First-year Orientation FAQ

Registering for Orientation

Paying the Enrollment Fee

General Questions

Why is orientation required for new students?

All new students must participate in orientation prior to enrolling in classes. In addition to offering an overview of the Huskie experience, orientation introduces the many academic resources and support services available to you. Through your orientation experience, you’ll register for your first-semester classes, learn about campus tools and resources, and connect with other new students.

Your Orientation Day

What will my on-campus orientation look like?

If you sign up for an in-person orientation, you’ll come to campus to attend sessions that will help you get to know important campus offices and provide you with key information for your first semester at NIU. You’ll also attend a department resource fair and register for classes. You should plan to be on campus from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

After you’ve registered for orientation, you’ll begin receiving emails with information about how to prepare.

How will virtual orientation sessions work?

If you sign up for a virtual experience, your orientation will include information sessions delivered through Microsoft Teams. The sessions will help you get to know important campus offices and provide key information for your first semester at NIU and registering for classes. Your formal orientation programming will run from 9 to 11 a.m. Individual appointments for course registration will occur between 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

 

Preparing for Orientation

What else do I need to do to prepare for orientation?

Other than completing POP and placement testing, make sure you check your NIU email frequently. Important information is shared weekly to help prepare you for your first semester at NIU, so make time to review the information that is sent to you.

You should also submit a photo for your NIU OneCard. You'll receive an email with instructions on uploading your photo after you register for orientation.

What if I need an accommodation?

When selecting your orientation date, please fill out the “Accommodations” box on the orientation registration form. Make sure to include a comment about the accommodation you are requesting to let us know what you will need. We recommend contacting us at least two weeks prior to your orientation at 815-753-1535 or orientation@niu.edu to confirm that your request has been received.

Family Orientation

Can I bring guests with me to orientation?

You may bring up to two guests with you to your in-person orientation. There is no additional fee for guests. Please note that you'll attend the group advising and class registration session without your guests. Your guests will attend the large group sessions with you, and we’ll have sessions just for them while you’re registering for classes.

Contact Us

Orientation and First Year Programs
Williston 334
DeKalb, IL 60115
815-753-1535
orientation@niu.edu

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