Effective Fall 2025, DGS will become the Division of Exploratory Studies. Same mission; new name.
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 MUST complete the following six items BEFORE their advising appointment:
1
Welcome & College Meeting (coming May 1)
Students 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.
2
New Student Registration Pre-Advising Worksheet (coming May 1)
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 (coming May 1)
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
Exploratory Studies students are minimally required to complete the Math and Chemistry placement exams, regardless of your major interests. 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
Access “NetID and Computing” through the Admitted Student Checklist.
Don't forget your password! You will need this to register for classes.
6
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.
Click on the following links for information on any Exploratory Studies programs that you may be part of:
Enrichment Experience Program
- Morrill Engineering Program Mentoring Class Handout- coming soon!
James Scholar Program Handout - coming soon!
MERIT Program - For students with interests in STEM majors who have been invited.
Course Registration Information
How To Register Using Enhanced Registration
View this to understand how to use the Illinois Registration system.
Registering for Your Courses
Tips on registering for your courses online, general education requirements and common error messages.
Resources For Family Members
Welcome & College Meeting (coming May 1)
Hear from our Director, Sarah Watson, and learn how advising works in Exploratory Studies and how we'll support your student.
Family Resources
Browse through additional resources for parents and family members and find helpful tips and strategies.
Student Resources
Advising
Learn how academic advising works in the Division of Exploratory Studies.
Course Explorer
A schedule of classes by term, a database of general education course, and access to popular course resources.
Course Registration Resources
Additional tips on course registration provided by the Office of the Registrar.
Declaring your Major
Procedures and requirements for declaring majors at Illinois. Exploratory Studies students will be able to declare after your first year of college if you have met major requirements.
Exploring UIUC Majors
Explore all 150 majors at Illinois with our Major Handbook.
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)
If you are an international student, visit the ISSS website for information regarding your arrival on campus.
Tutoring Resources
A listing of the many tutoring resources available to students.