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New Graduate Student Orientation

Graduate Student Orientation provides valuable information about university resources, programs and events on campus, as well as graduate academic policy. Orientation is scheduled prior to the beginning of each semester.

Shortly after the start of the semester, we will make the PowerPoint slides from the orientation sessions available to attendees.

Orientation is not mandatory, but it is recommended. Feel free to register for either the virtual or in-person orientation, whichever works best for you.

New online students should also go to the: Getting Started With Your Online Course(s) webpage for additional information regarding their online classes.

Note: You will not be able to log into your online courses until the first day of the semester.

Virtual New Graduate Student Orientation

  • Date: Tuesday, August 19th, 2025 from 5-7 p.m.
  • Location: Virtual
  • Registration link TBD
  • While the new graduate student orientation is not mandatory, all newly admitted students will learn about University policies and resources, which will be helpful throughout your academic career.

On-Campus New Graduate Student Orientation

The Graduate Student Services Office is excited to welcome you to UMass Lowell! This in-person Orientation will include sessions for academic and on-campus resources, as well as panel discussions. We look forward to preparing and guiding you through what your on-campus experience will look like both inside and outside the classroom!

While the new graduate student orientation is not mandatory, all newly admitted students will learn about University policies and resources, which will be helpful throughout your academic career.


Mandatory Teaching Assistant and Research Assistant Orientation and Training

This Orientation is a two-day training offered once a year in August. 

  • Monday, August 25, 2025 and Tuesday, August 26, 2025 (specific times TBD)
  • Location: Alumni Hall (84 University Avenue, Lowell, MA)
  • Registration link and more information TBD
  • Parking: Riverside Lot A/B

While Teaching Assistant (TA) and Research Assistant (RA) duties vary across colleges & departments, they all demand considerable skill and knowledge. These duties can include grading, consulting with students during office hours, leading discussion or tutoring sessions, teaching/managing a lab, or giving lectures.

Updated 4/1/25