College Programming and Orientation
Orientation Week 2026
The College is delighted to welcome the newest class of first-year and incoming transfer students to the University. Orientation Week, or O-Week, began in 1934 as a way to introduce a new class of students to the traditions and community that has made the University of Chicago a unique destination for students from around the world. This multi-day series of events, programs, and meetings provides new students with an in-depth overview of how the College works. See below for more details.
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O-Week 2026: Tuesday, September 22 - Sunday, September 27
College Orientation Week 2026
Find key information and resources to help you prepare for College Orientation Week below.
View the Orientation Week schedule below for an overview of programs and activities throughout the week.
View or download the full schedule (PDF)
Family members are invited to attend Parent & Family Check-In from 10:00 AM–5:00 PM on Tuesday, September 22, in Hutchinson Courtyard, just outside Reynolds Club. While students complete Orientation Check-In inside Reynolds Club, family members can stop by to pick up giveaway items, enjoy light refreshments, connect with campus offices & resources, and learn more about the Phoenix Family Forum.
Please note that Orientation Check-In inside Reynolds Club is for students only.
Family Orientation programming continues through Wednesday, September 23. View the 2026 Family O-Book for the complete schedule, program information, and campus resources. Printed copies will also be available at Parent & Family Check-In.
Family Orientation concludes with the Parent & Family Reception on Wednesday, September 23, immediately following the College Opening Convocation and Class Procession. The reception ends at 6:30 PM.
Move-in and Orientation Check-In are two separate processes, and students must complete both.
Students living on campus should follow their assigned move-in time and instructions from Housing & Residence Life. Students will receive their UChicago Card (student ID) when they check in with Housing. Visit the Housing & Residence Life website for additional move-in information.
Students may complete Orientation Check-In at any time between 10:00 AM–5:00 PM on Tuesday, September 22 inside Reynolds Club. Students do not need to move into their residence hall before checking in for Orientation. At Orientation Check-In, students will receive their U-Pass (CTA card) and Orientation swag. Students living off campus will also receive their UChicago Card (student ID) during Orientation Check-In.
Parent & Family Check-In will take place simultaneously outside Reynolds Club in Hutchinson Courtyard.