Each July, we host four two-day orientation sessions for incoming first-year students and their families.
These sessions are strongly encouraged by the university to ensure student success and a smooth transition to college.
July 2025 Freshman Orientation sessions - Register Now!
The table below includes the dates and registration links for the four 2025 Freshman Orientation sessions. Students are encouraged to register as early as possible, keeping in mind that some sessions may reach capacity and become unavailable.
Fall Transfer Orientation
Transfer students are highly encouraged to attend Transfer Orientation the Friday before classes start for fall semester.
This program is extremely important for transfer students to attend to learn how to use Moodle (our academic platform), discuss your four-year path with an academic adviser, meet your peer coach (a student who has been at SBU for at least a full year), campus employment, and even have the opportunity to walk your schedule with a student leader before classes begin.
International Student Orientation
International Student Orientation is a program designed specifically for international students to assist in their transition abroad.
Students will work with the associate director of International Student Services to arrive on campus as close to a week before classes start as possible. Throughout the week, we will host activities, sessions, presentations, and workshops to give international students time to adjust to life at SBU.
Some of the highlights of International Student Orientation include:
- learning how to use the bus system
- joining a campus tour
- F-1 and I-20 workshops
- setting up an American bank account
- getting involved in campus volunteer projects
There are many activities hosted by our International Student Services student staff including campfires, s'mores, drive-in movies, and international game night.
Please note that this is not to replace online orientation in July. Online orientation will cover information not presented during international orientation.
International program contact:
January Orientation
At January Orientation, new students have a chance to explore the academic, social and spiritual aspects of campus life.
All new students who are starting classes in January are strongly encouraged to attend orientation prior to the start of the semester. Parents and other family members are welcome to attend.
Program highlights:
- academic overview, including degree audits and graduation requirements
- presentations on student affairs and important policies
- review of classroom technology and academic resources including the Student Success Center, university library, and more.
- campus & classroom tour
Questions about January Orientation?
Email questions to Tyler Eberly.