Freshman Orientation

High School Transcript 

Dual Credit or other University/Community College Transcripts (If Applicable)

Bacterial Meningitis Shot Record or Exemption Form 

Test Scores (TSI, ACT, SAT) 

During orientation, you will meet many of your peers, professors, staff and other freshmen starting the same journey as you. There will be several groups of students all assigned to an orientation leader. Your orientation leader will serve as your guide to UTPB. You can ask them anything you need to, and they will help guide you in the direction you want to go. Your group will consist of other freshmen, and you will be together for most of the session. Here you will get to meet new people, find people in your major, build connections and blossom new friendships.

There will be sessions where you get to learn everything about UTPB. You will hear from university departments such as Financial Aid, Student Accounts, The Dean of Students, and your orientation leaders. You can also visit these departments if you wish to get more detailed information or to meet with them regarding any questions you may have.

There will also be a First-Generation Luncheon and a Veterans Luncheon following the session on day 2. First Generation students are students who are the first in their families to receive a college degree. There will be faculty and staff present that were first-gen students when they were in school to chat about what life is like, for a first-generation student, the resources in place to ensure you succeed, and to talk about ways the university is there to support you in your path to graduation. The Veterans Luncheon will serve to meet with Veteran Services after orientation to clarify any questions about any aid coverage and resources available for veterans

This orientation is a two-day session, meaning all new freshmen will stay overnight in the Residence and Dining Hall (RDH) to experience what it's like to stay at a college campus.

You will need:

Blanket & sheets (twin XL) or sleeping bag

Pillow

Pajamas

Toiletries

Towel(s)

Swimwear

Reusable water bottle

When will I receive an invitation to orientation?
Freshmen will receive their invitation to orientation after they have been admitted to the university and registration is available.

Am I required to attend orientation?
It is mandatory for freshmen to complete orientation.

When is orientation?
Orientation occurs at various times throughout the year. Students entering in the summer or fall semesters will complete a summer orientation program in May through August. Students entering the spring semester will complete an orientation program in January.

How much does orientation cost?
All incoming freshmen will be charged a $130 orientation fee. The cost of orientation is assessed in your first-semester bill.

What will I do during orientation?
Students will learn about campus policies and procedures, academic programs, and resources. Freshman orientation also includes academic advising. In addition, orientation provides an opportunity for you to meet other incoming students and current students.

Where will I stay during orientation?
Freshman orientation includes an overnight stay on campus for students. The cost is included in your orientation fee. Students need to bring a pillow, bath towel, hand towel, toiletries, a sleeping bag or twin XL bed sheets, and a blanket.

Will I register for my classes during orientation?
Students attending in person will meet with an advisor and register for classes during orientation.

Can family members participate in orientation?
Yes! We encourage family members to join in. We have a family orientation program that runs concurrently with our student program. Please make sure you register guests with you.

Where will my guests stay during orientation?
Guests who are not local will need to make arrangements at hotels. We have several hotels that are offering discounted rates for UTPB orientation guests. Use the registration links below or call the hotels directly and mention “UTPB Freshman Orientation” to access the rates.

Do I need to have completed the TSI requirements prior to orientation? 
Since registration occurs during orientation it is important to have your TSI requirements completed prior to orientation. Students who have not completed their TSI requirements will be limited during class registration. If you are unsure of your TSI status, please contact the Registrar's Office at (432) 552-2635. You can schedule your test date online. Contact the Testing Services & Academic Accommodations Department at (432) 552-2360 for questions about TSI testing and fees.

Is payment for classes required during orientation? 
You cannot pay for classes until the bill posts. Please contact the Accounting Office at (432) 552-2706 for additional information.