New Student Orientation Frequently Asked Questions
Why is new student orientation mandatory?
Research demonstrates that all students benefit from a formal orientation program. Our new student orientation is required for all new main campus, first-year and transfer, degree-seeking students.
We cover critical information that will contribute to your success as a student. To ensure awareness of registration policies and procedures, students are not allowed to register for classes until they attend an orientation session.
What if I am having trouble with the required online requirements?
If you have questions or trouble with the CMU Math Placement, please contact stem@cmich.edu (include your CMU Global ID with any communication - i.e. smith1ab). If you are having technical issues with the Math Placement, please contact Stemify directly at support@stemify.ai.
If you are having trouble with any other online requirements, please contact us at orientation@cmich.edu or 989-774-6629.
How do I activate my CMU Global ID and email account?
Contact CMU’s Help Desk at (989) 774-3662 or visit their website for assistance.
How do I pay the Enrollment Deposit?
The enrollment deposit reserves your space as a new CMU student.The current deposit for students starting Spring 2024 is $175.
Beginning with students starting Summer 2024 any following semester, the deposit will increase to $200.
You can pay this either online or by mail. Online payments can be made using credit card or electronic check by visiting your applicant portal. After the payment is made (or deferred until the start of your first semester), you will complete your academic profile and select an orientation date.
Please contact the Orientation Office if you need to cancel your admission with CMU.
How do I reserve a date to attend new student orientation?
Once CMU has received and processed the enrollment deposit, you will be able to reserve a date to attend orientation using your applicant portal. This reservation process will take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete.
What is the start and end time of my on campus orientation day?
You should plan to be on campus for the majority of the day. The day will begin at 9 a.m., with check in from 8 - 8:50 a.m., and you will conclude the day at approximately 4:30 p.m.
When will I receive confirmation of the date I selected to attend orientation?
Once you complete and submit your online reservation, a confirmation will be sent to your CMU e-mail account with important information regarding your orientation session and other requirements.
Will I be required to take placement tests?
Yes. The CMU Math Placement will help decide what mathematics course to enroll in at CMU and prepare you for future success. This is a free online assessment that you MUST complete prior to your orientation session.
CMU Math Placement FAQs and login information
A foreign language placement test can be taken if you intend to continue a language previously taken in high school (Cmich login required).
I need accessible materials or ASL interpreting.
To request accommodations, please contact Student Disability Services.
Can students and family members attend together?
Yes, students are encouraged to bring family members and supporters to orientation. Students are able to register no more than two guests to attend their orientation session and there is a $25 fee per guest that will be charged to the student's account and included in their fall bill.
Students and family members may attend some sessions together, but we encourage the student to take responsibility for their learning and registering for their classes. We do offer program sessions for family members and supporters as part of the new student orientation experience.
What if I miss my orientation or cannot attend the day I registered for?
Do I need to set up an appointment with an academic advisor prior to orientation.
For freshmen students, you will meet with your academic advisor on your orientation day for small group advising and registration. Advisors will work with you to choose and register for classes. You can also schedule a follow-up appointment with your advisor after your orientation day.
For transfer students, we will arrange an advising appointment with your academic advisor. It will most likely occur on your assigned orientation date, but some students may complete this step before or after their orientation session. You will receive an email with information regarding your academic advising appointment.
I completed my orientation, what's next?
We courage you to view the self-paced materials on the New Student Checklist webpage and within the new student orientation Blackboard shell. Reach out with any questions you have, we're here to help you every step of the way!
Also, be sure to take care of items such as:
Filing your FAFSA to apply financial aid
Completing your housing application, if you plan to live on campus
Checking your cmich.edu email account regularly for updates and information as you get ready for your first semester
Where do I send transcripts?
Please request that your official transcripts be sent via emailor mailed to the following address:
Attn. Transcript Department
802 Industrial Dr.
Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858
Where will I get my Central ID card?
Students will receive an email from the Central Card office prior to the start of their first semester with instructions to submit your photo for your Central ID card and picking up your card.
Is there a bank on campus?
Yes, PNC Bank is the Preferred Banking Provider for Central Michigan University students and has an on campus branch located on the 2ndfloor of the Bovee University Center as well as 4 ATMs on campus.For additional information on the PNC Bank campus program, please visit www.pnc.com/cmich.
Is Fire Up Friday the same as orientation?
No, these programs are different in several ways. Fire Up Friday is an optional program sponsored by the Admissions Office and offers students the opportunity to learn more about Residence Life, New Student Orientation, Academic Advising and other involvement opportunities at CMU.
Those who attend Fire Up Friday programs are still required to attend a new student orientation session.