Post-Arrival Information
Upon arrival, you will have many things that you will need to take care of before the semester begins. Use this list as a guideline for getting started.
Finalize Housing Arrangements
It is best if you can make your housing arrangements before you come to campus. If you were not able to do this, you should make your arrangements as soon as possible after you arrive.
- Arranging On-Campus Housing
- We recommend that students try to live on campus, especially during the first year here. For information on applying for housing on campus, visit UND Residence Services.
- Arranging Off-Campus Housing
Attend Orientations
Orientations are designed to provide students with important information that they will need during their time at UND. There are several orientations offered at the beginning of each semester. In addition to the ones listed below, individual departments will sometimes hold orientation meetings.
International Student Orientation
Mandatory for all students holding F or J student visas. This orientation will address immigration and employment issues and introduce you to U.S. culture and university life. The schedule for orientation is available here.
Graduate School Orientations
The Graduate School holds orientations for all new graduate students and a special orientation for new Graduate Assistants. The schedule for this orientation is available from the Graduate School.
Spring New Student Undergraduate Orientations
This program offers undergraduate students who start at UND in the spring semester, a chance to get information about classes, faculty and campus, and meet other new students. It's designed to help both incoming freshmen and transfer students make a successful transition to University life.
Fall Welcome Weekend
Welcome Weekend is for all new students in the fall. You're expected to participate in this final step of your orientation before the semester begins.
You can move into your residence hall, meet your neighbors, enjoy excellent programming (for families and students) and participate in the fun social activities that will settle you into your new campus home. Admitted students will get more information late in the summer.
Meet with International Student Advisor
A requirement of U.S. Regulations for all students holding F, J, or M student visas is that you must meet with an International Student Advisor to complete your paperwork and activate your international student status in the Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
- Call 701-777-4231 for appointment
- Sign up for an appointment during International Student Orientation
Meet with Academic Advisor
Check with your academic department or with the Office of International Programs (OIP) if you do not know who your advisor is.
It is important to meet with your Academic Advisor to discuss your class registration and your program of study.
You may also be in contact with your Academic Advisor before you come to campus.
Activate UND Email Account (UMail)
You will need your UMail account for all official university communication. To claim you account activate your email, go to ITSS for instructions.
Register for Classes
Register online using Campus Connection OR
Register in person at the Registrar’s Office (Twamley Hall, Room 201)
Remember that you must be a full time student:
- Undergraduate Students: Minimum 12 credits
- Graduate Students without assistantship: Minimum 9 credits
- Graduate Students with an assistantship: Minimum 6 credits
If you have been able to contact your academic advisor, you may register for your classes before you come to campus.
Get Student ID Card (UCard)
You can receive your UCard in person at the Memorial Union (Lower Level, Room 3)
The UCard is a multiple purpose identification card that you will need for many activities on campus including eating in the Dining Centers and checking out books from the library.
Buy Books
Textbooks for your classes may be purchased at the following stores:
Pay Tuition and Health Insurance
For information on how to pay your UND bills, contact UND Student Account Services (Twamley Hall, Room 202)
Apply for Social Security Card
Students with campus jobs only. See information on Social Security Numbers.
Open Bank Account (optional)
Speak with an advisor at the Office of International Programs for more information on opening bank accounts.
