Stanford Pre-Orientation Programs
In addition to New Student Orientation (NSO), Stanford offers the following beloved pre-orientation programs to our incoming students. In order to attend any of these programs, students must register in advance. This year, all programs will take place in person (subject to state and county public health policies) and conclude before the first day of NSO so that you can participate fully in the programs and activities of NSO. As these programs occur at the same time, while you can apply to multiple programs, you can only attend one pre-orientation program.
On-Campus Programs
Students attending on-campus pre-orientation programs will arrive early to campus and move directly into your dorm rooms. Programs will conclude by dinner time on September 20 so that you can meet your new dormmates.
International Student Orientation (ISO): Overseen by the Bechtel International Center, ISO supports your transition to living in the U.S. through presentations, panel discussions, and social activities. All new international students for whom the Bechtel International Center issues immigration documents are required to attend ISO and cannot sign up for an additional pre-orientation program. U.S. citizens living abroad and permanent residents do not attend ISO, though you may request to attend if you have not previously lived in the U.S. There is no cost to attend. Registration Deadline: June 8 (on your Approaching Stanford Forms).
Ignite: Cardinal Service Pre-Orientation: Run by the Haas Center for Public Service, Ignite features visits to local nonprofits and community organizations, along with activities designed to help you reflect on the kind of service, community partner, and/or issue you might want to pursue. Participation fee; financial aid available. Registration Deadline: June 27.
First-Generation/Low-Income Student Orientation: Through the Stanford FLI-Office, FLI-SO is a pre-orientation program for new students who identify as first-generation and/or low-income. This program is focused on supporting the transition to Stanford with an emphasis on the unique challenges FLI students may face as you enter a university setting. There is no cost to attend. Registration Deadline: June 17.
Off-Campus Programs
Students attending off-campus pre-orientation programs will arrive to campus, meet your program staff, and travel to off-campus lodging for the duration of your program. You will return to campus on September 20 and move into your dorm rooms on that day. If you have family members assisting you, they can meet you at your dorm with your belongings.
Stanford Native Immersion Program (SNIP): Through the American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawai'ian Program/Native American Cultural Center (AIANNHP/NACC), SNIP is a six-day, fun-filled experience designed to welcome incoming new students to The Farm. Participants will be led by current students and staff who will direct them in activities, explore Native issues, and advise them on academic and student life at Stanford. Students will have time to learn important information about Stanford while making friends and meeting people who will be supportive during their first year on campus. There is no cost to attend. Eligible students will receive registration materials in early June.
Stanford Pre-Orientation Trips (SPOT): Coordinated by Stanford Recreation & Wellness, SPOT provides immersive outdoor experiences off-campus that take place the week before NSO. These trips are designed to foster community and personal growth through activity, self-reflection, and mentorship. Participation fee; financial aid available. Because there is typically more interest than spaces available, SPOT will run a lottery selection process for all students who register by June 15.
