New Student Orientation
Your First Step to Success at UNC
Welcome to New Student Orientation (NSO)! Whether you're a first-time first-year student or a transfer student, NSO is your opportunity to get connected, feel prepared, and take your first steps toward success at UNC.
While NSO is not mandatory, it is highly encouraged for all incoming students. It provides essential resources, advising, and peer connections that will set you up for a strong start.
Registration is required - Sign in to your My UNC Portal to register.
Summer 2025 NSO Session Dates & Formats
📅 February 2025: Registration for NSO is now open! You can register for the event via your My UNC Portal. Students must register to attend.
📅 March 3, 2025: The Pre-Orientation Canvas Course launches. All students are expected to complete this course before attending NSO.
The Pre-Orientation Canvas Course is accessible via My UNC Portal.
🏫 In-Person Sessions |
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💻 Virtual Sessions |
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Session Options: In-Person vs. Virtual
- 🏫 In-Person NSO – A full-day, interactive experience that includes:
- Academic advising & course registration (for First-Time First-Year students)
- Campus tours and an introduction to UNC traditions
- Opportunities to meet fellow new students and Orientation Leaders
- On-campus resource fair and Q&A sessions with faculty and staff
- 💻 Virtual NSO – Designed for students unable to attend in person. It includes:
- Comprehensive online presentations covering essential campus resources
- Live Q&A opportunities with UNC staff and Orientation Leaders
- Advising & Registration takes place separately beginning July 1, 2025, for First-Time First-Year students. Transfer students will complete advising before NSO.
What to Expect at NSO
- In-Person NSO:
- Full-day experience with advising, campus tours, and peer connections
- On-site support for ID cards, Wi-Fi setup, and student services
- Live presentations and Q&A panels with campus departments
- Virtual NSO:
- Remote overview of campus resources and student services
- Interactive Q&A sessions with UNC staff
- Advising & Registration takes place separately (for First-Time First-Year students starting July 1, 2025)
Important Information for Students & Families
Registration & Logistics
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How do I register?
Log into your UNC Admissions Portal and select your preferred session. -
Can I change my session after registering?
Yes! You can modify your registration via the Admissions Portal. If your preferred date is full, contact orientation@unco.edu for assistance. -
Is there a deadline for registration?
Registration remains open until sessions reach capacity. Individual session sign-ups close one week before the session date. -
Is there a cost to attend NSO?
No, NSO is free for students and their guests. -
What should I bring to NSO?
More detailed information will be provided before the event date, but students should bring:
✔ Comfortable clothing and walking shoes
✔ A laptop (recommended for Wi-Fi setup and troubleshooting)
✔ Any required documents to complete outstanding Admissions checklist items -
Where do I check in for NSO?
- Campus Commons Main Lobby (8:00 AM – 8:50 AM)
- Optional West Campus Walkabout check-in (7:40 AM – 7:55 AM)
Family & Friends Participation
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Is there a cost for family and supporters to attend NSO?
No! Families are welcome at no cost. -
What sessions are available for family members?
Dedicated sessions include supporting student transitions, financial aid, and campus resources. -
Do family members need to register separately?
No, students indicate the number of guests when registering.
Beyond NSO: New Student Days & B.I.G. Bear Welcome
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What is New Student Days?
August 20–21, 2025 – Expected for all new students, featuring workshops, community-building, and important campus resources. -
What is B.I.G. Bear Welcome?
August 22–24, 2025 – A high-energy kickoff event open to all UNC students, featuring campus traditions, involvement fairs, and social events!
Tell us which type of student you are to get more information
Questions? Contact Us!
📧 Email:orientation@unco.edu
