GET READY GUIDE 2026
St. Francis Xavier University is located on Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaw people.
The Get Ready Guide is a step-by-step resource to help you prepare for your first year at StFX. It’s also full of helpful information about residence life, support services, on-campus activities, and more.
This is the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your life, and we want you to be ready for it!
An electronic accessible version of this document is available at stfx.ca/getreadyguide for those requiring a screen reader.
@sarahmarieelliott
Dear New StFX Students and Families, I am very pleased to welcome you as a new member of the StFX community. Even before you arrive on campus, you are already becoming part of something distinctive. Our students consistently tell us that the steps they take before arriving—through resources like this guide, our online modules, and early engagement—help them feel a sense of connection and belonging from the start. That matters, because at StFX, community is not simply something you join—it is something you help create.
Beginning university is an important transition for students and families alike. It is a time of independence, growth, and discovery. Your time here will shape not only what you study, but who you become. You will have space to find your own path, and you will also be part of a community grounded in care, inclusion, and shared responsibility. We will support you along the way, and we will also look to you to actively contribute to a community where everyone can feel they belong and succeed.
This Get Ready Guide is designed to help you take the right steps before you arrive so that you can start with confidence. It is also your go-to resource for many of the practical aspects of your transition, including registration, tuition and fees, residence information, key dates, and other important steps to help you prepare for arrival.
To get started, focus on the following key steps over the summer:
X Starts Here Modules (Required)
All new students are expected to complete these modules before arriving on campus. They provide an essential foundation for Orientation Week programming and introduce important community values, expectations, and supports that will help you begin your StFX experience well.
Incoming Student Survey
This survey provides us with information that helps us better understand your needs and connect you with the right supports and opportunities as you begin your studies. It should be completed by the end of July.
Transitions: Making the Most of Your Campus Experience
This evidence-based resource offers practical, research-informed strategies to help you navigate the academic, social, and personal transitions of university life. We encourage you to review it alongside our StFX-specific materials, as it complements areas not fully covered in the modules. mentalhealthliteracy.org/product/transitions
Your StFX Email
Ensure that your StFX email is active and, if you do not use it as your primary email, set it to forward to an account you
check regularly. The university will communicate with you through this email, so it is important that you are ready to receive information and stay informed.
Taking these steps now will help ensure you arrive ready to engage fully in your StFX experience. We are committed to supporting your academic progress, health, safety, and overall wellbeing. More than that, we are committed to creating an environment where you can discover your strengths, pursue your goals, and grow as part of a community that will challenge, support, and encourage you.
I look forward to welcoming you to campus and meeting you in person.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Yeo Vice-President, Students
GET READY to be a student
SET UP YOUR STFX ACCOUNT
All students can install StFX’s Microsoft 365 license on up to 5 devices at no cost. We recommend installing the full Microsoft 365 suite on your primary device, including Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Visio for Windows users. To install: Go to microsoft365.stfx.ca, log in using your StFX credentials, and click the “Install Office” button in the upper right corner.
Everything begins with your StFX account. It’s your key for accessing important campus services, including course registration, campus wifi, printing services, and Microsoft Office products. It’s also how you will communicate with faculty and staff throughout your time at StFX.
Here’s how to log in to your email for the first time:
1. Check the instructions in your confirmation letter for setting up your email account. Visit mypassword.stfx.ca and follow the steps for “New Account Setup.”
2. Visit m365.cloud.microsoft/apps. Log in using your full email address (including @stfx.ca) and the password you selected using the MyPassword service.
3. After logging in, follow the prompts to configure your Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
4. Click on the Outlook icon to access your email.
5. Use the “Install Apps” button to download the full version of M365 on your personal device(s).
GET READY to be a student
ARRANGE YOUR FINANCES
When do I need to pay my tuition & fees? Your tuition and fees are due twice a year. 65% of all tuition, residence, and meal plan fees are due on September 15, 2026. The remaining balance is due on January 15, 2027.
Now is the time to make sure that you have financial resources in place for your university education. Not sure if you will require financial aid? Need help building a budget?
Contact our Financial Aid office for assistance at 902.867.2374 or 902.867.2301 or email financialaid@stfx.ca. You can also visit the Financial Aid website at stfx.ca/financial-aid for helpful information and resources related to financing your education.
Accepted payments:
• Online banking (Register St. Francis Xavier University as a payee using your student ID as the account number)
• Wire transfer
• In person (cash, cheque, debit)
• Directly from Canadian and American government financial aid programs
For more information on payment options, please visit stfx.ca/payments.
GET READY to be a student
VISIT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER
Planning to access supports from the Tramble Centre for Accessible Learning? You will require recent documentation confirming your diagnosis—along with recommendations for accommodation—from a qualified professional. For more information, visit stfx.ca/accessible-learning.
StFX has excellent health services on campus at the Health and Counselling Centre. But it’s also very important to arrive on campus prepared. You should visit your family physician or other primary healthcare provider during the summer months to refill any prescription medication and to ensure your immunizations are up to date. You may also wish to discuss the Meningitis B vaccine with your care provider, as this is not included in the regular childhood vaccine program.
Please note that you are the only person who can make an appointment for yourself at the Health and Counselling Centre, and that your health information is confidential. For more information, visit stfx.ca/health-and-counselling.
GET READY to be a student
YOUR TECHNOLOGY NEEDS
Most StFX classes require regular computer access.
Please review the hardware, connectivity, and operating system recommendations from our IT Services team to ensure your devices and systems are equipped to support your academic needs.
Computer hardware recommendations:
Minimum Requirements
Processor: Intel Core i5 (sixth generation or newer) or AMD Equivalent
RAM: 16 GB
Hard Drive: 256 GB
Display: 1024 x 768
Connectivity
A high-speed Internet connection, preferably ADSL, Cable, or similar
Operating System
Windows 11*
Mac OS Ventura or higher
*Due to software requirements, Engineering students must purchase a Windows 11 based computer.
GET READY to be a student
START PREPARING FOR REGISTRATION
Scan to set up an appointment with an Academic Advisor.
It’s a good idea to get familiar with the academic calendar— your go-to source for program information, course descriptions, and more—as soon as possible. Then, if you have questions, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with one of our Academic Advisors to help you prepare for registration. stfx.ca/academiccalendar
GET READY to be a student
REGISTER FOR YOUR CLASSES
What is Banner Self-Service? Banner is the software that supports StFX’s student information system. You will use it to register in your courses, view your grades, apply for graduation, or obtain your T2202A tax forms. You can access Banner here: stfx.ca/banner. Use the StFX email (provided in your acceptance letter) and password to log in.
First-year students register in early July. You will receive an email to your StFX account in the weeks ahead with specific instructions about how to register. In the meantime, visit stfx.ca/registrationguide to learn more about the registration process for your program. If you need assistance, the Registration Help Centre is available by email (nsr@stfx.ca) from June 8–August 28.
stfx.ca/registrationguide
Key registration dates:
June 11: Course timetable is posted on the Registrar’s Office website.
Early July: Registration times for new students are posted within Banner Self-Service. You will also receive an email advising you to check your start time in Banner. Registration begins for new first-year students.
The Tramble Centre for Accessible Learning provides extra registration support for students with disabilities. Contact tramble@stfx.ca for more information.
GET READY to be a student
COMPLETE THE MANDATORY X STARTS HERE MODULES
Visit moodle.stfx.ca and login using your StFX email address and the password provided in your acceptance letter.
What is Kwe’ (Moodle)? Kwe’ is a learning management system (LMS) that gives both students and their professors an online platform to post assignments, download relevant coursework, have class discussions, and complete learning modules.
X Starts Here is the name of our signature online program designed to help you transition specifically to life at StFX. It is made up of different modules. Four of the modules are mandatory for first-year students and must be completed before you arrive. The mandatory modules cover topics important to our community and support what it means to be Xaverian, including critical information on consent education, academic integrity, healthy socializing, belonging, and anti-racism.
Mandatory X Starts Here modules* 1. Consent is Visible
Academic Integrity
You Belong
*To be completed before you arrive
Additional recommended modules
Registration Information
Technology @X
Build Your Academic Skills
Money Matters
International Students Experience
Go Global and Study Abroad
Other Helpful Resources and Supports
GET READY to be a student
READ TRANSITIONS
“Transitions: Making the most of your campus experience” is a free, evidence-based resource about adjusting to life as a university student. From roommate relationships to understanding stress and mental health, it is a valuable guide to navigating the big changes to come. Find it at mentalhealthliteracy.org/product/transitions
COMPLETE THE INCOMING STUDENT SUCCESS SURVEY
The Incoming Student Success Survey helps us match you with specific resources you need to be ready and confident about starting your journey at StFX. Watch your email for a link to the survey.
GET READY to be a student
REGISTER FOR X-ACT
The X-ACT Program will help you develop and enhance the learning skills and strategies needed to succeed in your first year at StFX. Topics include time management, using a syllabus, using Moodle, academic integrity, academic regulations, studying, coping with stress, and how to connect with campus resources. The six-week program—developed by the Academic Success Centre and the StFX Health and Counselling Centre—is delivered by upper-year StFX students. Registration is open to all first-year students.
stfx.ca/student-services/x-act
GET READY to be a student
SET UP YOUR PHOTO ID
Your StFX Photo ID serves as your library card, meal plan card, and access card for residence (including laundry services). It also gives you free admission to most StFX Athletics home games!
Our Campus Photo Submission Software will open later this summer. Watch your StFX email for further instructions on how to access it and how to get your ID card.
STAY CONNECTED
If you haven’t already, follow our social media accounts to stay up to date on campus events and all the great things happening for your arrival.
Take a virtual tour of your new home. Visit visit.stfx.ca to explore the StFX campus and the wider Antigonish community.
You can also explore our new campus accessibility map, a digital tool designed to make the StFX campus more navigable for everyone.
stfx.ca/campus-accessibility-map
GET READY to live in residence
Residence is so much more than just a place to live. It is where many students build friendships, find their place, and begin to shape their university experience. At StFX, approximately 90% of first-year students choose to live on campus. Our residence communities are known for being welcoming, supportive, and engaging, with a range of options to suit different interests and lifestyles.
KEY STEPS BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
CONNECT WITH YOUR FUTURE ROOMMATES & FLOORMATES
We will provide opportunities to meet others in your residence before arrival, including virtual introductions and Instagram groups. Watch your StFX email for details.
REVIEW YOUR RESIDENCE CONTRACT
Take time to read your residence contract carefully so you understand your responsibilities and what to expect. Much like a lease, it outlines important terms related to your stay in residence.
LEARN THE RESIDENCE COMMUNITY STANDARDS
The Residence Handbook and Community Standards outline expectations for how we live together, treat one another, and care for our shared spaces. This is an important resource for all residence students. Please watch your email for this in June.
GET TO KNOW YOUR RESIDENCE SUPPORT TEAM
Residence staff are here to support you throughout your time on campus. Getting familiar with these roles in advance can help you feel more comfortable reaching out when needed.
GET
READY to live in residence
WHAT TO EXPECT IN RESIDENCE:
A SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT
Living in residence is a shared experience. Our communities are grounded in respect, inclusion, and care, and we expect all students to contribute to creating a positive living environment.
DEDICATED RESIDENCE STAFF
Each residence has a Residence Life Coordinator (RLC)—a full-time, live-in professional staff member—along with Community Advisors (CAs) and Senior Community Advisors. These team members are here to support you, help you navigate challenges, and ensure your experience is safe and positive. Your RLC will connect with you over the summer to introduce themselves and share important information.
CLEAR EXPECTATIONS AND RESOURCE
You will receive information about residence policies, supports, and community expectations through your StFX email. Be sure to review these materials so you arrive informed and prepared.
TENANT INSURANCE
All students living in residence are provided with a mandatory tenant insurance package. A fee of $80 will be applied to your student account.
CAMPUS DINING
If you are living in residence, you will eat most of your meals in Morrison Hall—our main dining facility—where we offer delicious, freshly made choices to suit all tastes and appetites. Morrison Hall is also equipped with a GRAB & GO feature for convenience when you’re eating on the run.
Looking for more dining options? Take advantage of our food convenience stores located across campus, with each one offering a unique dining experience. StFX is also pleased to have a full-service Starbucks located in the heart of campus. Find out more: stfx.ca/campusfood
SPECIFIC DIETARY NEEDS
We’re committed to meeting the needs of our students who require dietary assistance due to allergies or faith-based requirements. We are equipped with an on-site Registered Dietitian who works with students to help make your dining experience both nourishing and seamless.
Campus Safety and Security Safety & Security Services fosters and safeguards a healthy, safe, and welcoming campus community that supports the well-being of students, faculty, staff, and guests. Safety & Security Services provides 24-hour coverage 365 days per year via the Safety & Security Operations Centre (SOC). For more information, visit stfx.ca/security
Vegetarian VG Vegan GF Gluten-free
GET READY to live in residence
Planning on bringing a car to campus?
Please note there is a cost for both daily and overnight parking. Daytime Parking—$250 per year, $150 per term; Overnight Parking—$400 per year, $250 per term; Monthly Parking—$50 per month; Single Day Parking—$10 per day. If you purchase an overnight pass, you’ll have daytime parking privileges as well (you wouldn’t need to purchase a daily pass). Visit stfx.ca/security/parking for more information.
Time to start packing? Use this list to help you decide what should come with you and what should stay at home.
BRING DO NOT BRING
• Personal documents and banking information (ID, health card, credit/debit card, etc.)
• Bedding (sheets/blanket/pillow(s) and mattress topper)
• Bathroom supplies and toiletries (towels, flip flops, slippers, a basket or bag to carry your items)
• Laundry supplies (laundry bag, detergent, clothes hangers, iron/small ironing board)
• A power bar and extension cord
• A first aid kit, including a health care thermometer (so you’ll know whether or not you have a fever if you get sick).
• Pictures/posters to personalize your room and sticky tack to hang them (can be purchased at the StFX Store)
• Basic cleaning supplies (you are responsible for keeping your own room clean, this includes any private washrooms). Try to bring low- or no-scent products.
• For suites & apartment-style residences: pots, pans, kitchen utensils, etc.
• Pets (with the exception of fish)
• Large stereo speakers and sub-woofers
• Any kitchen appliances that: have an open element (deep fryers, hot plates, toasters, etc); do not have an automatic shut-off feature; are not approved by CSA (Canadian Standards Association)
• Halogen lights, non-CSA approved and/or outdoor mini lights, LED strip lights
• Anything illegal to the Province of Nova Scotia
• Nails/tacks/duct tape (Sticky tack only, please)
• Candles or incense
• Strongly scented room fresheners
• Strongly scented body sprays
• Additional furniture
• Wireless printers
• Weapons of any nature, or anything that could be misconstrued as a weapon
• Vapes or bongs
GET READY to join the Xaverian Community
Finding help when you need it. There are many people and places to find assistance on campus. Our goal is to support you as you transition to life as a university student, both inside and outside of the classroom. So don’t be a stranger. Using the available resources is what successful students do.
Academic Advising | Nicholson Tower | Schwartz School
Academic advisors can help you understand program requirements, declare or change a major or program, and assist with many other academic issues. advising@stfx.ca · stfx.ca/advising
Diversity Engagement Centre | Bloomfield Centre
The Diversity Engagement Centre is home to advisors who offer support for students who identify as Indigenous, Black, or 2SLGBTQIA+ (and their allies). It is also home to our International Student Advisor who supports international students studying at StFX, as well as the Director of Human Rights & Equity, and the Manager, Conflict Management & Investigations. mfogarty@stfx.ca · stfx.ca/diversity
Health and Counselling | Bloomfield Centre
Our team of physicians, nurses, and mental health professionals provide primary health care and mental health services to students, at no additional cost. We pride ourselves on offering a warm, welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment. We also offer community-based supports and services, including the Bloomfield Hub, which is part of our Flourish@X programming.
902.867.2263 · stfx.ca/health-and-counselling
Additional mental health services include:
Good2Talk—Free, confidential post-secondary student helpline that provides 24/7 professional counselling, and referrals for mental health, addictions, and well-being in Nova Scotia
1.833.292.3698.
The Mental Health Counsellor at the Dr. Agnes Calliste Academic and Cultural Centre offers free, confidential, culturally relevant counselling for members of the StFX community who identify as persons of African Descent.
Andrea Currie, in partnership with StFX, provides culturally relevant counselling for members of the StFX community who identify as Indigenous.
The Bloomfield Hub provides a dedicated Student Wellness Program Coordinator and an inclusive space for students to build community and engage in intentional programming to support mental, emotional, and social wellbeing.
Flourish@X Health and Wellness Resource Portal
The Flourish@X Health and Wellness Resource Portal provides quick and easy access to health-related resources available for StFX students, whether they are seeking supports and services on campus, in the community, or online. The resource portal includes a wide range of useful information for students, parents, faculty and staff, including details about how to make appointments at the Health and Counselling Centre, who to contact about various health-related questions/ concerns, and links to curated resources, all in one central location.
stfx.ca/flourish
Kiknu Indigenous Student Centre l Coady West
Meaning ‘our home’ in English, the Kiknu Indigenous Student Centre is a safe space for Indigenous students and their families. The Centre fosters an environment that promotes friendship and the journey toward reconciliation, while supporting Indigenous student success and overall wellbeing. stfx.ca/indigenous
Office of the Registrar l Nicholson Tower
Supporting students from application through to graduation, the Office of the Registrar can answer any questions you might have about the registration process, adding or dropping courses, exams, and more.
registrar@stfx.ca · stfx.ca/registrars-office
Residence Staff
If you plan to live in residence, any one of your residence staff can always provide you with assistance. A full list your residence staff is available in your Residence Guidebook and Community Standards document—plus their offices are right in your building, so they are always easy to find! If you plan to live in residence, your Residence Life Coordinator and a team of student leaders are dedicated to your building.
Student Career Centre l Schwartz School
Student Career Services provides career/employmentrelated assistance to all StFX students in any program or year of study, including career coaching, career information, and employment services. We can also help you to access X Connects—StFX Alumni Mentorship Program, which pairs students with alumni mentors to discuss graduate school, career development, and more.
stfx.ca/scc
GET READY to join the Xaverian Community
Academic Success Centre l Angus L. Macdonald Library
The Academic Success Centre can help you adjust to the expectations and workload of university-level classes. They provide free academic skills instruction/ coaching, tutoring by subject, writing support, and more.
sscentre@stfx.ca · stfx.ca/student-success
Spirituality l Bloomfield (Chaplaincy) & Morrison Hall (Wellspring)
StFX honours all students’ spirituality and beliefs with respect and dignity. We offer a prayer space for all faiths, chaplaincy services, and Wellspring, a quiet space for students. stfx.ca/chaplaincy
Tramble Centre for Accessible Learning
Angus L. Macdonald Library
If you have a permanent disability, the Tramble Centre for Accessible Learning can provide assistance and support to help you achieve your academic goals. You can contact the Centre over the summer to submit your documentation and arrange required accommodations. tramble@stfx.ca · stfx.ca/accessible-learning
Visible@X/StFX’s Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Advocate l Bloomfield Centre
StFX’s Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Advocate and the Sexual Violence Prevention Education Coordinator lead sexual violence prevention work on campus and provide support/advocacy to individuals who have experienced sexual violence. Confidential support is available to all members of the StFX community.
hblackbu@stfx.ca · stfx.ca/visible-at-x
Student Life l Bloomfield Centre
The Student Life team are navigators and problem solvers. Not sure where to go? Start with Student Life. studentlife@stfx.ca · stfx.ca/student-life
The Black Student Success Centre l Dr. Agnes Calliste Academic and Cultural Centre, Mount Saint Bernard, Room 204
A space dedicated to success, growth, and empowerment for black students that offers peer mentorship, advising, cultural events, and community support. apoku@stfx.ca
Set yourself up for academic success. Take the X Starts Here module on building your academic skills at moodle.stfx.ca.
GET READY to join the Xaverian Community
Campus life
Xaverians are well known for their enthusiastic engagement in all aspects of campus life—from clubs and societies to athletics and the arts. There are so many ways to get involved, stay active, and make new friends.
Clubs and Societies
The environment. Politics. Music. Photography. Entrepreneurship. We have 100+ clubs and societies on campus, and if you don’t find what you’re looking for, you can easily launch your own. Learn more at theu.ca/societies.
Theatre Antigonish/Festival Antigonish l Bauer Theatre
Based on campus, Theatre Antigonish is a non-profit community theatre and Festival Antigonish is a premier summer repertory theatre that brings together artists from across Nova Scotia and beyond. There are lots of opportunities for students to take part in fall/winter productions with Theatre Antigonish, from acting to
stage management and beyond, and many students have found summer employment with Festival Antigonish in July and August.
tickets@stfx.ca · theatreantigonish.com
StFX Art Gallery l Mulroney Hall
The campus art gallery produces exhibitions, programs, and special events featuring artists and arts organizations from across northeastern Nova Scotia. stfx.ca/art-gallery
Xaverian Weekly l Bloomfield Centre
Founded as the Excelsior in 1895, The Xaverian Weekly is the official campus newspaper and a member of the
Canadian University Press, North America’s largest cooperative of student newspapers. First year students are encouraged and welcome to attend Contributor Meetings. Student writers, editors, and photographers are hired in September.
xw.eic@stfx.ca · xaverian.ca
CFXU The Fox l Bloomfield Centre
CFXU is StFX’s official, student-run campus & community radio station. Students work at the radio station in a variety of production and programming roles. cfxu@stfx.ca · radiocfxu.ca
Service Learning l Coady Institute
Enrich your academic learning by getting involved in the community. StFX has service learning opportunities both locally and internationally. stfx.ca/academics/service-learning
Recreation, Club Sports & Intramurals
Stay active at X in a variety of ways with XREC (X-Recreation). XREC offers programs, services, and activities, including Active Living, Club Sports, and Intramurals. goxgo.ca/recreation @stfxintramurals
stfx.ca/mycampus
Your daily source for campus announcements, events, and news.
Leadership Opportunities
Residence Councils are a great way to get involved and help make the residence experience fun and engaging, while building your leadership skills.
Varsity Athletics
StFX has 10 varsity athletic teams participating in Atlantic University Sport (AUS) competitions in the sports of football, women’s rugby, soccer, cross country, hockey, and basketball. All students are invited to come out to AUS games and cheer on the blue and white! goxgo.ca
@stfxathletics
stfx_athletics
GET READY
to join the Xaverian Community
Welcome days
The University and the StFX Students’ Union are planning a series of fun, informative, and inclusive orientation activities for first-year students.
August 26 & 27: International student move in days.
August 28: Mandatory International Student Orientation, Community Connections, and Relaxed Start Move-in* (must be registered in advance).
August 29: Move in day for new students living in FX Hall, Cameron Hall, Mount Saint Bernard, Riley Hall, and new transfer or mature students living anywhere on campus. Please watch your email for your assigned arrival time.
August 30: Move in day for new students in MacKinnon Hall, Bishops Hall, and MacIsaac Hall. Students living off-campus must check in on August 30 between 8am and 4pm. Please watch your StFX email to learn which date you are eligible to arrive on campus.
*New students who have high anxiety or require a calmer atmosphere can register for Relaxed Start and move in on the 28th. Please contact studentlife@stfx.ca for more information.
Reminder: You must complete your mandatory X-Starts Here modules before you move into residence.
What you can expect during your first week:
Welcome activities with Student Life staff, off campus coordinators, and StFX’s O-Crew. This includes meeting your residence leaders and student life staff— your go-to for anything you need in first-year.
An orientation program for international students
‘Get to know you’ activities for all new students
Encouragement to participate! Welcome week is busy and designed to build the best transition for new students. Make friends, find your way around campus, take part in Academic Day, and learn what it means to be Xaverian.
A full week of activities, plus much more through the month of September.
The Xaverian Welcome Ceremony, a tradition that marks the beginning of your Xaverian journey.
The full welcome week schedule will be available in late July. Check stfx.ca/new-students for updates.
GET READY to join the Xaverian Community
What does it mean to be Xaverian?
Being Xaverian means being academically focused and socially responsible, and thinking about how our actions make our community stronger and improve the world around us.
It isn’t just about the big stuff, but the everyday things, too. The respect we have for one another and our community, the small moments of friendship, the random acts of kindness, and service to others before concern for self. These are the values we hold to heart. This is our commitment to Being Xaverian.
It means something to be part of the StFX community. It means something to go here, to wear the blue and white, and to earn an X-Ring. Welcome. You’re going to love it here and we are going to be a better community with you in it.
GET READY to join the Xaverian Community
Spring Summer
Accept your residence offer (if you haven’t already.)
Apply for financial aid (most jurisdictions open their programs in the spring.) Register for courses
New students: complete your mandatory X Starts Here modules and the Incoming Student Success Survey
Check your StFX student email and attend our information sessions for important updates
Important dates & milestones
Attend your virtual residence meet and greet. Meet other residence students early and say hello to your residence staff.
Finish off the mandatory X Starts Here modules and take a look at the others throughout the summer.
Submit your Incoming Student Success Survey, if you haven’t already done so.
(first term)
*No classes Winter/ Spring (second term) *No classes
Helping your student make a successful transition: a guide for
parents & supporters
The first year of university is an incredible time of change and learning. Your student is transitioning into adulthood, which means their relationship to parents, guardians, and other close support systems will change.
Is your student living away from home for the first time? Make sure they know how to access important personal information, such as their social insurance number, insurance details, and banking information. GET READY to be a Xaverian parent/supporter
Visit stfx.ca/supporters for more information about helping your student transition to life at StFX. And remember to check back often for updates.
For many families, it’s natural to want to play the same role for your student now as you did in high school. However, as your student adjusts to adulthood and university life, it will be critical for them to learn to operate without immediate supervision. At times, this might mean stepping back and allowing them to make their own decisions, and ultimately be responsible for them. They may make mistakes along the way, but in time they will find their own path—and thrive while doing so!
How to support your student during the first few weeks.
Let them know you are always there to listen. Starting university is exciting, but it is also a time of major change and it is not uncommon for your student to experience mixed feelings. Some days they may be very excited and other days they may be unsure. That’s ok, and totally normal!
Encourage them to develop good habits.
First-year students need to learn how to make decisions about how they spend and manage their time. For many, this will feel like a big change. Encouraging your student to build good habits early around attending class, studying, socializing, sleep, and self-care will support their success and help them to deal with stress in a healthy way.
GET READY to be a Xaverian parent/supporter
Suggest that they participate in residence and campus life.
There are events, programs, and activities happening all the time at StFX. Participating gives your student opportunities to meet people and make friends, which is important for their success. Getting involved in at least one club or society can open many doors.
Remind them to ask for help early—even if they don’t think they need it.
As students adjust to university life, they may struggle with issues unnecessarily. Things that seem like a big deal are often easily addressed with a little help. So encourage them to ask early for assistance if something comes up that they are not sure know how to handle. A good place to start is their Residence Life Coordinator, or for off-campus students, the Office of Student Life.
Encourage them to take advantage of the support services available at StFX.
We have extensive academic and personal supports on campus to assist new students in their adjustment to university life. These adjustments will happen as the year progresses and it is not uncommon for students to develop new stress as they face new academic and life situations. We don’t want students to struggle in isolation. Let them know how to use the many supports available.
What you can do if your student needs help
If you suspect that your student is not adapting as they expected, or you believe there is an emergency, there are several ways you can support them.
For Emergencies
If the issue is urgent after hours, your student can call 911 (Emergency) or go to the Emergency Department at St. Martha’s Hospital in Antigonish. There is also a toll-free 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Line in Nova Scotia (1.888.429.8167) for urgent access to a mental health professional. The Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) may be reached during or after-hours 24/7 by calling 1.877.880.7263.
For Non-Emergencies
Students can call the Good2Talk Post-Secondary Helpline (1.833.292.3698). This number is free and available 24/7 from any phone in Nova Scotia. You can also access the wide range of supports available on campus during business hours. If your student lives in residence, they can talk to their Residence Community Advisor or Residence Life coordinator by calling or texting the Connect Phone for their residence. Additionally a Residence Life Coordinator is available 24/7 on call for any resident seeking support. For more information, visit stfx.ca/flourish.
to be a Xaverian parent/supporter
If you are concerned and want us to check on your student, contact Student Life at studentlife@stfx.ca or 902.867.3934. If your student lives in residence, a member of our Residence Staff team will connect with them. If your student lives off campus, remember to share their contact information and a member of our Student Life staff will reach out.
• Please be reminded that we are required by law to maintain student confidentiality. This means that while we will always follow through on a parent concern or check-in request, we will not be able to share the outcome of this check-in without the student’s consent.
What we do if your student needs help
Actively, in a crisis or emergency situation
Once we have been alerted to an emergency we will respond as quickly as possible with staff trained to support students in crisis. Student safety and wellness is our main concern, and our staff will assist through a range of urgent issues.
Proactively, to help prevent problems from developing using a number of tools
• Our StFX Code of Conduct is a foundational document that guides student activities and our response to student behaviour or discipline. This is a proactive tool that students should be aware of and understand their responsibility to know.
• The Residence Community Standards is a critical document for residence students to know. This document provides detailed information on how to access support, who residence staff are, standards of behaviour, and expectations for how we treat each other and our spaces. Honouring these standards can help students live a fun and safe life on campus.
• Campus and Residence Programs are always happening. Our effort with planned programs, whether they are activities or educational modules, is to promote a safe and healthy campus environment. Programs form a foundational aspect of how we proactively build a positive campus culture.
• Peer supports! Peer support and mentorship is an important aspect to campus life and to boosting student success. Your student will encounter opportunities to engage with senior students who are in defined leadership roles. These senior students are critical in supporting first-year students’ academic success, mental health and wellness, and assisting to develop a strong sense of belonging within our community.
GET READY to be a Xaverian parent/supporter
Students’ Union Health and Dental Plan
All students must have health and dental insurance. The StFX Students’ Union Health and Dental Plan will cover select medical costs that are not included under most provincial health care plans, including dental work and pharmaceutical drug costs. If unexpected medical issues arise, you will want to have coverage. Domestic students with alternative coverage may opt out if they do so before September 30, 2025. You may only opt out if you can provide proof of coverage from another provider.
We encourage you to investigate the benefits offered by the Students’ Union plan before deciding to opt out. Some students with alternate coverage choose to stay enrolled in the plan because it covers student-specific needs that some other plans do not, such as partial coverage toward psychological assessments for accommodations with Tramble.
To learn more about your benefits and how to coordinate coverage between two plans, visit mystudentplan.ca/stfxsu
Confidentiality Policy
Ensuring your student’s health and wellbeing is our top priority. This extends to their right to privacy. StFX will only release the following personal information with your student’s written consent:
• Registration Status
• Grades/marks
• Use of StFX support services
• Disciplinary Information
• Financial Information
• Health and Counseling Centre Records, including confirmation of visits
• Housing Contracts
Please note that access to personal medical information is strictly governed by NS
Personal Health Information Act. The only exceptions involve cases where there is a serious and imminent safety risk, and where a medical professional deems it necessary to contact next of kin.
Driving Directions
Off the Trans-Canada Highway 104, take exit 32 and follow the signs to Antigonish. Drive through a set of lights to West Street, and then take your first right (at the next set of lights) onto Convocation Boulevard. Follow the signs for parking.
Transit
Maritime Bus (maritimebus.com) provides transportation from Halifax Stanfield International Airport to the StFX campus. Please check their online schedule as bus routes are subject to change. Family staying over? Families dropping off students can find a list of accommodations at visitantigonish.ca/stay. Book your hotel early! There are also a number of restaurants in town, from fine dining establishments to casual food outlets. stfx.ca
ENTRANCE
Your go-to hub to prepare for StFX.
stfx.ca/new-students
Check back often for important updates and information throughout the spring and summer months.