New Student Orientation at Otterbein University
Spring Orientation 2027
Students attending Otterbein in the Spring Semester of 2027, either as transfer students or first-time freshman, will need to attend Orientation on Tuesday, January 12, 2027 from 9am-1:00pm.
To register for this mandatory date, please click the link below. If you have any questions, please direct them to orienation@otterbein.edu.
For more information, contact the Student Success and Career Development (614-823-1624, orientation@otterbein.edu).
New Student Checklist
We are so glad you decided to attend Otterbein. Please feel free to use our checklist to help you take steps toward enrolling this fall.
- Orientation Registration
- Register for the New Student Registration Advising Appointment
- Final Transcript(s)
Visit your personal VIP page to see an interactive version of this list!
Course Registration & Placement Exams
As a new student, you must complete a New Student Registration Advising Appointment. Watch your Otterbein email for a link to schedule your appointment. The registration process starts when you schedule this appointment. Your responses to the questions included for the appointment will help us create your preliminary first term schedule. During the appointment you will discuss the preliminary schedule and make any necessary adjustments for your major.
Placement Exams
The most up-to-date information about placement exams is in your Otterbinder, but you can also follow the links below for more information:
- Math Placement with Grid
Note: If you are accepted under our new ACT/SAT optional admission standard, we will be in touch with you on your math placement process. - Modern Languages Placement
Common Book Assignment
Otterbein’s Common Book Program creates a shared experience for the campus community, but especially for incoming students. All new students will receive a copy of the 2026 Common Book for free. You can pick it up on orientation day or once classes start from Student Success and Career Development in 027 Towers Hall.
The 2026–2027 Common Book, My Seven Black Fathers by Will Jawando, is the 31st selection in our program’s history. Mr. Jawando will visit campus on October 6–7 to discuss the book and engage with the campus community.
After you read the book, complete the Common Book assignment and be ready to turn it in to your FYS class.
