Suffolk University - Transfer Orientation FAQs

1. Updated Credit Evaluation Form – EXTREMELY IMPORTANT
2. A photo I.D. (state ID, license or Passport)
3. 50% of your fall tuition balance will be due PRIOR to course registration (if you have not already made this payment in accordance with the August 1st billing due date).
4. Pen and Pencil
5. Comfortable shoes
6. *Health Information, and most importantly
7. A lot of questions and a lot of energy!

*Health Information – If you have not already turned in your complete immunization records, please bring these with you to orientation. For more information about the immunization requirements, please visit www.suffolk.edu/offices/2624.html. You should also either enroll in or waive the university health insurance. Bring your health insurance card (your personal policy or your parent’s), and visit www.suffolk.edu/offices/2626.html for more information.

Where and when do I report for my Orientation?

For transfer students only participating in the one-day program, check-in for Transfermation is in the Donahue Café located on the basement level of 41 Temple Street at 8:15am on Wednesday, August 27, 2008. Directions can be found at www.suffolk.edu/directions.html. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide parking; please plan accordingly. Information about parking garages in the area can be found by clicking here.

How do I register for this program?

To register for the Transfermation program, click on "Registration Form" to the left, and complete the form for TRANSFER STUDENTS.

What if I can’t attend this date?

Transfermation is the sole remaining opportunity for new transfer students to register for classes and meet with an advisor prior to the beginning of classes on Wednesday, September 3, 2008. If there is a non-negotiable conflict with this date, please e-mail orientation@suffolk.edu.

Is there an orientation program for parents and family members?

Since transfer students are generally more independent, there is no structured program for parents and family members, but they are welcome to contact the Dean of Students Office for information and resources for parents and families of Suffolk students. A Handbook for Families will be mailed to all new families to the Suffolk community in September.

Do I have to pay to participate in Orientation?

No payment is required at this time. The one time $50 Transfer Student Fee that covers all your costs for Transfermation will be included in your first bill.

Will I meet with an advisor and have my class schedule completed during orientation?

Yes, you will go home with your class schedule at the end of the program after meeting with an academic advisor.

Do I need to bring money to pay for my classes?

50% of your fall tuition balance is due prior to registration for classes. You may have received a bill in the mail and been required to make this payment by August 1, 2008. If you made your payment in accordance with this schedule no payment will be due at orientation. If you paid your deposit after July 1 or you did not adhere to the August 1 deadline, you will be required to pay at least 50% of your fall tuition balance at registration. Tuition rates and payment options will be mailed under a separate cover. If you have applied for financial aid and have not received an award letter, you should contact the Office of Financial Aid at (617) 573-8470 to inquire on your status.

Can I bring a guest to the Orientation program, or overnight?

Since we expect over 200 incoming transfer students, our capacity does not permit us to have guests during the Transfermation program.

Will there be overnight accommodations provided if we are participating in the Boston Adventures Early Arrival Program?

Unfortunately, because of the timing of this program just prior to the start of the academic year, we are unable to provide housing for transfer students participating in the August program.

How can I declare or change my major?

Prior to registering for classes, there will be an opportunity to declare or change your major if you would like. However, you should discuss this with an academic advisor. A session with an advisor is scheduled before your course registration.

Why do I have to take placement exams?

English and Math are basic parts of your college education. Placing you in the right course helps to assure that you will have a positive growth experience instead of a frustrating struggle or a boring revisit to material you have already mastered. Our placement exams are designed to provide you and your advisor with the best options for you to satisfy these important degree requirements.

Does everyone have to take the writing assessment?

All students who are NOT transferring in credit for English 101 or higher must take the writing assessment. (If you are transferring in credit for English 101, you MUST bring your transfer credit evaluation to orientation as evidence of this exemption.) In addition, all conditionally admitted students must take the writing assessment.

Does everyone have to take the math placement exams?

An incoming student who will be taking a math course at Suffolk must take the placement exam, except if he or she already has credit at Suffolk for the prerequisite course. (If you are transferring in credit for Math 130 or higher, you MUST bring your transfer credit evaluation to orientation as evidence of this exemption.) All conditionally admitted students must take the math placement exam. If you have any questions about whether or not you should take the placement exam, please send email to us at math-support@mcs.suffolk.edu. There will also be several representatives from the Mathematics & Computer Science Department during the advising portion of Orientation.

Which orientation program is for international students?

International students who use the F-1 or J-1 visa to attend Suffolk participate in two orientation programs. Students must attend International Student Orientation on Friday, August 22, 2008. This session offers information about the student visa, obtaining work authorization, and adjusting to U.S. culture. This session is required for all new students. Following the International program, students then complete the University wide program on Wednesday, August 27, 2008. For additional information, write to oia@suffolk.edu.