Congratulations on becoming a part of the SUNY Potsdam community!
We know that you and your family/supporters have many questions as you begin thinking about all the tasks you need to accomplish before you arrive on campus. This webpage should answer many of these questions as you transition to Potsdam!
What is Orientation?
We are so excited to welcome you to SUNY Potsdam! Orientation is designed to jumpstart your college experience through making connections with other students, exploring the campus, and learning about services to promote your success inside and outside the classroom!
Prior to your arrival in the fall, there are a variety of required enrollment steps to complete as outlined below. Over the summer, you’ll have an opportunity to speak with an academic advisor to choose your fall classes. When you arrive in August, Welcome Weekend, which includes in-person Orientation activities, will help you get the most out of all SUNY Potsdam has to offer.
Please Note: Students enrolling in fully online degree programs are exempt from the following: in-person Orientation, submitting health information, campus housing and meal plan selections. More information about support and programming for online students will be forthcoming.
When is Orientation?
Residential new students will move on to campus on Thursday, August 21. Welcome Weekend and Orientation activities will take place from Thursday, August 21 through Sunday, August 24. A complete list of events will be available on Get Involved in mid-July.
Upon confirming your SUNY Potsdam enrollment, you are emailed access to your campus account and a set of required online Orientation steps to get you ready to arrive on campus. These steps will give you important information about academic advising and class scheduling, financial aid and billing, submitting required health information and more.
Orientation Fees:
First-Year Orientation Fee: The $200 fee includes all activities and transitional support programs throughout your first year. This fee will be included in your first College bill and should be paid along with all other billed charges.
Questions About Orientation? Contact Us:
Student Affairs
(315) 267-2117 or orientation@potsdam.edu
Important Dates
See the Fall 2025 section of the Academic Calendar using the link below.
Get Started On Your New Student Checklist Today!
Additional Information
After completing your checklist, you can learn more about Orientation and campus by clicking on the link below!