So, you’ve been admitted to Portland State University and decided it’s the right college for you. Now what?
Attend New Student Orientation! All undergraduate students must attend Orientation before they can start their journey as a PSU student. But attending Orientation isn’t a chore—it’s a celebration of you joining our community and taking the next step in your academic journey! Orientation will help get you familiar with everything PSU has to offer and start connecting with fellow students.
We’ve compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions and the answers, so you know what to expect. If you have more questions, email us at orientation@pdx.edu.
WHEN CAN I SIGN UP?
Students who are starting in fall term can sign up for orientation starting May 8. You must confirm your enrollment prior to signing up for orientation.
DO I HAVE TO GO TO ORIENTATION?
You sure do! You will not be able to register for classes until you complete an Orientation program. Besides, there’s no better way to start off your PSU experience. You’ll meet academic advisors, who are ready to support you towards graduation, and current and incoming students. You’ll also learn about PSU’s many resource centers and student groups.
HOW DO I SIGN UP?
Sign up online. Before you can sign up for Orientation, you must confirm your enrollment. There are many Orientation sessions to choose from, so sign up early to get the session that works best for you.
WHAT IF I’M AN OUT-OF-STATE STUDENT AND CAN’T MAKE IT TO AN ORIENTATION SESSION IN PORTLAND?
No worries — we have virtual orientations available! Sign up online as soon as possible. International students are also required to sign up for an Orientation Session AND attend a special International Orientation on September 20, 2023.
WHAT IF I CAN’T ATTEND ANY ORIENTATION SESSIONS?
Contact orientation@pdx.edu as soon as possible to make arrangements.
HOW LONG IS ORIENTATION?
First Year and Transfer Orientation sessions taking place on campus are 2 full days. The first day is required, and the second day is highly recommended. programs. You will not be able to register for classes if you do not attend the entire session. You must arrive and check in at the beginning of the session. If you miss check-in, you will have to attend another session, otherwise you will not be allowed to register for classes.
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO ATTEND ORIENTATION?
After you sign up, make sure you’re ready for Orientation. Check our list of things to do to prepare for Orientation.
DO I NEED TO BRING ANYTHING?
Yes! Bring a government-issued ID, as you use this to get your PSU ID card at orientation, if you should choose to do so. We strongly suggest you bring a laptop or tablet for course registration (smartphones are not recommended).
CAN I BRING SOMEONE WITH ME TO ORIENTATION, LIKE A PARENT OR GUARDIAN?
Of course! While not required, you may certainly bring a guest or two. Beginning this new chapter in your life is exciting, and we want you to share that experience.
WILL I REGISTER FOR CLASSES AT ORIENTATION?
Yes! This is why attending Orientation is required. You’ll meet with advisors in your academic area of interest who will give you direction on what courses you should take. You will walk away from Orientation with a completed first-term schedule!
WILL I GET TO TOUR CAMPUS?
Absolutely! We offer campus tours to our incoming students and guests at all on-campus sessions. PSU is about to be your new home, and we want you get a feel for campus!
WILL I GET TO TOUR THE DORMS?
Yes. We offer optional housing tours at all our on-campus sessions. Tour times will be on the agenda you receive at check-in.
I’M WORRIED BECAUSE I DON’T KNOW ANYONE ELSE. AM I GOING TO MEET ANYONE?
Since it’s Orientation, no one knows anyone else yet! You’ll meet tons of other students who will start at the same time as you. You’ll even get to spend time with others who share your major. This is the perfect opportunity to connect with peers you’ll see again on campus in September!
WHO SHOULD I CONTACT IF MY QUESTION HASN’T BEEN ANSWERED HERE?
If you have any remaining questions after this list, get in touch with us at orientation@pdx.edu. Keep an eye out for Orientation emails. We will send you details about your Orientation session via email, so check your @pdx.edu email account.