2023 Orientation

INCOMING FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS

All incoming first-year students for Fall 2023 will complete the following steps for Orientation.

  1. Check your email (both personal and TCU). We’ll send helpful information along every step of the way!
  2. Register for Orientation (opens March 28th at 5:30pm CT) through the Admissions Portal
  3. Complete Your Pre-Orientation Modules (available mid April)
  4. Attend Orientation
  5. Next: Attend Frog Camp!

INCOMING TRANSFER STUDENTS

Incoming transfer students for Fall 2023 will complete the following steps. You will receive multiple emails to guide you along this path.

1. Check your email (both personal and TCU). We’ll send helpful information along every step of the way!
2. Register for Orientation (opens March 28 at 5:30pm CT)
3. Complete Your Pre-Orientation Modules (available mid April)
4. Attend Orientation (required)
5. What’s Next? Frog Camp!

ORIENTATION 2023 DATES

Transfer 1: Wednesday, May 24
First-Year Session 1: Thursday, May 25 – Friday, May 26
First-Year Session 2: Tuesday, May 30 – Wednesday, May 31
First-Year Session 3: Thursday, June 1 – Friday, June 2
First-Year Session 4: Monday, June 5 – Tuesday, June 6
First-Year Session 5: Thursday, June 8 – Friday, June 9
First-Year Session 6: Monday, June 12  – Tuesday, June 13
First-Year Session 7: Thursday, June 15 – Friday, June 16
First-Year Session 8: Tuesday, June 20 – Wednesday, June 21
First-Year Session 9: Thursday, June 22 – Friday, June 23
First-Year Session 10:
Monday, June 26 – Tuesday, June 27
Transfer 2:
Wednesday, June 28
First-Year Session 11: Thursday, June 29 – Friday, June 30

*First-Year International: August 14
*Transfer International: August 15
*These sessions are specifically for our international students and will not appear to domestic students in the orientation registration system.

Trying to coordinate your Orientation and Frog Camp Dates? Check out this comprehensive calendar!

STEP-BY-STEP

Click across the tabs to learn more about each step!

Orientation Registration

Amiso George, Associate Professor of Strategic Communication in TCU's Bob Schieffer College of Communication. 9-25-2020 Photo by Carolyn Cruz

Registration will open March 28th at 5:30pm CT in your myTCU portal (my.tcu.edu). Once logged into myTCU, select the Admission Status & Checklist Tile and complete your Orientation Registration. Please complete all steps, you will know they are complete when your screen shows a confirmation page.

All incoming first-year students are required to attend Orientation. In order to provide the best Orientation experience available, space in each session is limited. Sessions fill on a first-come, first-serve basis so please reserve your spot as soon as you are able.

We are not able to accommodate walk-up students at Orientation. You must attend your scheduled session. Any updates or changes to your registration must be done two weeks prior to your scheduled Orientation and only if space permits.

Once you have received your confirmation, please make your travel arrangements to arrive on TCU’s campus in time for 9:00 am Check-In on Day 1 of your Orientation.* Students should not plan to leave campus until after 5:00 pm on Day 2 of Orientation. Please make travel arrangements accordingly, we are unable to accommodate late arrivals or early departures. If you are flying, you should make a flight 7pm or later on Day 2.

*Students in the John V. Roach Honors College, Leaders for Life Invitees, and NCAA athletes will have Pre-Orientation Sessions scheduled before check-in on Day 1. These programs will communicate with you directly with more details.


If you have any questions, please contact us at orientation@tcu.edu or 817.257.8345.

Opening mid April in your myTCU portal, these modules will provide academic information specific to your college or school that will prepare you for your Orientation. You may complete these at your own pace any time prior to your registered Orientation date.

Students must complete their Pre-Orientation Modules PRIOR to Orientation in order to register for classes during Orientation.

To access the Pre-Orientation Modules, log into myTCU, select the Admitted Student Task tile, then select Pre-Orientation Modules.


If you have any questions, please contact us at orientation@tcu.edu or 817.257.8345.

Transfer Orientation Schedule

Orientation for transfer students is required. During this 1-day Orientation, transfer students will learn the specifics of being a student at TCU. We know you’ve been to college before and want to ensure you know how to operate as a student at a different institution. You’ll interact with upperclassmen, fellow transfer students, faculty and staff to support you along your transition to TCU. Each student will receive a personalized email with additional details a few days before Orientation. All programs are required and lunch is provided for students.

Exact schedule TBD and will be posted online early May. Day 1 will begin around 8:00am and ends around 5:00pm. Students should schedule any flights AFTER 7pm as afternoon enrollment times are randomly assigned and may run as late as 5:00pm.

Please note that all times listed are in Central Daylight Time (CDT).


Prepare for Orientation

Depending on a student’s chosen area of study, the advising process may look different as each college has their own requirements and processes.

  • Complete your Pre-Orientation Modules at least one week prior to your Orientation date, no later than one day prior. This includes an Academic History Information form- we want to make sure our academic advisors and faculty have all the information they need to get you registered for the courses that best fit your needs!
  • Students should not pick classes prior to Orientation as important information will be given to you during your session.
  • Set up your TCU email on whatever device you check most regularly! All official university communication and orientation information will be sent to this address.
  • Don’t forget to pack: Casual attire, comfortable walking shoes, jacket for chilly classrooms backpack with pen/pencil and notebook, photo ID, and reusable water bottle.

Parent & Families Orientation

We encourage students to bring at least one parent/family member with them to Orientation (max 2 family members/guests). Parents and Families will be able to learn more about the TCU campus and resources at our in-person Orientation. There are programs scheduled specifically for families/parents. We highly encourage you to attend Orientation to learn more about TCU, connect with fellow parents and family members, and become knowledgeable about resources provided to TCU students.

Our exact schedule will be posted early May. Lunch during Orientation is provided.

TCU Parent & Family Programs Web page

First-Year Orientation Schedule

During this 2-day Orientation, students will learn more about campus resources and life as a TCU student with Orientation Leaders (OLs) in a small group setting. Each student will receive a personalized email with additional details a few days before Orientation. All programs are required and meals are provided for students throughout the experience.

Exact schedule TBD and will be posted online early May. As referenced above, Day 1 will begin around 9:00am and ends later in the evening. Day 2 begins around 8:30am and concludes no later than 5:00pm. Students should schedule any flights AFTER 7pm as afternoon enrollment times are randomly assigned and run as late as 5:00pm.

Please note that all times listed are in Central Daylight Time (CDT).

*Some student groups will host pre-Orientation sessions the morning of Day 1 of Orientation. These groups include the John V. Roach Honors College, Leaders 4 Life Invitees and NCAA Athletes.  University staff will communicate directly with students in these programs about time and location of their pre-Orientation sessions.


Prepare for Orientation

Students will be advised and register for their first semester courses during Orientation. Depending on a student’s chosen area of study, the advising process may look different as each college has their own requirements and processes.

  • Complete your Pre-Orientation Modules before your Orientation. This includes an Academic History Information form- we want to make sure our academic advisors and faculty have all the information they need to get you registered for the courses that best fit your needs!
  • Students should not pick classes prior to Orientation as important information will be given to you during your session.
  • Set up your TCU email on whatever device you check most regularly! All official university communication and orientation information will be sent to this address.
  • Don’t forget to pack: Casual attire, comfortable walking shoes, jacket for chilly classrooms, reusable water bottle, backpack with pen/pencil and notebook, photo ID, overnight bag with toiletries. (Bed linens- fitted sheet, top sheet and blanket are provided.)

Parent & Families Orientation

We encourage students to bring at least one parent/family member with them to Orientation (max 2 family members/guests). Parents and Families will be able to learn more about the TCU campus and resources at our in-person Orientation. There are programs scheduled throughout both days to learn about supporting your Horned Frog Student. We highly encourage you to attend Orientation to learn more about TCU, connect with fellow parents and family members, and become knowledgeable about resources provided to TCU students.

Our exact schedule will be posted early May. Most meals are provided with the exception of a full dinner on Day 1 (we provide heavy appetizers that evening).

TCU Parent & Family Programs Web page

Frog Camp


What is Frog Camp?

Frog Camp is a once-in-a-lifetime program that introduces incoming students to the TCU community. This extended-orientation program is offered off-campus in different locations. Students walk away from Frog Camp with new friends, faculty/staff resources and upper-division mentors. Participants also get an inside look at what it means to be a Horned Frog, learn TCU traditions, and how to make a difference at TCU. We can’t promise campers sleep a lot while at camp, but we can promise they will have an unforgettable experience.

To learn more visit www.frogcamp.tcu.edu.

Starting March 28th at 5:30pm CT, students that have paid their enrollment deposit can log into their myTCU portal to find the link for registration. Orientation registration remains open until sessions fill, however you must pay your enrollment deposit no later than 11:59pm CT on May 1st to register for orientation.

Incoming students should select the “Admission Status & Checklist” tile in their myTCU portal, complete all steps of the reservation process and ensure you receive a confirmation.

You must pay your non-refundable tuition deposit before you can register for Orientation. It can take a few hours for this deposit to process.

If the Orientation you wish to register for is full, you have the option of being placed on a waitlist on the registration page.  Each first-year summer Orientation session can accommodate up to 235 students. Reservations for these sessions open late March and registration takes place on a first-come, first-served basis.

Because of the nature of the waitlist we cannot notify students when or if there will be an open space in that session. If you need to schedule travel arrangements in advance, please do so based on the session you are currently enrolled in.

If you are experiencing difficulty registering, please call the Office of New Student & Family Programs at 817-257-8345 and we can walk you through the process. We will not register you for Orientation, but can help troubleshoot the process.

Students must register for an orientation session. If you desire to change your orientation date, you can log in to your Admissions Portal through MyTCU and select an available date. If a date is full, you will not be able to select it. Students can change their dates up to 7 days prior to an orientation session.

The most accurate date availability is by logging into the system. While you’re welcome to call our office, you’ll be better served logging in to your portal and checking  real-time availability.

Yes, all incoming first-year AND transfer students admitted to TCU for the fall semester are required to attend Orientation. Please note that students may not be able to register for classes until they complete the Pre-Orientation Modules, and attend all events during Orientation.

Space is limited in each Orientation, so reserve your space early as sessions are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

No, we do not offer a virtual option for Orientation. If students have extenuating circumstances that prevent them from attending an in-person Orientation, please email orientation@tcu.edu.

 

Transfer students are able to attend Orientation on Wednesday, May 24 or Wednesday, June 28. Any students admitted/deposited past June 28 should plan to attend August 15.

Transfer students, be sure to check out all your steps for Orientation here: https://studentsuccess.tcu.edu/transfer-services/

Parents and Families will be able to learn more about the TCU campus and resources at our in-person Orientation. Please click below to find out more about our Parent & Family Programs department at TCU

TCU Parent & Family Programs Web page

We apologize for the inconvenience, but have limited capacity in all our sessions. If you have an extenuating circumstance, please email orientation@tcu.edu.

Payments are not due during Orientation.

Students that register for classes at Orientation in May, June, and July will receive their first tuition bill to their TCU email in July. The first payment for fall will be due the beginning of August (exact date will be posted once known)/

Students that register for classes in August will receive their first tuition bill to their TCU email 1-2 days later, their first payment will be due late August.

Changing Your Major (please note exceptions below)

Students who wish to change their major must complete this form at least 7 days prior to their Orientation, in order to be advised in new major during Orientation.

Pre-Business & Nursing: Students will not be able to change their majors to pre-business or nursing..

Strategic Communication: The firm deadline for change of major to Strategic Communications is TBD. Students will not be able to change their major in this area for the Fall semester after this date.

Fine Arts: Students are not permitted to change majors to most College of Fine Arts programs during the summer Orientation process. Any incoming students interested in majors housed in the College of Fine Arts are invited to contact Tyra Musoma directly (T.musoma@tcu.edu) for more information.

Students can log into the platform through their myTCU portal, select Admitted Student Task tile, and select Pre-Orientation Module starting late April (exact date TBD).

If students experience any technical difficulties during their pre-advising modules, you may contact New Student & Family Programs at 817-257-8345 or orientation@tcu.edu.

If students have trouble logging into myTCU, please contact the TCU HelpDesk at 817-257-HELP (4357).

TCU does not provide transportation to/from local airports. Families should make travel arrangements with plenty of time to arrive on campus for Orientation Check-In. Additionally, if students are flying, they should plan their departure after 7pm on Day 2. Enrollment windows are assigned randomly and some appointments may last as long as 5pm.

Unfortunately, TCU cannot provide additional housing accommodations outside of Orientation. If you are arriving early or staying late, please make your own accommodation reservations off campus at a local hotel.

Exceptions are only when you are attending a Frog Camp that aligns the day immediately before or after your Orientation Date. These students will receive separate communication regarding additional overnight accommodations.

Yes, TCU can provide overnight guest accommodations for guest at an additional cost (exact pricing for 2023 TBD). To request this accommodation, please select housing for guest during the Orientation registration process at myTCU. We will provide housing during the orientation program, but are unable to house guests for overnight stays before or after check-in to your registered Orientation. Linens are included.

Housing accommodations for guests will be in a suite-style residence hall on TCU’s campus. The guest housing fee will be charged to the student account in the fall.

We will provide additional overnight accommodations for students for the following camps and sessions if your student is registered for:

There will be some activities and meals planned during their extended stay on campus with us. Students who are registered for the Orientation sessions and Frog Camps listed above, will be automatically registered for additional overnight accommodations. Students may choose to opt out of the additional accommodations by emailing orientation@tcu.edu.

Resources for Transfer Students

Transfer Connection Space

Location: Tom Brown Pete Wright 2nd Floor Commons

Physical Address: 3103 Main Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76129

Hours: Mon-Fri: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Other Amenities: Study Spaces (Computer/Printer Access), Mini-Fridge and Microwave

Brought to you by: The GrandMarc, Student Success, Housing & Residence Life & the Veterans Services Task Force

Transfer Student Experience

Transfer Student Experience is a collection of resources available to help transfers have a smooth transition to TCU. Our team is here to help in any way.

Location: Samuelson Suite 001, west entrance, garden level
Physical Address: 3202 Main Drive, Suite 001, Fort Worth TX 76129

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. — 5 p.m. CST
Email: transfers@tcu.edu
Phone: 817-257-8345 (Student Success)