We are thrilled to welcome you to Norwich University, home of the Cadets and birthplace of ROTC.

Transitioning to college is a process. All of our programs help students to develop a sense of their personal goals, make connections with peers, faculty, and staff, and build a sense of community and context, which will lay a foundation for their time at Norwich. We support both academic and social transitions to Norwich University. Don't worry, parents and families. Find additional information for new families.

We’re counting the days to your arrival and can’t wait to see you on The Hill.

Arrival Days

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Tuesday
11 Aug.		9 a.m. to noonFall Athletes — Football
Wednesday
12 Aug.		noon to 4 p.m.ROTC — Ranger Team
Corps — All S-4 (Regimental & Battalion)
Uniform Store Detail
Regiment CMD Team and Staff OICs (R/CO, XO, CSM, S1-S6 OICs)
HHC CMD Team (CO, XO, & 1SG)
Saturday
15 Aug.		By RequestCivilian — Leaders [Exec Staff] and Orientation SOCs
Corps — Retention and Transition Team OIC, AOIC, and NCOIC
New Students — PROVO FTX Participants flying alone
Sunday
16 Aug.		9 a.m. to noonFTX Arrival Day
New Students — Corps Band/Drill/Cavalry FTX Participants
New Students — International Rooks flying in alone
Corps — All Battalion CMD Team & Staff, All PROVO BN, All CTC Leaders [B, D, F, H], Remaining Regimental Staff
Tuesday
18 Aug.		9 a.m. to noonNew Students — International Rooks flying in alone
Fall Athletes — Volleyball, Men’s & Women’s Soccer, Cross-country
Wednesday
19 Aug.		9 a.m. to noonCivilian — Resident Assistants
Corps — Retention and Transition Team Members
New Students — International Rooks, NROTC scholarship recipients flying alone
Fall Athletes — Men’s & Women’s Rugby
Thursday
20 Aug.		7 a.m.Civilian – Orientation Leaders
New Students — NROTC Prep & Scholarship check-in
Friday
21 Aug.		9 a.m. to noonNew Students — Rooks flying in alone
Corps — Line Unit Leaders [A, C, E, G]
Saturday
22 Aug.		8 a.m. to noonRook Arrival Day
New Students — Rooks
Sunday
23 Aug.		8 a.m. to noonFall Athletes — Golf
Tuesday
25 Aug.		By RequestNew Students — Civilian students flying in alone
Wednesday
26 Aug.		8 a.m. to noonCivilian New Student Arrival Day
New Students — Civilian Residential Students, Civilian Commuters, Flexible Pathways, International Students
Corps — Exchange students
Saturday & Sunday
29-30 Aug.		9 a.m. to 4 p.m.Civilian — Returning Civilian Students
Corps — Returning Corps Students
Monday
31 Aug.		 First Day of Classes / Start of Add/Drop
Start of Late Arrivals
Monday
8 Sept.		 End of Add/Drop,
End of Late Arrivals

Congratulations on your decision to join the Norwich University Corps of Cadets. With the right attitude, focus, and resilience, you will develop intellectually, morally, and physically, and grow as a person and leader. This page provides essential information to help you matriculate into the Corps of Cadets and begin your military college journey successfully.

Key steps before arrival

  • Rook Arrival Day: All Rooks must report on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026. You cannot arrive late, and early arrivals must be approved! If you have questions, contact the Admissions Office or email your admissions counselor.
  • Start Ready: Complete all required administrative documents in the Student Portal by the deadline. Be truthful on your medical release form. You cannot start Rook training without medical clearance, including a physical completed within six months of arrival and documented by your primary care physician on the Norwich University medical forms.
  • NU Living: Log in to the NU Living Portal to complete your housing application.
  • Rook Packing List: Follow the Rook packing list exactly. For questions, contact the Commandant's Office.
  • Shipping: If you need to ship items, address packages as follows:
    RCT Last Name, First Name
    Norwich University
    158 Harmon Drive
    Northfield, VT 05663
    Contact the mailroom at 802-485-2205 or mailroom@norwich.edu for details.
  • Housing Form and Company Assignment: Rooks are assigned by academic major/school to B, D, F, or H company. The company assignment will be posted in early August on the NU Living portal. Complete your housing form on the NU Living Portal.
  • First-Year Uniform Measurements: Submit your uniform measurements form.
  • Training Expectations: You must be mentally and physically prepared for Rook Initial Entry Training. Review training expectations. If you decide the Corps lifestyle is not for you, talk to your admissions counselor about starting as a civilian student and possibly joining the Corps in your second year.
  • Physical Fitness Readiness: Begin conditioning now! The Corps of Cadets fitness test includes hand-release push-ups, plank, and a two-mile run. View the NU CC fitness program.
     

Special arrival instructions

  • Ceremonial Unit FTX: If you are participating in the Provisional Battalion’s Ceremonial Unit FTX (Band, Cavalry, Drill), you must be registered and report on FTX Arrival Day on Sunday, Aug. 16, 2026. If you have not registered or have questions, contact CSM Bruce Sanborn at bsanborn@norwich.edu or 802-485-2039. You may arrive in civilian attire and will be assigned a room upon arrival. Note that the required dress for Rook Arrival Day (Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026) is needed.
  • Varsity Athletes: If you intend to play a fall varsity sport, your coach will invite you to their preseason camp. If so, you will be assigned your designated room upon arrival. Civilian attire is approved for preseason camp. Note that the required dress for Rook Arrival Day (Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026) is needed.
  • Vehicles are NOT allowed on campus for first-year students. If you feel you have a need for a vehicle, it must be approved.

Rook Arrival Day procedures

  • Arrive on Aug. 22, 2026, by 11:30 a.m. in prescribed attire (see Rook Packing List). If you cannot arrive on time or believe you need to arrive early, contact your admissions counselor. Late arrivals may prevent you from enrolling as a recruit.
  • Upon arrival, road guards will direct you to the Start Ready check-in station. If any administrative actions are incomplete, you will be directed to the Start Ready “Get Well” location before proceeding.
  • After check-in, you will receive your company and barracks assignment and proceed to the Upper Parade Ground (UP) for company check-in.
  • At your barracks, remain in your vehicle while upper-class cadets assist with your gear. Your driver must then park in the designated lot and meet you at Kreitzberg Arena.
  • Meet your cadet leaders, receive your room key, Rook items, and move your gear into your room (do not unpack yet).
  • Proceed to Plumley Armory for your initial Rook issue (PT uniform and robe).
  • Return to your barracks with the issued items to complete the reporting process.

After check-in

  • Enjoy lunch at Wise Campus Center at your assigned time. You may visit the Bookstore, Uniform Store, Sullivan Museum, or explore campus.
  • Be seated in Shapiro Field House by 2:30 p.m. for the Welcome Ceremony. You may sit with family and friends. At the end, Rooks will have seven minutes to say goodbye before moving to their assigned seat.
  • No in-person contact with family will occur until Family Weekend. Refer to Parents of Rooks FAQs below.
  • After the ceremony, Rook platoons will line up and move to the Upper Parade Ground. Family members are not allowed on the UP after the ceremony. Please join us for a reception under a tent outside Shapiro Field House. We have a meaningful task for family members. Once training begins, deliveries for recruits can be made at the Cadet Guard Room or Commandant’s Office at Jackman Hall.

Support and contact

  • For questions, contact the Office of the Commandant at 802-485-2135 or commandant@norwich.edu.
  • For admissions questions, call 802-485-2001 or email your admissions counselor.
  • For mailroom questions, call 802-485-2205 or email mailroom@norwich.edu.
  • See the Parents of Rooks FAQ for more information.

Essential information to help you begin your college journey successfully.

Key Steps Before Arrival

Start Ready: Complete all required administrative documents in the Student Portal by the designated deadline. This includes your medical forms, which must reflect a physical exam conducted within six months of arrival and documented by your primary care provider.

Housing: Log in to the Housing Portal at norwich.starrezhousing.com/StarRezPortalX to complete your housing application if you have not done so already.

Shipping: If you plan to ship items to campus, please address packages as follows:

First Name, Last Name
Norwich University
158 Harmon Drive
Northfield, VT 05663

For questions, contact the Mailroom at 802-485-2205 or mailroom@norwich.edu.

Special Arrival Instructions

Varsity Athletes: If you are participating in a fall varsity sport, your coach will notify you of your arrival schedule.

Civilian Arrival Day Procedures

Arrival Time: Plan to arrive by noon. If you are unable to arrive on time, please contact your admissions counselor or Residence Life at nureslife@norwich.edu.

Check-in: Upon arrival, road guards will direct you to the Start Ready check-in station at Milano Ballroom.

Residence Hall Move-in: After check-in, proceed to your assigned residence hall. Student leaders will be stationed there to assist with the check-in process. Have your fast check-in QR Code ready.

Farewell & Orientation Kickoff: After lunch, students will say goodbye to their families and join their Orientation groups.

Support and Contact Information

Residence Life: For housing or move-in questions, contact the Residence Life Office at 802-485-2120 or email nureslife@norwich.edu.

Admissions: For admissions-related inquiries, call 802-485-2001 or reach out to your assigned admissions counselor via email.

Mailroom: For questions about shipping or receiving packages, contact the Mailroom at 802-485-2205 or email mailroom@norwich.edu.

Visit the Residential Life FAQ for more detailed information.

Orientation

To help you feel ready and confident as you start your college journey this fall, we are offering a series of virtual orientation sessions this summer on Thursdays in July from 7-8 p.m.

While participation is not mandatory, we strongly encourage you and your family to attend. These sessions are a great way to get important information, meet key campus staff, and have your questions answered before stepping on campus. We are excited to help you get ready for a great start at Norwich. Videos and FAQs will be posted after the event.

Register for a summer virtual orientation session.

July 9 
Arrivals, New Student Orientation, and Student Experiences
Learn about Arrival Day, Orientation events, and what to expect as a new student on campus.

July 16 
Information Technology Services
Learn how to set up your devices, access campus systems, and make the most of Norwich's technology tools.

July 23 
Academic Support
Discover the resources available to support your academic journey and help you thrive in college-level courses.

July 30 
Student Services
Get the details on financial aid, billing, and other key campus services.

Wednesday, Aug. 26

TimeActivity / SessionLocationDescription
8 a.m.-noonNew Student In-ProcessingMilano Ballroom / Residence HallsCheck in and confirm that all items on your Start Ready checklist are complete, then proceed to check into your residence hall.
10:45 a.m.-1 p.m.Lunch for students and familiesWise Campus Center 
Noon-1 p.m.Commuter Student Info SessionCabot 085This session provides an overview of the support resources available to commuter and early college students. All non-residential students are encouraged to attend all New Student Orientation events for the most comprehensive introduction to Norwich University.
1:30-2:30 p.m.Welcome CeremonyShapiro FieldhouseDuring this event, students and families are welcomed by key university leaders, including the president, commandant, dean of students, and Student Affairs staff. Speakers share insights about Norwich’s values, expectations, and opportunities, helping students succeed and understand what it means to be part of the Norwich community.
2:30-3:30 p.m.Introduction to Orientation LeadersShapiro Fieldhouse lawnStudents will be introduced to their orientation leader, who will serve as a guide throughout the orientation experience. During this session, students will participate in icebreaker activities, review the orientation schedule, and begin building connections with others in their orientation group.
3:30-5 p.m.Campus Tour Students will explore the Norwich campus with their orientation group, led by their orientation leader. This walking tour will help students get familiar with key locations and resources across campus.
4 p.m.Norwich and Military TraditionsJackman Hall Front StepsDiscover the traditions and courtesies that define the experience of attending the nation’s oldest private senior military college.
5-6 p.m.DinnerWise Campus CenterDinner with your orientation group.
6-7 p.m.Bonfire BashDalrymple Hall GreenEnjoy lawn games and make s’mores.

Thursday, Aug. 27

TimeActivity / SessionLocationDescription
8-8:30 a.m.BreakfastWise Campus CenterBreakfast with your orientation group.
9 a.m.-4 p.m.Academic Day Orientation leaders will assist in bringing students to their first session based on your major and your academic college.
5-6 p.m.DinnerWise Campus CenterDinner with your orientation group.

Friday, Aug. 28

TimeActivity / SessionLocationDescription
8-8:50 a.m.BreakfastWise Campus CenterBreakfast with your orientation group.
9-9:30 a.m.Institutional Technology Services (ITS)Mack AuditoriumAfter completing the ITS module, you will navigate the SSO system, address device connectivity, access labs and printing, get an introduction to Brightspace (LMS), and learn about student support resources.
9:35-10:25 a.m.Academic Advising and RegistrationMack AuditoriumThe academic advising coordinator and registrar will cover accessing academic records, key policies, and resources, while students can review schedules, understand first-week advising expectations, and ask questions.
10:30-11 a.m.Center for Academic Success And Achievement (CASA)Mack AuditoriumExplore CASA’s programs and resources to build on strengths, excel in your major, and achieve academic goals.
11-11:45 a.m.Title IX & DiscriminationMack AuditoriumLearn how to report sexual and gender-based misconduct, access resources and support, explore resolution options, and promote community safety.
11:45 a.m.-noonPublic SafetyMack AuditoriumGet a chance to speak with the public safety officers who patrol the campus every day and night.
Noon-12:55 p.m.Lunch and lawn gamesWise Campus Center Green-
1-1:25 p.m.Counseling and Wellness Center (CWC)Mack AuditoriumExplore CWC services, how to schedule appointments or refer others, common counseling reasons, and get accurate information about what seeking support could mean for a future career in government.
1:30-1:55 p.m.Academic IntegrityMack AuditoriumAn introduction to the Honor Code and an overview of the academic integrity process, with time for questions.
2-2:25 p.m.Center for Career ReadinessMack AuditoriumDiscover how to make the most of on-campus opportunities, including academic internships, career exploration resources, and key career events to look out for throughout the semester.
2:30-3 p.m.Student Activities and ClubsMack AuditoriumExplore the Engage and NU Serves platforms and how to get involved outside the classroom through student clubs, leadership and volunteer opportunities, service-learning, and activities and recreation on and off campus.
3:10-3:35 p.m.RecreationMack AuditoriumLearn about outdoor recreation and available fitness opportunities. This session will introduce students to the Shaw Outdoor Center's programs, equipment rentals, trips, fitness facilities, and wellness resources.
3:40-4:10 p.m.NU Student Rules & RegulationsMack AuditoriumLearn about Class 1 violations and related disciplinary actions, and ask questions about the NUSRR.
4:15-4:45 p.m.Oath Ceremony RehearsalWhite Chapel / Upper Parade GroundUnderstand what is expected of you during the Oath Ceremony and participate in a ceremony walk-through.
5-7 p.m.Dinner / Student SocialPlumley ArmoryTaco bar dinner with build-your-own stuffies, trivia, and giveaways.

Saturday, Aug. 29

TimeActivity / SessionLocationDescription
9:30-10:30 a.m.BreakfastWise Campus CenterBreakfast with your orientation group.
10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.Free Time-Use this time to explore Norwich’s campus, Northfield, Paine Mountain, and the Dog River.
5-6 p.m.DinnerWise Campus CenterDinner with your orientation group.
7-9 p.m.Engagement FairPlumley ArmoryEngage with a wide range of student clubs, departments, campus resources, and community groups. Each student will receive an activity sheet upon arrival, visit each table to learn more and collect a mark. Submit your completed sheet to be entered in a raffle for exciting prizes!

Sunday, Aug. 30

TimeActivity / SessionLocationDescription
9:30-10:30 a.m.BreakfastWise Campus CenterBreakfast with your orientation group.
12:30-1:30 p.m.Assemble for Oath CeremonyWhite Chapel-
1:30-2:30 p.m.Oath CeremonyUpper Parade GroundAll new students will gather on the Upper Parade Ground to formally pledge their commitment to the Norwich Honor Code, adherence to the University’s Rules and Regulations, commitment to fostering the NU Spirit, and support of the traditions that define Norwich University.
Business attire is required.
5-6 p.m.DinnerWise Campus CenterDinner with your orientation group.
8-9 p.m.Residence Life Mandatory Floor MeetingResidence HallsMandatory for all residential civilians. Meet with your resident advisor to go over common rules and policies within the residence halls.

Monday, Aug. 31

Good luck on your first day of classes!

Wednesday, Sept. 2

TimeActivity / SessionLocationDescription
2:30-4 p.m.Academic ConvocationShapiro FieldhouseThis mandatory ceremony marks the formal opening of the 2026–2027 academic year at Norwich University. All members of the Norwich community are required to attend. We will come together to officially launch the new academic year with tradition and purpose.
Business attire is required.

Required New Rook Actions & Important Resources

Campus Information & Resources

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GETTING TO CAMPUS

Whether you are checking out the University for the first time, visiting your student, or reuniting with your classmates, you can travel to beautiful Vermont via planes, trains or automobiles with plenty of local accommodations to choose from.

View Area Accommodations
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NEW FAMILIES

Acceptance to Norwich University today is the first step to becoming the leaders of tomorrow. We are dedicated to developing students who aspire to lead and serve with integrity and confidence. Our students are driven to succeed and are resilient enough to withstand challenges during their time here, all while being committed to academic growth and making positive contributions in their communities.

View Information for New Families
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LIFE at NORWICH

Here, you will go beyond to engage your body and stretch your mind, leveraging the landscape and Norwich student resources. Whether you are learning, training, or playing, visit the Shaw Outdoor Center for free access to outdoor recreational equipment and trails for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, trail running, and more.

Learn more about Campus Life
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PUBLIC SAFETY

The Norwich University Department of Public Safety provides a 24-hour physical security presence, 365 days a year. As the face of Norwich University, the Department of Public Safety has the objective to be helpful and responsive, and serve as an important community resource.

View the Department of Public Safety
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STUDENT PARKING

Freshman are not allowed to have vehicles on campus. In special situations, when freshmen need a vehicle on campus, they will need to get the approval of the Dean of Students or Commandant of Cadets before applying for a permit and will only be issued one if permits are available.

Register for Student Parking
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STUDENT SUPPORT

Academic success is a cornerstone of our mission. Norwich's resources and services along with their staff are committed to enhancing the student learning experiences. From peer tutoring and study groups to academic advising and specialized research assistance, our goal is to facilitate a strong foundation for intellectual growth and achievement.

View Student Resources & Services