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Frequently Asked Questions

Orientation

Photo by Trent Lyles for Virginia Tech.

When is Orientation?

  • Our orientation is a hybrid experience that takes place over the summer. It combines virtual modules and in-person events so that you can engage in a variety of ways.
  • Virtual Orientation is our virtual experience we offer to new students and families.
  • Admitted Student Visits (ASVs) are the in-person experiences we offer to new students and families.

How do I access Virtual Orientation?

When is Virtual Orientation due?

  • For new students attending in the Fall, Virtual Orientation opens May 1 and closes July 31.
  • For new students attending in the Spring, Virtual Orientation closes the Friday before classes begin.

Can I do Virtual Orientation if I am a family member?

  • Yes, you can! We highly encourage family members to go through our Virtual Orientation, though it is optional.
  • Note: if you are a family member, make sure you choose the Family Member login and create a guest account before you begin.

Where can I find the Family Orientation sessions?

Is Orientation mandatory?

  • Virtual Orientation is mandatory and must be completed by the due date. To find due dates, check out the Virtual Orientation page.
  • Admitted Student Visits (ASVs) are optional and not mandatory, but we highly encourage new students and families to come to Virginia Tech campus to attend our in-person orientation experience. Learn more about our ASV program.

What are ASVs?

  • ASV stands for Admitted Student Visits, and it is our optional program for newly admitted students and their families to visit campus in July before their start at VT. Students and families will learn about Virginia Tech resources, campus navigation, and much more!
  • Note: registration for ASV sessions must be completed at least 24 hours in advance. Registration opens May 1. Register for Admitted Student Visits.

What is WoW?

  • WoW stands for Weeks of Welcome, and it is the in-person portion of the extended orientation experience. WoW hosts many optional events that help new Hokies get acclimated to campus during their first few weeks at Virginia Tech.
  • WoW programming is designed to make new students’ transition to Virginia Tech fun and exciting! Diverse events and activities introduce students to campus resources, promote academic success and provide opportunities to form social connections.
  • Students who attend WoW events will:
    • Feel an increased sense of belonging in their community
    • Identify at least one campus resource/program they are interested in joining
    • Feel able to maintain their welll-being during their transition to VT
    • Feel familiar with VT campus culture and traditions
    • Feel prepared to start their academic semester
    • Have the opportunity to practice Ut Prosim (That I May Serve)

When is Weeks of Welcome?

  • Weeks of Welcome occurs during the beginning of the Fall and Springsemester. Fall WoW begins the first day new students move-in and concludes with GobblerFest. Spring WoW begins the first day students arrive back to campus after Winter Break and last two weeks. Note: starting dates may vary year to year.

How can I see the Weeks of Welcome schedule?

  • The full schedule for Weeks of Welcome can be found on our Hokies On Track app or Hokie Family Hub. Final schedules are released on the app in August for the Fall WoW and December for the Spring WoW.
  • Note: You can view the events without logging into the app.

What is Families as Partners?

  • Families as Partners is our philosophy and approach to family engagement. We believe families should be educated, engaged, and empowered to best support their students. We see the students as adults in their academic journey and in the "driver's seat." We also know, however, the importance of family involvement to the success of a student.
  • Families as Partners is also the name of a presentation we provide from our office. This presentation is given often during our webinars and events we host and is centered around letting students grow vs. letting them go, academic/financial management, safety, well-being, and resources/support.

How do I register for a Families as Partners session?

  • Registration information will be added here as it becomes available.

When are Family Webinars?

  • To find upcoming Family Webinar Sessions, check out our Facebook page. If you want to view past webinars, they can be found on our Youtube Channel.

When is Family Weekend?

  • Family Weekend occurs during the Fall and Spring semester. Family Weekend dates will be announced on our Facebook and Instagram.
  • Check out the Hokies On Track app to download the full Family Weekend schedule.

Where can I find parking during Family Weekend?

  • Our office does not provide any parking passes or services. Check out and contact Parking Services to find where you can park during this event.

Where can I stay during Family Weekend?

  • We work with local hotels to provide available lodging options, discounts, and hotel blocks ahead of each family weekend. This listing will be on our website prior to Family Weekend.