Let's get set for what's ahead
Before diving into Purple Prep, learn about the entire orientation process. This digital booklet provides an introduction to the programs and communications running from May through September that will prepare the Class of 2026 for Northwestern, including an overview of the orientation process and planning dates.
The webinar, hosted May 12, provided an additional way to learn about about the information included in the How to Prepare for Northwestern booklet, including an overview of the orientation process, planning dates, and advice from current students on navigating the summer.
The University has designed an orientation process with three components—Purple Prep, Before the Arch, and Wildcat Welcome—that help incoming Wildcats get set for living and learning at Northwestern.
Learn and act upon foundational information delivered via a website (where you are right now), biweekly emails, and a checklist of summer tasks with deadlines each month.
Learn more about the Purple Prep suite.
Take advantage of optional virtual opportunities to learn from current students about preparing for life at Northwestern.
Learn more about Before the Arch.
Arrive on campus to experience Northwestern traditions, build connections, learn to navigate campus, and register for fall classes.
Learn how to register for the communications and programs that prepare families to serve as informed support systems during their student's transition.
Visit the Family Engagement website
Learn how the orientation process applies for students who deferred from a previous academic year.
Visit the Deferred Student page
Learn more about the three components of the new student orientation process, preparing students for Northwestern from May through September.
Become familiar with the first component of orientation: the Purple Prep suite. Purple Prep will guide you as you prepare for your first quarter at Northwestern. We're excited to welcome you to the community!
Keep Track of Requirements.
Your Purple Prep Checklist is a dynamic tool for managing all your summer to-do items, allowing you to track your progress as you complete and check off summer tasks each week. Opt in to weekly texts if you want frequent reminders and updates.
Get biweekly updates and reminders.
Find a Purple Prep email in your Northwestern inbox on the first and third Tuesday of the month through September. It will provide updates on your upcoming tasks, updates about your entry to Northwestern, and other pertinent information.
Use social media to learn more about your classmates, upcoming events, Wildcat Welcome, and more.
