EIU New Student and Family Programs

First-year student Event Information

We are so happy your student has chosen Eastern Illinois University to call their new home! New Student and Family Programs wants to do all we can do to help students learn to navigate campus and connect to the university. New Student and Family Programs provides two programs (participation for students is mandatory) to help with the transition:

Part 1: Orientation, Advisement & Registration

Coming to college opens a new chapter in your student's life. The transition from high school to the university setting is an exciting time filled with a myriad of opportunities. This transition also raises a number of questions and concerns regarding your student's first year here at Eastern Illinois University. 

Registering for a program

Once you have paid your Enrollment Deposit of $150, your student can sign up for an Orientation date through MyEIU. First Year students will be e-mailed an invitation to the program. The invitation will contain a program reservation link to myEIU. Students will need to complete the reservation form online to secure a program date.  

When signing up for Orientation, students will be asked whether they would like to meet with their advisor virtually (over Zoom) before Orientation, or while they're at Orientation. There is a very limited number of on-campus advising appointments during Orientation days.  Completing advising and class registration before Orientation will help students get the classes they need at the times they prefer.

Students who choose to be advised and registered prior to Orientation will be contacted by their advisor to schedule an appointment and are expected to respond to that email within 24 hours.  

Students Entering Spring 2025 

Friday, January 10, 2025

Part 2: Welcome Weekend

This transition program will aid your student in settling into life on campus. The program starts the weekend prior to each semester and continues through the first six weeks of the semester. This is a fantastic opportunity for them to get involved and learn about many of the programs EIU has to offer! Click here for additional information about the program.