Navigating Your First Semester: A Guide to UTA Freshman Orientation

Embarking on your college journey at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is an exciting step. To ensure a smooth transition, UTA provides a comprehensive Freshman Orientation program designed to equip you with the knowledge and resources necessary for success. This article serves as your guide to understanding the orientation process and preparing for your first semester.

Orientation Requirement and Registration

To satisfy your orientation requirement, you must complete the Freshman Pre-Orientation Online Module in eLearning with a score of 100%, and you must register for and attend an orientation session on the date of your choosing. Once admitted to UTA, you will receive an invitation to register for orientation. Access to the MAVSOnline system will be available within 24 hours of your completed orientation registration.

Modifying Your Orientation Session

Flexibility is key, and UTA understands that. You can switch sessions, add the overnight option, and add guests by modifying your order in Orion and paying the applicable fees. If your desired session is full, don't worry! As students move sessions or cancel, seats become available automatically. To check for availability, simply attempt to modify your orientation session in Orion.

The Role of Orientation Leaders

The Orientation Leaders, current UTA students, will serve as your guides through the orientation process. They are excited to welcome you to UTA and help bring new students together. Plus, they will be available after orientation to answer any questions and help build connections to the UTA community. They are there to answer your questions and help you connect with fellow students.

Encouraging Family Involvement

Parents and family are encouraged to attend with their student. Students may add up to two family members during the Freshman Orientation Registration process. Family members participating in orientation must be registered to attend orientation with their student. Special programs are offered for family members while students meet with their advisors and register for classes. For families needing accommodation, there are local hotels near campus.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is Federal legislation designed to protect the privacy of your education records. Students can grant their parents/legal guardians access to their student records by completing the Parents Certification of Dependency form found through the Office of the Registrar Resources Page.

Payments for Freshman Orientation

Payments for Freshman Orientation get processed every Tuesday and Thursday.

Addressing Holds and To-Do List Items

Before Freshman Orientation, you must resolve any outstanding items on your To Do List or holds for residency, required vaccinations (including meningitis), or other required documents. For detailed information about remaining To Do Items or Holds on your account, check your Student Center by logging into the Galaxy Portal and following the links to Orion. Most To Do Items will not prevent you from registering for classes, but holds on your student account can. Students who have a “Enrollment hold: Stu. Affairs - Attend Freshman Orientation” hold must attend orientation. This hold is managed by the Office of the Registrar. You must submit a completed Meningococcal Meningitis Vaccine Form, and Proof of Immunization. This hold is managed by the Office of the Bursar.

Please try to have all holds removed one week prior to attending Freshman Orientation. To view a list of your holds check your student account in Galaxy.

What to Bring to Orientation

Orientation is a two-day experience. Students have access to view the Orientation dates when they access their Galaxy Portal. Bring a copy of your test scores (such as AP, IB, CLEP) and transcripts with you, if possible. Scores are posted in early July. For those attending the June orientation sessions, be sure to bring a list of all the tests you have completed. Since every student’s situation is different your academic advisor will help you determine your fall schedule based on the exams you have taken. Most incoming freshmen will also need to complete the ALEKS exam prior to orientation.

The Overnight Option

Students are encouraged to stay overnight on campus for orientation sessions. You may add the overnight option during the Freshman Orientation registration process. Please note, you cannot modify the overnight option in your registration within two (2) weeks of your orientation. The Orientation Overnight option is designed for both out-of-town and local students who are attending Freshman Orientation. The Overnight Option closes two weeks prior to each session. If you choose the overnight option, remember to bring toiletries, towels, bedding (sleeping bag, pillow), and a change of clothes. Every student will have their own bedroom in a three-bedroom suite with a common living room and sink area. on Day Two of orientation.

Academic Advising and Course Registration

You will register for Freshman Orientation under your admitted major. All incoming students are required to meet with an Academic Advisor to register for classes. You also may have holds on your student account that will prevent you from registering for classes, and these can take several business days to resolve.

Tuition Rate Plans

All new incoming students will have the opportunity to choose from two rate plans: the guaranteed tuition plan and the variable tuition plan. New incoming students will be defaulted into the variable tuition rate plan, but will have the option to enroll in the guaranteed tuition rate plan.

Additional Requirements for International Students

TB Screening is required for all persons born outside of the United States. You can contact the Student Health Center to schedule a Tuberculosis Screening. All F-1 and J-1 students have this hold. International Student Orientation is hosted by Intercultural Programs. If you are an incoming freshman student and an international student you can attend either Freshman Orientation or International Student Orientation to fulfill your orientation requirement.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

The primary way to apply for financial aid is to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). All entering freshmen are considered for scholarships, but you must have applied and been accepted to the University to be eligible.

Campus Housing

Contact Residential Life for information about living on campus. Eligibility for campus housing is tied to admission and enrollment, so apply early.

Understanding Names at the University

The University recognizes that many community members use names other than their primary/legal names to identify themselves. Learn more about the Office of the Registrar.

Bursar's Office

The Bursars Office is responsible for billing and payments of tuition and fees.

Navigating the Campus

See directions to UT Dallas. For a detailed map of campus, see the campus map. Please print the parking pass, and place it on your dash when you arrive on campus for orientation.

tags: #UTA #freshman #orientation #schedule