International student orientation

Welcome to ASU

Arizona State University hosts a number of welcome events for incoming international students. These fun, informative and interactive programs offer an overview of a wide variety of topics that will help you meet new friends and learn about ASU.

If you are living at the Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic or West campus, ASU will provide free transportation to and from the Tempe campus to attend the welcome events. Shuttle services end at 5 p.m. You can find more information on shuttle services here.

If you have any questions, please contact us at internationalwelcome@asu.edu or 480-727-4776.

Reserve your spring orientation spot Sign up for airport transportation

International Student Orientation at ASU

Program information

Spring 2020 International Orientation will be from Jan. 8 – 10.

First-year students

You can move into your residence hall beginning Monday, Jan. 6. If you would like to request early arrival housing, please contact housing@asu.edu.

Classes begin Monday, Jan. 13, 2020.

Pre-orientation schedule

Arrival tasks

The days prior to International Student Orientation are designed for you to take care of important items before the start of your classes, such as:

Finalizing class schedule.
Opening a U.S. bank account.
Setting up cell phone services.
Moving in your on-campus housing.
Setting up your off-campus housing (move-in, electricity, etc.).
Getting your ASU ID card.
Submitting your MMR immunization documentation.
Completing your SEVIS check-in with the International Students and Scholars Center.

Check My ASU to make sure you have completed all required tasks prior to the start of classes.

Orientation schedule

First-year, Transfer (including Exchange and IADP), Graduate (including masters and doctoral), Parents and family

Day 1: Wednesday, Jan. 8

International Orientation Kick-Off
Start your new life as an international student by embracing the rich diversity and culture of ASU at a welcome event with greetings from university leadership and student performances.
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Family Orientation Session and Lunch
12 – 2:30 p.m.

Kick-Off Lunch, Team Building and Ice-Breakers
Get to know your fellow students by attending this team-building program that features fun activities.
12 – 2:30 p.m.

Shopping trip
Need stuff for your new home at ASU? Join ASU’s International Student Engagement office for a shopping trip. The store is filled with a variety of home goods, including bedding, kitchenware, towels and decor items. Transportation will be provided.
Depart from W. P. Carey School of Business horse statue, Tempe campus at 2:30 p.m.
2:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Tempe campus tour

Depart from the Sun Devil Fitness Center
2:30, 2:45, 3 and 3:15 p.m

Day 2: Thursday, Jan. 9

First Year Academic Session
Time: 9:15 –11 a.m.

Transfer Academic Session
Time: 12 – 1:15 p.m.

Graduate Student Session
Time: 9:30 – 11 a.m.

First-year student families only: Academic College Session
Time: 9:15 – 10:15 a.m.

All families: Your Student’s Transition to ASU
Time: 10:15 – 11 a.m.

Lunch
Time: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

International Orientation Optional Workshops
Time: 12:15 – 2:45 p.m.

Family Orientation Session
Time: 1 – 3 p.m.

Coalition of International Students (CIS) Carnival and Resource Expo
Time: 3 – 6 p.m.

Day 3: Friday, Jan. 10

Chinese Student Brunch
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Sponsored Student Brunch
Time: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Indian Student Brunch
Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Coalition of International Students Brunch
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Family Brunch
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

International Orientation Optional Workshops
Time: 12:30 – 3:20 p.m.

Big Community Welcome & Dinner
Time: 3:30 – 5 p.m.

Women’s Basketball vs. Oregon State

Time: 6 p.m.