Recognize a Campus Group
Most groups at the University of Toronto seek recognition based on the Policy on the Recognition of Campus Groups. Recognition gives a group certain benefits. Some colleges and faculties also recognize campus groups and provide certain services to those groups.
Benefits of Recognition
Being a formally recognized campus groups by the the Office of Student Life provides the following benefits:
- Right to use the University's name in your group's name.
- Use of University facilities at a no or lower cost compared to external organizations.
- Free access to web services (group email account, web site hosting, listserv function) for the group.
- Online listings on Ulife website.
Recognition Expiry and Renewal
Recognition applications are accepted throughout the year, and recognition is granted until September 30 of that year. Student leaders of recognized campus groups should renew their group's recognition prior to September 30. The renewal period begins in summer and group leaders are notified on Ulife to submit renewal applications. Shoudl groups not successfully renew their recognition with the Office of Student Life via the Ulife website, there can be delays in accessing group services at the University.
Apply for Recognition On-Line
All groups are asked to submit applications for recognition on-line. The process of group recognition is also outlined on the Ulife website.
Groups should ensure that their group's constitution follow the guidelines of the University's Recognition Policy. Please see the Tip sheet on Creating a Group Constitution (PDF) used by the office as a reference. It typically requires 3-5 business days for applications to process; it takes longer during the renewal period (July to October).
Student Societies and Course Unions
Student Societies and Course/Program Unions are not required to seek recognition (see types of organizations). However, many of these groups choose to apply for recognition in order to facilitate access certain types of benefits. Student Societies or other organizations are expected to update their group information on Ulife.
UTSU versus OSL/Ulife recognition
U of T Office of Student Life (OSL) recognizes campus groups via the Ulife website based on a policy that affords certain benefits. Typically, student leaders seek recognition of their group through OSL first and then seek recognition with the University of Toronto Students' Union (UTSU). Being recognized by UTSU affords separate services, in particular, UTSU provides funding opportunities.
To be UTSU-recognized, campus groups must meet the following criteria:
- each club must have a minimum of 30 members
- 51% of club members must be UTSU members
- each club needs to have recognition from the Office of Student Life
More Information
For more information about the recognition process and other campus organization questions, please visit the Frequently Asked Questions on Ulife. Any additional questions can be directed to the Debbie Molnar (Program Officer) at debbie.molnar@utoronto.ca or call 416-946-7755.