New & Transfer Student Orientation

If you’re a new or transfer student joining Ashland University during the fall semester, orientation is a two-part process. Part I, Summer Orientation, takes place in June or July for half a day. Part II, Orientation Weekend, takes place in August during the move-in weekend that immediately precedes the start of classes.

Please note that a $125 fee will be charged to your student account for your orientation programs. The fee covers materials, meals and other administrative costs (see "Fees and Charges Explained").

If you're a new or transfer student joining Ashland University during the spring semester, orientation will consist of a virtual session preceding the first day of classes as well as additional electronic orientation materials.

Contact Information

Part I: Summer Orientation

You and two guests are invited to join us for a half-day program that will help prepare you for fall semester. We set aside this time so you can take care of business and have an opportunity to speak with faculty, staff and upperclassmen about any questions you may still have. Seating is limited for each date and is on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you are unable to attend a June or July Summer Orientation session, you will receive an orientation packet sent to your email address.

Students on campus

Part II: Orientation Weekend

If you plan to live on campus, your O-Weekend begins with moving in on Friday before the start of fall classes. Your move-in time slot will be assigned by the Office of Residence Life.

Commuter students check in for Orientation Weekend on Saturday.

During this weekend, we hope you'll begin to feel that AU is your home away from home. To help, there are activities and programs to familiarize you with the campus and give you opportunities to meet your peers and form new friendships.

Here are some of the activities you'll want to participate in during O-Weekend:

  • Purchase textbooks or pick up reserved textbooks.
  • Attend the President's Convocation.
  • Meet your O-Teamer and peers during Just Ask Me (JAM) team meetings.
  • Attend Residence Life, Campus Activities Board and Commuter Services activities.
  • Enjoy a personalized campus tour and find your classroom locations with your O-Teamer.
  • Attend your academic meeting and meet faculty in your major.
  • Attend the Involvement Fair to join student-led organizations and clubs.
Student and his mother at Summer Orientation