FAQ's

What is New Student Orientation?

New Student Orientation includes an Orientation Session prior to the beginning of the fall semester, Mass Orientation, an eight-week freshman orientation course, and Dawg Days (planned activities during the first few weeks of the fall semester).

What is an OL?

More than thirty-five (35) student Orientation Leaders (OLs) help freshmen and families smooth the transition from high school to college. OLs are selected through an application and interview process and participate in a two-hour student leadership course each spring semester before working with new students. OLs also team teach the eight-week freshman orientation course with a SWOSU faculty or staff member that all new freshmen take.

How many freshmen enroll each year? What is the total enrollment?

Over 800 freshmen enroll each year. SWOSU’s total enrollment is close to 5,100.

What is an orientation session?

Students meet in the Fine Arts Auditorium as a group and get information about enrollment procedures and campus. Students will divide into smaller groups according to the major they plan to pursue. These smaller groups will meet with an academic advisor in their academic field. The advisor will help the student choose classes, build a schedule and enroll. Orientation Leaders are also on hand to provide assistance and answer questions about life at SWOSU.

How many orientation sessions are scheduled?

Each year we have a total of 6 sessions: April 2, April 13, April 21, June 14, July 22, and August 13. All sessions begin at 9:00 a.m.

When do I register for an Orientation Session?

You may register for an Orientation Session after you have completed the freshman application form and received written notification of acceptance to SWOSU. Within the acceptance packet, you will find New Student Orientation information. Select an Orientation Session and register online or return the postcard. You will receive confirmation via email after we receive your reservation.

What is the cost for New Student Orientation?

The New Student Orientation fee is $5 and will be added to the student's first semester’s bill.

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How many students attend each session?

Up to 200 students may attend Orientation Sessions. However, students divide into smaller groups to enroll.

May families attend?

We encourage families to attend Family Orientation Sessions while the students attend their orientation session. Family sessions run concurrently with student orientation sessions and are designed to answer parental questions and concerns. We also offer an additional Family Session on Move-In Day, Saturday, August 14 for families who were unable to attend an earlier session. Families do not attend the Student Orientation Session or go with their student to enroll in classes.

Is orientation required of all students?

Orientation is required of all first-time entering freshmen. The student receives one (1) hour of credit for attending the enrollment session, mass orientation, and the eight-week (8) Freshman Orientation course in the fall.

What else can I do at the orientation session?

While you wait for your printed class schedule, you can get your SWOSU ID and parking permit. You can also tour the campus and residence halls, reserve textbooks, and talk with new and current students, and attend the open house.

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What happens at the Open House during orientation sessions?

The Open House is another opportunity to find answers and learn more about student services. Participating offices include: Financial Services, Residence Life, Human Resources, Business Offices, Campus Police, Auxiliary Services (meal plans), Counseling and Health Services, Dean of Students, Follett Bookstore, and Violence Intervention, Prevention and Early Response (VIPER). Representatives can answer questions concerning meal plans, residence hall contracts, tuition and other payments, campus jobs, health forms and financial assistance.

What is a CPT exam?

CPT stands for Computerized Placement Test. Students with ACT sub-scores (math, reading and English) below 19 must enroll in remedial courses. You may take a CPT to clear the deficiency in any or all areas. There is no charge to take CPTs. You may take each test twice; however, there is a two-week waiting period between testing sessions. To schedule CPT testing, contact the Assessment Office at 580.774.7084.

When should I take the CPT exam?

It is best to take the CPT exam before attending an orientation session. However, you may also schedule exams the morning or afternoon of your orientation session. Students must enroll in remedial courses until clearing (passing) deficient subject area(s). Upon successful completion of CPTs, students can change their schedules. Contact New Student Orientation in Stafford 209 or call (580) 774-3233 with schedule changes.

What are Dawg Days?

Dawg Days are fun-filled weeks of activities designed to help students meet other students and become a part of our campus community. It begins on Move-In Day and continues through the next several weeks. We schedule volleyball tournaments, dances, outdoor movies, organizational fair, national speakers, Project Blue and much more!

What is Mass Orientation?

This is the first and only time all incoming freshmen meet as a group. All freshmen are required to attend Mass O on August 17, the day before classes begin. During Mass O, SWOSU welcomes new students and a professional motivational speaker presents a college success program. Mass O is another great opportunity to meet others.

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What happens in the 8-week Freshman Orientation course?

Volunteer instructors (SWOSU faculty, administrators and staff) paired with trained Orientation Leaders present information and college success skills each week. A large component of the class is designed to help students connect with the faculty, staff and other students.

When can I move into my residence hall?

The first day you can move into your hall is Saturday, August 14 at 9 a.m. Orientation Leaders welcome and help students move in.

How can I change my schedule?

Students occasionally need to add or drop courses from their schedule. Contact New Student Orientation in Stafford 209 or call 580.774.3233 with schedule changes.

How do I know what classes I need to take?

All students must complete general education requirements. Follow this link to view general education courses. All students meet with advisors during orientation sessions who review specific requirements for different areas of study.

When do classes begin?

Classes begin Wednesday, August 18.

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