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Orientation Fee

As a new Volunteer, you will take part in the New Vol Experience, a series of virtual and in-person programs designed to guide you through your transition to university life from the moment you become a Vol.

As the only university in the country with a comprehensive six-phase first-year experience model, the $400 orientation fee covers your participation in Vol 101-106.

  • Vol 101: Online Introduction to UT: This online orientation program will introduce you to valuable resources and opportunities available to you as a member of the Volunteer family.

  • Vol 102: New Student Advising: During New Student Advising, you will meet with an advisor from your academic college. Your advisor will provide details on the college expectations, course selection, the academic catalog, and help you register for classes.

  • Vol 103: On-Campus Experience: This one-day, on-campus experience gives students the chance to connect with academic and campus life resources, see a residence hall, eat in Rocky Top Dining Hall, and connect with other new Vols.

  • Vol 104: Big Orange Welcome: Big Orange Welcome kicks off the first six weeks of each semester (both fall and spring), offering opportunities to explore campus, connect with other Volunteers, and engage in programs that support your academic success. This phase culminates with Vol Success Week, a week of events designed to support and celebrate you during mid-terms.

  • Vol 105: First-Year Seminar: Your First-Year Seminar is a one-credit course that focuses on your strengths and well-being while exploring topics such as learning strategies, career readiness, financial literacy, and life at UT. 

  • Vol 106: Vols Start Back: Vol 106 welcomes you back to campus after your first fall semester. This re-orientation experience occurs at the start of the Spring semester. 

But there’s more! The orientation fee also covers:

  • Exclusive first-year student merch (like your New Vol Planner!), so every student starts the year equipped and connected.

  • Big Orange Finish Line—a full week of energizing events, study support, and stress relief activities designed to help students power through finals with confidence.

  • CliftonStrengths Assessment at no additional cost, because we want every first-year Vol to understand and leverage their strengths.

Together, these experiences round out a holistic foundation that supports you academically, socially, and personally from day one. By investing in a year-long transition model, we can provide the guidance and support needed to help you start strong and remain on a path toward graduation.