Step 1: Complete the Orientation Data Form

Two Orientation Leaders fill out online forms via their laptops.

Start by filling out the Orientation Data Form to provide key information to UB.

On this page:

Before You Complete the Orientation Data Form

New students should review and/or take action on the following:

  • Activate your UBITName to log in 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. Note: We recommend utilizing your UB email when creating your Orientation Data Form and encourage you to begin checking this email regularly for all UB communication. 
  • Enroll in Duo, UB's two-step verification to protect your UBITName. Follow the steps on UBIT's website to enroll now. Complete this at the same time you activate your UBITName. Keep you and your devices safe.
  • Submit your on-campus housing application. If you plan to live on campus this spring, we strongly recommend you complete a waitlist Housing Application and $300 deposit as soon as possible. Priority for selecting your on-campus housing location/room is based on the date you submit your Housing Application, so it is best to submit right away.
  • 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 Undergraduate Academic Programs. It is also okay to not be sure; select "exploratory" if you'd like to start at UB with an undeclared major. 
  • Explore your interests. On the Orientation Data Form, you'll select an interest area to help us connect you with other new students who share this interest. Learn more about your options on the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page ("How do I know which group (interest area) to select?").

Complete the Orientation Data Form

On the Orientation Data Form, you will:
  • Provide details about your academic background and interests to your academic advisor. They will help you begin academic planning and develop a preliminary class schedule.
  • Register for Step 4: Participate in Winter Orientation and Step 5: Experience UB Winter Welcome.
  • Provide a family member's contact information; we'll send them emails with helpful resources to support your start at UB. 

Please complete the Orientation Data Form within 1 week of submitting your tuition deposit.

For most students, the Orientation Data Form takes 30 minutes to complete. If you have questions when submitting the form please consult our FAQ page, email us, or call during our regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time, for additional assistance.

Orientation Data Form*

* The University at Buffalo is committed to ensuring equal access to information that is presented online. As part of this commitment, university web content must be accessible to everyone, including individuals with physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments, with or without the use of assistive technology. If you encounter an accessibility issue when completing the orientation data form, please contact the orientation office.

STAY ON TRACK

Finish Step 1: Complete the Orientation Data Form within 1 week of submitting your tuition deposit.

Next

  • Step 2: Submit Immunization Records
    10/30/24
    Proof of immunization is required for all new students. 
  • Stay on track with the New Student Checklist

Need Help?

Helping new students transition to life at UB:

Orientation, Transition and Parent Programs

Student Life

University at Buffalo
112 Student Union, North Campus
Buffalo, NY 14260

Phone: (716) 645-6125

Review our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).