Families Prepare for Upcoming UW Orientation and Key Dates

As the new academic year approaches, the University of Washington (UW) is providing families with essential information regarding key dates and events. These details will help families plan for their students’ transition to university life, ensuring a smooth start to the academic experience.

Orientation and Advising Information

The Advising and Orientation (A&O) program is a prerequisite for students to register for classes. A&O sessions are scheduled throughout the summer and early autumn. They consist of a virtual component followed by an on-campus experience. Students can sign up through fyp.uw.edu, after which they will receive emails containing important dates and instructions.

Move-in for residence halls is typically conducted a few days before classes commence in late September. Some students, such as those in the marching band, may have the option for early move-in. For specific details and associated fees, students should contact Housing & Food Services.

Welcome Events and Academic Milestones

Dawg Daze, a week of welcome events for new students, begins around the time of move-in. While most activities are designed for students, there are family-friendly sessions available. Families can find a comprehensive list of academic milestones, tuition due dates, and university holidays on the Dawg Dates & Deadlines calendar, accessible via the Parents & Families website. This calendar details crucial information for each quarter, including class start dates, tuition deadlines, and application timelines.

The university’s annual family celebration, UW Family Weekend, is set for October 24–25, 2025. During this event, families can participate in various campus activities on Friday and attend a football game alongside a family tailgate on Saturday. Ticket sales for the event will open on September 15, with invitations sent through the Parent Insider newsletter.

Tuition billing cycles are also important for families to track. Bills are available in MyUW approximately two weeks before classes begin. Scholarships and financial aid are typically disbursed the Thursday before classes start, with any excess funds allocated directly to the student. Tuition bills are due on the third Friday of the quarter and detail separate charges for tuition and housing.

For further information, families can refer to the official UW pages that provide additional resources and guidance:

– Forms, Releases & Accounts
– Dawg Dates & Deadlines
– Move-In & Out Resources
– Parent & Family Guide
– UW Family Move-In Week
– UW Family Weekend

As students embark on their unique journeys at UW, families are encouraged to support them by fostering exploration and encouraging them to seek assistance when needed. The university emphasizes that both academic success and personal wellbeing are paramount, and the involvement of family members can significantly impact students’ experiences.