What is Graduate Student Orientation (GSO)?
Graduate Student Orientation (GSO) is a university-wide orientation program administered by the Graduate College. GSO consists of two components:
- Online orientation module – Required for all new graduate students before registering for courses.
- In-person orientation – Held on the Athens campus each August before fall semester classes begin.
Who must complete the online GSO module?
All new graduate students must complete the online GSO module.
The in-person Graduate Student Orientation is strongly encouraged. It provides an opportunity to learn more about campus resources and complete important tasks, such as employment paperwork (for students with graduate appointments) and obtaining an OHIO ID card.
Why do I need to complete the online GSO module?
The online GSO module provides important information about university processes, including student accounts, billing, registration, and university policies.
Completion of the module is required before you can register for courses. A registration hold will remain on your account until you successfully complete the module.
When can I complete the online GSO module?
You can access and complete the online GSO module as soon as your OHIO ID has been activated.
What if I have not activated my OHIO ID?
You must activate your OHIO ID before you can access the online GSO module.
Visit Ohio University Account for instructions on activating your account.
How do I access the online GSO module?
- After activating your OHIO ID, log in using your university credentials to access the online GSO module: Ohio University | Orientation Modules
- Scroll down to “Graduate” and select your classification: Graduate Student orientation (GSO)- Athens Campus
I completed the online GSO module. When will my registration hold be removed?
Please allow up to two business days after successfully completing the module for your registration hold to be removed.
I completed the online GSO module, but there is still a hold on my account.
Registration hold removals are not immediate. If it has been fewer than two business days since you completed the online GSO module, please allow additional time for processing.
If more than two business days have passed, contact the Graduate College at graduate@ohio.edu for assistance.
Can I register for classes before completing the online GSO module?
No. You must complete the online GSO module before you can register for courses.
Please note that completion of the GSO module does not indicate that you have received academic advising or course approval from your program.
When should I register for classes?
Consult your academic program before registering for courses. Many graduate programs provide advising, course recommendations, or specific registration instructions before students enroll.
Before attempting to register:
- Complete the online GSO module and allow up to two business days for your registration hold to be removed.
- Contact your academic advisor or program to determine which courses you should take during your first semester.
- Follow any registration instructions provided by your department.
- Plan ahead, particularly during the summer months, when response times may be longer.
Do I need to complete GSO every semester?
No. You only need to complete GSO once for your current degree program.
If you leave the university and later return to enroll in a new graduate program, you may be required to complete the online GSO module again.
Who should I contact if I have questions?
Questions about the Online GSO Module or In-Person Graduate Student Orientation
Contact the Graduate College:
- Phone: 740.593.2800
- Email: gso@ohio.edu
Questions about International Student Orientation
Contact International Student and Scholar Services:
- Email: iso@ohio.edu
Questions about Your Academic Program Orientation
Contact your academic program directly. Program contact information is available on the Graduate Academic Programs website.