Before Classes Begin
ACORN (Accessible Campus Online Resource Network) is the University’s student information system.
Students use ACORN to:
- Register each session
- Request courses
- View tuition and fee information
- Review academic history
- Update contact information
- Request fee deferrals
- Order transcripts
- View tax forms
Ensure your registration status changes from 'Invited' to 'Registered' before the start of the academic session. Students are responsible for ensuring that all personal information remains current.
Registration Status
Please consult the SGS Sessional Dates for current registration deadlines.
Students are considered registered once tuition and incidental fees have been paid or appropriate fee deferral arrangements have been made.
PhD students must register annually as full-time students until degree completion.
MSc students may register as either full-time or part-time students, subject to SGS regulations.
Students must either pay their tuition and incidental fees or complete the appropriate fee deferral process before registration deadlines. Students receiving funding packages are often eligible to defer fees through ACORN.
Fee Deferrals
Students receiving funding packages may be eligible to request registration without immediate payment through ACORN.
Students should consult School of Graduate Studies regulations and deadlines regarding fee deferrals.
Students are responsible for requesting and enrolling in required courses. Review degree requirements, course schedules, and course descriptions before submitting requests.
If you intend to take courses outside RSI, consult the RSI Graduate Administrator regarding registration procedures.
Course Registration
Students register for courses through ACORN. Students are responsible for:
- Requesting courses by published deadlines
- Monitoring approval status
- Confirming enrollment
- Meeting prerequisite requirements
External Courses
Students may take graduate courses outside RSI with supervisor approval. Students interested in external courses should first contact the RSI Graduate Administrator for guidance regarding registration procedures.
Individual Reading & Research Courses
Students are encouraged to consult with their supervisor about taking individual (or small group) reading courses to develop knowledge directly related to their research proposal and thesis. If you are interested in an Individual Reading & Research Course, please review the RSI policy available on Quercus and consult with your supervisor or course instructor before submitting a request.
Detailed description of the RSI programs, guidelines and procedures, and course details are available to you on Quercus. Review required coursework, supervisory committee expectations, research milestones, examinations, annual progress requirements, and graduation requirements. Understanding program expectations early will help you plan your academic trajectory. Log into RSI – My GRAD STUDIES to get these details.
Reach out to your supervisor before classes begin. Early conversations can help establish expectations, discuss research interests, identify immediate priorities, and begin planning your first term. Building a strong working relationship with your supervisor is one of the most important aspects of graduate education.
All incoming students are required to attend RSI Orientation. Orientation provides an introduction to the program, key policies, student supports, University resources, administrative processes, and opportunities to meet fellow students, faculty, and staff.
Students are also encouraged to attend the SGS Orientation to familiarize themselves with the larger UofT graduate community.