Orientation has three distinct components – an online pre-orientation course, an on-campus orientation and the Welcome to App program of events focused on helping you learn your way around campus and meeting fellow Mountaineers.

Special Populations:

  • International students will complete both New Student Orientation and International Student Orientation.
  • Admitted Flight Path students will complete a separate orientation experience and should reach out to admissions@onlineprograms.appstate.edu for more information. 

Orientation Process for Incoming Students

Step 1: Register for Orientation

Register through your MyMountaineer Portal under the Orientation tab.

  • Session dates are first come, first served — have two or three options ready in case your first choice is full.
  • The earlier you register, the more likely you are to get your preferred date.

Parent & Family Orientation

Parents and families are invited to a one-day program designed specifically for them, held at the same time as your on-campus orientation.

  • A registration link will be included in your confirmation email after you register for orientation.

Registration Based on Student Type

Your student type determines which orientation dates you’ll see in the system.

  • Transfer students can also attend the Transfer Pre-Orientation Program (T-POP) before New Student Orientation. This free program offers early advising, class registration and the chance to meet other transfers.

Changing Your Orientation Date

  • Fall: Change your date anytime before the 48-hour cutoff by re-registering in your MyMountaineer Portal.
  • Spring: Only one in-person session is offered. Please plan ahead to attend.
  • Within 48 hours: Email orientation@appstate.edu to request a change.

Orientation Cost

The orientation fee is separate from your enrollment deposit and covers:

  • AppCard (your campus ID)
  • Common Reading book
  • Meals
  • Parent & Family Orientation guest attendance
  • Additional program costs

You will be billed after attending orientation. Charges appear on your first semester tuition bill and are non-refundable after attendance.

Learn more about Orientation costs

Step 2: Set Up Your Mobile AppCard

Follow the AppCard Office instructions and set-up your Mobile AppCard using your @appstate.edu username and password.

Step 3: Complete Your Advising & PREP Steps

Finish your Advising & PREP Steps before orientation to prepare for:

  • Class registration
  • Your advising appointment

These steps help you start your academic planning at App State.

Step 4: Attend or Complete Orientation

During orientation, you will:

  • Meet other new students
  • Learn about campus resources
  • Explore your intended major (or start exploring options)

See Session Details for schedules and preparation tips.

Lodging

Step 5: Attend Welcome to App & Start Classes

Welcome to App is an extension of orientation with activities to:

  • Get comfortable on campus
  • Make friends
  • Explore student life opportunities
Student high five with orientation guide

Open for Spring 2026

Register for New Student Orientation

Registration for Spring 2026 Orientation is now open! After accepting your admission offer and paying the $200 enrollment deposit, register through your MyMountaineer Portal for available dates based on your student type.

International Student Orientation

International students must complete both New Student Orientation and International Student Orientation. New International Student Orientation will take place on the Boone campus prior to the start of Fall semester classes.

International orientation is required for all international degree-seeking students (both students on an F1 or J1 visa status and those who have never attended a university in the United States).

Find details and information about International Student Orientation

Parent and Family Orientation

Parents and families are invited to attend a specialized one-day Parent and Family Orientation program that is tailored specifically for parents and families of new students.

This program is not mandatory. Registration is required for family members who opt to attend, and is limited to two family members per student.

Have your plans changed?

Please let us know if your plans to attend App State have changed by emailing the Office of Admissions at admissions@appstate.edu.

Stay on top of the game

Follow Your Enrollment Checklist

Your enrollment checklist is available in your MyMountaineer portal to guide you through your next steps to becoming a Mountaineer.

This includes information on housing, dining, health and immunization records submission and more.