Orientation FAQ

Where do my guests and I park?
Parking will be available in the University Center parking lot. Directions will be included in your registration confirmation email. Parking at new student orientation is free and no parking pass is required.

What do I do if I require special accommodations for a medical, physical, or disability-related need?
We will do everything we can to make your Orientation visit a positive experience. You will have the opportunity to note any special needs for you and/or your guests during the orientation registration process.

My aid and/or scholarship has not arrived yet. What should I do?
Please contact the Student Financial Services Office at 256.824.6241 for assistance.

Do I have to take placement exams?
Placement testing is not required for registration. However, if you wish to register for a higher level class than the one in which you will be placed, then you may take the placement tests in order to demonstrate your ability to perform at the next level. All students who are beginning college-level course work in English, Mathematics, and Chemistry are placed at the level best suited to their academic preparation and background. Placement tests help to determine students’ preparedness within these areas. Placements are determined by the respective academic departments based on the student’s score(s). If you live near the University, you may sign up for placement testing on the Testing Services website. We are also offering English and Mathematics placement testing during Day 1 of Orientation of the Freshman Orientation program. For more information you can also Download Placement Testing Information.

Will I be able to get the class schedule I want if I come to one of the later Orientation sessions?
There is no way to predict which classes will be available at the time of any specific Orientation session class registration. The "perfect" schedule may not be available, but all students should be able to register for a full load of classes that will fulfil their core curriculum and degree requirements. New students should be prepared to be flexible and should not rule out registering for classes that begin as early as 8 a.m. or late in the afternoon. Students who are not satisfied with their schedule can change it as late as the fourth day of classes during the Drop/Add period.

What should I do if my plans change and I need to switch to another Orientation session?
Orientation sessions are assigned on a first come, first served basis, and it is not always possible to assign students to their first choice. However, if you do need to change sessions, you may contact the Orientation office to see if there is room in another session for you. Once you make a change, be aware that you may not be able to get back into your previous session. The Orientation fee is non-refundable.  Please request changes in orientation reservations via email to orientation@uah.edu

I have not received my placement letter. When should I expect to receive it?
Placement letters will go out the first week of May from the Office of Admissions. If you are admitted after May 1, you will receive it one to two weeks after your acceptance letter.

If I don't attend Orientation do I still have to pay?
Yes. All new students are required to attend Orientation. The Orientation fee is assessed to your student bill and will be charged regardless of whether you attend or not.

How do my parents pay for Orientation?
Parents and guests who would like to pay by check or money order, please make payable to:
UAH New Student Orientation:
UAHuntsville Student Life, c/o Orientation
301 Sparkman Dr., UC 106A
Huntsville, AL 35899

DO NOT SEND CASH THROUGH THE MAIL