Welcome Freshmen Students!

Check in at orientation

Welcome to Stony Brook University! All new freshmen students at Stony Brook University will participate in a two-part orientation. Both Orientation and Opening of School are required for all new freshmen students.

Orientation
Orientation is a full-day session that focuses on getting to know your Undergraduate College and registering for classes.  Orientation takes place in July and August (fall admitted students) and in January (spring admitted students)

To receive an orientation date
In order to receive an orientation date, you should log on to the SOLAR system. Here you can accept your admission by:

    • Paying your tuition deposit online
    • Paying your housing deposit (if applicable) 
    • Paying your orientation fee
    • Completing the New Student Preferences form 

Orientation dates will be assigned after Undergraduate College placement. If you have completed the above steps, you will be eligible for Undergraduate College placement starting on May 15th. You will receive an email once you have been placed in an Undergraduate College. Freshmen orientation dates will not be assigned until after May 15th. You will receive an email and postcard with your orientation date once you have been assigned an orientation. Orientation takes place between July 9th and August 8th for all freshmen students. Please plan accordingly.

How to prepare for orientation

    • Advising Planning Form: Once you've received an orientation date, complete this online form through the SOLAR system.
    • Freshmen Orientation Checklist: Once you've received an orientation date, complete the items on the checklist to prepare for your orientation date.

Opening of School: Experience Stony Brook
Opening of School, also known as Experience Stony Brook, focuses on getting acclimated to the University climate, culture, and community. Experience Stony Brook takes place during the weekend before the beginning of the semester. Students who do not attend Experience Stony Brook will automatically be enrolled in the ROME (Required Orientation Makeup Experience) course.