Orientation Reservation

Orientation your way

Orientation is your hub of information to succeed as a Cyclone, and it is required of all new students. You are able to decide which orientation works best for you! Choose your on-campus orientation session or online orientation when registering for orientation.

Starting classes in May, June, or August? (summer or fall entry)

OnCyte Orientation

This event allows you to experience campus in person and get to know Ames. You will be able to:

  • Take tours and get to know your way around
  • Connect with other Cyclones in person
  • Attend helpful sessions on campus resources, housing and dining, and financial aid
  • Get your ISUCard
  • Learn about your academic college, major and how to succeed academically
  • Meet with an advisor face-to-face to plan your class schedule

First-year students will choose a 1.5 day orientation session held in the month of June. Transfer students will choose a 1-day orientation session held in April, May, or July. Guests are welcome to attend with you! Once you register for OnCyte Orientation, you will receive an email with helpful information and steps to complete before orientation.

Online Orientation

If coming to campus isn’t the best option for you, you can choose to participate in online orientation. Online orientation will help you:

  • Learn about Iowa State’s campus, academics, and clubs
  • Discover essential resources to succeed
  • Learn about living and dining on campus
  • Prepare for academic advising and meet virtually with an academic advisor

Online orientation opens early April for transfer students. The steps to schedule your advising appointment are included in online orientation. Plan to complete online orientation at least a week before you meet with your advisor for class registration. 

Online orientation opens late May for first-year students. You will select a virtual advising appointment date at the time you make your reservation for online orientation. Expect to receive an email from your academic college 5 days before your pre-selected advising appointment date with details on how to meet with your academic advisor. Plan to complete online orientation at least a week before you meet with your advisor for class registration. You will receive an email with instructions for how to login and complete online orientation once online orientation opens.

Make your orientation reservation