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!

Missed your scheduled Orientation session? Students who were unable to attend a summer Orientation may register for our Make-Up Orientation.

Make Up Orientation

Orientation Overview

New Student Orientation is your first step toward becoming part of the Otter community. This experience is designed to help you feel prepared, connected, and confident as you begin your academic journey. During Orientation, you will learn how to navigate campus resources, understand academic expectations, and connect with other new students, Orientation Leaders, and campus staff.

Registration Requirements

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.

Graduate students, Nursing students, and Computer Science Online students do not attend Orientation. Please visit your appropriate department website for more information listed here.

Register for Orientation

Spring 2027 Orientation

Registration for Spring 2027 New Student Orientation opens October 5, 2026 for all incoming Spring 2027 students.

International Student 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/supporters must be registered by the student before attending orientation and pay a $40 fee per person.

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.

Can I update or change my Orientation session?

Yes. Changes can be made by emailing Orientation@csumb.edu

How do I request accommodations for Orientation?

If you need assistance due to a disability, please contact us at orientation@csumb.edu 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.

What is the Online Orientation, and when do I need to complete it?

The Online Orientation is a required part of your CSUMB Orientation experience and must be completed by July 31. The course takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and provides important information about campus resources, academic expectations, student support services, and preparing for your first semester at CSUMB.

You can access the Online Orientation here: https://csumb.instructure.com/enroll/76A9X6

Is Orientation available in Spanish?

Yes, through Spanish Supporter Orientation sessions under each day called “Orientación Bilingüe APOYADOR Reservación”

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 if you have any questions. Feel free to contact us using the details below.