Frequently Asked Questions

Is Orientation necessary?

YES! At Texas A&M-Commerce, we feel it is very important for all new incoming students to become acquainted with the campus and student life. During New Student Orientation, students will also register for their classes and learn about the many organizations and resources we offer. Orientation is mandatory for all new undergraduate students before attending your first semester at the A&M-Commerce campus.

Who should attend New Student Orientation?

Orientation is for all new undergraduate students, including transfer students. You must be accepted at A&M-Commerce to register. Your reservation will not be processed until official acceptance is granted. You must make a reservation and receive a confirmation in order to attend. Space is limited to the first 200 students so do NOT delay.

What if I am a transfer student?

We are so pleased that you have chosen to attend Texas A&M University-Commerce! Because your course scheduling may become more difficult as you progress in your major, transfer students typically meet with a Faculty/Staff Advising Mentor who will assist them with the advising and registration process. As for orientation, ALL new students are required to attend, however transfer students with more than 21 transferable hours are only required to participate in the Transfer Student Track. More information will be shared when you contact your advisor.

What if I am a commuter student?

Orientation is not just about the campus, it is about the connections. Orientation is your opportunity to meet and get to know your fellow students, as well as the faculty and staff who will play a crucial role in your success. Orientation is designed to help you make connections easily, as well as learn how to get the most out of what Texas A&M-Commerce has to offer. The University understands the different challenges and pressures that commuter students deal with every day. We are here to assist you.

What if I am starting in the Summer?

If you are a first time new student and want to start attending A&M-Commerce this summer you must first contact the Orientation Office. They will reserve your place for a New Student Orientation session. You will then visit with a Success Coach or an Academic Adviser in your college to sign up for your summer classes. You must then attend the New Student Orientation that you signed up for to register for courses for the fall semester. Only after you attend and complete your New Student Orientation will the registration hold on your account be removed.

Where will I stay during Orientation? (Only applicable for Summer overnight sessions)

Housing accommodations are provided to all students participating in summer orientation and is covered by your orientation fee. You are required to stay in Pride Rock with other new incoming students during New Student Orientation. Please note, orientation is a two-day overnight event for all freshmen students.

What do I need to bring?

• Beddings, towels, and toiletries. (Only applicable for Summer overnight sessions)
• Any information you have received from the university.
• Copies of test scores such as: SAT, ACT, AP, CLEP, etc.
• A willingness to have fun!!

What about my parents?

Parents are welcome to attend New Student Orientation with their student. We have developed a program specifically designed to address parent concerns and provide information and resources just for them. When you reserve your dates for orientation, talk with your parent to see if they'll be attending as well. You will need to RSVP for everyone that will be attending. PLEASE NOTE: We do not provide overnight accommodations for parents or guests, they will need to get a hotel room if spending the night.

How do I register a parent or guest?

You should register parents and any guest that will accompany you to orientation when you complete your reservation. If you did not register a parent/guest with your registration or if you need to make changes or additions, please contact the Orientation office at 903-886-5088 or at mailto:orientation@tamuc.edu

Where will my parent and guest stay?

Campus accommodations are not available for parents; they will need to make arrangements on their own. Click here for information on area hotels.

Is there a fee for Orientation?

Yes. There is $100.00 student fee that is charged to cover the cost of facilities, meals, printing, student staff, mailings, phone calls, supplies, speakers, and other administrative costs. Please note that you do NOT have to pay this fee upfront or in order to make a reservation. The fee will be added to you student account. If you receive financial aid, scholarship or other financial assistance funds, these may be used to cover this costs. IF you do not get enough or do not receive these financial resources, the fee will be part of your out-of-pocket expenses.

There is also a $25.00 parent/guest fee that is charged per guest to cover the cost of printing, food, supplies, speakers, and other administrative costs. Please note that lodging for parents/guests is not provided and they need to make arrangement on their own.

What is the Orientation schedule?

A detailed scheduled will be provided to you when you arrive. You can look at an overview of the schedule on this website for planning.

What takes place during Academic Advising?

During academic advising, students will meet with faculty and staff members familiar with the scheduling process. This will be a time to ask questions and build your class schedule for the fall semester. Students can provide input as to desired electives, request information about majors, and learn about what general core curriculum classes are required or suggested for their choice of major.

What about financial aid?

We encourage students and their families to complete their financial aid arrangements prior to orientation. The Financial Aid & Scholarship Office staff is available to help you during our 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. office hours.

Please call or e-mail to arrange a phone or face-to-face appointment prior to orientation if you need assistance. If, however, you are unable to complete arrangements before orientation, we will be able to help you at that time with various issues, including your financial aid award, loans, the FAFSA verification process, and general questions. The Financial Aid & Scholarship office is located in Student Access and Success Center (One Stop Shop).  

What is TSI?

TSI is an acronym for the Texas Success Initiative. TSI is a state initiative that assesses a student's readiness to be successful in college-level coursework.

Who must take an assessment?

All students, unless otherwise exempt (see below) must take either THEA, Quick-THEA, ASSET, COMPASS or ACCUPLACER exam prior to enrolling in college-level courses. Transfer students can meet this requirement by having appropriate coursework in Reading, Writing & Math.

What if you fail an assessment?

Students who fail a section(s) of an assessment will work with an academic advisor to develop an individual plan for academic success. Students will enroll in developmental courses until successfully completing courses. Students must retest failed area(s) if the initial score is below the deviation standard. Students must meet the assessment requirements before graduation.

What are the TSI Exemptions?

Follow this link to see the TSI Exemptions. For additional exemptions or more information contact the Texas Success Initiative Coordinator at (903) 886-5122 or visit the testing center website. 

What if you are not TSI exempt?

If you have not satisfied TSI requirements based on your previous test scores (above) or transfer coursework, you must contact the Office of Student Assessment at 903-886-5122 or testingoffice@tamuc.edu to get information on upcoming placement tests.