Go back to First Year Students

Common questions from first-year students and the answers!

Do you have a question that is not here? Please email orientation@unlv.edu.

Are there bells?

No, there are not bells to signal the start or end of classes. It is the student's responsibility to be to class on time. Your instructor will let you know when class is over or if he/she has any specific policies to coming late or leaving early.

Are there counselors?

Each student has an academic advisor. It is recommended to meet with your advisor each semester to discuss your academic progress and what classes you should take for the upcoming semester. UNLV does have a counseling center on campus to help students with stress management, family concerns, relationship problems, etc.

What happens if you are late to class?

Each instructor will differ on this one. During the first day of class you will find out about your instructor's expectations for classroom behavior.

Are there programs or classes to help my transition from high school to college?

Yes! UNLV offers a variety of programs and classes to help students succeed in their transition to college. Orientation is the best way to get familiar with the campus and begin making the transition to UNLV.

Where is the Registrar Office?

The Registrar Office is located on the first floor of Maude Frazier Hall.

How will I know where my classes are located?

The best way to find your way around campus is to come to Orientation and take a tour. Bring your class schedule with you and the Orientation Leaders will help you find your specific classes as well as show you the other buildings. Campus Map

Is it hard to get involved?

No, it is very easy to get involved on campus. There are over 120 student organizations to pick from as well as a variety of events and Intramurals sports. During Orientation or the first couple weeks of school there will be lots of information on what you can get involved in and how to do that! You can also go to the CSUN (Student Government) Office to get information.

How can I meet other students?

The best way to meet other students is by getting involved on campus. To find out more about getting involved, you can visit the office of Student Involvement and Activities (SIA) or CSUN student government.

Where do you buy your books?

The UNLV Bookstore carries all books required for all UNLV classes. The Bookstore is located just south of the Moyer Student Union. You can go to the store with your class schedule and people will help you find your books.

Where can you go to get your class schedule if you lose it?

You can go to Student Enrollment Services or the UNLV Homepage to get another class schedule.

Do I really have to go to class?

College is different than high school; nobody will make you go to class. It is highly recommended to attend all classes so you do not get behind or miss material from the instructor. This is the number one recommendation from upper-class students!

How do I get an e-mail account?

You can go to any computer lab to set up your free e-mail account. You can also do this during Orientation while you get other items lined up.

When do I get my parking permit?

UNLV Parking & Transportational Services offers purchasing parking permits on-line. University parking applicants can register for and purchase parking permits at http://www.thepermitstore.com. This on-line service greatly speeds up the registration and payment process by not needing to stand in any lines at the Parking Services Office or during Orientation. For a small service fee, students can register for and purchase their parking permits in a matter of minutes from the convenience of any computer, anytime.

Applicants should be prepared to complete all required fields, such as mailing information, driver's license, vehicle make, year and license plate number, permit type and credit card information. ThePermitStore.com accepts Visa, American Express, MasterCard and Discover credit cards. All transactions are secure, and applicant information is kept strictly confidential.

When an application is approved, a parking permit will be mailed to the student. Applicants must return to ThePermitStore.com to activate their new permit before sticking them on their vehicle.

Who do I talk with about financial aid or scholarships?

Student Financial Services can provide students will all the information regarding federal financial aid programs, grants, and scholarships.

How do I know what classes to register for?

Students should contact their academic advisor regarding classes to take or look in the Undergraduate Catalog. It is recommended that new students contact their academic advisor prior to registering for classes.

How can I find a major and career that is best for me?

Career Services can help you determine a major and career that is best for you based on your skills and what you enjoy. They help all students regardless of what year in school. In fact, it is good to visit Career Services early in your college career to research career markets and begin developing your resume.

Are there computer labs on campus?

Yes! There are several computer labs on campus each offering just a little different software and resources. Computer labs are located in FDH, CBC, CEB, SCS, MSU, and the Lied Library. During Orientation, you can sign up for your computer lab account in the MSU.

Are there places to eat on campus?

Yes! There are a couple of eating options on campus. The Dining Commons is a buffet style eating facility open to students with a meal plan or paying for an individual meal. The Union Café (located in the MSU) offers a variety of food options from pre-prepared choices or made-to-order items. The Sidewalk Café offers a variety of grab-and-go food choices. The Book and Bean Café is located on the first floor of the Lied Library and features Seattle’s Best Coffee which can also be found in the MSU adjacent to a Jamba Juice shop.

Where is the TBA building?

TBA stands for To Be Announced. In the class schedule this building location is often listed because room assignments have not been determined. Contact the Registrar Office or academic department to find out what building your class will be in if this is listed.

If I get hurt or sick, where do I go?

UNLV has a Student Health Center right on campus to provide medical assistance to students. You can make appointments to see a nurse or doctor, get health and wellness information, or fill prescriptions.

How many students are in the classes?

This can vary depending on the class you are taking, but the average student/faculty ratio is about 20 to 1.

Is there a gym on campus?

Yes! There is a gym at the McDermott Physical Education Building for students to use for free.

Where do I pay my tuition?

You can pay your tuition in a couple ways. You can pay on-line with a credit card, or bring your payment to the Cashier's Office in the Student Services Complex.

Is Orientation required?

Orientation is highly recommended as a way to get familiar with campus, meet students and faculty, learn about resources, and take care of necessary business.

Do I have to pay for Orientation?

All students are charged a one-time $90.00 fee for Orientation their first semester at UNLV.

Where can I go when I have general questions?

The Information Desk at the Moyer Student Union can help answer general questions or direct students in the correct place.

Can someone help me if I have problems in my classes?

Yes! UNLV offers tutoring through the Center for Academic Enrichment and Outreach. Most tutoring is done in groups.

Are there jobs available on campus?

Yes! Each year departments hire students, which can be very beneficial for students. It is convenient to classes and your class schedule. For information on campus jobs contact Student Employment at Student Financial Services in the Student Services Complex.

Did we answer your question? If not please email orientation@unlv.edu.