fill, so students should not wait until Smart Start to register fully.

See discover.brocku.ca/registration for a how-to video on registering for courses.

How do I submit my course registration to be reviewed?

Nothing is required on your end to submit your course registration for review. Our team will review your schedule before you arrive and notify you of any changes that you need to make. There will also be the opportunity for you to receive face-to-face assistance with your schedule at Smart Start, if necessary.

Can I stay overnight?

Students looking for an overnight option can also attend LEAP. For more information about LEAP, visit brocku.ca/start.

Otherwise, overnight accommodations on campus can be booked through our Short-Term Stay website.

Is Smart Start mandatory?

While Smart Start is not required for incoming students, it is highly encouraged! The programming is designed to provide students with the opportunity to get their ID card, learn about student services, finance, residence/off-campus living, meal plans, etc., and to have their class schedule reviewed to ensure they are meeting program requirements.