The mission of Undergraduate Orientation Programs is to support incoming and current students, as well as their families and guests, through seamless orientation and transition processes that include intentionally-designed programs, effective online resources, and consistent outreach. Our programs ensure all students belong to the OHIO community, succeed as a new student, and own their unique experiences.
To accomplish this mission, we engage all units and staff across the university in collaborative partnerships and develop informed student leaders who value diversity and inclusion, embody OHIO spirit, and demonstrate a genuine passion for helping their fellow Bobcats with a service-oriented mindset.
Undergraduate Orientation Programs creates a welcoming and supportive environment for students to thrive as we establish the foundation for the transformational OHIO experience focused on personalized success.
Yes. You can use the link in the confirmation email you received when you originally signed up to edit your BSO date. If you have any issues or are unable to find that email, please contact our office.
If you need to cancel your orientation, you may do so using the link in the confirmation email you received when you originally signed up. If you have any issues or are unable to find that email, please contact us. Please note that cancelling your orientation session does not withdraw your application to the university and you will need to contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions if you intend to do that.
Some majors have a smaller number of students entering in a semester and have fewer dates available as options so students are able to connect with a larger group of peers in their major during the program. Also, the system is set up to close sessions as the available seats fill for each program, so it is also possible that the program dates you do not see are because the available seats for your major are all full. In some instances, exceptions may be made to accommodate you on dates you do not see available in the system to sign up. If that is the case, please contact us to discuss your options.
All sessions during your orientation are mandatory. Missing or skipping sessions prevents you from registering for classes. For extenuating circumstances, please contact our office in advance to discuss your situation.
Student orientation fees for the program and one night staying on campus in a residence hall are included in The OHIO Guarantee™. There are additional fees for the family and guest orientation programs and their overnight accommodations on campus, as well as any students staying for additional nights. Full details about our orientation fees can be found on our Fees page.
Fees will be automatically charged to your student account after you check-in for orientation. You can pay these fees along with your tuition charges as accepted by the Bursar's Office. No payments need to be made before or during your orientation program.
Fees are non-refundable. If you have any additional questions, please contact our office.
Each orientation session provides the same in-depth academic advising and access to course enrollments. No matter the program you attend, you will register for a complete and appropriate schedule for your intended major. However, some course offerings or specific class times may not be available during your selected program date if seats have already been filled in those courses.
Have your AP scores sent directly to Ohio University. Undergraduate Admissions only accepts scores submitted by the CollegeBoard. Any credit you are eligible for will be loaded to your university record before orientation. We recommend you have a copy of your AP scores available when you participate in orientation, as it will aid in your scheduling process. If you are still awaiting scores when you participate in orientation, it will be helpful to inform your academic advisor about the AP exams you have taken to make sure your schedule is planned properly.
Have an official transcript sent directly to the Office of Admissions, Chubb Hall 120, Athens, OH 45701 as soon as possible. We would also suggest that you have an unofficial copy of your most current transcript available when you participate in orientation to be used as a discussion point in the event your transcript has not been fully processed. If you would like to check if your transcript has been received, please contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.
If you wish to change your major, we recommend doing so as soon as possible. Since our orientation program is designed to connect you with other students in your major and specific information is shared about your major or college, it is important to make any major changes prior to participating in orientation. To change your major, please contact Undergraduate Admissions via email at admissions@ohio.edu. You should do this at least one week prior to your scheduled orientation date to make sure we have prepared your orientation materials for your new major.
Family members and guests are encouraged to participate in orientation with their student. While the program is not required for family members or guests, it is an excellent time for you to get information and helpful hints on how to help your student through their college experience. It will also give you a chance to ask questions and get to know some of the students, staff, and faculty who will be working with your student throughout their college career. Additional information about the program can be found on our Family and Guest Orientation page.
Families and guests have a separate orientation experience from students. Student sessions are designed for the student to develop essential academic autonomy and an opportunity to meet future classmates. Our program sessions are designed to meet each groups' needs in this transitional experience. Additional information about the program can be found on our Family and Guest Orientation page.
Students will be assisted by an academic advisor and Orientation Leader (OL) throughout the registration process during BSO programs. The academic advisor is happy to answer any questions the parent may have after the student has registered. We appreciate your support in providing students the opportunity to make their own academic decisions.
Specific parking information can be found on the Preparing for BSO page. When you arrive at the parking lot for your program, our staff will give you a parking permit for you to place on your dashboard. This parking permit will only be valid for the duration of your program.
Bring the following with you for your in-person BSO program:
