Step 1: Complete the Advisement and Orientation Form

Two Orientation Leaders fill out online forms via their laptops.

Start by filling out the Advisement and Orientation Form* to provide key information to UB.

*This form was previously called the Orientation Data Form (ODF). 

On this page:

Before You Complete the Advisement and Orientation 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, log in to your UBmail by visiting ubmail.buffalo.edu from a web browser and using your UBITName and password. Note: We recommend using your UB email when creating your Advisement and Orientation 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 fall, we strongly recommend you complete a Housing Application and $300 deposit as soon as possible and prior to May 12. 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 Advisement and Orientation 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 Advisement and Orientation 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 Advisement and Orientation Form

On the Advisement and Orientation Form, you will:

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

For most students, the Advisement and Orientation 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.

For new students beginning in Fall 2025, we will notify you in April when the Advisement and Orientation Form becomes available. 

Get a head start and complete Step 2: Submit Immunization Records now.

STAY ON TRACK

Starting April 1, finish Step 1: Complete the Advisement and Orientation 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. 

Need Help?

Helping new students transition to life at UB:

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

Phone: (716) 645-6125