Freshman Orientation - Freshman Year Experience | The University of Texas at Dallas

Freshman Orientation

Student Transition Programs strives to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students, families, and guests as we provide the framework for students to learn and develop, regardless of race, religion, ethnic origin, disability, gender identity or sexual orientation. Our office respects the profound ways that our community members of various cultures, backgrounds, and identities enrich our university community.

Freshman Orientation is an exciting first step to becoming part of the UT Dallas community. This program gives an overview of opportunities and resources available to you on campus.

During Freshman Orientation you will have the chance to:

  • Meet other students and make new friends
  • Meet with academic advisors and discuss classes and majors
  • Complete course selections and registration
  • Learn about academic expectations
  • Learn about the University’s services and resources
  • Familiarize yourself with the UT Dallas campus
  • Meet with administrators

Registering for Freshman Orientation

If you are an admitted student for the Fall 2024 semester, registration for Freshman Orientation programs will open in the Galaxy portal in February 2024.

Placement Tests

All incoming freshmen are required to take a math placement exam in order to enroll in any Mathematics course at UT Dallas. Please go to the Undergraduate Education Math Placement website for more information.

Students with majors in the School of Engineering and Computer Science, the School of Natural Science and Math, or the School of Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication may need to or want to take Computer Science courses. Please read this information about Computer Science placement testing.

Any student enrolling in a language course at UT Dallas needs to visit the School of Arts and Humanities’ Language Placement website for more information.

Texas Success Initiative (TSI)

If you have received an automated email regarding the Texas Success Initiative (TSI), there is a possibility you will need to comply with the State of Texas TSI mandate. TSI does not affect your admission to UT Dallas, but it can affect course placement and registration. If necessary, you will need to take the TSI Assessment. The test can be taken virtually prior to your orientation. An email will be sent with detailed information how to register for testing. Find more information about the Texas Success Initiative.