Parents & Supporters | Orientation

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Welcome to Pacific University! 

We are thrilled to welcome you and your student to the Pacific University family! This dedicated space is designed to help you navigate New Student Orientation, understand your schedule, and find the resources you need to support your student’s exciting transition to college life.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram (@pacificu_orientation) for a fun look at life on campus!

Orientation Key Dates

In August, we offer Parent & Family Orientations, a unique opportunity to help parents and family members assist their students in the transition to college. While your student participates in New Student Orientation, you will have an opportunity to join sessions with information and resources that are particularly helpful for you during this transition.

Early Arrivals

Some student-athletes are required to move in early to begin practices. You can view the specific required move-in dates on our Early Arrivals page

To make things easier for our early-arrival families, we offer a condensed family orientation overview during those early move-in dates. This ensures you get all the vital information you need while you are already on campus. 

*If you attend an early overview session, you do not have to return on August 28, for the main Orientation weekend (though you are absolutely more than welcome to join us again if you'd like!).

August 28–30, 2026 | New Student Orientation

August 28: Family Sessions Friday

Parents and families are highly encouraged to join their students on campus on Friday, August 28. We have a full day of specialized family sessions designed to answer your questions about campus life, academics, and student support.

Our family programming wraps up with Pacific's time-honored Sign, Shake, and Ring ceremony, around 6:00 pm. By Friday evening, you should plan on saying your goodbyes as students transition into their required peer-bonding activities.

Requirements for Students

New Student Orientation is required for all undergraduate new and transfer students and they are expected to attend Orientation August 28-30. The program includes greetings from campus administrators, gatherings with Orientation Leaders, academic introductions, and opportunities to meet classmates and to get involved on campus. Students will receive more details about Fall Orientation throughout the summer through their Pacific University email (so they should check it regularly).  

Orientation Schedule

  • Digital Schedule: The full, detailed schedule of events for both students and families will be available online in mid-to-late June.
  • Printed Program: Don't worry about printing anything out! All incoming students and parents will receive a comprehensive, printed program booklet at the Orientation Check-In desk when you arrive.

Stay Connected & Informed

Want to make sure you never miss an update, deadline, or announcement? Sign up for our parent and supporter communications!

Parent & Family Communications Sign Up

Click the button above to register your email address. We will send you regular newsletters, schedule releases, and helpful tips leading up to move-in day.

Questions? 

We are here to help! If you have any questions about family programming, please contact the Orientation Team. For questions specific to sports schedules and athletic move-in, please reach out to your student's head coach directly.

We can't wait to see you in August! Go Boxers!

Visiting Campus?

Be sure to check out the nearby hotels, many even offer special discounts to Pacific guests! 

While your student is in class, discover local favorites, excellent restaurants, and fun activities in Forest Grove by visiting Discover Forest Grove and Forest Grove/Cornelius Chamber of Commerce.

Travel Oregon

Things to do in Forest Grove | Washington County