Orientation

As a newly admitted graduate student, it is recommended you arrive in Fargo at least two weeks before the semester starts (check the NDSU Academic Calendar). Orientation starts one week before the first day of classes and includes lab safety and TA training, workshops hosted by student organizations, faculty research presentations, and registration advising. Each day's activities will last from approximately 9am until 5pm, Monday through Friday. You will be emailed additional information regarding scheduled orientation sessions prior to your arrival.

On Friday morning of orientation week, you will take six multiple-choice Graduate Advisory Exams: organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology. Questions are based on your knowledge and understanding from undergraduate coursework. The results of these tests will form the basis for determining the level of courses you take in your first year of graduate studies. You should prepare for these exams (review your undergraduate textbooks, notes, etc.) during the months before arriving at NDSU.

Please check the NDSU Admitted Graduate Student Checklist for additional information.