Registration Deadline: Friday, May 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM

Event Overview 

The Black Student Success Centre welcomes prospective Black students and their families to our signature Black Applicant Meet & Greet during McMaster’s annual May @ Mac Spring Open House. This premier event connects future Black-identifying students with McMaster’s vibrant Black community of faculty, staff, and current students. We understand how important it is to feel at home as you consider your next steps. To share a personal welcome, here’s a message from a current BSSC student:

The Black Student Success Center means a lot to me. It means reassurance, it means a shoulder to cry on, it means a sense of identity and inclusion, it means unity, above all, above all it means home. I am always filled with joy when I visit the BSSC. Not only are their staff caring and understanding, their entire lounge feels like home.
— First Year, Faculty of Science Student

Connect with McMaster’s Black community and learn about student life, support, and resources.

Whether you’ve received an offer, are considering applying, or are exploring what McMaster offers Black students, this event provides an authentic preview of the Black student experience at Mac and the resources available to support your success.

Event Purpose 

The Black Applicant Meet & Greet creates a welcoming space for Black students and their support networks to explore McMaster University with a focus on community, connection, and celebration. We provide prospective students with genuine connections, honest insights, and comprehensive information about the resources and support systems available to them as they make their university decision. This event reflects our commitment to fostering Black excellence and creating an inclusive environment where Black students feel supported, connected, and empowered to thrive.

Event Highlights

• Black Student Life Panel Discussion: Hear from current Black students across Health Sciences, STEM/Engineering, Humanities/Social Sciences, and Graduate/Professional programs about their journeys, challenges, and successes at McMaster.
• Black Leaders on Campus Collective (BLOCC) Marketplace | 3:00–4:00 PM Meet leaders from over 20 Black student organizations and explore co-curricular opportunities that align with your interests and passions.
• Faculty & Staff Engagement: Connect with Black faculty and staff from all eight faculties who are committed to supporting your academic excellence and personal development.
• Admissions, Enrollment & Financial Support Sessions: Gain detailed information on course selection, program pathways, scholarships, bursaries, OSAP, and financial planning for university.
• Networking & Light Refreshments: Engage in informal conversations with current students, alumni, and campus partners while enjoying refreshments in a welcoming environment.
• Q&A Sessions addressing academic, social, and cultural aspects of university life

Why Attend? 

• Get Your Questions Answered – Learn directly from current Black students about their authentic McMaster experience across all faculties and programs.
• Make Informed Decisions – Gather comprehensive information to make your university choice with confidence—from admissions and enrollment to scholarships and financial support.
• Discover Support Systems – Explore the extensive network of culturally responsive programs, services, and resources available exclusively to Black students through the BSSC.
• Build Community – Begin forming meaningful connections with peers, faculty, staff, and student leaders before your university journey even starts.
• See Yourself at Mac – Envision your future success in an environment that celebrates Black excellence and champions your academic, personal, and professional growth.

BSSC Across Campus

Throughout the day, find BSSC Ambassadors at multiple locations across campus:

• The McMaster Welcome Tent
• The Black Student Success Centre (BSSC) Community Lounge – PGCLL, Room M05 (Drop-in: 10:00 AM–12:30 PM & 3:00–4:00 PM)
• McMaster University Student Centre (MUSC) Atrium
• L.R. Wilson Hall (LRW) Main Floor
• Michael DeGroote Centre for Learning and Discovery (MDCL) Main Floor
• Peter George Centre for Living and Learning (PGCLL) G Floor and M Floor

Look for our team in bright-colored BSSC T-shirts, lanyards, and beige/gold suits!

Main Event Schedule (1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.)

• Welcome and BSSC Introduction
• Black Student Panel Discussion
• Information on Admissions, Enrollment, and Financial Support
• Q&A and Breakout Sessions with Faculty Representatives
• Networking and Refreshments

Who Should Attend 

We welcome Black high school students, offer holders, prospective applicants, parents/guardians, support circles, graduation coaches, equity officers, student success teachers, and anyone interested in learning about McMaster’s commitment to Black student success.

Registration Required

For more information, please contact the Black Student Success Centre team at bss@mcmaster.ca. 

We look forward to welcoming you to the McMaster family!