New Student Orientation

Pre-Orientation Programs

Stanford offers the following pre-orientation programs for first-year and new transfer students. In order to attend any of these programs, students must register in advance. All programs will conclude before the first day of New Student Orientation (NSO) so that you can participate fully in the programs and activities of NSO. More information with registration instructions, application deadlines, and program details will be shared during the summer.

First-Generation/Low-Income Student Orientation

Coordinated by the FLI Office at Stanford, First-Generation and/or Low-Income Student Orientation (FLI-SO) focuses on providing first-generation, low-income, current/former foster youth and transfer students a head start on college adjustment and helps them begin their academic journey with a stronger sense of belonging and community at Stanford. This three day program focuses on the unique challenges FLI students face such as: understanding Financial Aid, Student Financial Services, Financial Literacy, Academic Advising, Campus Resources, Faculty and Staff Engagement, Community Building with the FLI community and Beyond, and the LSP Scholars Seminar during the academic year.

  • Application: Apply to FLI-SO. Deadline to apply is: June 17, 2022.
  • Program Dates: September 17-20, 2022.
  • On-Campus: Move in to dorm room on Sept 17.
  • Participants: Frosh and Transfers
  • Cost: There is no additional cost to participate.

Ignite

Run by the Haas Center for Public Service, Ignite features visits to local nonprofits and community organizations, along with activities designed to help you reflect on the kind of service, community partner, and/or issue you might want to pursue.

  • Application: Apply to Ignite. Deadline to apply is: June 27, 2022.
  • Program Dates: September 16-19, 2022. 
  • On-Campus: Move in to dorm room on Sept 16.
  • Participants: Frosh only
  • Cost: $450 participation fee. Financial aid available according to need.

International Student Orientation (ISO)

All new international students for whom the Bechtel International Center issues immigration documents are required to attend ISO as part of their transition to Stanford.

Overseen by the Bechtel International Center, ISO supports your transition to living in the U.S. through presentations, panel discussions, and social activities. U.S. citizens living abroad and permanent residents do not attend ISO, though you may request to attend if you have not previously lived in the U.S.

  • Registration: Acknowledge your participation (international students) or request to attend (U.S. citizens and permanent residents) in the Approaching Stanford Forms, due June 8 for frosh, and June 30 for transfers.
  • Program Dates: September 18-20, 2022. 
  • On-Campus: Move in to dorm room on Sept 18.
  • Participants: Frosh and Transfers
  • Cost: There is no additional cost to attend.

Stanford Native Immersion Program (SNIP)

Through the American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawai'ian Program/Native American Cultural Center (AIANNHP/NACC), SNIP is a six-day, fun-filled experience designed to welcome incoming new students to The Farm. For the duration of the program, participants will stay at Hidden Villa—in nearby Los Altos— and be led by current students and staff who direct them in activities, explore Native issues and advise them on academic and student life at Stanford. Students will have time to learn important information about Stanford while making friends and meeting people who will be supportive during their first year on campus.

  • Registration: Registration forms and materials will be sent to eligible students in late May.
  • Program Dates: September 15-20, 2022.
  • Off-Campus: Move in to dorm room on Sept 20.
  • Participants: Frosh and Transfers
  • Cost: There is no additional cost to attend.

Stanford Pre-Orientation Trips (SPOT)

Coordinated by Stanford Recreation and Wellness, Stanford Pre-Orientation Trips (SPOT) provides immersive outdoor experiences the week before NSO. These trips are designed to foster Stanford identity, community, and personal growth through activity, self-reflection, and mentorship.

  • Registration: Register online for the lottery between June 9-15, 2022. Selection will be by lottery for all those who register by June 15. 
  • Program Dates: September 15-20, 2022. 
  • Off-Campus: Move in to dorm room on Sept 20.
  • Participants: Frosh and Transfers
  • Cost: $450 participation fee with $50 due at registration. Financial aid available according to need.

Neurodiversity Transition Orientation

Pre-orientation program not offered for 2022. Created by the Stanford School of Medicine, the Stanford Neurodiversity Project supports neurodiverse students. While a pre-orientation program will not be offered this year, all students are welcome to access the neurodiversity transition orientation modules provided online.