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Students gather outdoors for the Incoming Transfer Student welcome picnic

incoming

transfer students

Welcome!

Your Gopher Transition

Student and family at Resource Fair

Orientation & Transition Experiences is here to support you in your transition to the University of Minnesota. From completing your New Student Checklist to participating in Orientation and Welcome Week, our goal is to provide you with information, experiences, and resources to help you succeed in your time at the U of M.

New Student Checklist 

Beginning November 11, 2026, once you have confirmed your admission to the University of Minnesota and paid your confirmation fee, you will receive an email asking you to begin your New Student Checklist (NSC). The NSC is divided into two parts. You will receive the first part on November 11 and the second on January 12. You must complete all three sections soon after they are sent.

The checklist includes important tasks you must complete, such as the Tell Us About Yourself survey, selecting an orientation date, completing placement testing and finishing required online training. It also lists any college-specific tasks to help prepare you for orientation and the start of the academic year.

Orientation Dates

Students will select their preferred Orientation date through the New Student Checklist. For Spring 2027, Orientation date options are available January 8–14. Orientation is a required, one-day program for all incoming students.

What To Do Before You Start Your New Student Checklist

Claim Your University Email Account

  • First, you must claim your University email account. Email is the official method of communication at the University of Minnesota. All messages about finances, class registration, events, and more are sent to your University email, so it is a good idea to start checking it now. 

Apply for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Online 

  • We encourage you to apply for financial aid. Information on various types of aid programs as well the University's financial aid timeline is available at the One Stop website.
Pionee

Apply for Housing

  • Planning to live on campus? We offer several options for transfer students, but housing is limited so don't wait to apply! Housing questions should be directed to [email protected]

Housing ApplicationHousing Tips

Orientation

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  • Your one-day Orientation includes learning about life on campus, registering for classes, meeting other new students, and exploring campus resources.

Family Orientation

 
Student with family members

Most students have their families and supporters also attend Family Orientation every summer which is held during the same time. Invite your family and supporters to register for Family Orientation.

Winter Welcome Days

University of Minnesota students walking outside in the snow. A student with long hair and grey beanie smiles.

Start the semester strong at Winter Welcome Days — your chance to connect, reconnect, explore, and have some fun as the semester starts. Meet new friends, discover campus resources, and dive into events that bring our community together. Whether you’re looking to get involved, try something new, or just enjoy free food and good vibes, Winter Welcome Days are the perfect way to kick off the new term.

Connect with OTE on Social Media

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Get In Touch

If you have any questions regarding Student Orientation or Welcome Week, we would be happy to answer your questions.

 

Contact Us

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Orientation & Transition Experiences

In an effort to support each student during their transition to the U of M and on their path to graduation, Orientation & Transition Experiences offers high-quality, dynamic experiences that cultivate community and empower students to champion their own development and leverage campus resources.

 [email protected]


612-624-1979


 315 Coffman Memorial Union
300 Washington Avenue SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455

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  • Incoming First Year Students
    • Orientation
    • Welcome to the Twin Cities!
    • Preparing for Your Advising
    • Required Immunizations, Insurance, & Courses
    • Advice for New Students
  • Incoming Transfer Students
    • Orientation
    • Welcome to the Twin Cities!
    • Preparing for Your Advising
      • January Winter Welcome Days
    • Required Immunizations, Insurance, & Courses
    • Winter Welcome Days
  • Current Students
    • Transfer Students
    • Second Year Students
    • All Students
  • Family & Student Supporters
    • Family & Student Supporters of First Year Students
    • Transfer Student Family & Student Supporter Orientation
    • Overnight Accommodations for Families & Student Supporters
  • Leadership & Employment
    • Paid Student Positions
    • Professional Staff Opportunities
      • About the Twin Cities
  • Communication & Publications
    • Email Communications
    • Newsletters
    • Welcome Students Posters
    • Social Media
  • About OTE
    • Driving Directions
    • First-Year Assessment
    • Our Staff
    • Sponsors & Partners
      • Explore U Event
    • Commuter Success Program
    • My U, My View Student Art Gallery