Frequently Asked Questions

As a new student, there's a lot of information you need to know. Check out these frequently asked questions below. Don't see what you're looking for? Reach out to the Vice President for Student Affairs office and we'll be happy to help!

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Moving to Campus

• What should I bring when I move to campus?

  Great question! Our move-in guide provides a complete list of what to bring, what we provide and what to leave at home.

• When are move-in dates for 2023?
  You can find all the important dates, including move-in, on our website.
• What appliances are and are not allowed in on-campus housing?

  Visit Prohibited Items and Appliances for more information about what you can have on campus.

• How do I choose a room?

  Explore the Hall Finder for undergraduates and singles. Once you find your hall, you can see floor layouts and more.

• What do the layout of the rooms on campus look like?

  Students can view their rooms by taking our virtual tour.

• What are some tips for a successful move-in day?

  These tips for move in will help you prepare for your moving process.

• How do I change roommates?

  To apply for a room change, students must make a request in their Roompact portal.  Once the student has completed the form and submitted it to Housing and Residential Life, this process will be evaluated with an outcome to be provided to the student within 2 weeks of their request application.

   

  The request will be reviewed and a transfer acceptance email will be sent out on the first Wednesday of each month, provided that the room type that has been requested is available to offer. The transfer process begins the first Wednesday after the labor day holiday (September).

   

  If the students application is granted, the new room will be assigned and normal move-in policies and normal check-in/out policies will apply. The student will have three days to accept the transfer and then 48 hours to complete the move.

• More FAQs About Move-In

  We have a page dedicated to just move-in information.

 

Navigating Campus

• Where can I park?

  Check out the campus parking map.

• Do I have to buy a parking pass?

  Yes, you will need to purchase a parking permit if you plan to park on campus. Permits go on sale on August 1 of each year. You can purchase your permit here.

• How do I take the bus?

  You can find the bus routes and FAQs about transit here.

 

Dining

• Where are all the dining locations at on campus?

  No matter where you are on campus, you’re never too far from one of our dining locations! Check out a full list of dining locations, or see our location map.

• Do I have to get a meal plan?

  Meal plans are required for freshmen living on campus, but they are available to everyone.

• How do I sign up for a meal plan?

  You can choose your meal plan when you sign up for housing. It is part of the same portal.

• Can I get a part-time job with dining?

  Absolutely! University Dining Services is always hiring. Apply here!

• Can I use my meal plan off campus?

  You can spend your meal plan anywhere you can buy food or drink on campus, excluding vending machines. Your meal plan is also valid at the athletic venues to purchase non-alcoholic concessions.

• I’m joining Greek Life – can I get out of my meal plan?

  If you join Greek Life and are living in-house for the fall semester, you may cancel your meal plan contract. If you’re moving in-house for the spring, you may cancel your meal plan contract for a fee.

• How many meals do I get per week?

  With our flexible meal plans, there are no weekly minimums or maximums. All of our concepts are a la carte, meaning you can spend as much or as little as you want, whenever you want.

• Can I add more money to my meal plan if I run out?

  Of course! You can add increments of $100 at any time. You can also bump up an entire meal plan level if needed. Call or email the meal plan office to make any changes to your meal plan.

• What happens at the end of the semester if I do not use all of my meal plan?

  Each contracted meal plan has a "maximum rollover" amount. This is the maximum amount that will transfer to the next semester as long as you maintain a valid meal plan contract. Any remaining funds exceeding the maximum rollover amount will be forfeited. See the meal plan rates above to find the maximum rollover for your meal plan level.

 

Student Life

• Are events on campus free?

  A lot of them are! Most events sponsored by student organizations are free for students to attend because your student fees help pay for them. Sometimes organizations will charge attendance as a fundraiser or there are additional expenses required for an activity, but this should always be marketed with the event details. You can find upcoming events by visiting CampusLink and the OSU calendar.

• Do I have to be a member of the student organization to attend their events?

  Most often, student organizations WANT you to attend their events! If it were not open to all students, the sponsoring entity would send out the event details internally or would specify this in the marketing. If you have found information about an event you are interested in, consider that your invitation to attend!

• Is it free to use the Colvin Recreation Center?

  YES! All current students have free access to the Colvin Recreation Center and the Seretean Wellness Center. Learn more about fitness classes, Outdoor Adventure events, intramural sports, the outdoor pool and more!

• If I join a fraternity or sorority with a house, am I required to live in the chapter facility?

  Fraternity and Sorority Housing is considered approved housing for campus which means they may live in the chapter house to satisfy the OSU residency requirement. However, only 30 organizations (only within Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Council) of 47 fraternities and sororities own houses within the Greek Neighborhood. Typically, fraternity new members live in the chapter house beginning their freshmen through sophomore year or more. Sorority members typically live in the chapter house beginning their second semester or beginning of their sophomore year. 

• I’m interested in joining a fraternity or sorority but unsure how to begin the process. Do I sign up?

  Each of our governing Councils have differing processes to join which can be found here. Both Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Council have online recruitment registration processes while there is not a registration required for Multicultural Greek Council or National Pan-Hellenic Council Convocation (September 6 and September 12). 

• I am participating in Panhellenic Recruitment. Do I need to submit recommendation letters? 

  No, recommendation letters are not required to participate in Panhellenic sorority recruitment. However, if you choose to do so, please contact the national organization to determine how these letters should be submitted.

• Can I volunteer in the community?

  Yes, you can find volunteer opportunities by joining the Student Volunteer Center. You can also earn recognition for your volunteer service including an honor cord to wear at graduation.  

• How can I get involved on campus?

  Seek out membership in organizations within your living group, your intended major, or a special interest organization. Watch for fliers or social media posts, or contact the officers or advisors of groups you want to join.

• What do I do if I’m having a hard time paying for food or other basic needs?

  Pete’s Pantry, in the basement of the Student Union, provides access to free, fresh and healthy food to all members of the OSU community – all you need is your OSU ID. Hours are Tuesdays 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. - 6p.m., and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

• I'm nervous about talking to new people or asking about joining their club. Ho do I do it?

  Most people get nervous when they approach new people. Practice some basic social interactions at home can help you feel more comfortable. Practice saying "Hi, I'm _____, how are you? Can you tell me about your organization?" Listen to what they tell you and then ask a follow-up question about one or two things they said, or simply ask when and where their meetings are. Thank them and congratulate yourself on the new connection you just made! Find a community for you by visiting campuslink.okstate.edu to view all 500+ organizations.

• How can I get a season ticket pass for athletic events?

  Just go here and learn all about season ticket packages for students.

• Do I need a ticket to get into football games?

  Yes, you’ll need a ticket to get into football games, but you do not need a ticket to tailgate.

 

Working on Campus

• How do I find a part-time job? 

  Part-time jobs (both on and off campus) are a great way to meet new people and earn some extra dollars! Whether you want to work 5 hours a week or 20, Career Services can help you find a job using our OSU Hire System accessible at hireosugrads.com.

• What is Federal Work Study? 

  A Federal Work Study position is a specific type of job that is available to eligible students with a financial need. Your Student Aid Report will tell you if you qualify for FWS. Career Services can help you find the position. View and apply for jobs or make an appointment with our staff at hireosugrads.com

 

Student Support & Conduct

• How can Student Support and Conduct help me?

  Student Support and Conduct serves students experiencing challenges through a holistic approach of providing support services, administering the student conduct process, and addressing and preventing sexual violence. We offer case management services, address student misconduct, and provide sexual violence prevention and response.

• What behavior expectations do I need to follow?

  Oklahoma State University students should aspire, follow and promote: integrity, community, social justice, respect, and responsibility. Students' rights and responsibilities are outlined in the Student Code of Conduct. 

• What is 1 is 2 Many?

  1 is 2 Many is OSU’s prevention program. The message is clear that one victim is too many and OSU does not condone any form of sexual violence in our cowboy community. Thus, the 1 is 2 Many program has become pervasive throughout campus as a part of who we are here at OSU.

• What is a case manager?

  Case Management is a great resource to turn to if you have no idea where else to go. No matter how difficult or unique your situation and no matter where you are, we are here to help! We can work with you to answer questions, discuss support options, connect you to resources, help identify the best path forward, and most importantly support your OSU experience. By providing resources, linkage, education, and expertise, we empower students to break down barriers, clarify needs and navigate complex processes to get back on track to reach their goals.

• How do I complete my required online training?

  At Oklahoma State University, we pride ourselves on providing an enlightening college experience, which demands a safe and healthy student environment. To that end, all new students are required to complete our New Student Online Training, online sexual violence prevention, mental health awareness, and cyber security program. Complete your online training within the first 3 weeks of school.

• What if I am concerned about a friend?

  Are you concerned about the well-being or safety of a student? Have you observed student behaviors that caused concern? If you see something, say something. The vigilance of all community members is critical in keeping the campus safe. We are unable to mitigate a situation until we are aware of it. The university expects all members of our community to act quickly and responsibly if they hear or see something that is out of the ordinary. It is important to report any concerns, even if they seem minor. Do not assume someone else will call. Share concerns through a Care Report.

 

Health & Counseling Services

• What immunizations are required for OSU students?

  Oklahoma state law requires that all new students attending Oklahoma colleges and universities for the first time provide proof of immunization for Hepatitis B and Measles, Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccines. This information can be submitted via your patient portal on the UHS website.

• What health services does OSU offer?

  OSU University Health Services provides services for your acute-care needs. Our clinic is available by appointment only and staffed by physicians, physician associates, licensed nurses, and other health professionals. We also have an allergy/immunotherapy clinic, laboratory/radiology department, and an on-site and drive-thru pharmacy on the OSU campus.

• What insurance plans do you take?
  • Aetna
  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield
  • Cigna
  • United Healthcare
  • Health Choice

  Visit this link for additional information.

   

  *Please check with your insurance carrier to determine if there are any restrictions with your insurance plan prior to seeking care away from home.

• What should I do if I’m concerned about my student’s well-being?

  If you are ever worried about your student’s mental health and well-being, there are a few options available. You can always encourage your student to seek out support and offer them options such as visiting their CM, talking to their advisor, or seeking out services like the counseling center.

   

  You are not able to schedule a counseling appointment for your student, but you can be instrumental in getting them to use our services. You are also welcome to call University Counseling Services and speak with a counselor. Due to confidentiality, we are not able to share any information about students; however, we can assist you with exploring options to help your student. You can also request a welfare check by either contacting Residential Life, OSUPD or—if your student lives off campus—Stillwater Police Department.

• How can my student begin utilizing the counseling services?

  Students can call or come in to University Counseling Services and be seen during the walk-in clinic. During the walk-in hours (M-F, 10a .m. – 3 p.m.) students can complete an intake or get information about services. If the walk-in times do not work for a student’s schedule, they can request to schedule an intake.

• How much do counseling services cost?

  Your intake appointment and your first six counseling sessions are free. After your first four counseling sessions, there will be a $10 charge each subsequent session. This charge will be billed to your bursar account.

   

  Students who are experiencing financial hardship may complete a fee waiver for the session charges as we do not want cost to be a barrier for services. We also provide free 30-minute consultations during our Walk In from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.

 

Textbooks & University Store

• Why should I buy my textbooks from the University Store?

  When you shop at the University Store 100% of your purchases benefit Oklahoma State University and its students. The University Store is owned and operated by Oklahoma State University, and unlike other privately-owned bookstores or online retailers, every purchase made in the University Store stays on campus to fund student programs and services, keeping student fees to a minimum.

• Should I purchase new or used textbooks or should I rent them?

  There are many options with regard to textbooks. We encourage you to educate yourself about those options on the University Store website.

• Am I able to charge to my bursar account?

  Students who are enrolled for the current academic term and who do not have a hold on their bursar account may charge up to $1,500 per semester at the University Store for textbooks and other academically-related materials. Some items, like computers and tablets, are not eligible for bursar charge without prior approval from financial aid.

• What if I drop a class or need to return a textbook?

  If you purchase your textbooks from the University Store and later find you don't actually need that textbook you can return it within the first 10 days of the semester during the fall or spring, or within the first five days of the semester during the summer, for a full refund as long as you have your receipt. Therefore, we recommend you not write in or unwrap any book until you are sure you will be keeping it for the semester, just in case you need to return it.

• Do I have to come to the store to get my textbooks?
  Textbooks can be shipped to your home address via FedEx, or we offer a free pickup option available at the University Store in the Student Union.
• What else does the University Store sell besides textbooks?
  The University Store offers many supplies needed for class pens, notebooks, calculators, backpacks, art supplies, etc., but we also sell technology products and provide tech support for many devices through our certified repair technicians. The University Store also has the best, largest selection of OSU apparel and spirit merchandise around.

 

Miscellaneous Questions

• How can I learn about and make sure I am in the right at major at OSU? 

  The team at Career Services can help you explore the majors offered at OSU and give you the tools and resources to make solid career decisions for your future.

• Where can I find information for transfer students?

  We are committed to your success as a transfer student and member of our Cowboy Family. Learn more and get connected with the Department of Transfer and Veteran Student Success.

• How do I know what information I or my parents can access? (FERPA)

  This website provides general information about FERPA and answers to questions that are frequently asked by students and parents.

• When do I apply for financial aid?

  Financial aid applications open on October 1 for Oklahoma schools. Learn more here.