Orientation and Registration
Orientation Goes Virtual!
We are excited to welcome you to Ferris State University!
Orientation is your chance to learn more about the wide range of academic opportunities available at Ferris, discover support services, register for classes and meet new people. It's an important step in the successful transition to your life as a Bulldog. We're here to help you every step of the way.
This year due to COVID-19, orientation will take place in a virtual environment. While you won't physically be on-campus this summer, you will have access to a wide variety of resources!
Your steps for success this year include the following:
- Complete Online Orientation
- Complete your 'Next Steps' outlined in the online orientation, including signing your housing contract and choosing a meal plan.
- Watch your email- we will be updating you on upcoming events to engage with other students and learn more about Ferris.
- Sign up for classes! In the coming weeks after completing online orientation, your college will email you a link to sign up for a one-on-one advising experience.
- Prepare for life on-campus! We are planning a wide range of events at Bulldog Beginnings to get you welcomed and acquainted to campus.
Our promise to you: You will get an outstanding education. You will be challenged to reach higher. To think more. Learn more. Be more. Imagine more. And you'll have fun while you're here.
Your Ferris Story Starts at Orientation
We're Glad You're a Bulldog!
You will need to sign in with your MyFSU credentials. If you need assistance setting up your account or password, please visit the password assistance page or call 231-591-4822 for I.T. support.
Before Scheduling for Classes
Housing
Students required to live on campus must apply for housing to be eligible for class registration.
Apply for housing utilizing MyHousing, which is located on the Student Life tab in MyFSU. Choose the '[email protected]' icon, followed by the 'Dining & Housing' icon, and finally the 'MyHousing' link. You must submit a $200 contract guarantee by credit card. This can be submitted with the contract, or paid with your Fall Semester bill.
Looking for another way to prepare?
Ferris is hosting a variety of virtual events and has resources available to view presentations, schedule 1 on 1 meetings with recruiting officers or financial aid advisors, virtual tours, and so much more! Be sure to learn more at your own pace on our virtual visit page.
Check out our Additional Resources for materials and videos from various departments typically found during our Family & Friends resource fair! We will continue uploading more supplemental materials as they become available.
Our Parent Portal is another great starting point for family members looking to learn more about the University! While specific next steps for students are housed in the online orientation system, we recommend parents utilize this resource.
A Message from Joy Pulsifer, Dean of Student Life
Congratulations on your admittance to Ferris State University and welcome to the Bulldog family! We are so glad you are here!
As the Dean of Student Life I have the best job on-campus as I get to work with you to ensure you get the most out of your Bulldog experience. I will encourage you to meet new people, explore and learn new skills, identify your interests and passions, build a network of people and resources, and ultimately use your time at Ferris toward designing an incredible future! Years of research and experience tell us that learning in College happens not only in classrooms, laboratories, and studios, but also in the practical experiences gained from getting involved in a club, organization, athletic team, student employment position on-campus, internship, etc. In fact, participating in these opportunities is one of the biggest indicators that a student will succeed in college and graduate!
As a Bulldog, you are part of an amazing community of over 14,000 students with well over 200 student involvement opportunities that are as amazing and as diverse as our student body. Options to get involved include:
- Annual traditions such as Bulldog Beginnings, Homecoming, Bulldog Bonanza, Music Takes Action, and the BIG Event
- 200+ Registered Student clubs and organizations; many in your academic degree program
- Residence Hall Association
- Honor Societies
- Internships
- Campus Jobs and Work-Study Positions
- Club and Intramural Sports
- Student Government Association
- Greek Life
- Our Student Programming Board: Entertainment Unlimited
- Cultural Affinity Groups and Centers
- Heritage Celebrations
- Community Service Opportunities
- Leadership Development Programs
- Music, Art and Theatre Groups
- StepUp
- NCAA Division I and II Athletic Teams
- The Torch Student Newspaper
- …and so many more!
Ferris State University is dedicated to providing you an education that will prepare you for a successful career, responsible citizenship, and life-long learning. Thank you for selecting us for your college education! The Student Life Team as well as all the other faculty and staff at Ferris are ready to help you explore the many opportunities available here, to support you through any problems that arise, and to connect you to appropriate campus and community resources.
Be active in your learning, get involved on campus and in our wonderful community in Big Rapids, and make good choices!
Go Bulldogs!
After Orientation
Billing/Authorized User Information
Consolidated student bills are available through MyFSU. Students are notified via their FSU email when an updated statement is issued. You must designate an Authorized User for others to have access to monthly billing notifications, statements and to make payments. To add an Authorized User, log into MyFSU, choose “E-bill” on the MyFSU tab, then choose “Authorized User.” For more information, call the Timme Center for Student Services at (231) 591–5242 or email [email protected].
Student ID
Student IDs are used to check out books from the library, attend events, receive student rates or discounts, use recreation facilities, enter your residence hall and use your meal plan at dining centers.
You may pick up your ID when you check into your residence hall at the start of fall semester. Students eligible to live off-campus can pick up their ID in the Timme Center for Student Services starting the Thursday before Fall classes. If you lose your ID, one may be purchased for $25 in the Timme Center.
Additional Information & FAQ
Ferris State University Bookstore
Textbooks may be pre-ordered through the Ferris State University Bookstore by visiting the bookstore website or through MyFSU. To purchase textbooks through MyFSU, choose the “Academic and Services” tab. In the Registration box, choose “Detailed Schedule” to find a link to order books.
Optional CLEP Testing
College Level Examination Program (CLEP) examinations are traditionally available by appointment through the Institutional Research and Testing Office in the Timme Center for Student Services, or at a local testing site near you. Individuals desiring to take CLEP examinations must schedule an appointment. To inquire, please contact [email protected].
Student Employment
On-campus job opportunities will be posted on the Student Employment website beginning in early August. Visit the Ferris homepage and click on “Student Employment” under the “Student Services” header to view job postings.
Parking Permit
All students are eligible to possess, operate and park a motor vehicle on campus as long as it is registered with the Department of Public Safety. To register your vehicle, visit MyFSU, choose the “University Life” tab, then “Vehicle Registration.” You will need your on-campus housing assignment (if living on campus) or your local address (if you live off campus), a valid driver’s license number and a current vehicle registration.
Schedule Academic Support with TutorTrac
Visit Ferris' TutorTrac website to learn how to access this online service for scheduling and receiving reminders about academic tutoring appointments with Ferris’ Academic Support Center.
What if I previously signed up for an orientation date?
Like many students, you may have previously signed up for an orientation date before orientation went online due to covid-19. Not to worry! Simply complete online orientation at the link above, and your college will reach out to you via email to schedule a 1 on 1 advising appointment at your convenience. These appointments will not begin until June, so please patiently watch your email as our faculty and staff prepare to assist you.
How do I pay my orientation fee?
In addition to finding information on paying the $80 orientation fee in the online orientation, details can be found here. Not ready to pay? That's ok! You can postpone paying your orientation fee until your fall semester bill becomes due.
What if I have more questions?
Please feel free to email [email protected] or call 231-591-2100.
