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Summer Orientation and Registration Program Overview

Sitting students

Welcome! At Western Illinois University, we challenge you to take advantage of the premier undergraduate opportunities and resources available. You will experience a true residential campus, a dynamic student activities program, and first-rate faculty who will challenge your mind and test your assumptions. You will be encouraged not only to answer questions, but to continually seek new information and challenge your current way of thinking. At Western Illinois University, you will have the chance to explore new opportunities, make life-long friendships, serve your school and community, and celebrate your discoveries, joys, and triumphs! Let the learning begin!

Program Overview for Student and Family/Guest

  • Students are required to stay overnight in the residence hall and will be paired with another new student.
  • Families/guests have an option of staying overnight in the residence hall or making their own arrangements to stay off campus. Families will be assigned to their own room. Fees are included. See the Fees page for details.
  • Residence hall check-in will be from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
  • Program check-in will begin at 12:30 p.m. in the University Union.
  • Program will begin at 1 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom, University Union.
  • Program will end on day two at approximately 4:30 p.m.
  • Student Schedule
  • Family Schedule

Student Highlights

  • Attend academic sessions with faculty
  • Participate in math and English placement exercises
  • Meet with academic advisors
  • Register for fall classes
  • Learn about campus resources and services
  • Receive WIU student ID card
  • Experience life in a residence hall environment
  • Interact with other students

Family/Guest Highlights

  • Interact with faculty and staff
  • Become familiar with academic and advising processes
  • Attend family orientation sessions
  • Learn about how to adjust to common transition issues faced by students and families
  • Gather information about campus resources and services
  • Meet other family members and share common experiences

FAQs: Program Overview

  • Why is Summer Orientation and Registration so important?
    Participating in the Summer Orientation and Registration program is one of the first steps that students take in their transition to the University. During Summer Orientation and Registration, you will meet with an academic advisor from your intended major, register for classes, meet with faculty members, and interact with other students. You will also learn academic requirements and services that will be invaluable your first semester.
  • What type of identification will I need to present in order to get my student ID?
    All students will be REQUIRED to provide a legal form of identification in order to get their WIU student identification card. The following are the ONLY acceptable forms of picture identification: driver's license or state identification card, U.S. or foreign passport, military ID, or INS I-1551 resident alien card. For the Canada Provinces a driver's license, learner permit, or official province ID are acceptable. The Mexican Counselate ID, Matricula Counsular, is also acceptable under Illinois law. The Illinois Firearm ID (FOID card) will not be accepted as a legal form of identification.
  • What is there to do in the evening?
    Activities are scheduled for both the students and family members/guests.

Questions about Placement Testing

  • I have never taken any college classes; do I have to take English and math placement tests?
    All new freshmen will take the English placement test which is a 40-minute writing sample. Students are asked to read a quote and then write an essay explaining whether they agree or disagree with the quote and why. The mathematics department will do an initial placement into math courses using a student's math ACT score and the math courses completed in high school as guidelines. The mathematics department may recommend that a student take the math placement test (called COMPASS) to improve the placement level.
  • I have taken classes at another college; do I have to take English or math placement tests?
    Freshman students who are transferring in the equivalent of WIU's English 180 (freshman composition) will be asked to provide a writing sample by taking the English placement exercise regardless of the transfer of credit. Students with completion of an approved equivalent to WIU's Intermediate Algebra or above will not be required to take the math placement test.
  • Can I use a calculator in the math placement test?
    Yes, you can bring your own calculator or use the drop down calculator in the COMPASS program.
  • What if I am placed into a non-credit Math course?
    Depending on your math background, you may be advised to take the COMPASS exam to try to place into a higher course.
  • If my placement remains Math 099N, the non-credit course, can I take it at a community college before I come to WIU?
    Yes, we encourage you to take the equivalent of Math 099N at your area community college before attending WIU. Once you select a registration date, you will receive a letter explaining how to determine what your math placement will be so that you can decide whether or not to take a math course over the summer.
  • What if I need special testing accommodations?
    Students needing any accommodations in order to fully participate in these events, should contact Disability Resource Center at (309) 298-2512.

Contact Info

Student Development and Orientation
Seal Hall 301
1 University Circle
Macomb, IL 61455

Email: sdo@wiu.edu
Phone: (309) 298-1884
Fax: (309) 298-3094

Soar Dates

  • June 4-5 (Tue/Wed)
  • June 7-8 (Fri/Sat)
  • June 11-12 (Tue/Wed)
  • June 14-15 (Fri/Sat)
  • June 18-19 (Tue/Wed)
  • June 24-25 (Mon/Tue)
  • June 26-27 (Wed/Thu)
  • July 9-10 (Tue/Wed)
  • July 11-12 (Thu/Fri)
  • July 16-17 (Tue/Wed)
  • July 19-20 (Fri/Sat)