Last Updated: 8/13/2025

What is New Student Orientation?

New Student Orientation (NSO) is a mandatory exciting on-campus experience designed to help you successfully begin your journey at California State University, Sacramento. During orientation, you will:

• Learn about academic requirements and the many support services available to you
• Meet with advisors, attend major-specific sessions, and register for your first courses
• Connect with fellow new students and current Hornets who will share tips and resources to support a smooth transition

NSO is your opportunity to get prepared, build connections, and feel confident as you start your life at Sac State.

Why do I have to attend Orientation?

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at New Student Orientation! This full-day program, running from 7:50 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., is a mandatory for all incoming Transfer and First Year students to attend Sac State. and it’s packed with excitement!

During Orientation, you’ll dive into everything Sac State has to offer. Familiarize yourself with the campus, explore general education and major requirements, and make connections with fellow students who share your interests. You’ll even get to meet faculty from your major department—what a great way to kickstart your academic journey!

But that’s not all! You’ll receive personalized assistance in navigating your class schedule and registering for courses, ensuring you’re fully prepared for an incredible first semester.

Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get inspired! Join us for Orientation and set the stage for an amazing adventure at Sac State!

Can guests attend Orientation with me?

Guests at Orientation
Students may bring up to two guests to Orientation. Each guest is subject to a $77 fee.

Childcare
Childcare is available for children ages 6 months through kindergarten at the ASI Children’s Center.

Reservations must be made at least seven days in advance by calling (916) 278-6216.

Guidelines

• Guests 12 and older are subject to the $77 guest fee.
• Children 14 and under must remain with a parent/guardian at all times.

Academic Advising and Class Registration at Orientation

Academic advising is separate and does not occur at orientation. Students may begin scheduling Academic Advising appointments after they have attended NSO. Class registration will occur after major advising on your orientation day.

Why do I have an Orientation hold?

An Orientation hold is placed on your account to ensure attendance at New Student Orientation, an essential step in your transition to Sacramento State. Orientation provides important information about academic requirements, support services, and course registration. The hold is removed at the end of your orientation day.

For questions or assistance, please contact the Orientation Office.

How do I change my major for orientation?

If you’ve decided to change your major since applying, follow these steps to ensure you attend the right Orientation session:

1. Make Your Reservation: When registering for Orientation, select the session that corresponds to your new major of interest.
2. Get Extra Help: Rest assured, there will be additional support available during your Orientation to assist with your transition to the new major.
3. Officially Change Your Major:
   • For First Year Students: Visit the HornetLaunch Program website for instructions on changing your major.
   • For Transfer Students: Access the Change Your Major E-Form to officially update your major.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out! We're here to help you every step of the way!

How do I make a reservation for New Student Orientation?

How do I make a reservation for New Student Orientation?

1. Log in to your MySacState account.
2. Open the Student Center.
3. Select Switch to Full Site to access all features.
4. Scroll to the bottom left and click the New Student Orientation tab.
5. Follow the prompts to complete your reservation.

If you experience any issues, contact us at orient.reservations@csus.edu or call (916) 278-7841 for assistance.

Can I bring someone with me to Orientation?

Absolutely! You can bring someone with you to Orientation! We offer a Parent & Supporter program, allowing students to register up to two guests to join in on the fun.

There is a $77 fee for each participating guest, and the program includes a mix of sessions—some just for parents and supporters, and others where everyone can join in together. It’s a great way for your loved ones to get involved and learn more about your exciting journey ahead! If you have any questions about the program, feel free to ask!

What should I bring to Orientation?

It is not required, but we recommend bringing an unofficial copy of your transcripts and any AP/IB test scores for advising purposes. If possible, a laptop can also be helpful during the sessions.

Meals are provided, including a light breakfast and full lunch, so simply come prepared to learn and enjoy the day.

What if I’m sick on Orientation Day?

If you’re feeling unwell or may be contagious, please call the Orientation Office, we’ll gladly help you reschedule for another day.

How do I obtain a parking pass for Orientation?

To park on campus during Orientation, you will need to secure a daily parking permit.

1. Create a Guest Account: Create a guest account before your Orientation date. We recommend completing this step early to avoid any last-minute issues.
2. Receive Reminder Email: Two days before your Orientation, you will receive a reminder email with detailed day-of instructions and a link to secure your parking permit.
3. Parking Details: Each permit is valid for one vehicle only, due to limited parking capacity.

What is the New Student Fee and What does it cover?

The $200 New Student Fee is a mandatory for all incoming new students to Sacramento State. The New Student Fee covers the following events:

• New Student Orientation
• New Student and Family Convocation
• All Arrive to the Hive events like:
  • Hornet Nest Fest
  • Let’s Glow Party
  • Carnival in the Quad

These exciting social excursions have been designed to help you DISCOVER your Sac State community, EMBRACE a connection with your fellow Hornets, and THRIVE as you become fully immersed in the Hive. Stingers Up!

Does Financial Aid cover the Orientation Fee?

No, You will need to plan to pay the Orientation Fee directly, as it is not covered by Financial Aid. Financial Aid is applied to tuition and other mandatory charges first, so the Orientation Fee will appear as a separate charge on your account.

How can I pay the orientation fee?

Pay Online:
Log in to your MySacState Student Center, go to the Account Inquiry tab, and select Other Financial to make your payment. Please note there is a small service charge for online payments.

Pay by Check or Money Order:
Make your check or money order payable to Sacramento State and mail it to:

Sacramento State
New Student Orientation
6000 J Street, Lassen 1102
Sacramento, CA 95819

*Be sure to include your name and Student ID in the memo line.

Refunds:
Refunds are available if a written cancellation request is submitted at least two business days before your Orientation. Refunds are credited back to your card if paid online, or by check if paid by mail. Please allow 10–15 business days for processing. For questions about refunds, contact the Bursar’s Office at (916) 278-1000, option 3.

What do I do if I need to change my reservation?

If you need to make any changes to your reservation, you must call or email our office at (916) 278-7841 or orient.reservations@csus.edu and our staff will assist you.