Stay on track with the tasks associated with your start at UB.
This list overviews many of the tasks a new student needs to complete to successfully start at UB.
On this page:
Before You Complete the Orientation Data Form
Activate your UBITName to login to your UB accounts, including email. UB will communicate with you via your buffalo.edu email, which requires you to set up your UBITName and password. You have access to activate your UBITName a couple days after you are admitted. Then, login to your UBmail by visiting ubmail.buffalo.edu from a web browser and using your UBITName and password.
Learn more about how to choose your major. On the Orientation Data Form, you will see your current major listed and have the option to change to another available major. Inform your choice by reviewing UB's tips for how to choose your major. It is also okay to not be sure; select "exploratory" if you'd like to start at UB with an undeclared major.
Review your Orientation Data Form confirmation email. This email will be sent 10-15 minutes after you submit the form and includes detailed information about instructions, timelines and action steps just for you. If you used your UB email and have "Focused inbox" set up, be sure to look in the "Other inbox" tab.
(international students only)Finish Provisional Admission Checklist if applicable. If you received a Provisional Admission checklist with your I-20/DS-2019, you must prepare the documents to finalize your admission.
(international students only)Begin the online International Student Check-In and upload all required immigration documents, including your U.S. Visa Stamp.
Review the timeline and process chart on Step 3: Register for Classes. This chart overviews the timeline and process you can expect for your major to register for classes. You need your assigned advisor code; check your Orientation Data Form confirmation email to learn your advisor code.
After You Register for Classes
Respond promptly to your academic advisor and take any action steps they advise to finalize your class schedule.
(international students only) Review the Maintaining F-1 Student Status resources. You must be registered full-time (12 or more credits, or less than 12 credits will appropriate authorization) by the end of the drop/add period for the upcoming semester.
Download the Navigate app to support your academic experience. Download the Navigate app to schedule appointments with academic advisors and tutors and locate helpful academic resources, such as Study Buddies.
Complete any to-do list items for financial aid located in your HUB Student Center (access through MyUB, requires UBIT name/password).
Review billing dates on the Student Accounts website. Your first payment may be due before classes start. If you expect a financial aid refund, set up direct deposit to receive these funds faster. Learn more about direct deposit at UB and sign up in your HUB Student Center (access through MyUB, requires UBIT name/password).
(international students only)Review information about international payments through Flywire. By using Flywire, you can track your payments, save on bank fees and exchange rates, and receive multilingual customer service.
After Summer Orientation
Understand UB's Health Insurance Requirement and your coverage options. If you have existing health insurance, submit a waiver of UB's coverage to remove the automatic charge from your eBill. UB recommends submitting a waiver by mid-July.
Complete part 1 of UB's online health/safety courses (Alcohol EDU and Sexual Assault Prevention); instructions will be sent to your UB email on or before August 1. Complete part 1 before August 23. Learn more about both programs on the Health Promotion website.
(international students only)Complete the online International Student Check-Inand upload all required immigration documents, including your Form I-94 (only available after you enter the U.S.).
Register your license plate (requires UBIT name/password) if you plan to bring a car to campus. Make sure your plate is on record before your first trip to campus in August.
Prepare for living on campus. Use the Welcome Home website to review packing lists, how and when you'll select your move-in timeslot, and what to expect one new student move-in day, and more!
Review your meal plan. You can increase to a larger meal plan or add Dining Points at any point in the semester. Learn more about meal plans.
Complete the final steps of the New to UB Technology Guideto configure devices for Wi-Fi, set up UBmail on your personal device(s) and download free UB software and apps, like Microsoft 365 and Zoom.
Download the GET Appto order and pay for campus meals using your meal plan from the convenience of your phone.
Download the UB Rewards App and create your account using your UB email to access your tickets to all UB Athletics events.
Check your email on August 14. We'll send you details about your schedule for Welcome Weekend (including required sessions!).
Connect to UB's eduroam Wi-Fi. eduroam is UB's official Wi-Fi for internet almost everywhere on campus. Follow the instructions for connecting your device and you'll stay connected wherever eduroam is available.
Understand bus and shuttle schedules to get around and between campuses. View the bus schedules.
Download UB Mobile to take UB with you wherever you go.
Make a plan for how you'll get your textbooks: buy, rent, borrow, and/or share.
