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A Structured Path to Reset, Rebuild, and Requalify
You’ve been referred to the Fresh Start Program because your academic journey isn’t over - it’s entering a new chapter.
While you may have found this past year challenging, Fresh Start offers the structure, support, and strategies to help you move forward academically, personally, and confidently.
Not Sure If Fresh Start Is Right for You?
Not Sure If Fresh Start Is Right for You?
You might be feeling unsure or overwhelmed, and that’s completely normal. Whether you are considering a year off or appealing your standing, this quick checklist can help you reflect on whether Fresh Start is the right fit right now.
☐ I want to return to the University of Alberta this upcoming academic year rather than taking a year off.
☐ I would benefit from regular advising, learning strategy support, and structured check-ins with a Fresh Start Coordinator to help me stay on track.
☐ I’m prepared to take 18–24 credits and focus on improving my GPA to meet readmission requirements.
☐ I’ve thought about my current challenges and feel ready to manage school responsibilities alongside any personal or health-related needs.
If you checked most or all of those boxes the Fresh Start Program may be a great fit for you. It is designed to give students a second chance with built-in support, structure, and a clear path forward.
If you checked most or all of those boxes the Fresh Start Program may be a great fit for you. It is designed to give students a second chance with built-in support, structure, and a clear path forward.
Attend an Info Session
Attend an Info Session
We’re here to help you understand your options and decide if the Fresh Start Program is right for you.
Ask questions about how the program works.
Get clarity on what to expect this year.
Hear from Fresh Start staff and advisors.
Select an option from below.
TBD
12:00–1:00 PM
Online
TBD
12:00–1:00 PM
Online
TBD
12:00–1:00 PM
In Person
What Fresh Start Offers You
What Fresh Start Offers You
Tailored support from a Fresh Start Coordinator
Tailored support from a Fresh Start Coordinator
Strategies to improve your GPA
Strategies to improve your GPA
Services to help you succeed
Services to help you succeed
What is Included in the Program:
Academic support tailored to you – Meet one-on-one with a Fresh Start Coordinator to plan your course load, manage your time, and stay focused on your goals.
Targeted learning support – Build stronger academic habits through our Cognitive Strategies Canvas class, one-on-one support sessions, and practical, skills-based workshops designed to help you succeed.
A clear path forward – With additional support and a strong GPA, you'll be on track to requalify for admission to your degree program.
Real results – Most Fresh Start students successfully return to their programs and go on to complete their degrees at the University of Alberta.
How to Get Started With Fresh Start
How to Get Started With Fresh Start
Step 1: You have Been Referred
Step 1: You have Been Referred
Check your email for your Fresh Start confirmation.
Step 2: Secure Your Spot
Step 2: Secure Your Spot
Click "Apply to Fresh Start" to sign up and start your Fresh Start application.
Step 3: Get Support
Step 3: Get Support
Work with a Learning Specialist, build better study habits, and requalify for your degree.
What Do Students Say About Fresh Start
What Do Students Say About Fresh Start
"When I started Fresh Start, I was unsure of my academic abilities; if University was right for me. With the skills I learned through Fresh Start, I regained confidence in my ability to succeed academically. " –Former FS student.
"Cognitive Strategies, the seminars, and all the encouragement from everyone in the Fresh Start Program saved my degree… everything you did for me made a huge difference in my life, and gave me the skills needed to move forward." – former FS student
"I believe this program needs to be a mandatory part of every student’s first year. If I had this in first year or even in second year, I believe it would have given me the necessary know-how to improve academically and lead a better, healthier lifestyle." – FS student, 2022 - 23
"The assignments all felt different, but each one helped my personal and academic growth in a meaningful way. I also really appreciated how much support was provided by the advisors , they were always helpful, informative, and ready to answer any questions I had.” - FS student, 2024–25
Still Have Questions?
Still Have Questions?
Before choosing your next step, it is helpful to understand all the options available after being Required to Withdraw (RTW).
Each path comes with different requirements, timelines, and supports.
Book an appointment here! Log into WaitWell, select "Prospective Fresh Start Program Appointment" from the menu. Then, select the type of appointment you want to schedule.
Territorial Acknowledgement
Territorial Acknowledgement
The University of Alberta, its buildings, labs and research stations are primarily located on the territory of the Néhiyaw (Cree), Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Métis, Nakoda (Stoney), Dene, Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) and Anishinaabe (Ojibway/Saulteaux), lands that are now known as part of Treaties 6, 7 and 8 and homeland of the Métis. The University of Alberta respects the sovereignty, lands, histories, languages, knowledge systems and cultures of all First Nations, Métis and Inuit nations.
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