New Student Orientation RSVP's are now closed, however, walk-in are welcome
July 13-14, 2026. Check in at Student Union Building at 8:15 am.

Congratulations on becoming a Yellowjacket! New Student Orientation is your introduction to life at Montana State University Billings.Our two-day New Student Orientation is designed to welcome you to the Yellowjacket family and prepare you for a successful start at MSU Billings. Through interactive sessions, workshops, and activities, you'll meet fellow Yellowjackets, connect with faculty and staff, explore campus resources, discover clubs and organizations, and learn how to navigate college with confidence.

Parents, supporters, and guests are encouraged to attend! We've designed sessions specifically for families so everyone leaves feeling prepared. Childrenunder the age of 10 attend free and should not be included in your guest count when registering.

Before You Attend

We highly encourage all new students to attend a Registration Session (Fast Pass) before Orientation so your class schedule is ready before arriving on campus. ALL Students MUST bring a photo ID to attend.

What You'll Experience

During Orientation you will:

  • Meet new Yellowjackets
  • Connect with academic advisors, faculty, and staff
  • Learn how to navigate campus resources and student services
  • Explore clubs, organizations, and leadership opportunities
  • Apply for specialized student support programs
  • Participate in interactive workshops that prepare you for your first semester
  • Explore campus and the Billings community
  • Build friendships before classes begin

Overnight Stay

Orientation is a two-day experience that includes an overnight stay in the residence halls.

Your overnight stay is included in your Orientation fee and is considered part of the program.

Students needing an exemption should contact the Admissions Office. Approved exemptions do not reduce the Orientation fee.

Parents, supporters, and guests are responsible for their own lodging. Here is list of hotels in the area to make reservations

Housing Assignments

Students are assigned residence hall rooms on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Single rooms are assigned until capacity is reached.
  • Double rooms are assigned once singles are full.
  • Shared rooms are available upon request.
  • Want to room with a friend? Contact Admissions before Orientation with both students' names or alert the Housing team at checkin.

Orientation Fees

Fees are non-refundable and cannot be changed after June 29. Payment is due before arrival or at checkin.
If you need financial assistance, please contact Admissions.

Student Fee – $66

Includes:

  • Orientation materials
  • Parking
  • Yellowjacket swag
  • All meals and snacks
  • Residence hall overnight stay

Parent/Supporter/Guest Fee – $26 per person

Children under age 10 attend free and should not be included in your guest count when registering.

Please Note

  • Fees are non-refundable.
  • Payment is due before arrival or at check-in.
  • If you need financial assistance, please contact Admissions.

By submitting your RSVP, you acknowledge that Orientation fees must be paid prior to attending.

Getting to Campus

Flying to Billings?

If you won't have access to a vehicle, Uber, Lyft, and local taxi services are available from Billings Logan International Airport.

The MET Transit bus system also provides service between the airport, campus, and locations throughout Billings.

✔ What should You bring?

  • Photo ID
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sunscreen, hat (if desired)
  • Phone charger
  • Toiletries
  • Pillow & Sleeping bag (linens are available for those who need them)
  • Water bottle
  • Any medications

✔ Check-in Information

  • Check-in will begin after 8am outside the Petro Theatre. Parking directions and details will be sent to RSVP'd guests prior to arrival.
    • Parking is free for Orientation. Due to campus improvements, construction will be taking place. Please use the Rimrock entrance on the North side of 27th ave. This entrance will be the most direct route to check-in!

✔ What should I wear?

Dress for comfort and bring layers! You will be waling across campus throughout the day! 

✔ Accessibility & Dietary Accommodations

A sentence explaining who to contact for:

  • Accessibility accommodations
  • Dietary restrictions
  • Medical needs

✔ Orientation Schedule

The full orientation schedule will be emailed to those who RSVP the week prior to Orientation. 
Monday, July 13 

  • 8:15-9:30am      |     Check-in
  • 9:30am               |     Welcome
  • 10:00-12:15pm  |     Choose your experience (UC & CIty College Adventure)
  • 12:00-1:30pm    |     Lunch
  • 1:30-5:00pm      |     Academic Sessions
  • 5:00pm               |     Dinner
  • 6:00-9:00pm      |    Campus After Dark - Activities and Live Show
  • 9:00-10:00pm    |    LateResidence hall activities (for those staying overnight)

Tuesday, July 14

  • 8:00-9:30am      |     Breakfast
  • 9:30-10:30am    |     Academic sessions
  • 10:30-11:30am  |    Nagivating the Hive
  • 11:45am             |     Yellowjacket Closing & Awards
  • 12:00-1pm         |     Check-out of halls (for those staying overnight).
    • Note: Campus staff will be available following orientation to support ANY needs families may have to prepare for the Fall term.

Still Have Questions? 

If you have questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us! You can email our staff at  admissions@msubillings.edu  or call us Monday - Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm MT at (406) 657-2888.

Billings.

Questions? Explore our Orientation FAQ's

Contact us!
Admissions Office

Email: admissions@msubillings.edu

Call: (406) 657-2888

Text us! (406) 412-1349

Monday-Friday | 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. MT