New Student Orientation & Transition Programs

Welcome to Chico State!

Congratulations on your admissions to Chico State! Orientation is an important start of your Wildcat journey. Chico State’s Orientation program is designed to welcome and support you in your transition to the Wildcat community.  We will be with you every step of the way to answer your questions on your journey to be a Wildcat!

New incoming students must attend Orientation before meeting with an academic advisor. It is expected that all students, first-year and transfer students, will participate in Orientation at Chico State University. Academic Advising is mandatory at Chico State and Orientation provides the first opportunity for academic advising and course registration.  

Students admitted to the Spring 2025 term:

REGISTER FOR ORIENTATION NOW!(opens in new window)

Make your reservation as soon as possible, as earlier sessions will fill.

ORIENTATION IS A 3-STEP PROCESS. Each step is listed below:

Step1: REGISTER FOR ORIENTATION

  • After declaring your intention to enroll, select the “Register Now(opens in new window)” button. Follow the steps until completed. Students can attend in-person (preferred) or virtually. You will select your date based on your major.

Step 2: PREPARE FOR ORIENTATION

  • Review and complete your Orientation Checklist(opens in new window)
  • Complete the Canvas modules (will open on Dec 2). This 30-minute program will introduce you to campus life, academic terms and requirements, and what it means to be a Wildcat! This will help you prepare for orientation session and become more familiar with Chico State.
  • Attend the University Advising Workshop (opens in new window) prior to your orientation session. At this live, virtual workshop you will learn about your academic requirements, how to register for classes, and will have an opportunity to ask the hosting advisor questions in preparation for your Orientation session.

Step 3: ATTEND ORIENTATION

  • Attend the Orientation session you registered in Step 1.
  • At Orientation, students will:
    • Meet new & current students, faculty, & staff
    • Learn about the vast array of campus resources available
    • Understand campus policies and procedures
    • Participate in advising workshops to identify course options
    • Select and register for courses
    • Successfully launch their Wildcat experience!
  • Parents and supporters are welcome to attend Orientation. Please register for a session with your student.

If you need any additional assistance please contact our office at 530-898-5714 or orientationprograms@csuchico.edu

*If you just submitted your intent to enroll you must wait 24 hours to be eligible to register. *