First-Year Orientation

Log into your application page to get started on your orientation steps! Once on your application page, your next steps checklist will look like the below image.

First, you’ll start with an online module administered through CU Denver’s Learning Management System, Canvas. This is also where you will turn in assignments for a majority of your courses!

This first step gives you all the essential info you need to begin your journey at CU Denver and prepare for your advising and registration appointment. Once you finish the required module, you’ll be able to schedule your Step 2: Advising & Registration appointment. 

After completing your Step 1: Online Module on Canvas, you’ll be directed to set up a Step 2: Advising and Registration Appointment. These can be virtual or in person! During your appointment, you’ll meet one‑on‑one with a registration specialist - a type of academic advisor specifically for your very first semester. 

Together, you’ll look over your degree plan, review any concurrent enrollment, AP/IB scores, transfer credits, and get help registering for your first semester classes. The confirmation for this appointment will be sent to your CU Denver Student Email, so please be sure to fully complete Step 1 before signing up for Step 2. 

Step 3 is a fun, high energy in-person event where you can join community building activities, go on campus tours, and attend helpful info sessions. It’s all about helping you feel connected and excited for your CU Denver journey. You’ll get the chance to meet other students, faculty, and staff, and learn about the resources available to support you. It’s one of the best ways to get involved and start building your CU Denver community for success early. 

After completing Steps 1-3 there are still so many things to do and learn about campus. A great way to stay involved and ease your transition is to attend our CU Denver Welcome events. These events are the big kick‑off for new students, helping you get connected to campus support during the week before classes and throughout the first six weeks of the semester. Each event is designed to help you feel a sense of belonging, build excitement, and get ready for your first semester. 

Check out this year’s list of events! 

NSO welcomes incoming students, creating a supportive, inclusive, and encouraging environment. ​It helps students transition smoothly through course registration, personal, and adjustments to life at CU Denver. 

Yes, all new students are required to participate in New Student Orientation. We design it to help you be fully prepared for your first semester at CU Denver. You’ll learn about the academic and support services available to you, plus you’ll register for your first semester classes.​

You’ll sign up for your New Student Orientation through your application status page. Follow these steps:

1) Accept your offer of admission

2) Click on the Next Steps Checklist, “Step 1: Online Module”

3) Complete Steps 1-4 from your Next Steps Checklist

What is the purpose of taking the Math assessment?

The assessment results will be used to determine the most appropriate mathematics course for each student required to take MATH 1110, MATH 1120, MATH 1130 or MATH 1401 for their major. These are predominantly required for STEM majors. Students should consult with their advisor to determine which math course is required and whether the assessment is necessary. If so, they should review their results after completing it and enroll in the best class for them based on their scores and their major’s degree plan. This is a placement assessment not a test. Results won’t appear on a transcript nor impact GPA. ALEKS is designed to determine what a student knows and what a student needs to work on. At the end of the ALEKS Assessment, a student will have a much better sense of their strengths and weaknesses in math. Students then have a chance to brush up on topics they may have forgotten or haven’t used for a while. Be honest. It is important that the ALEKS Assessment is taken seriously and each student gives it an honest effort so that the scores truly reflect their current level of knowledge and math preparedness. There’s no benefit to cheating on the assessment – the only result will be that a student enrolls in a class that’s too difficult, or not challenging enough, potentially costing time and money. So, while you’re taking it, don’t consult any outside sources for help. The purpose of the assessment is to give an accurate measure of a student’s current mathematical knowledge so that they will be successful in math classes.

Why must I take the ALEKS Math Assessment?

This assessment will determine your placement in the mathematics course in which you will have the greatest success helping to provide you with the highest quality education possible. You should consult with your advisor to verify the math course you are supposed to take and then determine if assessment will be required or if you’ve already completed coursework that will serve as the appropriate prerequisite. After you complete ALEKS, your scores will be uploaded to the registration system within three business days. That’s when you’ll be able to register for the math course that’s recommended for you, based on your score and your advisor’s recommendation.

Who can help me decide if I need to take one of the classes that requires ALEKS Assessment?

Your advisor can help guide you as you determine which classes are required for you to earn your degree. They can also help you determine whether prior coursework or AP/IB exam credit satisfies the prerequisites as an alternative to ALEKS. If you’re unsure who your advisor is please check your UCDAccess portal.

Who’s required to complete the ALEKS Assessment?

Students who want to take any of the courses listed below and haven’t completed the prerequisite coursework.

• MATH 1110 College Algebra
• MATH 112 College Trigonometry
• MATH 1130 Pre-calculus
• MATH 1401 Calculus 1

Yes! If you need to change your orientation date, contact our office at 303.315.3503 or orientation@ucdenver.edu.​​​

If you require an accommodation for your orientation session please let us know when you are completing the orientation sign up form.

Academic Accommodations for Classes:

Visit the Office of Disability Resources and Services website and sign up with the Accommodate System https://www.ucdenver.edu/offices/disability-resources-and-services. You may also call them at 303.315.3510.

Parents & families are not required to complete the orientation process with students.

The Family & Guest Orientation modules are a great supplement to orientation! We welcome and strongly encourage family and other members of the student’s support team to engage with the family orientation process. Our goal is to provide easily accessible information giving you the tools you may need to help your student navigate their new CU Denver home.  

To access the Family & Guest modules click here.  You should be directed to Enroll in Family and Guest Modules.

1. Enter your email address  

2. Select “I am a new user,” if you’ve never used Canvas  

3. Enter your name  

4. Agree to the Acceptable Use Policy  

5. Click on “Enroll in Course”.