Life on Campus

Orientation FAQs

Is orientation required? / Why do I need to come to orientation?

Yes, orientation is required of all incoming students in order for them to register for Fall Quarter classes. More importantly orientation is one of the first welcome experiences for incoming students new to Tech. Whether you are from the area or have never step foot on campus, Freshman Orientation provides students with important information and connects you with the resources that will make your first year a successful one. 

During orientation, students will meet their Orientation Student Leader (OSL), their very own mentor that will guide them through the transition to college. You’ll meet your fellow classmates and begin building connections with them, the faculty and staff, as well as Tech’s beautiful campus, your new home away from home.  

 

Is there a cost for orientation? What does it pay for?

Yes, there is a $150 non-refundable fee for all orientation participants. This fee covers the cost of your on-campus orientation experience. This includes facility rentals, room and board, orientation staff, meals, a t-shirt, lanyard, pen, orientation bag and cost of our orientation app, Bulldogs First Bite. The deadline to pay your orientation fee is June 1, 2023.

 

How will I register for Fall classes?

Advising and Registration is a critical part of orientation. During the Thursday afternoon of your orientation session, you will be guided through this process with the assistance of representatives and advisors from your academic major. Please make sure you have submitted all dual enrollment transcripts, Advanced Placement, and CLEP scores to the university to assist with a smooth advising process.

 

Can I switch to a different orientation session if I can no longer attend my current dates?

Yes, you may switch your orientation session up until a week before the start of a session as long as room is available. Please contact the Orientation Office (orientation@latech.edu) for assistance switching to a new orientation session.

When will I be able to take the Math/Chemistry Placement Exam?

Placement exams for Math and Chemistry take place on the Wednesday afternoon of each orientation session. Pre-registration is not needed, eligible students need only meet in the Student Center 15 minutes prior to the start of the exam. The Math Placement exam takes place at 1:30 p.m. and the Chemistry Exam will take place at 3:00 p.m. Eligibility for the placement exams are as follows:

  • MATH 101 (College Algebra) – 1:30 p.m. – Math ACT 24-25 / SAT 560-600
  • MATH 112 (Trigonometry) – 1:30 p.m. – Math ACT 26+ / SAT 610+
  • MATH 240 (Pre-Calculus) – 1:30 p.m. – Math ACT 26+ / SAT 610+
  • CHEM 100 (General Chemistry) – 3:00 p.m. – Math ACT 26+ / SAT 610+

I am a transfer student but want to attend a three-day orientation session. Is that possible?

Absolutely! Transfer students are a vital part of the Tech Family, and we want you to have the best possible experience to kick of your journey at Louisiana Tech. Transfer students under the age of 21 are more than welcome to register for and attend a three-day orientation along with our freshmen and other first-year students. To learn more, email our Orientation Staff at orientation@latech.edu.