What to Do Between Committing to a College and Move In

Committing to a college is a huge moment—but it’s not the finish line. Once you’ve officially said “yes,” there are still important steps to take before your first class. Here’s how to set yourself up for a smooth start.

1. Set Up Your Student Accounts/Portals

Soon after committing, your college will give you access to:

• Your personal college student email
• Course registration portal
• School apps and platforms
• Placement testing to determine math, language or English classes. This varies by school.

Check your email regularly—this is how your college will communicate everything important from now on.

2. Complete All Required Forms

There’s usually a long checklist of required tasks. Common ones include:

• Housing application
• Meal plan application
• Health and immunization records
• Emergency contact information
• Financial aid verification
• Final high school transcript (confirm submission by your high school guidance counselor)

Try to finish these early so you don’t run into last-minute stress.

3. Sign Up for Orientation

Orientation is your introduction to college life and a great way to ease into campus life. You’ll:

• Learn how to register for classes
• Meet academic advisors
• Meet classmates and look into student organizations
• Get familiar with campus resources and get comfortable navigating the campus

Some schools have orientation in the summer, and offer it a few days to a week before classes start. This is a great opportunity to make friends and get settled into your dorm before classes start.

There could also be optional pre-orientation programs that occur a few days earlier than orientation. These could include trips, tours of the surrounding community, or participation in club-related, religious, or diverse community programs. If you can go to campus earlier, this is a stress-free time to make connections with students who share your interests.

4. Register for Classes

Depending on your school, you may:

• Choose classes yourself
• Work with an advisor
• Be pre-registered for your first semester

Before registering, look into:

• Requirements for your intended major
• General education courses
• Class times that fit your schedule

Don’t stress about making it perfect—your schedule will evolve.

5. Secure Your Housing and Roommate

If you’re living on campus:

• Submit your housing preferences early
• Connect with your roommate ahead of time
• Coordinate what to bring (so you don’t duplicate items)
• If you live close, it’s a great idea to meet up with your roommate before move in day

Getting this sorted early makes move-in way easier.

6. Start Building a Routine

College life is much more independent than high school. Start preparing by:

• Practicing time management
• Setting a sleep schedule
• Getting comfortable balancing responsibilities
• Working on managing a calendar of deadlines and tasks

Even small habits now can make a big difference later.

7. Get Your Finances in Order

Fall semester bills are typically due a week or two before classes start, so it’s important to have a plan.

• Understand your tuition bill and payment deadlines
• Set up a payment plan if needed
• Budget for books, food, and personal expenses

If you haven’t already, this is a great time to open a student bank account or get a credit card for purchases if your student has already turned 18.

8. Join Online Communities

Most colleges have group chats or social pages for incoming students. These are great for:

• Meeting people before campus
• Asking questions
• Finding friends with similar interests

It can make the first day feel a lot less intimidating.

9. Keep Your Grades Up

Even after committing, your acceptance isn’t completely locked in. Colleges expect you to:

• Graduate high school
• Maintain consistent academic performance

Avoid “senior slide”—it’s not worth the risk.

10. Summer Fun and Prep

The summer before college is a great time to spend time with family and friends, work to make some money and get organized by shopping and purchasing all you need before the big move in day.

Final Thoughts

Once you commit to a college, you’re officially on your way—but the work isn’t over. Staying organized, proactive, and balanced will help you start strong when classes begin.