At UNH, we believe parents and families are an important part of our Wildcat community. We understand that starting college is a big transition—not just for students, but for their support systems back home. Parent & Family Orientation is a great opportunity to learn more about the student experience, connect with UNH resources, and discover how you can support your student throughout their journey.
Parent & Family Orientation
What to expect
Parent & Family Orientation is designed to help you feel informed, confident, and connected as your student begins their journey at UNH. While your student attends their own Orientation program, you'll participate in a separate—but concurrent—schedule tailored specifically for families and supporters.
- Through presentations, panels, and informal conversations, you’ll learn about:
- Supporting your student’s academic and personal success
- Understanding financial aid, billing, and student accounts
- Navigating health and wellness services on campus
- Campus dining, housing, and residential life
- Resources for accessibility, mental health, and safety
- Getting involved and building community at UNH
- What to expect in the first year—and how to be a supportive partner in your student’s transition
You’ll also have the opportunity to explore campus, connect with other Wildcat families, and cheer on your student during one of UNH’s favorite traditions!
Registering for Parent & Family Orientation
Students can register up to two guests for Parent & Family Orientation when they complete their New Student Orientation registration. This is done through the Admissions Portal, and detailed instructions have been emailed to your student. You can also find step-by-step instructions here.
Please note:
- Students are only required to attend one Orientation session.
- Parent & Family Orientation is optional but highly encouraged—it's a great way to feel connected and prepared for the year ahead.
Have a larger Wildcat family?
We understand that some families may wish to bring more than two guests. If that's the case, please email us and we'll do our best to accommodate your group.
Schedule at a Glance
DAY ONE
- Check-In | 5-6:30 p.m.- Get settled and pick up materials for the program.
- Welcome Reception | Early evening- An optional ($20/person) reception where you can mingle with other families over light refreshments. Scroll down for further details
DAY TWO
- Morning Welcome | 9 a.m.- Start the day with a warm welcome from university leadership.
- Informational Sessions- Learn about Student Life resources, financial services, and Dining Services.
- Academic College Breakouts- Meet with staff and advisors from your student’s academic college to gain insight into their academic path.
- Student Panel- Hear directly from current students about life at UNH.
- Campus Drop-Ins- Explore campus and chat one-on-one with key offices like Health & Wellness, Center for Academic Resources, Student Accessibility Services, and more!
- Become the Roar- Wrap up the day by cheering on your student as they officially kick off their Wildcat experience.
Additional Options for Parent & Family Orientation Guests
Families joining us for the two-day First-Year Orientation program have the opportunity to enhance their visit with optional add-ons, including a welcome reception and on-campus overnight accommodations.
- Add-on registration will open after May 1.
Details and the link to purchase these options will emailed to guests registered for Parent & Family Orientation once it becomes available. Please note: These options are for guests only. Students’ accommodations and meals are included in their Orientation experience at no additional cost.
Parent & Family Welcome Reception
Join UNH faculty and staff for a special evening reception featuring a welcome from university leadership, a delicious spread of hors d'œuvres prepared by UNH’s award-winning Hospitality team, and a cash bar.
This is a guest-only event—students will be engaged in separate programming during this time.
Cost: $20.00 per person
Overnight On-Campus Accommodations
Available only for families attending a two-day First-Year Orientation session
If you’re planning to stay overnight during Orientation, guests have the option to reserve a one-night stay in Adams Tower West, one of our air-conditioned campus residence halls. It’s a convenient and affordable way to experience life on campus while staying close to your student.
Room Features:
- Single beds with bedding provided
- Private in-room bathroom
- Air-conditioned for your comfort
Occupancy & Pricing:
- Single Occupancy: $40.50 per person
(One guest per room) - Double Occupancy: $32.50 per person
(Two registered guests sharing a room)
A UNH Family speaks with Lucy Gilson, Dean of Paul College, at the Parent & Family Reception
