NSO CONFIRMATION INFORMATION
WELCOME TO TEXAS STATE!
What to Expect
While you're at NSO, we'll connect you to some of the great people, places, and resources on campus. NSO is the first of several special programs at Texas State to help you familiarize yourself with the university and become a Bobcat, ensuring you'll have the support you need to be successful both in and out of the classroom.
We're prepared to make your time at Texas State the best of your life!
PREPARE FOR NSO
Students are required to stay overnight on campus for 2-day NSO sessions. You can prepare by bringing and doing the following:
Things to Bring
- State or federally issued photo ID
- Final high school and/or community college transcripts
- Light jacket or sweater
- Refillable water bottle
- Phone charger
- Towel and toiletries (including hand soap)
- Shower shoes or flip-flops
Things to Do
IT'S A GREAT DAY TO BE A BOBCAT!
NSO FAQs
Do I have to complete NSO?
Everyone who is admitted to Texas State, or readmitted after a time away from Texas State, is required to complete New Student Orientation (NSO).
WHY IS NSO REQUIRED?
Research indicates students who complete orientation have higher rates of success in college than those who don't. NSO provides vital information you need to start off right at Texas State. You'll learn about campus resources and traditions, meet new and current students, and have fun, too!
WILL I BE ADVISED DURING NSO?
Students will not participate in a traditional advising experience at NSO. Rather, students will complete their New Bobcat Enrollment Profile at least 10 calendar days in advance of attending NSO to provide information on their academic career up to that point. First-Year Advising staff members will design a course plan for students based upon that information and students will register for those courses while attending NSO during the second day of the program.
ARE FAMILY AND GUESTS REQUIRED TO ATTEND?
NSO is not a requirement for family and guests. However, we highly encourage them to attend. We have programming that is specific to family and guests.
WHERE DO I PARK?
Parking is available on campus for all students and their guests while attending NSO, but all vehicles on campus must be registered with Parking Services for a parking permit. Instructions for registering your vehicle for a temporary parking permit are included in a confirmation email sent to you at the email address provided on your application for admission shortly before your session.
WHAT IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
We're happy to answer them! Visit our Help Page to find the best ways to contact us. Our office hours are weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Central).
Bringing Family or Guests
We offer optional programming for families and guests as a part of NSO, but they must be signed up to participate. Be sure to sign them up ahead of time!
ACCOMMODATIONS
Overnight accommodations are provided for students attending one of the 2-day NSO sessions. Families and guests must arrange for separate accommodations, but optional on-campus accommodations are available.
Family Accommodations
Your family is welcome to sample campus life by staying overnight in a designated Texas State residence hall. Accommodations are limited to the night of your NSO session.
Overnight accommodations are not included in the NSO guest fee, but can be reserved through the Department of Housing and Residential Life for an additional charge per guest.
SAN JACINTO HALL
217 W. Woods Street
San Marcos, Texas 78666
Limited family accommodations will be available in San Jacinto Hall, a suite-style residence hall. If you have questions, please contact the Department of Housing and Residential Life.
Family Check-In
Check-in for families and guests staying on campus overnight will start at 4 p.m. on Day 1 of your NSO session in San Jacinto Hall.
WHAT FAMILIES NEED TO BRING TO STAY ON CAMPUS
Each family member staying overnight on campus should bring:
- A set of sheets (Twin XL)
- Blanket
- Pillow
- Shower shoes or flip-flops
- Bath towel
- Toiletries
FAMILY AND GUEST CHECK-OUT
Checkout will be from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Day 2 of your NSO session.
STUDENTS AND GUESTS WITH DISABILITIES
If you require accommodations due to a disability in order to participate, please complete the “Request Accommodations” form at least 72 hours in advance of your NSO date.
TESTING INFORMATION
TEXAS SUCCESS INITIATIVE (TSI) PROGRAM
The Texas Success Initiative Program, mandated by the state, aims to assess student readiness for college-level courses in math, reading, and writing. The program provides guidance for developmental coursework to those needing to improve basic academic skills.
Some students may be exempt from assessment testing based on SAT, ACT, or STAAR scores. Students who are not exempt will need to complete one or more sections of the TSI Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2). The TSIA2 is offered at testing centers located on community college and university campuses across the state. Failure to submit TSI test scores will affect a student's class registration process at NSO. Refer to our website for more information about course exemptions, taking the TSIA exam, and guidance on submitting test scores: Getting Started with TSI.
Students whose TSIA2 scores do not meet the minimum requirements for exemption may retake the TSIA2 and attempt to reach the minimum required score(s). If a student does not pass the TSIA2 exam, they will be registered for the appropriate developmental courses. Developmental courses prepare students academically for college-level coursework and do not count toward a degree plan. It is recommended that students prepare for this exam by utilizing free study modules: Math and ELAR Study Modules