students walking down the stairs of Brookens Library

First Year Orientation

Orientation is mandatory for all new First-Year and Freshmen Transfer students. It consists of three elements: a one day in-person orientation (2025 dates to choose from are June 16, 18, 21, or 23); an online component, and New Student Welcome right before the start of classes. These programs are designed to help you meet new Prairie Stars, get registered for classes, and start to call UIS your new home!

First-Year Student Orientation
Two people talking to each other, with the back of one shirt with text "You must be the change you want to see in the world"

Transfer Student Orientation

Orientation is highly encouraged for all new Transfer Students. There are three elements: a one day in-person orientation (2025 dates to choose from are June 16, 18, 21, 23); an online component, and New Student Welcome right before the start of classes. We have curated a program designed to help transfer students be able to call UIS their new home.

Students walking by the UIS Colonnade

International Orientation Experience

Orientation is mandatory for all new international students. New International Student Orientation for students admitted to the Fall 2025 semester will take place on August 20. Please bring your immigration documents and arrive on time! International Student Services will be completing your Immigration Check-In at your Orientation. First-Year (Freshmen) International Students will participate in both the First-Year Orientation and the New International Student Orientation and should plan their campus arrival accordingly.

International Orientation & Check-In

Graduate Orientation

Graduate students are highly encouraged to participate in our online orientation to help you get your semester off on the right note. There will be an online orientation that goes over advising, billing, payment plans, etc. An in-person "Taking Care of Business" event allows students to take a campus tour, get their iCard, and attend a campus department resource fair.

Graduate Orientation
students playing with a butterfly

UIS Orientation Guidebook

Download the UIS Orientation Guidebook