BKin Community and Culture

Close-Knit Community, Big Opportunities

three students sitting outside on stone bench at st george campus

At KPE @ U of T, you’ll enjoy the support and camaraderie of a close-knit community of students and faculty. It’s a big part of what sets the program apart: moving through classes and campus with your BKin cohort builds bonds that often turn into lifelong connections. All this, while immersed in one of the world’s leading research universities.

The vibe here is inclusive, welcoming and safe. Plus, with a wide range of student support services available exclusively to kinesiology students, and a rich slate of co-curricular opportunities, you’ll find it easy to reach out for help, find your people and make the most of your university experience.

Michelle Miang Pao quote: "I was surprised by how friendly and supportive the people in the program are. Given the size of the faculty, I found making friends to be fairly easy and introducing myself to professors to be less intimidating than expected. So many people are willing to help, you just have to ask for it."

Peer Support

Transitioning to university can be challenging, but we’ve got your back. The KPE Connect Peer Mentor program makes it easy to seek guidance on the people, opportunities and resources at the Faculty from a fellow upper-year student who knows the ropes. First-year students connect with their mentors through email, virtual and in-person activities, all arranged by KPE's Office of the Registrar and Student Services.

2026 BKin students in class looking at tablet

Active Student Associations

BKin students put in the work when it comes to creating opportunities for fellow students to grow and thrive.
The Kinesiology and Physical Education Undergraduate Association (KPEUA) represents undergraduate students and is actively involved in organizing Orientation Week, lab crawls, social events and more.

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BKin students at orientation

Then there’s the Kinesiology and Physical Education Athletic Association (KPEAA). Working in conjunction with KPEUA, this student-run group and promotes physical activity by organizing intramural sports teams, tournaments, fundraisers and more.

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2026 PHE4All

You’ll find there’s no shortage of opportunities to get involved with student associations, either to meet new folks or develop your leadership skills.

Community Spirit

Building community at KPE @ U of T comes naturally because there are so many ways to connect with your peers outside of the classroom.

Take part in annual traditions like PHE4All, where students in each year compete against each other in athletic and academic games to win The Golden Shoe. Or join student groups like U of T’s Motionball chapter and raise awareness for Special Olympics Canada. No matter where your interests lie, it’s easy to find like-minded folks and feel a sense of belonging.

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2026 PHE4All

Dedicated Student Spaces

You'll take classes all over campus, but the Benson Student Lounge gives BKin students a home base and a convenient place to spend some downtime. Plus, it’s complemented by the Benson Pool Gallery just down the hall, a flexible space that commonly acts as a gathering place and study area.

composite of Benson Pool Gallery and student lounge, with students sitting chatting and playing foosball

Pop into these multi-purpose spaces whenever you need a moment to play, snack, hang out or do some readings. It’s likely you’ll run into a friendly face!

International Student Support

Students from all over the world are welcomed at KPE: we know that the energy and perspectives they bring enrich our community. When you choose to study kinesiology at U of T as an international student, you’ll be well supported as you navigate your university journey.

Through KPE's Passport to Success program, international students connect through social activities while receiving transition-specific support, group advising and one-on-one support tailored to their experiences. KPE's Office of the Registrar and Student Services reaches out proactively in the summer before first year to get you started on the right foot. 

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Students Angel and Koey recording a podcast episode

Wondering what it's like to be an international student at KPE @ U of T? 

Check out this episode of our On the Move podcast to hear firsthand about the experience of two international students that navigated the transition.

Leadership and Job Opportunities

You’ll find plenty of ways to grow and develop beyond the classroom at KPE, thanks to the rich opportunities for students to give back to the community.

From employment opportunities with Sport & Recreation to organizing events for your peers through the KINections program, you’ll expand your skills and gain concrete experience to support your professional goals.

Application and Admission Requirements

Ready to join the KPE community as a student? Click the button below to learn more about the admission requirements and application process for the Bachelor of Kinesiology program.

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