Graduate Student Orientation FAQ    

Participation in either on campus or virtual New Graduate Student Orientation is strongly encouraged. You do not need to attend both.

Orientation begins in the morning and concludes mid-afternoon. Please note that all incoming graduate students accepted into Galveston based programs (MARM, MCMS, MARB, MBAA) will be charged a Graduate Orientation fee on their first semester bill regardless of attendance at an event.

All new international students should review the New Arrivals page from Global Engagement.

Please review your campus parking options prior to the event.

You will need to notify the Graduate Studies Office. When you arrive on campus, you will be expected to attend the next available make‐up session for any activities that were required. Information on the make‐up dates can be obtained from the Graduate Studies Office.

Yes, attendance is expected for all new students who begin classes in Summer or Fall.

Yes, while many of the practices and policies are the same for graduate students and undergraduate students, there are several aspects that make the graduate school experience unique and attendance at Orientation would be beneficial. At the very least, you would need to participate in the required activities.

All students employed by Texas A&M University at Galveston will be expected to provide documentation to verify identity and employment eligibility through completion of Form I-9. This process will be done outside of the Orientation events. Please contact the hiring department to department to determine when you need to work with Human Resources to get on payroll. You will need to bring your original social security card as well as your driver’s license or passport to complete the I-9. International students who do not yet have a social security number should check with Graduate Studies prior to filing for a social security number.

Please be sure to indicate any dietary restrictions on your in-person New Graduate Student Orientation registration form. All meals will include vegetarian and/or gluten free options, and every effort will be made to accommodate additional dietary restrictions. 

Orientation is geared towards transitioning new graduate students into Texas A&M University at Galveston. Most of the day will be spent informing students of policies, procedures, and regulations related to their role as graduate students. As such, we ask that only new graduate students plan to attend Orientation events.

All new students will receive information regarding the Howdy portal. This portal will allow you to update your contact information and access your academic record. If you have not received instructions on setting up a NetID and password by mid-July, please send an email to gradstudies@tamug.edu.