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Wildcat Welcome

The final, on-campus component of Northwestern’s orientation process is Wildcat Welcome. This required weeklong orientation provides you with opportunities to take part in campus traditions, build connections, learn to navigate campus, and register for fall classes.

Program Dates

September 17: New Student Move-in Day

September 17–22: Wildcat Welcome
*International students start Wildcat Welcome early with the International Wildcat Welcome track from September 16–17.

September 17–18: Parent and Family Orientation

Before heading into Wildcat Welcome, students will have engaged in the first two components of orientation: Purple Prep and Before the Arch.

Complete the Registration Form

While the entirety of Wildcat Welcome is required for all incoming undergraduate students, you also must complete the Wildcat Welcome Registration Form by June 30. The form allows the staff of Student Transition Experiences to prepare for your arrival and participation. 

Find the form in your Purple Prep Checklist.

Registration Form commonly asked questions:

Components of Wildcat Welcome

The Wildcat Welcome Schedule

All incoming undergraduate students are expected to participate in the entirety of Wildcat Welcome. Those absent from required events will participate in alternative programming/essays during the fall quarter in order to be granted access to winter quarter course registration.

While each day is full, it is carefully balanced with information-based programs, connection-building programs, and downtime for wellness care. The timeline for schedule announcements is:

Wildcat Welcome Student Programming Time Blocks

Coming in August. These time blocks provide students with information about when they can expect to participate in orientation and are subject to change. 

Stay Updated on Wildcat Welcome

Throughout Wildcat Welcome and your first year, get behind-the-scenes looks, insight from current students, and advice on your continued transition through Northwestern on the Wildcat Welcome social media account.

A Note about Health and Safety

The safety of our students is our top priority. The dates and details above are subject to change as Northwestern follows local, state, and federal health directives and guidelines. Students will be notified of changes via Purple Prep emails throughout the summer.