Why are new students (freshmen and transfer) required to attend an orientation program before they can register for classes?
Nationally and at Washington State University, students who attend an orientation program are retained at higher rates than students who don’t attend. Requiring all new students to attend an orientation program provides Washington State University the opportunity to share with students and their parents/guests the University’s mission, goals, values, and academic expectations; discuss academic policies, procedures and programs; review costs, in terms of both dollars and personal commitment, and expose them to valuable resources and campus-support services aimed at student success, retention and graduation.

Ultimately, orientation/registration programs such as Spring Orientation create an atmosphere that minimizes anxiety, promotes student action and responsibility, and prepares students to hit the ground running during their first days, weeks, and months.

Do students need to confirm their admission and pay their advanced tuition deposit before attending the program?

Yes. In order to register for and attend Spring Orientation, students need to confirm their enrollment for the spring semester by paying their advanced tuition deposit of $200. If that poses a financial hardship, students should contact the Office of Admissions directly, toll free at 1-888-468-6978 and ask about deferring this payment until the beginning of the semester.

When do classes begin spring semester?
Classes begin Monday, January 11, 2010.

When is tuition due?
Tuition is due on the first day of class, Monday, January 11, 2010, and will automatically be billed to your student account.

When should students plan to move to Pullman for spring semester 2010?
Students attending Spring Orientation should plan to move into their residence halls on Wednesday, January 6th at 10:00 a.m.

When will I find out which residence hall I've been assigned?
Residence hall and room assignments are available to students through the WSU portal. Students can view this information by accessing their myWSU account at my.wsu.edu.

What if I cannot afford to attend?
The Office of New Student Programs has limited funding available for those who demonstrate financial need. If you have a financial aid award that covers more than tuition and fees, the matriculation fee can be paid using your financial aid. Please use the downloadable paper registration form and indicate you would like to use financial aid to pay for your orientation matriculation fee. You will need to sign a consent form upon check in.  Please contact our office at 509-335-4242 for more information.

Do I have to take the placement exams?
As an undergraduate student at Washington State University, you must pass an approved mathematics course and an approved English composition course in order to graduate. The exams are designed to help you fulfill these requirements by placing you in the courses that best match your skills. With some exceptions, all entering students are required to take the mathematics placement exam.

All entering students who have not received equivalent credit for English 101 must take the writing placement exam. The exams are administered during all freshmen sessions of summer Alive! Visit the placement exams page to find out whether you should take the placement exams and to learn more about the exams and how to prepare for them.