Freshman Orientation FAQS

  1. How do I register for orientation?
    You will select your orientation session date and pay your orientation fee ($150) online by logging into your New Cards Gateway. Orientation registration will be available on February 20 at 10 am ET.
  2. I already registered for a session and now I need to come on a different date. How do I change my session?
    If you need to change to a different session after you have paid you orientation fee and selected a date in your New Cards Gateway, you can submit a Session Change Request Form to request a new session.  After submission of that form, you will receive a new session confirmation email in approximately 3-5 business days. Your first session change request is free, but subsequent requests could incur a $10 processing fee.
  3. Can I register for orientation over the phone?
    No, orientation registration must be submitted online.
  4. What business will I take care of during orientation?
    You will meet with an academic advisor, register for classes, and get your Student ID card. You will also have a chance to learn about many campus groups, offices and departments.
  5. Do I have to attend orientation?
    Yes, orientation is mandatory for all degree-seeking students.
  6. What do I have to bring to orientation?
    Be sure to check the What Should I Bring to Freshman Orientation section on this page for a full list.
  7. Where do I park?
    Free parking is available in the Floyd Street Parking Garage. If you park elsewhere, we cannot refund any fee or ticket assessed for alternate parking choices. Parking directions can be found on the Parking and Directions page.  You will receive an email to your UofL Email account with a QR Code to access the parking garage a few days before your scheduled session.
  8. What should I wear?
    Dress is casual. We will be indoors and outdoors; don’t forget to bring an umbrella if rain is in the forecast! Some rooms are cooler than others, so dress accordingly.
  9. Do my parents have to come?
    We offer an optional Family Orientation ($50 per participant). Guests are limited to four per student.  The family program is one day that runs concurrent with the first day of the student session. You can meet up during lunch and dinner.  Register your guests for Family Orientation in your New Cards Gateway.
  10. I cannot attend any of the session dates. Are there other options?
    No. You must attend a listed session date.
  11. Am I required to stay on campus during the entire program?
    Yes. All components of the program are mandatory.  Students are expected to stay until the end of the program on day 2. If you leave at anytime during the program you will not be able to register for classes.
  12. Do I have to stay overnight on campus?
    Yes. The overnight stay on campus is required, including commuter students.  All students will stay in Belknap Village North, a traditional residence hall on campus designated for orientation.  Belknap Village North features a bathroom hallway populated by multiple private bathroom units.  Rooms are double occupancy (2 students per room).  Roommates are not preassigned; you will be assigned a roommate, by gender identity, in the order of arrival to orientation check-in.
  13. What do I do if I have to work?
    Please make arrangements with your employer.  We can provide documentation that you attended or plan to attend orientation.
  14. When will I be finished?
    Programming and hall checkout will conclude at approximately 5:00 pm ET on the second day of your session.
  15. Can I bring a friend or significant other to orientation?
    You may register two guests for Family Orientation, but it is only recommended for family members or support people. Family Orientation is $50 per participant and is a one day program that runs concurrent with the first day of the student session.  Student and Family Orientation are two entirely separate programs, and students can see their family member(s) at lunch and dinner.  Register your guests for Family Orientation in your New Cards Gateway.
  16. What if I want to change my major?
    It is important that students are admitted to the correct major before registering for their orientation session to ensure they have access to sessions designated for their major.  If you would like to request a major change, please complete the Major Change Request Form.
  17. Can my parents come with me to my advising session?
    No, you will meet with professional staff to ensure that you make an appropriate schedule.
  18. What do I do about AP or dual credit classes?
    Results from some AP exams won’t be available until after orientation; however, please bring a list of classes you have taken with you to your orientation session. Your academic advisor will help you plan an appropriate schedule. Contact your advisor after orientation upon receipt of your scores if any changes are necessary.  For information regarding ordering test credit results, click here.
  19. Are there any financial aid resources you can offer?
    Please visit our student financial aid website for detailed information regarding various financial aid resources.
  20. I don't know if I need to take a placement test.
    Please visit the First-Time Freshman Checklist for the most up-to-date information regarding placement testing.
  21. What if I am admitted for a spring semester?
    First-time freshmen admitted for the spring semester have different orientation requirements and timelines.  Click here for more information.