Sessions marked with a Cyclone are required for students to attend

New Student Orientation and Course Registration
TimeSessionLocation
Various times
Parking

We encourage you to park in the Memorial Union Parking Ramp attached to the east side of the Memorial Union. You will be provided one free parking voucher during check-in.

Memorial Union Parking Ramp
8:30–9:45 a.m.
  Check-in

Welcome to Iowa State University! Plan to arrive by 8:45 a.m. if you’d like to attend the Financial Aid Overview session.

Oak Room, Memorial Union
8:30–10:15 a.m.
  ISUCard

Bring a valid government issued photo ID to get your ISUCard. We recommend getting your ISUCard before your required programming, but the office is open until 4:00 p.m. Allow 30 minutes to receive your ISUCard. 

To save time and have your card ready for pick up when you arrive, follow the guidelines closely and submit your photo for your ISUCard at least two business days prior to your OnCyte Orientation at photo.isucard.iastate.edu.

0530 Bearshear Hall
9:00–9:45 a.m.
Financial Aid Overview

Learn the basics about financial aid at Iowa State. Topics include how to apply, types of financial aid available, steps required to obtain aid as well as policies that may impact you.

Room 3560, Memorial Union
9:00–10:15 a.m.
Resource Fair

Connect with various departments to explore campus resources and services.

Great Hall, Memorial Union
10:15–11:15 a.m.
  Welcome and Information Session

During this required session, you learn about numerous campus resources and explore activities that will prepare you for success as a Cyclone.

Great Hall, Memorial Union
11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m.
  College Connections

At this required session, experience a welcome to your academic college, learn about resources and engage with your college community. You’ll also receive details about your academic advising appointment. Locations provided at check-in.

Various campus locations
12:15–1:00 p.m.
Munch & Mingle

We invite you to get lunch with your orientation meal ticket in the Memorial Union Food Court and join Cyclone Aides to relax, ask questions, and get to know other future Cyclones.

Gold Room, Memorial Union
12:15–1:00 p.m.
Military-Affiliated Student Welcome Lunch

The Military-Affiliated Student Center (MASC) welcomes military-affiliated students, military-connected students, and their guests to attend a lunch and presentation covering MASC support and resources. 

Registration encouraged: go.iastate.edu/UELLWD.

Room 3512, Memorial Union
1:00–1:50 or 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Campus Tour

Meet at the Fountain of the Four Seasons outside the North entrance of the Memorial Union and join a Cyclone Aide for a 50-minute guided walking tour of Iowa State beginning at 1:00 p.m. or 2:30 p.m.

Fountain of the Four Seasons, Memorial Union
1:00–4:00 p.m.
  Academic Advising Appointment and Course Registration

Meet with an advisor, plan your schedule, and register for classes. Students must attend their required College Connections to receive academic advising appointment details.

Various campus locations

Additional opportunities 

TimeSessionLocation
8:30–10:15 a.m. or 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Financial Aid Drop-In Advising

Many of your financial aid questions will be answered during the Financial Aid Overview session. For questions specific to your aid, meet with a financial aid advisor at this time.

0210 Beardshear Hall
1:00–4:00 p.m.
Iowa State Memory Maker

Download the Scavify app and search Iowa State Memory Maker to participate in this exciting self-paced photo scavenger hunt through campus as you experience orientation!

Learn about Iowa State history and traditions while snapping some iconic photos. If you complete the hunt, come to the New Student Programs office in 5530 Memorial Union to claim your prize!

Various campus locations
1:00–4:00 p.m.
Military-Affiliated Student Center Drop-In

Have questions about VA education benefits or tuition assistance? Visit the MASC to ask questions and learn more about their services.

Room 5600, Memorial Union
1:00–4:00 p.m.
Parks Library Self-Guided Tour

Discover how the University Library can help you succeed. Meet library staff in the lobby to check in for self-guided tours exploring the art, architecture, and innovative spaces of your library.

Parks Library
1:00–4:00 p.m.
Recreation Services Self-Guided Tour

Tour the recreation facilities at State Gym or Lied Recreation Athletic Center. Stop by the front service desk to check-in and explore at your own pace.

State Gym or Lied Recreation Athletic Center
1:00–4:00 p.m.
Visit the First Scholars Office

Learn about programs and services designed to support first-generation and income-eligible students.

3320, Memorial Union
1:00–4:00 p.m.
Visit Multicultural Student Affairs

Learn about the programs, opportunities, and resource centers that support Iowa State students

3320, Memorial Union
1:00–4:00 p.m.
Visit the Transfer Center

Make connections and learn about transfer student resources. Current students and Transfer Center staff are excited to welcome you and support your transfer experience. Snacks provided.

Transfer Center, Room 12, Enrollment Services Center
1:00–5:00 p.m.
Visit the ISU Book Store

Prepare for your first day of class with textbooks and technology at the ISU Book Store in the Memorial Union. Explore your required textbook list and discover the ease of the Immediate Access ONE program to ensure a successful first day of class. Find your required computer at TechCyte with the Major Success program, including your free Microsoft Office 365. And, snag some new Cyclone gear with the coupon provided in your orientation materials.

Visit isubookstore.com for more information about course materials, technology, and to shop 24/7. ISU Book Store orientation hours are 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Floor One, Memorial Union