How to Prepare for College Orientation

College orientation offers a great opportunity for incoming students to transition more easily into their freshman year. This time gives students a chance to meet each other, their advisor, and some of the faculty, learn about available services, familiarize themselves with the campus, register for fall classes, and get a taste of college life.

While colleges and universities have offered first-year orientation for decades, many have also realized the benefits of incorporating programming for parents. If your student is heading to college in the fall and the orientation includes parent sessions, consider attending.

Here’s what to expect.

What is college orientation?

Orientation offers new students a valuable opportunity to acclimate to an academic environment that’s likely much different from high school. Most colleges schedule orientation a few weeks before the fall semester begins, usually in July or early August. Some institutions may offer multiple orientation sessions or virtual options to accommodate diverse student needs.

While it’s not always mandatory, most colleges and universities strongly encourage attendance. Some require first-year students to participate, as orientation often involves important paperwork or steps like financial aid disbursement.

It typically includes events like campus tours, academic advising, course registration, and social activities. The goal? Helping students feel comfortable and prepared for their upcoming college journey.

How to prepare

To make the most of your orientation experience, consider the following tips.

Do a little research ahead of time by reading the information the college sends and spending time on the website. Check out any resources related to freshman orientation. Since you may register for your first semester classes at orientation, review the course catalog to see which ones align with your major and which electives look fun. Note the documentation or paperwork you must bring, like vaccination records and proof of health insurance.

Have questions?  Create a list to ask your academic advisor, faculty, and current students — and gain valuable insights. Not sure what questions to ask? Common questions include:

• What are the on- and off-campus dining options, and how does the meal plan work?
• What’s the process to sign up for or drop classes?
• How does the college determine credit for any AP or IB exams I’ve passed?
• How (and where) do I pay tuition?
• How (and where) do I get my student ID?
• How do I set up a college email account? 

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes because you’ll probably spend a lot of time walking around the campus. Tours allow you to familiarize yourself with the campus layout, including its academic buildings, libraries, dining halls, and dorms. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.

The orientation program will likely include social activities such as icebreakers and group or social events. Several colleges, for example, challenge new students to complete a scavenger hunt to help them acclimate to the campus and surrounding community. 

Once you’ve registered for classes, you may have a chance to purchase your textbooks from the school bookstore. It’s also a good time to pick up some college apparel and other swag.  

What else to expect from your college orientation

College life isn’t just about academics. Orientation is a great time to get information about various clubs and organizations, like service groups, intramural sports teams, political clubs, and the campus newspaper or radio station. Sign up for emails from those that interest you, ask their representatives for contact information, and follow them on social media to stay informed about events and activities they plan. Once you arrive on campus, you’ll have a better idea about which to explore further.

If you’re interested in Greek life and your college has a Greek system, orientation may include informal rush activities to meet representatives from various sororities or fraternities. These meet-and-greets allow you to learn about Greek organizations and find those you might like to join.

Some institutions also include activities like:

• Lectures and presentations covering academics, student life, honor codes, campus rules, financial aid, study abroad programs, and more.
• Placement exams that include assessments for languages, math, and science to help determine appropriate course placement.
• Social events like dances, carnivals, ice cream socials, and performances to foster a sense of community.
• Optional trips for students to engage in outdoor activities, community service, or cultural experiences.

Actively participating in these activities gives you valuable insights into campus life, helps you connect with peers and mentors, and lays the foundation for a successful college experience.

Orientation for parents and supporters of college students

Whether it’s your first, middle, or last child preparing for college, you probably feel a mixture of excitement and nerves. You’re proud of your student’s accomplishments and ready to see them embark on their next adventure. But it’s natural to feel a bit of apprehension about your student’s adjustment to a new environment, academic success, and social life. You may feel bittersweet about letting go, recognizing your child is growing up and becoming more independent. All these feelings are expected — and parent orientation can help put fears to rest and connect you with other parents experiencing similar emotions.

While your child is off on their orientation adventure, take advantage of programming their college offers that caters explicitly to parents and caregivers. Become familiar with the campus on a tour. Walking around may give you a sense of the college culture as well.

Information sessions may cover topics like college rules, campus safety, the academic calendar, available resources like advising and the health center, and financial aid. As you meet other parents, you’ll also form your own community — and maybe even new friendships. 

Over 80% of colleges and universities offer a parent-focused orientation program. Most last between a full and a half day, but some universities — like James Madison University — invite parents to spend the night in a dorm room! The University of Minnesota’s “Family & Student Supporter” orientation program includes a full-day program covering financial aid, housing and dining, academic success resources, student services, campus and residence hall tours, a computer resources session, info about fraternity and sorority life, meetings with advisors from various colleges, and a Q&A session.

Add the date to your calendar

Most colleges and universities will expect you to attend freshman orientation, whether in person or, if it’s offered, online. Many also charge an orientation fee whether or not you go. Your specific college’s website will list all the specific requirements and expectations, including orientation length (usually 1-3 days) and online options, if available.

You’ll see intangible benefits for going, too, like decreased anxiety because you’ll have some familiarity with the campus. You’ll begin connecting with peers so you won’t feel alone when move-in day comes. You’ll feel more prepared and confident, too, which can positively affect your academic performance.