New Student Orientation
Your First Step to Success at UNC
Welcome to New Student Orientation (NSO)! Whether you're a first-time first-year student or a transfer student, NSO is your opportunity to get connected, feel prepared and take your first steps toward success at UNC.
While NSO is not mandatory, it is highly encouraged for all incoming students. It provides essential resources, advising and peer connections that will set you up for a strong start.
Registration is required - Sign in to your My UNC Portal to register.
Spring 2026 NSO Session Dates & Formats
đź“… November 2025: Registration for NSO is now open! You can register for the event via your My UNC Portal. Students must register to attend.
đź“… November 2025: The Pre-Orientation Canvas Course launches. All students are expected to complete this course before attending NSO.
The Pre-Orientation Canvas Course is accessible via My UNC Portal.
New Student Orientation |
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Friday, January 9, 2026 New Student Orientation (NSO) is your official welcome to UNC! This one-day experience helps you connect with fellow new Bears, meet current students and staff and learn about the academic, financial and personal resources that will set you up for success. You’ll enjoy a welcome lunch, attend engaging sessions like B.E.A.R. (Bystander Engagement, Awareness and Responsibility), explore involvement opportunities, and prepare for a strong start to the semester. |
Winter Welcome Kick-Off |
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Friday, January 9, 2026 and Saturday, January 10, 2026 The celebration continues all weekend! Winter Welcome Kick-Off begins right after NSO with dinner and a movie on Friday evening, followed by Cosmic Skate at the Greeley Ice Haus. On Saturday, join your Orientation Leaders and peers for brunch, small-group meetups, and WinterFest—a campus-wide event filled with games, activities and opportunities to connect with UNC’s vibrant community. |
Session Format: In-Person Experience
- In-Person NSO – Friday, January 9, 2026
- Connect with fellow new Bears and Orientation Leaders
- Learn about UNC traditions, campus life and student support resources
- Participate in engaging sessions like B.E.A.R. (Bystander Engagement, Awareness, and Responsibility)
- Attend Involvement Sessions highlighting wellness, leadership and job opportunities on campus
- Receive on-site support for your Student ID, Bear Central, Career Readiness and other student services
The day concludes with the Winter Welcome Kick-Off, including dinner, a movie and evening activities that continue into Saturday.
- 💻 Virtual NSO – A virtual option is not offered for Spring 2026. All new students beginning classes in Spring 2026 are expected to attend the in-person NSO experience.
What to Expect at NSO
Your Orientation experience begins with check-in and optional early move-in for on-campus residents. Throughout the day, you’ll:
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- Meet your Orientation Leaders and small group
- Enjoy a Welcome Lunch with peers and campus staff
- Participate in engaging small-group sessions and community-building activities
- Explore UNC’s academic, financial and personal support resources
- Learn how to get involved through the Involvement Fair and drop-in campus offices
Important Information for Students & Families
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How do I register?
Log into your UNC Admissions Portal and select your preferred session. -
Is there a deadline for registration?
Individual session sign-ups close 2 days before the session date. -
Is there a cost to attend NSO?
No, NSO is free for students and their guests. -
What should I bring to NSO?
More detailed information will be provided before the event date, but students should bring:
âś” Comfortable clothing and walking shoes
âś” A laptop (recommended for Wi-Fi setup and troubleshooting)
âś” Any required documents to complete outstanding Admissions checklist items
Family & Friends Participation
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Is there a cost for family and supporters to attend NSO?
No! Families are welcome at no cost. -
What sessions are available for family members?
Dedicated sessions include supporting student transitions and campus resources. -
Do family members need to register separately?
No, students indicate the number of guests when registering.
Beyond NSO: Winter Welcome
- What is Winter Welcome Weekend?
January 9–10, 2026 – Expected for all new students, featuring workshops, community-building and important campus resources.- Dinner and a Movie on Friday evening
- Cosmic Skate at the Greeley Ice Haus
- Brunch Meet-Up and WinterFest on Saturday
Your UNC experience doesn’t stop after Orientation! Following the Winter Welcome Kick-Off, you’ll enjoy a full week of Winter Welcome programming during the first week of classes. Events throughout the week will help you explore campus, meet new friends and find ways to get involved—from social activities and resource fairs to open houses and community gatherings.
All Winter Welcome events will be listed on BearConnect, making it easy to see what’s happening and build your own schedule of activities as you begin your UNC journey.
