FAQs - Freshmen
What is orientation and why is it mandatory?
Orientation is a program all new students are required to attend prior to enrolling in classes. Highlights of your orientation include meetings with advisors, exploration of academic majors and minors, registration for fall classes and photograph for your student ID card. You will not be allowed to register for classes until you attend orientation.
Why haven't I received information to sign up for orientation?
As soon as your $175 new student orientation fee has been paid and processed, you will be sent a postcard asking you to reserve your orientation date by using our online reservation system. If you have questions, call the Orientation office at 989-774-6629.
How do I pay the $175 New Student Orientation Fee?
Online payment can be made using credit card or electronic check. If you do not have access to use online payment, you can mail your payment using the fee card provided by Admissions in your admit kit. This payment reserves your place as a new CMU student. Click here to pay fee online.
How do I reserve a date to attend Academic Orientation?
Once CMU has received and processed your new student orientation fee payment, you will be able to reserve your date to attend orientation using our online reservation system. You will be required to enter your CMU global ID and password to gain access. This reservation process will take you approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. Ready to reserve your date? Click here to begin.
How do I activate my CMU Global ID and E-Mail account?
Visit http://myaccount.cmich.edu or call the CMU Help Desk at 989-774-3662.
When will I receive confirmation of the date I selected to attend orientation?
Once you complete and submit your online reservation, confirmation will be sent to your CMU e-mail account listing your orientation date, time, location and parking information along with links to other important information relevant to your orientation day. Print your confirmation for easy reference.
Where can I find parking information and driving directions?
Designated free parking for orientation participants is provided (no parking pass required). Click here to view/print your specific parking lot map. Driving directions and an online campus map are available at http://www.cmich.edu/visit/campus_map.htm.
Do I need to set up an appointment with an advisor prior to orientation?
No. Meeting with an advisor and registering for your classes are part of the orientation program.
Will I be required to take placement tests at orientation?
No. During your orientation session, you will receive placement reports from the Mathematics and English departments. Your placement scores will be based on your high school performance and ACT scores. A foreign language placement test can be taken if you intend to continue a language that you have previously taken in high school.
What is the orientation schedule like?
Orientation for new spring semester students begins with morning check-in at 9 a.m. and will conclude midday, typically no later than 2 p.m. Students who have family members attending the family program will check in together. Students will register for first semester classes with the assistance of academic advisors, have their picture taken for their campus ID card and have lunch on campus. All students have the option of meeting with representatives from student service offices such as Scholarships and Financial Aid, Receivable Accounting, Student Employment and Residence Life. Tours of campus are not included in the agenda.
Am I allowed to leave orientation during the session?
No. Students must stay with the Orientation program and their assigned group throughout the entire program.
Who can come with me to orientation?
Family members are invited to attend a meeting that is held separately from your academic advising session. This is an excellent opportunity for family members to ask questions and learn more about your new university. There is no additional fee for the family orientation meeting. Family members can purchase lunch on campus during orientation.
Can I bring a friend with me?
No. Space is limited to new students and their family members only. It is not possible for friends to attend your orientation session.
Do students and family members attend meetings together?
No. Sessions are scheduled for the same date, but family and student meetings are held separately in order to address the specific interests and questions of each group.
Will my family members be with me when I schedule classes?
No. Family members are not with you when you schedule classes with your advisor. At the conclusion of orientation, CMU advisors are available to answer parent questions regarding classes, academic program requirements and the registration process.
When will I receive my housing information to sign up for a residence hall?
Contact the Office of Residence Life for information on housing, (989) 774-3111. Residence Life begins mailing housing information in November to students who have paid the new student fee.