New Student Orientation

Welcome to the Raft!

We are excited that you are about to become an official Otter, joining an amazingly involved and diverse community of over 7,500 students. We want to help you feel at home on campus!

Orientation Overview

Orientation is an opportunity to learn about campus resources, meet friends, hear from an Academic Advisor, and develop connections with fellow students, staff, and faculty.

Note: Computer Science Online students do not attend Orientation. Please visit the Computer Science Online website to learn more.

Before registering for your orientation session, be sure to pay the $100 fee. Your student account will be created 24-48 hours after you have paid the Enrollment Confirmation Fee by May 1st, 2026.

Register for Orientation

First Time First Year Orientation

Log in to MyRaft using your CSUMB username (e.g., mont1234) and password to register for an Orientation session. You may register for yourself and add guests by clicking the preferred date below.

Transfer Orientation

Log in to MyRaft using your CSUMB username (e.g., mont1234) and password to register for an Orientation session. You may register for yourself and add guests by clicking the preferred date below.

International Orientation

International orientation sessions take place in two parts: online before your arrival and in person once you land on campus. Learn more by visiting the Orientation Guide website for international students.

Orientation Guide

Cost and Fees

The Student Orientation Fee is a one-time, mandatory $140 charge for all new students. It covers orientation and transition services, including sessions, resources, and support programs. The fee will be added to your student account when you register and applies to all students, regardless of attendance.

Please note: the $100 Enrollment Confirmation Deposit is separate.

Payment is due by July 31, 2026, along with your other tuition and fees. Financial aid may help cover this cost if funds remain after other fees (tuition, fees, and, if applicable, housing and meal plans) are paid. If you need assistance, please contact financialaid@csumb.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do guests need to register and pay in advance?

Yes. Guests must be registered by the student before attending orientation, and the guest fee must be paid prior to the scheduled session.

Can I get a refund or transfer my guest fee to another date?

Refunds are available if requested at least two weeks before the session date. To request one, email with your student’s name, payment date, and reason. A processing fee applies, and refunds may take 2–3 weeks. Fees can also be transferred to a different orientation date.

Do guests need to register and pay a fee to attend Orientation?

Yes. Guests must be registered by the student and pay a $40 guest fee before the Orientation session. Children under 5 years old do not need to register but must be supervised by an adult at all times.

How do I request accommodations for Orientation?

If you need assistance due to a disability, please contact us by email or call 831-582-4693 at least 10 days before the event. Be sure to include the type of assistance you are requesting.

Can supporters and family members attend Orientation?

Yes! Supporters, including parents, guardians, siblings, partners, and friends, are welcome to attend through the Supporter track. This program includes sessions both with your student and separate sessions designed specifically for supporters.

Need Help Getting Started? We're Here for You!

The New Student Program team is ready to answer any questions you or your family have about orientation.

Connect with our team

Our New Student Program leaders are ready to help you join the Otter Raft.

New Student Programs

Our team is here to help. Contact us at the information below.