Student Orientation FAQ's

Just what is Student Orientation (SO)?

Student Orientation is the time where students go through orientation, advising and then have the opportunity to register for their first semester classes. We are very excited to be able to offer this service to help you connect, meet people, feel comfortable with the campus, and know who to turn to for assistance in the future. We are committed to combining the steps of Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration to make certain that your next steps as a new MSC student are taken with confidence.

When can I attend a SO Program?

We have many options to meet your needs and to work around your plans. Browse through the dates and choose which one works best for you. SO sessions are filled on a first-come first-served basis. Remember that the popular classes fill up fast so please attend an early date to ensure a better selection.

Do I HAVE to attend SO?

We are requiring every incoming, in-state freshman student to attend one of the dates available. Transfer students are strongly encouraged to attend, and transfers who register for a SO program at least 3 weeks prior will have their transcript evaluation waiting for them!

What does SO cost?

Only $8 per person, and it includes lunch.
If you are attending an overnight program the cost will be $70 per person. Please pay by cash or check upon arrival.

What is the ACCUPLACER? Do I have to take it?

The ACCUPLACER is an assessment tool for English, Math, and Reading. There is no pass or fail. We are merely gathering information in order to put you in classes that fit and challenge you but aren't too easy or overwhelming. If your ACT or SAT scores are below the scores listed, you will be asked to take the ACCUPLACER assessment. According to your assessment score, you will be recommended to enroll in courses at the appropriate placement level. We will notify you in your SO confirmation of which ACCUPLACER assessments you need to take, if any.

If you scored below on any of the following, you should plan on taking the ACCUPLACER:
English courses: ACT English score of 18 or SAT verbal score of 440
Reading courses: ACT Reading score of 17 or SAT verbal score of 430
Mathematics courses: ACT Math score of 19 or SAT math score of 470

If you have not taken the ACT or SAT, we recommend that you take all sections of ACCUPLACER. You can call the MSC Testing and Center with any particular questions about ACCUPLACER, 970.255.2750 or 888.455.2617.

How do I arrange to take the ACCUPLACER?

Contact the MSC Testing Center at 970.255.2750 or 888.455.2614, and they will be happy to assist you in taking your ACCUPLACER. Fortunately, this assessment tool is entirely online, so even if you live far from Mesa State College you can take it at a library or school near you (it must be proctored). The Testing Center will give you ideas for testing locations and provide other guidelines for the assessment. We encourage students to make every effort to take the ACCUPLACER prior to their orientation date.

I'm a transfer student- will I need to take ACCUPLACER as well?

If you are transferring to MSC and you have not taken college level English or Math courses, the same rules apply as for freshmen. Please look at the ACT/SAT minimum scoresabove for ACCUPLACER information. Please contact the MSC Testing for any questions about ACCUPLACER.

When do I Arrive?

If you are attending a one-day program, ACCUPLACERS start at 8:00 am. You will be notified in your confirmation packet of the appropriate time to arrive at you SO session. The program will last all day so please plan accordingly.

If you are planning to attend an Overnight program ACCUPLACERS will begin at 12:30 pm. You will be notified in your confirmation packet of the appropriate time for you to arrive. Plan to spend the evening and the majority of the following day with us.

What should I bring to the overnight program?

Plan to bring yourself; your family is welcome too, and clothing you can be comfortable and cool in.

Other examples are:
- Toiletries
- Change of clothes
- Cash or check for registration of $70 per person
- Comfortable shoes