New Student Orientation 2015

June 2, 2015 by rmsmith5

All new students (first-year and transfer students) are required to attend New Student Orientation (NSO) over the summer. We offer multiple sessions over June, July and August that students can select from (based on their major and availability) when they register online.

We offer three types of orientations: first-year orientation (a two-day program required of all first-year students), transfer orientation (one-day program) and a transfer express program (one-day, abbreviated program offered for transfer students who have completed 30 or more credits, work full time, have family responsibilities, etc.).

Following registration, students are sent an email with helpful reminders and important information as they prepare to visit us on campus. Here are some of the highlights:

Submit a photo for your VCUCard! If you do, your ID will be ready for you when you arrive at Orientation. Click here for a PDF that explains how to submit your photo.
Make sure you know your eID and password. You will need this information when you meet with your advisor during Orientation. Go to go.vcu.edu/eidfinder to find your eID.
Complete the Online Math Placement Test at go.vcu.edu/mathplacement before your Orientation session. Even though you may have AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits pending that will supersede your placement score, we strongly urge you to take the test so that you can register in case those credits are not processed before you arrive at Orientation. If you don’t have a test score or official credit recorded in your VCU transcript, you will not be able to register for a math course.
Make sure you bring:
- your high school course grades in math, chemistry and foreign language; an official transcript is not required;
- your SAT, ACT, AP, and/or IB scores; official documentation is not required;
- photo identification;
- any paperwork you have not yet submitted to VCU offices (immunization forms, etc.);
- comfortable shoes and clothing;
- an umbrella in case of rain; and
- first-year students staying overnight should bring a pillow. All other linens (sheets, blankets, towels) will be provided.
Eat breakfast before you arrive. Lunch will be provided.

All of these reminders, plus more specific information for each type of orientation session, including schedules, can be found at nsfp.vcu.edu/orientation.

Can students bring their parents or family members? Yes! Parents and family members of new students are strongly encouraged to attend NSO. As a guest, you’ll hear information about academic programs, student life, safety and wellness, and opportunities to get involved in the VCU community. You’ll also have the opportunity to engage with administrators, faculty and staff, and other VCU parents and families. Read more and register (if you haven’t done so already!) at nsfp.vcu.edu/orientation.

We hope to see you this summer! Please contact nso@vcu.edu or (804) 828-3700 if you have any questions about NSO.