To make sure you're ready for Orientation, we recommend that you do the following when preparing for Orientation:

1. Make sure you sign up for an Orientation program.
2. Bring your Orientation confirmation letter with you to Orientation. This includes directions, parking information and your parking pass for the day.
3. Bring a state-issued photo ID card (i.e. driver's license) with you to Orientation. You will not be able to get your Viking ID card (VikingCard) without it.
4. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress weather appropriately (both students and family).
5. Bring a positive, energetic GO VIKINGS attitude outlook!

Here are a few other things to consider before attending an Orientation program:

Placement Testing

We strongly encourage students to take the placement tests prior to attending Orientation. Taking the placement tests early offers students many benefits including more time to take the tests and the opportunity to retake a test if necessary. See the placement testing link (right-side) for more information.

Placement tests are offered at the downtown Cleveland State campus, the East Center in Solon, and the West Center in Westlake. The East and West Centers offer convenient evening and weekend hours as well as free parking. Placement testing at the downtown campus is offered on a walk-in basis.

Please visit the Placement Testing website for office hours. To schedule an appointment at the East Center please call 216-802-3000. To schedule an appointment at the West Center please call 216-875-9600.

Financial Aid

To be considered for financial aid, including loans, at Cleveland State, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible. Please do this before attending Orientation. Complete the FAFSA or the Renewal FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Use Cleveland State's school code of 003032. For detailed information on financial aid, scholarships, and your awards, visit the Financial Aid Office website. Please call 216.687.5411 or email campus411@csuohio.edu with your financial aid questions.

Special Needs and Assistance

Any student or family member who would like to request special accommodations during Orientation (including parking) may do so by contacting the Office of Disability Services at 216.687.2015. You must contact the office prior to attending Orientation.

Music Majors

All music majors or students interested in becoming music majors must contact Alexandra Vago at 216.687.5039 or a.vago@csuohio.edu to apply to the Music Department prior to attending Orientation.

Living On Campus

If you are interested in living in the newly renovated Fenn Tower or Viking Hall, apply for a room prior to attending Orientation. More information and applications are available at the Housing website.

Out of Town

If you're coming from out of town, please review a list of on campus and local accommodations.

Meeting Your Advisor

During Orientation, you will meet your academic advisor who will help you register for your first semester classes. Most likely, these classes will count as your general education requirements. Your first semester schedule typically includes Math, English, Introduction to University Life, and one or two other classes. Before Orientation, think of what times you would like to schedule your classes (i.e. are you a morning, afternoon, or evening person). And, what days you would like to schedule your classes (i.e. every day during the week, or only two or three days per week). While much of your schedule depends on class availability, thinking about this beforehand will be helpful when you meet with your advisor.