New Student Registration

Welcome New Exploratory Studies Students

We are excited to meet you at New Student Registration! Whether we see you on-campus or virtually, the information below will be helpful as you begin your exploring journey at Illinois. Our purpose is to help you find yours and we can’t wait to get started!

Preparing for Your Advising Appointment

Students should complete the following items, as required, before their advising appointment:

1. Welcome & College Meeting Video from Director
   Students and guests attending New Student Registration virtually should view this before their advising appointment to gain an understanding of academic requirements, advising in Exploratory Studies, and how we will support you during your time at the University of Illinois. If attending in-person, you will attend this session during your New Student Registration day.
2. New Student Registration Pre-Advising Worksheet
   Be sure to indicate majors of interest, all AP exams taken, and any previous credit you may have earned. It’s okay if you change your mind on majors or forget to add something. Just be sure to tell your academic advisor when you see them!
3. General Education Worksheet
   A list of popular courses for first-year students. You should download this, fill it out and bring to your New Student Registration appointment.
4. All Required Placement Exams
   Exploratory Studies students are minimally required to complete the Math and Chemistry placement exams, regardless of your major interests. There may be more required exams pending your academic interest. There’s no way to fail these exams. They are an advising tool so we can help you get started in courses. Just make sure you take your time and log in from a computer.
5. Setup your NetID before your New Student Registration date
   Access “NetID and Computing” through the Admitted Student Checklist.
   Don’t forget your password! You will need this to register for classes.
6. Download Zoom Client for Meetings (prior to any virtual advising appointments)
   If you are attending New Student Registration virtually, you’ll need to download Zoom. Be sure to practice screen sharing ahead of time. Make sure you are able to use a computer for your advising appointment. You will not be able to register for courses on your phone or a tablet.
7. Watch these videos before your NSR day!
   Students should watch each of these short videos before meeting with their academic advisor. Whether you’re attending NSR virtually or in-person, these will help you feel more prepared and confident!

Exploratory Studies Programs

Click on the following links for information on any Exploratory Studies programs that you may be part of:

• Enrichment Experience Program 
• Illinois Scholars Program 
• Morrill Engineering Program Mentoring Class Handout- coming soon!
• James Scholar Program Handout 
• MERIT Program – For students with interests in STEM majors who have been invited.

Student Resources