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Cornell University

Student & Campus Life

New Student Resource Hub

Touchdown posing with a group of students


Welcome to Cornell, Class of 2030! We’re so excited to officially welcome you into the Cornell community. As an Early Decision student, you’ve already shown your commitment to Cornell and we can’t wait to see all the talents, perspectives, and energy you’ll bring to campus.

This page is your go-to hub for getting connected to all things Cornell as an Early Decision student. You’ll find key resources and helpful information to support you as you prepare to begin your Cornell journey. At the end of March, you’ll start your steps on the New Student To-Do List, which will become your central resource for everything you need to prepare for your arrival. Our teams in The Tatkon Center for New Students, Parent and Family Programs, and across Student and Campus Life are here for you each step of the way, and we’re excited to help you make your transition as smooth and meaningful as possible. 

Get Connected to Campus

Your Cornell Journey Starts Here

As a new Cornell student, The Tatkon Center for New Students is your one-stop resource center during your transition to Cornell University and throughout your first year. The Tatkon team coordinates the New Student To Do List that you’ll hear about in late March, a comprehensive orientation program for all new undergraduate students, and ongoing programming and special events throughout the year as you transition to Cornell. 

The Office of Parent & Family Programs is here to help parents and families support the transformation of their students through timely communication and resources, creating a connection with Cornell, and the celebration of the important role they play in their student’s education and development. Students, encourage your family members to familiarize themselves with the office and make sure they reach out with questions or concerns at families@cornell.edu. 

We know you may have questions, and this is a great time to explore the resources linked here to start getting familiar with Cornell. You don’t have any required next steps just yet. Once the New Student To-Do List becomes available in late March, you’ll find detailed next steps on how to prepare for housing, health requirements, pre-enrollment, and so much more. 

HOUSING | DINING | CAMPUS ACTIVITIES | CORNELL CAREER SERVICES

Preparing for Important Requirements 

As you get ready for Cornell, you’ll encounter required steps such as health forms, housing applications, advising, pre-enrollment, and Orientation registration. Some of these requirements and steps are still a few months away but you can mark these times on your calendar to be prepared (exact dates vary by year): 

  • Late March: New Student To Do List goes live; keep an eye on your Cornell email inbox
  • May–June: Housing applications, health requirements, placement exams
  • July: Advising and Fall pre-enrollment
  • August: Move-in and Orientation for all new students 

Our team at The Tatkon Center is available to answer any questions you may have about the To Do List or preparing to arrive at Cornell.  

What to Expect as a New Cornellian 

Life at Cornell is dynamic, welcoming, and full of opportunities to learn, lead, explore, and grow. As a new student, you can expect: 

  • A supportive network of peers, mentors, and staff/faculty supporters
  • Programs to help you adjust and flourish academically and socially
  • Access to campus events, clubs, workshops, and Cornell traditions
  • A community dedicated to your well-being and success inside and outside of the classroom 

Life Outside of the Classroom

Students at a Cornell Event

The Cornell student experience is expansive and built for individual exploration and transformation! Here are a few quick links to help you discover what’s possible: 

Get a Glimpse of Life on Campus 

Virtual Campus Tours 

Cornell Traditions and Big Red Spirit

Cornell Hockey Fans at the game cheering


Cornell is famous for its spirited traditions—from Slope Day to Dragon Day, hockey games at Lynah Rink to cheering “Go Big Red!” for our student athletes. Start to explore these Cornell moments below: 

  • Campus Activities – Your hub for clubs and student-led organizations, campus events, and leadership opportunities
  • Cornell Athletics – Support Big Red teams and experience Cornell pride 

Get Help Now 

New Student Support 

General Cornell Information 

  • Visitor Relations: (607) 254-4636 for any general questions 

Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm Eastern Time 

Remember: Cornell's support systems are designed to help every new student succeed.