As a new student at Ohio State ATI, orientation is your first experience stepping into campus life as a Buckeye. During this one-day, on-campus experience, you will meet fellow students, explore the Wooster campus and learn about the resources and support available to you throughout your Buckeye journey. It is an opportunity to ask questions, get familiar with your academic path and begin building your community.

Start here

Step 1. Accept your admission

Pay your acceptance fee in your Applicant Center. After your fee is processed, you’ll receive an orientation invitation by email.

If you have not yet activated your Ohio State email, complete the Enable BuckeyeMail step using the quick link above.

Note: Many students choose to download the Outlook app to stay organized.

Step 2. Check your BuckeyeMail

Your orientation invitation and next-step instructions will be sent to your Ohio State email. Ohio State also uses BuckeyeMail for official messages about grades, schedules, financial aid and housing. 

Step 3. Register for orientation

To register for orientation, go to My Buckeye Link. Enter your username (lastname.#) and password to log in. Once logged in, look for the “Admissions” section (last section on the left side of the page). Click on “Orientation Information” and follow the steps to register for orientation. After you have completed the registration process, a message will be sent to your Ohio State email address confirming your registration.

Spring 2027 Orientation date

Friday, January 8, 2026

Autumn 2027 Orientation dates (tentative)

Monday, June 14, 2027
Tuesday, June 15, 2027
Wednesday, June 16, 2027

Wednesday, July 14, 2027
Thursday, July 15, 2027
Friday, July 16, 2027

Step 4. Request accommodations early

Need disability-related support for placement testing or orientation? Contact Disability Services before taking placement tests using the quick link above. 

Accommodations cannot be applied retroactively. Disability may include mental health conditions, ADHD, Autism Spectrum, chronic health conditions, learning disabilities, physical or sensory impairments, and temporary injuries.

Sensory-friendly guidance

If you or a family member has sensory needs, please call 330-287-1235. A staff member in Academic Affairs can explain what to expect at orientation and help you choose the date that will work best for you.

Step 5. Complete placement testing

After you register, watch your BuckeyeMail for placement testing instructions. (Allow 24-48 business hours for testing access to be added.) Placement tests help determine the right math and English classes. Official transfer, CCP or AP credit may affect whether or not you need to test. 

Step 6. Come to campus for orientation

Plan to be on campus from 8:30 am to 3 pm. Your schedule includes group information sessions, student peer-to-peer time, lunch, optional tours and assistance completing a personalized pre-enrollment checklist. 

Make sure to bring with you:

• phone for Duo/BuckeyePass
• driver’s license or state ID
• financial aid documents, if needed

Orientation will take place mainly indoors. Be prepared for varying temperatures inside and inclement weather. You will walk a minimal distance outdoors to obtain your BuckID. 

For parents and families

Families are welcome to use this page to help their student prepare. Orientation is designed to help students begin taking ownership of their college experience, while still giving families the information they need to support the transition.

If you need to update your orientation date, change your major or have general questions, use the contact information below.

Orientation questions

Email: atiorientation@osu.edu

Technical support

For help with your Ohio State username, password or DUO:

Phone: 614-688-4357
Email: 8help@osu.edu