New Student Orientation

Do I have to go to Orientation?

We encourage new students to go through an orientation program since it is covered by the New Student Fee. A lot of important information is available (i.e. KU resources, financial aid, transcript analysis, how to make the transition, etc.). Students will also be advised and enroll in classes during the day, but ultimately, orientation is not required. Non-attendance will prohibit you from registering for classes until Late Enrollment on and after the first day of class. There is a $150 late enrollment fee.

I have been admitted and will be attending KU. When do I go to Orientation?

If you have been admitted to KU you will be receiving information from New Student Orientation regarding registration information for orientation. If you elect not to attend orientation, you will be allowed to enroll during Late Enrollment.

Is there a fee for orientation?

Your student orientation fee is included in the New Student Fee. This fee also coveres first-year experience programs. All guest orientation fees will be charged to your tuition assessment.

What if I'm taking classes at the KU Edwards Campus?

The KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park will be offering a Transfer Student Orientation and Enrollment program for the undergraduate programs of CLAS, Social Work (BSW), and School of Business (BBA). It will be held Friday, April 13, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. in 153 Regnier Hall. To reserve your spot, RSVP by Monday, April 9, at http://129.237.176.3/forms/TransferStudentOrientation.htm

Their fall 2012 and spring 2013 semester regular orientation programs will be held from 6-8 p.m. on: Thursday, July 26, 2012 for fall 2012 and Thursday, January 10, 2013 for spring.

If you are pursuing a degree in Developmental Psychology; Literature, Language, & Writing; Molecular Biosciences or Public Administration, contact Dan Mueller at dmueller@ku.edu or 913-897-8659.

If you will be pursuing a degree in Social Work (BSW 2+2), contact Maxine Elmore at melmore1@ku.edu or 913-288-7304.

If you are pursuing the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), contact Chris Claussen at Claussen@ku.edu or 913-897-8419.

What if I'm a nontraditional student?

KU defines nontraditional students as undergraduates who are three or more years older than class peers, are married, have dependents, commute ten or more miles, or are veterans. If you fit into any of these categories and are beginning your college career as a new freshman, you may choose to attend an orientation for transfer students. These transfer sessions are geared toward students with more college and life experience. For more information call New Student Orientation at (785) 864-4270.

What if I need to cancel my orientation date?

If you (or any guest you have registered) do not plan to attend orientation, you must cancel your reservation in writing. Written cancellations must be received in our office by 5:00 p.m. one week prior to your assigned orientation program, otherwise you will be billed for all orientation fees associated with any registered guests. The cancellation dates are listed on our website under Program Policies. Cancellations may be sent by letter, email, or fax to:

What if I need to change my orientation date?

You may change your session date by returning to our home page and clicking on the yellow "Change Your Orientation Date" button.

What about housing at orientation?

The University of Kansas has negotiated special rates at Lawrence hotels for students and parents/guests attending an orientation program. Contact the hotel directly for date availability and their special orientation rate. You must mention "Orientation" when booking your room to receive the discount and present your confirmation card at check in for verification. Information is available at www.orientation.ku.edu/preparing/accommodations.shtml.

I am a student with a disability. How do I get accommodations at KU?

Accommodations are coordinated by Disability Resources. Because specific documentation is required, the initial process for arranging accommodations can be lengthy. Contact Disability Resources as soon as possible.

Do I have to take placement exams?

Foreign language placement exams

Placement exams are required for all students with prior course work or experience in a language they plan to study at KU. Some of these exams are available online and need to be completed one week before your orientation. Others can be taken only after you arrive on campus for classes. For more information on languages offered at KU and placement exams, visit www.languages.ku.edu. You will need your KU Online ID & password to take the exam.

What if I plan to participate in Sorority Recruitment?

Prospective members must attend a orientation program in May, June or July to participate in recruitment. Panhellenic offers an informational session as part of New Student Orientation and it is strongly encouraged that you attend.

Spring admits, please visit this website for continuous open enrollment information.

When is Interfraternity Council's Recruitment?

Infraternity Council's Recruitment is the evening of June 22nd to June 24th. Studetns interested in participating are encouraged to attend orientation on June 22nd. More information can be found at http://www.silc.ku.edu/greeklife/prospectivestudent-howtojoin.shtml.

What if I've taken college credit in high school?

If you have taken college courses or earned dual credit while in high school, be sure to have official transcripts sent from the college granting the credit to the KU Office of Admissions. If there is not time to send a final transcript before orientation, bring a grade report or an unofficial transcript to assist in advising. Failure to supply information on all college credits completed could delay your advising and enrollment and result in inappropriate course selection.

What if I've been admitted to two schools?

If you have been admitted to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and a professional freshman-entry school (Architecture, Design & Planning, Business, Engineering, Journalism, or Music), you must register for a professional freshman-entry school orientation date. If you have questions, please contact New Student Orientation at (785) 864-4270.

What happens next?

We will send a confirmation email and mail a confirmation indicating the date of your orientation. Bring this confirmation with you to orientation. Do not make any travel arrangements until you have received your confirmation information.

What is a KU Online ID?

It is the unique username and password you use to enroll in classes and for other KU services on the web. Your KU Online ID is public; it is used as your "nickname" in online classrooms. If you sign up for KU's email service, it becomes the first part of your email address.

Students must arrive at their orientation program with their KU Online ID & password. The Online ID will allow you to access important information regarding services available to KU students. You received instructions on how to create your KU Online ID and password in your letter of admission from KU. If you have not established your Online ID and password, go to www.technology.ku.edu/accounts/.

What is HAWK Link?

HAWK Link is an academic-based retention program designed to help first-year students in navigating their first year by utilizing existing programs at The University of Kansas. HAWK Link is open to all students with a special emphasis on students of color. Several offices work together to collaborate on the HAWK Link program, highlighting the service that each office provides. For more information go to www.oma.ku.edu/hawklink/.