Orientation Frequently Asked Questions
We understand you may have some questions about new student orientation (University Orientation) so we have compiled the questions we hear most frequently and added them to this page. If you don't find what you need, please contact our office at 419-372-0353 or orientation@bgsu.edu.
Question Quick Links:
- How do I register for University Orientation?
- Will University Orientation be virtual or in-person?
- Can I change my date?
- What happens at University Orientation?
- Do I have to complete the orientation modules?
- How and when will I get my class schedule?
- When can I register for University Orientation?
- How long is University Orientation?
- Should someone participate in University Orientation with me?
- Does University Orientation cost money?
- What travel accommodations are offered?
- What should I bring with me to University Orientation?
- How can I change my major?
- What dates are offered for University Orientation?
- What if I’m a Firelands Student?
- What if I’m transferring from Firelands Campus?
- What about Firelands Pathway?
- What if I cannot attend any of the listed orientation sessions?
- I am in the military and am unable to attend any of the dates. What should I do?
- What if I need special accommodations?
How do I register for University Orientation?
Log in to your MyBGSU* > New Student: Orientation > Orientation Reservation
The Orientation Reservation link will take you to the registration page and show all available orientation dates. Follow the prompts to complete your registration.
*If you have not set up your MyBGSU account, you can do so by going to bgsu.edu/newaccount and using you BGSU ID number to register.
Will University Orientation be virtual or in-person?
We are offering both virtual and in-person University Orientation days this summer. Both will offer the same informational sessions and opportunities to connect with faculty, staff and current students. If you register for University Orientation and then change your mind about which format you would like to attend, you can contact us at orientation@bgsu.edu or 419-372-0353 and we’ll help you change your date.
Can I change my date?
While you may change your selected University Orientation date after completing the reservation, please be aware that dates are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Each University Orientation date has a limited amount of space for students so that we can best serve you and provide individualized attention. To guarantee your preferred date, please try to reserve a date that works for you. If you have any questions, please contact us at orientation@bgsu.edu or 419-372-0353.
What happens at University Orientation?
At University Orientation, you will have an opportunity to connect with current students, as well as staff members, and get to know some of your new fellow Falcons. You will be connected with an Orientation Leader who will guide you through your University Orientation experience and continue to be a resource for you.
You will also be able to take care of some important “to-do” list items such as finalizing your financial aid and billing and getting your BG1 card. We will also provide opportunities in the summer for campus tour and residence hall tours.
At University Orientation, you’ll meet new people and make friends. The social aspect of University life allows students to feel like they belong. It’s important for students connect with their Orientation Leader, get familiar with the campus, and participate in activities that will help them forge a bond with other first-year students. It is this sense of belonging that will be the foundation of successful students.
Moving to a completely different place without the safety net of having family nearby can cause great anxiety for students. At University Orientation, we will provide you with information about things like the physical locations of different student services, safety on campus and what you can expect from living in the area. Keeping in mind to include those staying in residential halls, commuters and students living locally.
Of course, the main reason students attend college is to learn and earn a degree! University Orientation helps you with the first steps toward academic success. It’s essential to cultivate a relationship between students and their Life Design Coach by focusing on creating intentional time to discover BGSU. When you are comfortable with your Life Design Coach, you will be more likely to reach out for help and guidance to steer clear from failure.
Do I have to complete the orientation modules?
Yes, every first-year student is expected to complete the orientation modules. These modules will provide really important information about life at BGSU and will complement your University Orientation experience. The online modules can be completed at your own pace, and you can refer back to them throughout your first semester. You will receive an email in early July when you have access to begin your modules. You can learn more on our Orientation Modules web page.
Please note: the orientation modules are different than virtual Univeristy Orientation. Regardless if you attend University Orientation in-person or virtually, you are required to complete all modules.
How and when will I get my class schedule?
For students starting in the fall semester:
Freshmen (In-person Orientation): During orientation, you will meet with a staff member from the academic advising and planning team to work on your class schedule. Your appointment time will be given to you when you arrive at orientation. Meanwhile, please start submitting any completed college credit or AP scores to the BGSU Office of Admissions.
Freshmen (Virtual Orientation): During virtual orientation, you will meet with a staff member from the academic advising and planning team to work on your class schedule. Your appointment time will be given to you at the start of your virtual orientation session. Meanwhile, please start submitting any completed college credit or AP scores to the BGSU Office of Admissions.
Transfer Students: During orientation, you may have the opportunity to review on your class schedule with an academic advisor. Your advisor will work with you prior to orientation on your class schedule.
Pathway Students: During orientation, you will meet with your Pathway team. Meanwhile, please start submitting any completed college credit or AP scores to the BGSU Office of Admissions.
For students starting in the spring semester, students will receive an email to their BGSU account from their Academic Advisor and Planner with instructions to schedule an advising appointment. Students can meet with their Academic Advisor and Planner before or after their Orientation day via phone, video, or in-person. Your Academic Advisor and Planner will work with you to learn about potential classes and the registration process. After the advising appointment, students will register for their own Spring semester classes.
When can I register for University Orientation?
Registration opens for spring new student orientation (held in January) in November.
Registration opens for summer new student orientation in February and remains open through our final session.
Register for University Orientation ➔
How long is University Orientation?
In-Person University Orientation:
**Times are subject to change.**
- 8-9 a.m. | Check-in
- 8-9 a.m. | Attend optional open houses, a campus resource fair and other opportunities to connect with faculty, staff and current students.
- 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Our required programming for all students and families will begin promptly at 9 a.m. We will have a full day planned for you, so you should expect to be on campus until approximately 6 p.m.
Virtual University Orientation:
**Times are subject to change.**
- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.* | Our required programming for Virtual University Orientation will begin promptly on Zoom at 10 a.m. EST. There will be a variety of sessions, opportunities to connect with staff and Orientation Leaders, and time to get your questions answered. We’ll wrap up around 4:00pm. *There will be plenty of breaks throughout the day.
Does University Orientation cost money?
University Orientation is free for the incoming student.
Guests and family members are welcome to attend, if you wish. The fee is $30 per guest/family member 12 years old and over, $15 per guest/family member under 12 years old. The fee is payable via credit or debit card. The guest fee helps support the cost of the Orientation program, including staffing, room rentals, meals, and printing costs. All Orientation fees are non-refundable and non-transferable to other students. Deciding not to attend BGSU or having your admission rescinded due to poor academic performance does not qualify you to receive a refund of orientation fees. If you choose not to attend BGSU, you are responsible for notifying the Office of Admissions. If this fee is a barrier for family members or guests to participate in Orientation, don't hesitate to contact us at orientation@bgsu.edu.
What travel accommodations are offered?
If you are traveling from out of town, you may consider the following accommodations: Best Western Falcon Plaza Hotel, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Days Inn, or an on-campus Residence Hall (summer only).
University Orientation Travel & Accommodations
What dates are offered for University Orientation?
On the University Orientation homepage, you can find a full list of the University Orientation dates. When you are ready to register for University Orientation, only currently available dates will appear for you to select. Reservations are held on a first-come, first-served basis.
University Orientation Schedule
What if I’m transferring from Firelands Campus?
If you are transferring from Firelands, you are not required to attend University Orientation; however, it is highly recommended that you do. Should you choose not to attend, you will need to make an appointment to schedule your classes for fall semester.
What about Firelands Pathway?
If you are in the Firelands Pathway Program, you will attend University Orientation on main campus.
Register for Firelands Pathway ➔
What if I cannot attend any of the listed orientation sessions?
We understand that students have jobs and other obligations during the summer; however, University Orientation is required for all incoming first-year students. You must choose one of the many sessions of University Orientation being offered. If you cannot make any of the University Orientation dates work with your schedule, contact us at orientation@bgsu.edu or 419-372-0353.
What if I need special accommodations?
Accommodations can be made for students and/or guests who have a special need. Requests can be made in the “Special Accommodations” section of the reservation form or by contacting us at orientation@bgsu.edu or 419-372-0353.
Updated: 01/30/2024 10:34AM