Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is New Student Orientation (NSO) at Georgetown?
A: NSO at Georgetown is a multi-day experience in the days leading up to the start of the semester. It’s designed to introduce new Hoyas to campus resources, academics, the social community, and life on the Hilltop.

Q: When will Fall 2026 NSO take place?
A: Fall 2026 NSO will run from Friday, August 21 through Tuesday, August 25.

Q: How do I register for NSO?
A: You’ll register through the CampusGroups platform using your Georgetown NetID and password. Registration for Fall 2026 opens May 1st, 2026.

Q: What do I need to complete before I arrive on campus?
A: You’ll want to complete the items on the New Student Checklist (available via CampusGroups), complete any required pre-arrival modules in Canvas, check your Georgetown email regularly for updates, and submit any required forms (e.g., health/immunizations).

Q: Is NSO required for all new students?
A: Yes! Participating in NSO is the standard way new students start their transition to Georgetown, helping you feel prepared academically, socially, and personally.

Q: What types of events and activities happen during NSO?
A: The program includes sessions on academics and Jesuit values, social activities, campus tours, opportunities to meet peers, faculty, and staff, and evening events through the Weeks of Welcome (GWOW) program.

Q: Do my family or guests attend NSO with me?
A: While most NSO programming is designed for students, families and guests are warmly invited to participate in several key events during move-in and the start of NSO. These include the President’s Move-In Lunch on Thursday and Friday, the Dean’s Receptions on Friday afternoon, and the New Student Convocation on Saturday morning. Families are also encouraged to join their students for the Goodbye Lunch immediately following Convocation. After these programs, NSO transitions into student-only activities focused on building connections and settling into life on the Hilltop.

Q: What happens after NSO ends?
A: After NSO you’ll move into fall semester classes, and you’ll continue to have support via the Orientation, Transition & Family Engagement (OTF) team through your first year (for example: Georgetown Weeks of Welcome, Cornerstone Mentorship program, etc.).

Q: Are there pre-orientation programs I can do before NSO?
A: Yes. You can browse Georgetown’s Pre-Orientation programs here.