First Year Students

General Orientation Information for First Year Students

How can I contact NSOP?

You can contact the 2012 NSOP staff by email at orientation@columbia.edu or by calling us at 212-854-4909.

When does Orientation officially begin?

Orientation begins on Monday, August 27th, 2012 for First Year Students.

When can I arrive on campus?

Arrival for first year students is Monday, August 27th, 2012, with check-in taking place between 7:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Unless you are participating in a special orientation program, such as Columbia Outdoor Orientation Program (COÖP), Columbia Urban Experience (CUE), the International Pre-Orientation Program, or have gotten special permission from housing, you may not move into your room before August 27th, 2012. International students and students from a number of distant states will receive and invitation to move in on Sunday, August 26th, 2012 from the Department of Housing during the summer.

When will I receive information about move-in if I'm participating in COÖP, CUE, or the International Pre-Orientation Program?

If you're participating in one of these special programs, you'll get a letter informing you of your acceptance and your alternate move-in date.

What should I do if I must arrive before August 27th, 2012?

If you must arrive before August 27th, 2012 and are not participating in a special program and do not have special permission from housing, a list of area hotels and other accommodations can be found on the Division of Student Affairs website.

How long does Orientation last?

Orientation begins on Monday, August 27th, 2012 and ends on Monday, September 3th, 2012.

What events will be happening during Orientation Week?

This summer, the Committee is planning a week of activities for Orientation. You will receive an orientation schedulebook upon arrival. For periodic updates, please refer to the Orientation website.

Will there be an orientation program for families and parents?

Family orientation will be on Monday, August 27th, 2012 and coincides with the beginning of NSOP. It is a day-long event that includes various workshops, a campus resource fair, and Convocation. Please visit the Office of Parent and Family Programs website for more information.

Where can I find the most up-to-date information about Orientation?

This website (http://www.studentaffairs.columbia.edu/orientation) contains up-to-the-minute information about NSOP 2012.

How do I change my address?

If you have already established your UNI (your Columbia email login) you should be able to log on to Student Services Online and change your address there. If you cannot change your address using Student Services Online, email studentservices@columbia.edu. If you haven't yet established your UNI, you can do so at the Academic Information Systems website.