If you have questions about coming to Canisius, we can help. See our FAQ below. Still need answers? Connect with an admissions counselor.
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Student Life
Can I have a car on campus as a freshman?
Yes, Freshman are allowed to bring cars to campus.
Do I need a car to get around?
No! We have two metro rail stops on our campus and multiple public bus stops as well. Public transportation is a great way for students to get around the city. Students also use Lyft and Uber when needed.
How much is parking?
Freshman residents and commuter parking passes are $70 for the year.
How do I get involved on campus?
With over 100 clubs and organizations it’s easy to find something that interests you! In the beginning of the semester, student life hosts an activities fair where you have the chance to meet and learn about all the clubs and organizations on campus.
Do you offer intramurals or club sports?
In addition to our 20 NCAA Division 1 teams, we also have intramural and club teams.
What are my options for a food plan?
Students have different options when it comes on campus dining and food plans.
Do you offer temporary winter housing for commuters?
Yes! The Snowbound Program is a program where we allow commuter students an opportunity to live in college housing for roughly 40 days during each semester. It is only offered when there is space available. The student would pay a daily rate for the days he/she lives on campus (its the actual semester rate broken down to a daily rate). At the end of the 40 days they have to make a choice of either becoming a permanent resident or moving home. Typically 80% of the people who participate in the program choose to remain in the residence halls.
Can commuters have food plans?
Yes, we offer a special food plans for commuters. It’s convenient to have a food plan as a commuter when you have long days on campus!
How do I get assigned a roommate?
Once you pay your housing your deposit you will need to complete the housing application. Once that is submitted you will have access to an online program that will help you meet other students looking for roommates. You’ll complete a profile and then filter for students with common interests and habits. If you don’t match up with someone yourself, we will assign you a roommate based of the preferences you stated in your housing application.
Do you offer single rooms?
Yes, for Fall 2022 we are offering a limited number of single rooms for freshman.
Do I have to live on campus all 4 years?
Freshman and sophomore students who live outside of the commuting radius are required to live on campus.
Academics
What if I am unsure about my major?
Not to worry! Many students start their college careers unsure about what they want to study. We have many resources available for students to help them select a major, including Pathfinders, our academic exploration program for first-year students. You are never on your own with the support of the Griff Center for Student Success and your advisor.
Do you offer tutoring for classes I may need extra help in?
The Tutoring Center is free for students and offers a comprehensive level of tutorial services to best support students in successfully completing their academic careers while assisting them in developing the skills to become successful lifelong learners. It provides a dedicated staff of peer tutors ready to assist students in their academic pursuits.
If I had accommodations in high school, can I get them in college?
Yes, Student Accessibility Support Services offer a wide array of services to ensure all students can be successful at Canisius.
Will you honor my AP, IB, or college credit classes?
Students may obtain credit for college-level courses delivered in high school through advanced placement exams, International Baccalaureate scores, CLEP exams, and submission of transcripts from accredited two- and four-year institutions. A maximum of 30 credit hours will be granted to first-time freshmen enrolling directly from high school. You can find more information about transferring in credit from high school here.
How will I register for classes?
Once you have submitted your tuition deposit, you will complete the Course Preference Form. This form will prompt the new student advisement team in the Griff Center to reach out to you to set up a time to meet by phone or in person to create your schedule and register for classes.
Student Services
Who should I contact for questions about my financial aid package, taking out a loan, making a payment plan, or anything related to the finances?
The Office of Student Records and Financial Services can be contacted at 716-888-2600 or by email at studentservices@canisius.edu.
What if I get sick when I am at college?
Staffed by physicians and registered nurses, Student Health offers services that are easy to access, individualized and targeted to treating illnesses and injuries common to college students.
Next Steps
How do I save my spot in the fall Class of 2026?
Your deposit is required to hold your seat in class. The deposit is $200 if you are commuting and $400 if you are living in a residence hall on campus. You can make your deposit online (login info included with your acceptance letter) or by calling 716-888-2200.
Does Canisius have a New Student Orientation?
Our mandatory three-day summer New Griff Orientation (NGO) program for all incoming undergraduate first-year and transfer students will take place Thursday, August 25 through 28, 2022. The New Student Summer Orientation program includes resident student move-in day, President's Welcome and Blessing, an academic day, a student life day, various workshops, nightly entertainment, as well as multiple opportunities that will build community and tradition among all students.
Refund Policy
Can I get a refund for my enrollment deposit?
This policy outlines the conditions under which the enrollment deposit can be refunded, deferred, or transferred:
1. Application of Enrollment Deposit:
• The deposit will be applied as a credit toward the student's first semester of attendance at Canisius University.
2. Refund Policy:
• Refund requests must be received in writing for fall applicants by May 1.
• For spring applicants, refund requests must be received by December 1.
• Refund requests must be submitted via email to @email.
3. Non-Refundable after Deadlines:
• After the specified deadlines, the enrollment deposit becomes non-refundable.
• However, if the student decides to attend in a subsequent semester, it can be deferred for up to one academic year.
4. Updates to Application:
• If the student updates their application and enrollment deposit to a different semester, they forfeit their eligibility for a refund.
5. International Applicants Visa Denial:
• International applicants denied a student visa are eligible for an enrollment deposit refund.
• Refund requests must be submitted within 30 days following the visa denial, accompanied by evidence of the denial.
This policy outlines the various scenarios regarding enrollment deposit refunds, deferrals, and transfers, providing clarity to students regarding their financial commitments to the university.