First-Year Orientation
We are so excited that you are starting your college journey here at GW! First-Year Orientation will help you connect with campus resources, meet new friends, and prepare for academic success.
NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION
New Student Orientation is a required, in-person program for all new incoming students joining us for the 2025-2026 academic year. Orientation for first-year students will take place in June and in August for our Transfer students and International Students.
Registration for New Student Orientation is now open and students must sign into their admissions portal to register themselves and up to two guests for their chosen Orientation session. We cannot wait to welcome you to the Revolutionary Family!
Day 1 of Orientation will begin with check-in from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m., followed by programming for students starting at 9:00 a.m. and continuing through 7:00 p.m. Families will also participate in programming beginning at 9:00 a.m., which concludes at 5:00 p.m. After the scheduled sessions, students are invited to attend optional late-night programming.
On Day 2, breakfast will be available beginning at 8:00 a.m., with programming for both students and families running from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
June 16-17
June 20-21
June 23-24
Summer Academy - Ignite program participants must attend this session.
June 30-July 1
August 21-22
International students who will be studying on a J-1 or F-1 Visa must attend this session.
June 16-17 • June 20-21 • June 23-24* • June 30-July 1 • August 21-22**
*Students who are selected to participate in the Summer Academy - Ignite program should plan to attend this session. More information forthcoming!
**International students who will be studying on a J-1 or F-1 Visa will attend this session. Please visit the International Services Office website for more information on your pre-arrival to dos.
Please check back regularly to learn more about the opportunity to arrive on campus early, what the orientation schedule is, and how you can get connected to the institution early! If you have an extenuating circumstance or a financial hardship that would keep you from a June session, please reach out to us for additional information at orientation
gwu [dot] edu (orientation[at]gwu[dot]edu) as soon as possible.
NEW STUDENT CHECKLIST
This resource outlines essential tasks, important deadlines, and helpful tips to ensure you’re well-prepared for your academic journey.
READY, REV, GO!
Complete the pre-orientation online module Ready, Rev, Go! before arriving on campus and participating in Orientation. Students need their UserID and password to access the online module.
ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS & RESOURCES
Pre-Semester Programming
Explore our pre-semester program offerings.
Orientation Materials
Stay connected with the Buff & Blue book and your New Student Orientation schedule.
District Connections
Events around D.C. that help you forge connections with your fellow classmates and the vibrant city around you.