Attend Orientation

Orientation program dates

All students must attend orientation to register for their first semester of classes. Your options will be noted in the Orientation Portal and are based on availability with your academic unit.

Your orientation confirmation page will indicate the date, time, and location of check-in. Select the semester you intend to start at IU to see more info about your program date options.

Summer 2025 classes have four start dates: May 13, June 9, June 23, and July 7. Explore classes in each of those sessions on iGPS. Your program options will be outlined when you make a reservation in the Orientation Portal.

Fall-start students have a variety of options in June and July, with very limited options in August just before the start of the semester. Options available are based on academic unit, when you make your reservation, and other factors.  Students should complete their reservation by May 10 for the most options, and to support any course pre-enrollments.

The program takes place over two days. Be sure to read through your options carefully when making your reservation to choose what is best for you, paying careful attention to all components, dates, times, and modality options available to you, as all components are required.

International and transfer students have the option to attend orientation virtually.

Your program options will be outlined when you make a reservation in the Orientation Portal.

Spring-start students will have program options from late November to early January. Log in to your Orientation Portal to see the dates available for you to select.  All options will be virtual to support timely course enrollment. In-person activities will be available once you arrive on campus in January.

Program reminders

Here are a few other things you need to know before arriving for your orientation program:

  • Our in-person program does include a good amount of walking. Please provide details in your orientation reservation if you or your guest need physical accommodations.
  • Bloomington is in the Eastern Time Zone.
  • Review your personalized orientation confirmation page in the Orientation Portal for information regarding lodging, meals, parking, and more.

Prepare for advisingSee a sample schedule

Parents, guests, and supporters

We encourage students to bring an adult guest to the in-person program as we offer a track that runs concurrently with the student program. Due to space, students should limit to 1–2 adult guests.

When making their orientation reservation, students have the opportunity to identify accessibility needs for themselves and any guests who may accompany them.

In-person programs involve significant walking around campus. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.

Checking in when you arrive to Bloomington

If you are attending an in-person orientation program, check your orientation confirmation for your specific check-in time and location.

Lodging during and after orientation

If you are attending an in-person orientation program, review our lodging information.

Lodging during orientation:

Check your orientation confirmation page in the Orientation Portal for housing options for your specific program.

Housing post-orientation:

  • Connect with IU Housing for on-campus housing options and updates regarding move-in.
  • If you are living off campus, IU’s Student Legal Services can help you understand your lease and resolve disputes with your landlord.

Getting to Bloomington

Make your orientation reservation before booking any travel arrangements.

Road construction is significant, especially on I-69/SR 37. Prior to your travel to campus, be sure to check for road closings that may affect your travel time or route on the INDOT Interactive Map.

If you are flying, you’ll likely fly into the Indianapolis International Airport.

GO Express Travel, 800-589-6004, travels between Indianapolis International Airport and Bloomington several times each day. They also have private cars and a shuttle to and from Chicagoland.