Graduate students are a vital part of our academic community. Their success and engagement at Ball State are among our highest priorities — and it all starts before enrolling in classes or arriving on campus.
To help new students transition to graduate student life at Ball State, the Graduate School puts together orientation resources to supplement your academic department’s orientation. We also have resources intended for both our online and on-campus students.
If you have any questions, please contact the Graduate School.
Graduate Student Orientation Events
New Student In-Person Orientation (with Zoom option for Online students)
Join the Graduate School for its annual orientation event in the Student Center Cardinal Halls (2nd Floor), Thursday, August 20, 2026, 2-4 pm!
During orientation you will meet the Graduate School’s staff, network with other graduate students at our reception that includes lots of free food, learn about key resources and policies for graduate students, and connect with more than 20 local and campus organizations including Open Door Health Services, Minnetrista, Muncie OUTreach, the Writing Center, the Black Graduate Student Association, and many, many more!
The Graduate School will also raffle off TONS of free swag including coffee mugs, water bottles, blankets, planners, and t-shirts.
On-Campus Students: REGISTER HERE.
Online Students: REGISTER HERE.
Extended Orientation Events
Online Student Virtual Meet & Greet Session #1
Join for a speed networking style session where you will virtually meet other graduate students in 5-minute increments
Register here
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Online Student Virtual Meet & Greet Session #2
Join for a speed networking style session where you will virtually meet other graduate students in 5-minute increments
Register here
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Navigating Stellic and Your Degree Plan: Extended Orientation Session #1
Learn about Ball State University’s new degree audit system to help you stay on track of your course plan
Register here
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Research Integrity, IRB, & Aspire Funding: Extended Orientation Session #2
Learn about the resources available to you as a graduate student conducting research
Register here
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Wellness & Community Resources: Extended Orientation Session #3
Learn from administrators across campus about the wonderful wellness resources available to you during your journey at Ball State.
Register here
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Wednesday, August 26, 1-2 pm
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Ethical Use of Generative AI: Extended Orientation Session #4
Learn key considerations for use of generative AI and how to maintain academic integrity as a graduate student.
Register here
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Thursday, August 27, 12-1 pm
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Writing Skills for Grads: Extended Orientation Session #5
Join for a conversation about writing resources, finding your voice as a writer, and managing your time as a graduate student.
Register here
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Bring your family, friends, and join for a free meal and time to meet fellow graduate students.
Register here
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Additional Orientation for International Students
The University’s International Student Services office offers a separate, mandatory orientation for international students. International students are also invited to participate in the Pre-arrival orientation and attend the orientation reception and resource fair. Learn more about orientation for international students.