Frequently Asked Questions
Who should attend?
Are all undergraduate students required to attend DIRECTIONS?
Yes. Every undergraduate student enrolling in classes for the first time at NEVADA is required to attend summer orientation, DIRECTIONS. There are DIRECTIONS programs designed for freshman and transfer students. At DIRECTIONS you will familiarize yourself with UNR, meet faculty, staff and students, and gain valuable information to ease your transition to college.
If I have been admitted for the Summer Term, do I need to attend?
Yes, you will still need to attend DIRECTIONS as there is valuable information for your transition to the University.
Are graduate students required to attend DIRECTIONS?
No. Graduate students are not required to attend the DIRECTIONS program. The Graduate School coordinates orientation for graduate students in August. Please contact the Graduate School to find out what is required of you before you begin your NEVADA graduate program.
Is orientation required for my parent or guardian?
Parents and guardians are not required to attend DIRECTIONS. The Parent Orientation Program is optional but highly recommended for the parents of all first time college freshmen.
What if I cannot attend DIRECTIONS?
If you are unable to attend one of the DIRECTIONS sessions, contact the Office of New Student Initiatives at 775/784-4306, and we’ll determine if the situation qualifies for an exception and refer you to the steps you need to take if you are not attending DIRECTIONS.
How long is the DIRECTIONS Program and Parent Orientation?
The DIRECTIONS Program is a full two day program with check in from 8-9:30 on day one, with the first session starting at 9:30 a.m. Students are scheduled to stay in a campus residence hall, as the Day 1 program elements are scheduled through 11 p.m. Parents may also stay in a residence hall for an additional fee, and the Day 1 schedule concludes about 8:30p.m. Day 2 for both students and parents starts at 7 a.m. and concludes at 5:00 p.m. This two-day format allows for ample time to attend sessions and take care of many of your needs while you are on campus.
Can I leave the DIRECTIONS before its conclusion?
When you are attending DIRECTIONS, you should prepare to stay for the full program and travel arrangements should be made accordingly. If you need to make additional overnight accommodations for the DIRECTIONS program, please contact the Office of New Student Initiatives 775/784-4306.
Can I bring guests with me to DIRECTIONS?
DIRECTIONS is designed for students. There is a Parent Orientation designed for parents and guardians. Space is limited; please do not plan to bring guests other than parents registered for Parent Orientation.
Signing up for DIRECTIONS
Where can I get help with the online DIRECTIONS sign up system?
If you are having trouble using the Online Registration System, you should call the Office of New Student Initiatives at 775/784-4306. Please be ready to explain the problem you have encountered so we may assist you more effectively.
Can my DIRECTIONS session date be changed after I have already registered?
In order to change your date, you’ll need to contact the Office of New Student Initiatives. You’ll want to contact us as soon as possible; the longer you wait increases the possibility the desired DIRECTIONS session will be full. You must register for DIRECTIONS at least 14 calendar days prior to the DIRECTIONS session.
When should I register for DIRECTIONS?
You should register for DIRECTIONS as soon as possible. The University should have received all AP scores by July 10, so if this is an influence in your session attendance, please choose a session accordingly. You must register for DIRECTIONS at least 14 days prior to the DIRECTIONS session.
Can I register for a filled DIRECTIONS session?
No, once a session has reached capacity, we are unable to accommodate additional students. It is for this reason that we encourage you to register for your DIRECTIONS session as soon as you can.
Is there a wait list for closed DIRECTIONS sessions?
Our DIRECTIONS registration process does not include wait lists for filled DIRECTIONS sessions. However, there are many students who reschedule their DIRECTIONS session, and as a result space often becomes available in previously filled sessions. Students are welcome to contact our office to inquire about the availability of desired DIRECTIONS sessions.
Orientation fees
How much does Orientation (DIRECTIONS) cost?
All new students are charged a one-time, non refundable orientation fee of $110, which appears on your university bill. This fee pays for the DIRECTIONS program and materials, Wolf Pack Advising, your University Wolf Card (ID), Student Handbook and Planner, and Wolf Pack Welcome
.
If I do not attend DIRECTIONS do I have to pay the orientation fee?
Yes, the student orientation fee applies to all new undergraduate students even if you are unable to attend DIRECTIONS. Additionally, DIRECTIONS materials will be made available to you in another format if you are unable to attend.
Are orientation fees covered by financial aid?
Yes, since the fee is charged on your university bill, financial aid and scholarships may be applied to the fee.
How much does it cost for parents to attend orientation?
There is a $55 charge for each parent attending DIRECTIONS. This fee pays for the DIRECTIONS program and materials. This can be paid by sending a check, made payable to the Board of Regents, to the University of Nevada, Reno; Office of New Student Initiatives, Mail stop 0191; Reno, Nevada 89557.
DIRECTIONS logistics
Where do I park during DIRECTIONS?
Space has been allocated in the Sierra Street Garage (on Sierra Street) and Stadium Garage (on Virginia) Complexes. A PDF orientation permit will be e-mailed to you one week prior to your DIRECTIONS date. Simply print the PDF and place it on your dashboard, so it is visible through the front windshield. The orientation permit allows you to park in any student or unmarked stalls. Parking restrictions such as metered, staff, reserved, handicap, and red zones will be enforced.
Do my parents check in at the same time/place?
Yes, parents and students both check in at Argenta Hall. Parents and students will be directed where to go after check in.
What should I expect my on-campus housing experience to be like when I am at orientation?
During orientation you will be staying in one of NEVADA's on-campus residence halls. You will be sharing a room with another orientation attendee. You should bring the basic things you would take on an overnight trip such as toiletries and an alarm clock. Linens (two towels, one washcloth and sheets) will be provided.
Is on-campus housing available for family members during orientation?
Yes, parents can opt to stay in conference housing in the residence halls for an additional fee. Space may be limited so make your arrangements as soon as possible. Rooms are similar to student accommodations with linen service and two twin beds. There are also numerous accommodations near the University.
When should I start looking for financial aid?
We recommend that you begin applying for financial aid opportunities as soon as you make your decision to attend NEVADA. You will need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) before you will be able to apply for most aid sources. NEVADA’s Office of Student Financial Aid & Scholarships can assist you in your search.
Will there be a shuttle available to get to the University from the Airport?
We will be running a shuttle from the airport to Argenta hall on Day 1 from 7-9:30am and from Argenta hall to the airport on Day 2 from 4-6pm. Please go to baggage claim and look for the University of Nevada sign. Reservations are not needed for the shuttle.