Frequently Asked Questions
Is orientation mandatory?
It is strongly recommended. Orientation provides you vital information and ensures you meet with an academic advisor and register for classes. Freshman Orientation offers priority registration, with earliest access to classes. Freshmen who do not attend orientation must wait until orientation sessions are over to register for classes. Classes fill up quickly, so it is to your advantage to attend orientation.
What if I am unable to attend?
Make every effort to take advantage of the benefits of orientation, but if you are unable to attend, contact New Student Programs at 972-883-6171 for assistance.
What is the agenda for orientation?
Freshman Orientation begins with check-in starting at 8:30 a.m. in the Clark Center on the first day. You will hear from university administrators and students regarding what to expect from UT Dallas and hear important information regarding class registration. The first day concludes after dinner in our dining hall at 7 p.m. The beginning of the second day will vary depending on your assigned advising time, but will conclude before 6 p.m.
Where can I find information about International Student Orientation?
International students are required to attend International Student Orientation, which is offered by the Office of International Student Services, and strongly encouraged to attend Freshman Orientation. Visit the International Student Services Web site for more information, call 972-883-4189 or e-mail at issoprograms@utdallas.edu.
Do my parents need to attend?
Parents are encouraged to attend orientation with their student. Programs are offered for both students and parents concurrently. Special programs are offered for parents while students meet their advisors and register for classes. Registration is available online for students and parents.
I will be entering UT Dallas in the summer. Which orientation session should I go to?
You are encouraged to go one of the five freshman orientations which is designed and geared toward your needs. However, we do offer a general New Student Orientation in the early summer in the Student Union Galaxy Rooms (SU) 2.602, which will be limited in scope.
How do I get to UT Dallas?
See directions to UT Dallas. For a detailed map of campus, see the campus map.
When you arrive, stop for a parking pass from the Visitors’ Center. Contact UT Dallas’ main switchboard at 972-883-2111 for more information or directions.
How much does orientation cost?
Orientation fees for students is $100 and $40 per family member. Registration and payment are accepted online. Please note: this fee is not refundable.
What do I need to bring to orientation?
Bring test scores (such as AP, IB, CLEP, ACT or SAT) and transcripts with you, if possible. They will aid you in registering. Students who have taken the computer science placement exam should bring their score printout.
What are the dates for Comet Camp, Success Camp and the Emerging Leader Program?
Check the following Web pages for specific details about these programs.
When can I meet with an advisor?
Undergraduate students will have the opportunity to meet with an advisor during Freshman Orientation.
What about on-campus housing?
Check the housing Web page for details. Contact the Residential Life office at 972-883-5361 for information about living on campus. Eligibility for campus housing is tied to admission and enrollment, so apply early.
All freshmen who choose to live on campus are required to live in the freshman apartment community or in the new residence hall.
How can I apply for financial aid?
Visit the Applying for Financial Aid Web site or contact the Financial Aid Office at 972-883-2941 for details regarding financial aid, short-term loans and the installment payment plan.
How can I apply for a UT Dallas scholarship?
See information at the Office of Undergraduate Studies Web site, or call 972-883-6805. All entering freshmen are considered for scholarships, but you must have applied and been accepted to the University to be eligible for scholarships.
The Financial Aid Office has a list of available scholarships at UT Dallas.Where can I stay during orientation?
Students have the option of an overnight stay on campus for some orientation sessions. Several hotels near UT Dallas offer overnight accommodations for families.
