New Student Programs is here to help answer any questions students, families or supporters may have. Explore the list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) below and don’t hesitate to contact the team to learn more.
Connection
What types of communication will I receive?
Website
Here you will find helpful information surrounding Required Tasks, Orientation, New Student Checklists, Moving In, Academics and more.
Becoming Orange e-Newsletter
It is essential for students to read each Becoming Orange e-Newsletter, sent to their Syracuse University email address (i.e. @syr.edu), to prevent missing important deadlines and information. Throughout the first academic year, students will receive weekly emails encouraging involvement and offering inspiration on how to be active on campus.
Social Media
Connect with fellow new students and learn more about New Student Programs by following us on Instagram @syracuse_nsp.
How do I contact New Student Programs?
Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are ready to help answer any question. Contact the New Student Programs team today!
Will there be students helping me transition to Syracuse University?
Yes, there will be friendly faces to help students with their transition to Syracuse University. Volunteers will welcome students to campus and the Orange Community, as well as host programs throughout Syracuse Welcome. Please note, students will move in their own belongings.
Our Orientation Leader Team is made up of upper-division returning student leaders from all schools and colleges, and are involved throughout campus. They are highly trained to know Syracuse University and orientation, so please feel free to ask questions!
What digital resources does Syracuse University offer to support my success?
From academic support, to professional development, to health and wellness, Syracuse University offers a multitude of digital resources to support success.
Getting Started
How do I access my NetID, Syracuse University Email and MySlice account?
As part of a student’s required tasks, please visit the Required Tasks webpage to learn more and for additional directions.
What required tasks are students asked to complete?
It is encouraged to complete required tasks as soon as possible. Failure to complete requirements may result in losing the ability to register for classes, additional charges and/or a Conduct Hold on your student account.
Explore the Required Tasks webpage for a complete list and for additional instructions.
What are the Community Wellness Requirements students are asked to complete?
As required tasks, new students begin the Community Wellness Requirements series before arriving to campus in addition to participating in activities a few weeks into their first semester. Then as returning students, students will complete Continuing Community Wellness Requirements annually until graduation.
Failure to complete these requirements by the deadline may result in a Registration Hold, losing the ability to complete class registration until complete.
Are there any tests I need to take before I arrive?
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- Depending on your program, some schools and colleges will require a Mathematics Placement Exam.
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- If you are taking a foreign language course, you may need to take a Foreign Language Placement Exam.
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- Non-native speakers of English must take the English Language Placement Exam.
What support do you offer transfer students?
New Student Programs supports this student population by planning events and workshops for transfer students to build community on campus, learn about valuable campus resources and organizations. New Student Programs staff will also send a monthly transfer student e-newsletter. For more information, visit the Transfer Students webpage.
What happens when I arrive for move-in and orientation?
Learn more on the Arriving webpage.
Orientation
When is new student orientation?
Visit the Orientation webpage for the latest information.
What is a Pre-Welcome Program and how do I register?
Occurring one to three days prior to Syracuse Welcome, new students are encouraged to participate in a Pre-Welcome Program. Pre-Welcome Programs offer students the opportunity to meet and connect in small groups based on identity and interest. Pre-Welcome Programs are a great way to start your Syracuse University journey and prepare for your first year on campus.
Please note, space is limited, costs may apply and there are no Winter Welcome Pre-Welcome Programs.
As a family member or supporter, how long should I stay?
More details will be shared on the Orange Family Connection Portal as plans are finalized.
Where can I find a list of all Syracuse Welcome events?
Explore complete event lists for Syracuse Welcome as well as events planned by schools and colleges by visiting the Syracuse Welcome webpage.
Moving In
Move-In Registration and Details
Learn more on the Moving In webpage.
Travel, Hotel Accommodations and Exploring Syracuse
Explore hotel accommodations, local restaurants and more by visiting the Travel and Parking webpage.
Packing Checklist
Explore the Packing Checklist today!
How does housing work at Syracuse University?
- All new students are randomly assigned to any number of residence halls.
- Students who elect to live in a Living Learning Community or who mutually select a roommate will likely have those requests honored.
- Please note, students cannot select a residence hall or a specific room type.
- Following roommate assignments, students may not change until after classes begin. Students are encouraged to speak with their Resident Director (RD) after classes begin to explore those options should they be available.
- Learn more on the Moving In webpage.
What is a Living Learning Community?
Living Learning Communities (LLCs) provide a distinct, personalized housing experience based on academic interests, passions and studies. LLC residents have exclusive access to peers with common interests, faculty, staff, student leaders, social activities and outings.
Incoming students may express interest in living in an LLC during the Apply for Housing Required Task.
Do you have a list of things to bring and things that are not allowed?
Explore all helpful lists on the New Student Checklists webpage.
May incoming students have a car?
- First-year students are not allowed to have a car. However, in certain circumstances, a student may complete a Parking and Transportation Services petition.
- Transfer students may have a car and are required to purchase a permit.
Which meal plan is best?
- Required for first-year students, we encourage students to explore the available meal plan options. Please visit the Housing, Meal Plan, and I.D. Card Services website for more information about packages and to get an idea of what could be offered.
- Please note, meal plans are subject to change annually.
- Pending deadlines, students may also decide to change meal plans during the semester.
What happens if I have not completed my health and wellness requirements?
Residential students who fail to meet these requirement deadlines will not be able to select a move-in pass and will not be permitted to move into their residence hall assignment. Complete details and instructions are available on the Required Tasks webpage.
What happens when I arrive to my residence hall for Move In?
Learn more by visiting the On-Campus Living webpage.
Will I have assistance during New Student Move In?
Yes! Upon arrival during designated times, new students, families and supporters will be greeted by student, faculty and staff volunteers. Orientation Leaders and members of the returning student volunteer team, affectionately called the Goon Squad, will be ready to help with wayfinding, unloading vehicles and more.