Welcome to Wise!

Whether you are a first-time freshman, transfer or readmitted student returning to UVA Wise, the Office of Admissions & New Student Orientation will assist you as you begin your journey to becoming a Highland Cavalier. You will learn more about campus resources, gaining knowledge of academic expectations and requirements and register for your first UVA Wise classes with your faculty advisor. 

Throughout the Orientation process, students are introduced to UVA Wise systems, processes and expectations. As you complete the steps, you will begin to connect the dots with all of the items you need to be a successful Cav! 

Pre-Orientation Cav Module (Online, On-Your-Own)

Beginning in early April (for fall start)/mid-October (for spring start), students who have accepted their offer of admission will receive access to the online Becoming a Cav Module in their applicant portal. The Cav Module must be completed prior to signing up for a required in-person Orientation session and online advising appointment.

Orientation (In-Person, by Session)

Upon completing the Cav Module, students will sign up for Orientation. During Orientation, students and guests will learn more about UVA Wise and campus resources alongside fellow new Cavs and family. Students will also meet with their academic advisor in a group session to receive updates and prepare for the semester. All new students are required to sign up for Orientation to receive access to schedule their online advising appointment.

Spring 2026 Date: January 12 (in-person)

NOTE: Orientation Signups close when a session reaches capacity or one week before each session date.

Advising & Registration (Online, by Appointment)

Students who have completed the Cav Module and signed up for Orientation will receive information to their UVA Wise email about completing the Wise Orientation Welcome (WOW) course to sign up for an online advising appointment with their academic advisor. During this 1-on-1 Zoom appointment (no software required; just use provided link on your phone/table/computer), students will meet with their academic advisor to discuss their program of study, program requirements and register for classes. Be sure to set a reminder for the meeting so you can be present & engaged!

Please remember that the advising appointment is only for students; parents/family are encouraged to assist in their student's review of information from the Cav Module to help students with preparing for their appointment.