New Student Orientation will introduce you to the traditions, expectations, programs and services of WVSU and assist you in selecting your first semester class schedule. New Student Orientation is a mandatory program. Attendance and participation at new student orientation is required for all new first time freshmen and transfer students. Orientation provides you with the information and access to the resources you need to have a successful college experience. During New Student Orientation you will get to experience the warmth and kindness of the WV State faculty and staff, prepare for the upcoming semester, and become a part of the Yellow Jacket Nation.
Parents and other supporters are also invited to attend orientation to learn more about how you can support your student. Those who have attended orientation find it to be an informative and rewarding experience. Students and parents will follow different schedules during orientation sessions. Additional detailed information, including a program agenda and campus map, will be emailed to you prior to any orientation event.
Please continue to check with us for updated information regarding future New Student Orientation sessions. For additional questions or concerns regarding advising and orientation, please contact Student Life and Engagement at (304) 766-3288 or nso@wvstateu.edu.
Next Steps:
Free Application for Federal Student Aid- Don't forget to sumbit your required
FAFSA application. Our school code is: 003826.
Housing- Are you planning to live on campus?
Click here to fill out a Residence Hall application!
Final Documents- Don't forget to request all final documents to complete your admission process. Click
here to review required documents.
What will we do at orientation? Why am I here?
Orientation is a necessary component for you to have a successful start to your first semester at WVSU. During orientation, you will be provided with some beneficial information regarding the support services and resources available to you. You will also have the opportunity to meet and engage with other Yellow Jackets. Orientation staff will assist you as you adjust to campus life, both academically and socially. You may preview the overall program agenda here.
Is orientation mandatory and will I have to stay at orientation the entire time?
Orientation is a mandatory requirement for all new and transfer students. During that time, we have a plethora of things planned for you; so please plan accordingly. You must stay the entire time to complete your New Student Orientation requirement.
Is there an orientation fee?
Yes. There is a $100 NSO Fee (NON-REFUNDABLE) per person that must be paid at the time of your registration for an orientation session. The fee includes a meal, a student t-shirt, and all NSO materials.
Can I bring parents or a family members with me to orientation?
Yes, parent and family members are encouraged to take part in our orientation program. Parents will also obtain some helpful information regarding the various ways that they can support their student success. Parent and family members will also learn about ways that they can connect or stay involved with WVSU.
Is there an orientation fee for my guests, parents, or family members?
Yes. There is a $25 NSO Guest Fee (NON-REFUNDABLE) per person that must be paid at the time of your registration for an orientation session. Guest 15 years of age and younger are free and not required to pay a Guest Fee. The fee includes a meal, a student t-shirt, and all NSO materials.
For those parents and guest who choose to stay at a local hotel, West Virginia State University suggests the following accommodations:
Wingate Inn
402 Second Ave.
Charleston, WV 25303
304-744-4444
Hampton Inn
One Preferred Place
Charleston, WV 25309
304-746-4646
What should I bring with me to orientation?
Most of the items that are needed for orientation will be provided for you. If rain or cold weather are expected, students may wish to bring an umbrella or a jacket.
What should I wear?
Orientation goers should plan to dress comfortably. Tennis/Walking shoes are a must. Students will be walking to various locations or may be on their feet for extended periods of time. Warm and comfortable clothing is also recommended.
Who should I contact if I need special accommodations for orientation?
If you would like to request special accommodations i.e. an interpreter, amplification system, seating accommodations, or orientation materials in an alternate format, and assistance with any learning or physical disability during an orientation program, please contact Counseling and Academic Support Services at (304) 766-3168 or toledoke@wvstateu.edu
Will I register for classes during orientation?
During orientation you will receive a schedule that has been selected for you based on the class scheduling preference that you indicated during your registration for orientation. You will also meet with faculty and staff from your particular academic area to discuss your schedule, course options, and to make any adjustments to your schedule.
I am thinking about changing my major. Should I make this change before or after orientation?
Orientation participants are advised by faculty in the colleges of their respective majors. You may make a change to a major outside of your current college up to one week prior to your scheduled orientation session by contacting Admissions at (304) 204-4340 or (800) 987-2112.
- Completed my application to WVSU
- Completed the FAFSA at www.fafsa.gov
- Submitted all supporting documentation
- Final Official High School Transcripts and/or GED Test Scores
- Final Official College Transcripts from all colleges ever attended, including those courses take while in high school
- A copy of Immunization Records
- ACT/SAT Scores
- Advanced Placement (AP) Scores from College Board (if applicable)
- International Baccalaureate (IB) Certifications (if applicable)
- Received my official WVSU Acceptance Letter
- Completed the online New Student Orientation Registration
- Paid my New Student Orientation Fee
- Saved the date and cleared my calendar for New Student Orientation!
Arrive and check-in at New Student Orientation
- Photo ID
- Welcome
- Breakout Sessions
- Brunch
- Breakout Sessions
- Scheduling (Must have 15 credits)
- Print Schedule (Must have 15 credits)
- Billing and Financial Aid
- Tell Us What You Think - Program Evaluation
- Visit WVSU's Bookstore to get some State Gear!
- Get ready for a great start at WVSU!
- Don’t forget to complete loan entrance counseling at www.StudentLoans.gov