Orientation

Welcome, Our New Scarlet Knights to Rutgers!

The mission of Student Orientation and Transition Programs is to welcome, prepare, and engage new students in their transition to Rutgers University - New Brunswick.  You will have an opportunity to learn more about tools and resources available to you as a Rutger student, tips and strategies to best navigate the campus, and connect with other new students and student leaders.

How to Register for Orientation

Students attending Student Orientation must be fully compliant with the COVID-19 Vaccine requirement to register and attend orientation.  A student is fully compliant when they have received the primary vaccination series, bivalent booster, or approved medical or religious exemption waiver.  Rutgers students must upload their vaccination documentation on the Rutgers Student Immunization Portal for verification.  A NetID and password are required.  Please see the Rutgers COVID-10 Vaccine Information site for more information regarding the requirement.

What Can You Expect

Housing Accommodations: Student Orientation is a two-day, overnight experience for first year students* and an online experience for our transfer students.  Students participating in the first year overnight experience will spend the night in our Busch Campus suites.  Student will share a double room within a 6-person shared suite. 

First Year Program: Through interactive presentations and small group activities, first year students will learn more about the Rutgers campus, connect with Rutgers departments, resources, and staff and gain guidance from current Rutgers students.  Spots are available on a first come, first served basis so do not delay!

Transfer Program:  Students will complete an asynchronous online orientation where they will hear from current Rutgers students,  learn more about the Rutgers campus, resources available, and ways to connect with the campus community.  You will also be invited to attend an in-person Transfer Student Experience Day.  

Academic Sessions

Academic Sessions are first year orientation sessions that include breakout sessions for students enrolled in specific schools.  These breakout sessions will provide you the opportunity to hear important information from advisors and faculty from your school of registration.  Depending on your school, you will either be registering for your courses or working with an advisor to understand your School's course program.  Please make sure you have completed your Placement Exams to be able to select the appropriate courses.

Accommodations

We want to ensure everyone is able to fully participate in our Orientation experience.  If there are questions and/or concerns about the method(s) of delivering content, please do not hesitate to contact our office transition@echo.rutgers.edu.

Family and Guest Information

Parent and Family members are invited to attend orientation while their student attends Student Orientation.  Tickets for Parent & Family Orientation must be purchased in advance.  Registration for Parent & Family Orientation is available beginning May 1.  Email ruparents@echo.rutgers.edu with any questions.

All Parent and Family Members are also encouraged to join the R Family Hub, out parent communications platform. Sign-up and select what type of information you want to receive and how often you want to hear from us.