ATLANTA FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS
First-year New Student Orientation occurs before all semesters begin on the Atlanta Campus. It is mandatory for all first-year students. This is a chance for new students to learn what university life is like in downtown Atlanta, get familiar with the campus, prepare for their first year, register for classes and meet fellow new Panthers!
Do you still need to register for orientation? You will need to complete our start@state online orientation modules to be eligible to register.

Prepare for Orientation
Parking is available at a reduced rate of $5.00 in the M Deck parking garage. M Deck can be accessed from Piedmont Ave. or Courtland St.
At New Student Orientation, students and their guests will hear from campus partners on how to be a successful student. Students will split into small groups to visit important locations on campus while they get registered for classes in a one-on-one session with an academic advisor. Before students depart, families are dismissed to other sessions to learn about important campus resources meant to provide additional support for them and their students. Attendees can expect NSO to last one full day – approximately 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
New Student Orientation fees cover all aspects of the orientation experience: namely printing, giveaways, orientation leader pay and dining costs. This is standard across universities nationwide; however, Georgia State has one of the lowest orientation fees in the state. The cost is $65 per person for both students and guests.
The Atlanta campus’s New Student Orientation runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., so be prepared for a day’s worth of activities! Recommended items to bring are:
- An umbrella or jacket in case of inclement weather
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Something to write with – pen or pencil
- Any outstanding documents – admissions, immunizations, test scores or documents you may have questions about
- A credit or debit card to cover any outstanding charges and trips to the university bookstore
Contact Us
Atlanta & Perimeter College Campuses
In-Person:
Student Center East, Suite 316
55 Gilmer St. SE
Phone: 404-413-1580
Mailing Address:
Student Orientation and Family Engagement
Georgia State University
P.O. Box 3973
Atlanta, GA 30302-3973
Virtually:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: GSU_SOFE
SOFE Events
Panther Family Portal
We’re glad you’ve chosen Georgia State, where we are committed to your success. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us at [email protected].