Orientation – First Year Students
Welcome to the Ranger family! We are so excited to have you join us at UW-Parkside. Starting college is a massive milestone, and while it’s normal to feel a mix of nerves and excitement, we’re here to make sure you hit the ground running. Orientation is where you’ll meet your future classmates, get a feel for your new home, and begin the transition into this next great chapter of your life.
Register For Orientation 2026!
Please select a date below:
Students who will be participating in athletics must contact Orientation@uwp.edu if they have not yet, signed up for an orientation.
* those signing up for August 21st are encouraged to schedule an appointment with their advisor via Navigate
During your orientation session, you’ll get the chance to connect with the teams dedicated to helping you thrive. The schedule for New Student Orientation starts at 9 am (check in at 8:15 am).
Make sure to stop by and say hello to:
- Advising & Career Center: Map out your degree and start planning your future.
- Financial Aid: Get the lowdown on funding, scholarships, and managing your budget.
- Residence Life: Discover your home away from home and meet the campus community.
- Parkside Academic Resource Center: Level up your study game with tutoring and academic support.
- Student Health, Counseling, & Accessibility Services: Your go-to spot for staying healthy, balanced, and supported.
That’s just the beginning! Plenty of other departments will be there to help you hit the ground running.
*All incoming first-year students starting in Fall 2026 are required to attend a New Student Orientation (NSO) session. If you are traveling more than four (4) hours away, please contact orientation@uwp.edu.
If you haven’t already, please complete the steps listed below.
Activate your Parkside Account, as you will need this to receive orientation confirmation emails.
Review your Math & English Placement if you haven’t already.
Sign up for housing.
Transfer, Adult, Re-entry and Re-admit Students
We’re so glad you’re here. Whether you’re transferring in, returning to finish your degree, or starting fresh as an adult learner, we have a dedicated path just for you. Please head over to our specialized info pages to find your next steps and get started.
Additional Information
Cost
The Transition Programming Fee ($125) is charged to the student’s SOLAR account and is part of the $260 New Student Fee. This fee will appear on the student’s first tuition bill from the University. Additional information regarding fees can be found on our New Student Fee website.
Family and Guests
Families and guests are more than welcome to attend NSO. Please note that the student orientation and the family/guest orientation are separate but concurrent programs. The cost to attend is $15 per person (18 and under free). These fees will be charged to the students’ SOLAR account.
Cancellation and No-Shows
Due to costs incurred by New Student Services, a $25 fee is assessed to students who change do not show up for their scheduled Orientation session.
Changes/cancellations can be made by emailing orientation@uwp.edu.
Questions
Should you have questions about New Student Orientation or your next steps please contact us at orientation@uwp.edu or by phone at 262-595-2355.
Admissions And New Student Services
Address
900 Wood Rd
Kenosha, WI 53144
Location Student Center D105
Parking Parking Lot A