Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Here’s why you must complete an orientation from start to finish:

Meet with your academic advisor and register for classes.
Receive your student ID, something you will use daily at Marian.
Understand the technology, library, and other resources available to you as a Marian student.
Connect with faculty so you know what to expect in class.
Meet other new students and make friends before classes start.
Have fun, especially in the evening on day one if you attend a two-day orientation.

Orientation is designed to set you up for success, so it is important to attend the entire program. Please plan accordingly. Do not register for an orientation if you know you must arrive late or leave early. For one-day orientations, plan to be on campus from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For two-day orientations, plan to arrive around 9:30 a.m. on day one and leave by noon on day two.

An orientation fee of $75 for one-day programs or $95 for two-day programs is automatically charged to your student account and will appear on your bill in the fall. The orientation fee covers meals at New Student Orientation, materials, overnight costs, and Welcome Week programming. This fee is applied to all incoming students.

The fee is separate from your enrollment deposit. The enrollment deposit is paid in advance to hold your place in the class and is later applied toward the balance of your tuition bill.

Download our printable campus map and driving directions.

Be comfortable. There is no need to "dress up" but wear appropriate attire, especially for the weather. You will spending time in air-conditioned buildings, so bring a light jacket or sweater if you chill easily. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on campus.

No! Lunch is included during one-day programs for students and their guest. During two-day programs, students are fed lunch, dinner, and day-two brunch. Family members and guests are fed lunch and brunch during two-day programs, with dinner on their own.

Although attendance is required for new Marian students, everything is optional for parents, families, and guests. That said, we have designed multiple sessions specifically for our guests to cater to your needs and interests. For more information on our parent and family sessions during orientation, please visit our parents and families page. This year we invite each incoming student to bring up to two guests. Your students will truly appreciate your attendance and support at New Student Orientation!

If your family is traveling from a far distance and in need of lodging for orientation, visit the lodging section for suggestions.

Visit the placement testing section for an explanation of how placement testing needs are determined and placement tests are administered.

We recommend that you check the forecast for the day prior to leaving for New Student Orientation. If there is a chance of rain, bring an umbrella—the weather in Indiana can be unpredictable at times. You can check the weather forecast online at www.weather.com; Marian University’s zip code is 46222.

No worries! Feel free to call or email First Year Experience or your Admission Counselor. We would be happy to answer your remaining questions or get you into contact with the offices at Marian who can help you further.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really have to attend New Student Orientation?

How long do I need to stay?

Do I need to pay a fee?

How do I get to Marian University?

What should I wear to orientation?

Do I need money for meals?

Is orientation required for parents and family members?

Where should I stay?

How are my placement testing needs determined?

What's the weather like in Indianapolis?