All undergraduate students within the Faculty of Arts & Science on St. George campus are affiliated with one of seven colleges. These colleges have deep roots in the history of U of T as the college system dates back to the university's earliest days and remains one of its distinctive features. The colleges are a home base for their students and provide the advantages of a closer-knit community experience within a large research university.
Whether you live in residence or commute to campus, your college will be your home base. It’s also your home away from home, where you'll build friendships, find support and get involved throughout your time in the Faculty of Arts & Science.
The college system ensures you have the advantage of a tight-knit community amidst the attractions of a big and multicultural city like Toronto. I was able to truly immerse myself into student life, from organizing Model U.N. to being part of my college senate.
While all seven colleges provide the same core services, they each have their own distinct histories, cultures and traditions. Discover what makes each of the seven colleges unique.
Innis College
Innis College is small — and that is our strength. Our close-knit community fosters connection, inclusivity and collaboration, with students at the centre of college life and decision-making. Our academic and student services are known for being responsive, supportive and ready to help with any challenge.
Founded in 1962 to meet the growing need for residential space and innovative academic programs, New College quickly became a hub for student leadership, academic exploration and community engagement. Early in its history, students helped shape what became the Women & Gender Studies Institute, establishing a lasting commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
St. Michael’s College (“St. Mike’s”) welcomes students into a vibrant community rooted in a rich tradition of transformative education. Thriving on the energy of its diverse student population, St. Mike’s fosters scholarly excellence, unlimited curiosity and a deep engagement with social responsibility.
As one of the smallest of the seven colleges, students at Trinity College enjoy the best of both worlds — a small, close-knit home base and access to all the opportunities of Canada’s largest university. With a diverse student body and a supportive community, Trinity is a place where students can get involved and truly feel they belong.
The founding college of the University of Toronto, University College (“UC”) sits at the centre of the St. George campus. Its iconic main building, opened in 1859, is now a national historic site. UC’s campus includes three residences and the UC Union Building, home to the Commuter Student Centre — a welcoming space where commuter students can connect, study and relax.
Founded in 1836, Victoria College (“Vic”) is the oldest of the seven colleges in the Faculty of Arts & Science, with a distinguished reputation for excellence and creativity. With its historic architecture, beautiful gardens, residence options and outstanding academics, Vic combines the warmth of a small, federated college with the opportunities of a world-class university.
Woodsworth College is a vibrant, inclusive community enriched by the diverse experiences of its students and alumni. Founded in 1974, the College is dedicated to expanding access to higher education and ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Its motto, “You Belong Here,” captures the welcoming and supportive spirit that defines the Woodsworth experience.
The college system is unique to students in the Faculty of Arts & Science on the St. George campus. If you're part of another area—like Daniels, Engineering, Kinesiology, Music, U of T Mississauga or U of T Scarborough—you'll still find the same kinds of support, community and opportunities to get involved. Each faculty and campus has its own services, events and spaces designed to help you thrive.
How to choose a college
When you apply to the Faculty of Arts & Science, you'll be asked to indicate up to three college preferences, or choose "no preference." Your preferences help guide your placement but we can't guarantee a specific college. Your college membership will be confirmed with your offer of admission.
Each of the seven colleges has its own community, culture and traditions. There's no wrong choice, but you might want to consider:
Residence: If you plan to live on campus, you should learn about the housing options provided by each college.
Size: College communities range from about 2,000 to 6,000 students.
Program affiliations: Some colleges sponsor academic programs, but you can study any program regardless of your college.
Location: Think about where you'd like to spend your time—near your classes, residence or favourite neighbourhoods.
Student life: All colleges offer clubs, intramurals, mentorship and support for both residence and commuter students.
But wherever you land, your college will be a welcoming home base on campus.
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