Graduate Students
The in-person Graduate School orientation for students accepted into the Fall 2023 semester is scheduled for Wednesday, August 16, 2023 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendance is not required, but new students are strongly encouraged to attend.
Orientation Overview - 2023
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When and where will the new graduate student orientation take place?
The in-person Graduate School orientation will be Wednesday, August 16 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Clemson's main campus at the Hendrix Student Center. Check-in is from 8-9 a.m.
All new Summer and Fall 2023 graduate students are invited to attend. The event will have a max capacity of 480 attendees. A waitlist will be established after max capacity is reached.
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When can I register for the in-person orientation?
Registration will open on July 1, 2023.
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Am I required to attend the in-person orientation?
You are not required to attend the in-person orientation. However, we strongly encourage attendance if you are in the Clemson, SC area.
All new degree-seeking graduate students are required to complete the Graduate Virtual Orientation program. (The Graduate Virtual Orientation is separate from the in-person orientation.) More information about the Graduate Virtual Orientation can be found at the bottom of this web page. Details for the Graduate Virtual Orientation program will also be emailed to you. Please check your Clemson email for more information.
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I am an online student. Should I attend the in-person orientation?
If you are in the Clemson, SC area and would like to attend, you are more than welcome to.
All new degree-seeking online graduate students are required to complete the Graduate Virtual Orientation program. (The Graduate Virtual Orientation is separate from the in-person orientation.) More information about the Graduate Virtual Orientation can be found at the bottom of this web page. Details for the Graduate Virtual Orientation program will also be emailed to you. Please check your Clemson email for more information.
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What will the in-person orientation experience look like?
First of all, we want to welcome you to Clemson University. You will have the opportunity to hear from a variety of University administrators and representatives from Clemson's Graduate School. informational and navigational sessions focusing on transitioning to graduate school, professional development, and health & wellness, will be offered. Current grad students and faculty will provide greater insight through panel discussions and resource tables will be available to learn more about essentials (parking permits, health insurance, etc.). Lunch will be provided and allow you time to network with fellow students and staff.
The agenda for the day is as follows (may be subject to change):
8:00-9:00 a.m. - Check-In
9:00 a.m. - Convocation
9:35 a.m. - Navigating the First Year of Graduate School
10:10 a.m. - Transitions & Transformations (Student Panel)
11:00 a.m. - Knowing Your Student Rights & Advocating for Yourself
11:30 a.m. - Lunch
12:30 p.m. - Mental Health & Wellness
1:05 p.m. - Academic & Research Integrity
1:40 p.m. - GRAD 360
2:30 p.m. - Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)
3:00 p.m. - Financial Aid
3:00-4:00 p.m. - Resource Fair and Campus Tours
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How much does the in-person orientation cost?
The Graduate School orientation is free to attend.
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I am starting in the Spring 2024 semester. Can I attend the fall orientation?
If you are starting your graduate program in the Spring 2024 semester, please register for the Spring 2024 in-person orientation that will take place in January 2024. Date, times and location TBD. Registration will open in early December.

Graduate Virtual Orientation
The Graduate Virtual Orientation is an engaging and interactive online tool that will introduce you to resources, inform you of important policies and procedures, and help you become familiar with campus. After completion, you may access the Graduate Virtual Orientation as often as you like. All degree-seeking graduate students are required to complete the Graduate Virtual Orientation.