Map your Cyclone path

Orientation is designed to welcome you to campus and help you get familiar with Iowa State. Ease yourself into university life -- register for first-semester classes, get to know Iowa State, and learn important policies and procedures.

Orientation is required for all new students, but you decide which option works best for you. Lost your notes or want a preview? We make make our orientation publications and presentations available so you have a summary of resources and frequently asked questions that help you transition to Iowa State.

International student orientation

All incoming international students must attend the orientation program hosted by the International Students and Scholars Office.

Summer and fall semester enrollment

For students who begin their Iowa State University coursework in May, June, or August.

This event allows you to experience campus in person and get to know Ames. During OnCyte Orientation, you will be able to:

  • Take tours and get to know your way around
  • Connect with other Cyclones in person
  • Attend helpful sessions on campus resources, housing and dining, and financial aid
  • Get your ISUCard
  • Learn about your academic college, major and how to succeed academically
  • Meet with an advisor face-to-face to plan your class schedule

Transfer students will choose a 1-day orientation session held in April, May, or July. First-year students will choose a 1.5 day orientation session held in the month of June. Your academic major will determine options available to you. Guests are welcome to attend with you! Once you register for OnCyte Orientation, you will receive an email with helpful information and steps to complete before orientation.

Much of what is shared during OnCyte Orientation is available via the online orientation module. Online orientation is a series of self-paced modules that will help you:

  • Learn about Iowa State’s campus, academics, and clubs
  • Discover essential resources to succeed
  • Learn about living and dining on campus
  • Prepare for academic advising and meeting virtually with an academic advisor

Online orientation opens early April for transfer students. Online orientation opens late May for first-year students. The steps to schedule your virtual academic advising appointment are included in online orientation. Plan to complete online orientation at least a week before you meet with your advisor for class registration. You will receive an email with instructions for how to login and complete online orientation once online orientation opens.

  • Once you receive your orientation invitation, select which style of orientation is best for you. Register for either an OnCyte Orientation session or online orientation.
  • Take the ALEKS math placement assessment at least five days prior to your academic advising appointment.
  • Complete new student onboarding tasks in Workday in order to register for your first-semester classes.
  • Attend OnCyte Orientation or complete required online orientation.
  • Sign up for Destination Iowa State, a student-only kickoff experience held the Thursday through Sunday before classes begin. Registration for Destination Iowa State will be available in April.

Quick links

Complete ALEKS placement assessment

Complete new student onboarding tasks

Register for Destination Iowa State

 

Coming soon!

Coming soon!

Spring semester enrollment

For students who begin their Iowa State University coursework in January.

This event allows you to experience campus in person and get to know Ames. During OnCyte Orientation, you will be able to:

  • Take tours and get to know your way around
  • Connect with other Cyclones in person
  • Attend helpful sessions on campus resources, housing and dining, and financial aid
  • Get your ISUCard
  • Learn about your academic college, major and how to succeed academically
  • Meet with an advisor face-to-face to plan your class schedule

You will choose a 1-day orientation session held in the month of November. Your academic major will determine options available to you. Guests are welcome to attend with you! Once you register for OnCyte Orientation, you will receive an email with helpful information and steps to complete before orientation. 

Much of what is shared during OnCyte Orientation is available via the online orientation module. Online orientation is a series of self-paced modules that will help you:

  • Learn about Iowa State’s campus, academics, and clubs
  • Discover essential resources to succeed
  • Learn about living and dining on campus
  • Prepare for academic advising and meeting virtually with an academic advisor

Online orientation opens mid-October. The steps to schedule your virtual advising appointment are included in online orientation. Plan to complete online orientation at least a week before you meet with your advisor for class registration. You will receive an email with instructions for how to login and complete online orientation once online orientation opens. 

  • Once you receive your orientation invitation, select which style of orientation is best for you. Register for either an OnCyte Orientation session or online orientation.
  • Take the ALEKS math placement assessment at least five days prior to your academic advising appointment.
  • Complete new student onboarding tasks in Workday in order to register for your first-semester classes.
  • Attend OnCyte Orientation or complete online orientation.
  • Sign up for Destination Iowa State, a student-only kickoff experience held the Friday before classes begin.

Quick links

Before you arrive

Questions?

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