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.
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 isso@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 on May 15 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?
Freshman Orientation is $100. Family Orientation is $10 per family member. Registration and payment are accepted online. If you cannot afford registration fees for orientation, you may be eligible to have them waived. Contact New Student Programs at 972-883-6171 or at newstudentprograms@utdallas.edu for more information.
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 972-883-6391 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, which is scheduled to open in fall 2009.
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?
UT Dallas does not offer on-campus housing for orientation. However, there are several hotels near the University that offer overnight accommodations.
