Frequently Asked Questions
Will New Student Orientation be an in-person event?
Yes. New Student Orientation is an all day, in-person event. Plan to be on campus from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Do I have to participate in all parts of New Student Orientation?
Yes. All sessions are designed to give you the basics to begin your education at SIUE. You will also meet with an academic advisor and schedule your classes for the first semester.
What should I bring to New Student Orientation?
- Student ID number (found in your admission packet)
- Photo identification (driver's license, state-issued ID card)
- Comfortable clothing and shoes (you will be walking around campus)
- Sweatshirt or jacket
Will I receive my student ID at New Student Orientation?
Yes. You will pick up your Cougar Card at the conclusion of New Student Orientation. You must have a valid photo identification card (driver's license, state-issued ID card) to pick up your Cougar Card. High School student ID cards will not be accepted. Learn more about your Cougar Card.
Can parents/guests sit in on my academic advising session?
No. Advising sessions will be one-on-one appointments between the student and academic advisor. All guests will be participating in separate programming during the advising appointment.
Where can I park?
Students and their guests may park in Visitor Lot B. You do not need to pay for parking! Just park and head into the Morris University Center to check-in.
Can I bring a friend who will not be attending SIUE?
No. Only admitted first-year students and their guests may attend New Student Orientation. If your friend would like to visit campus, please have them contact the Office of Admissions at 618-650-3705 to schedule a tour.
What if I am unable to attend?
All newly admitted first-year students are required to attend a New Student Orientation session. If you are unable to attend any of the available sessions, please contact the Office of Admissions at 618-650-3705 or orientation@siue.edu.
How do I accept my financial aid award letter?
- Visit CougarNet
- Click Enter CougarNet with your e-ID or Enter CougarNet with your University ID
- Click Financial Aid
- Click Award
- Click Award for Aid Year
- Click the drop-down menu
- Select the correct aid year and click Submit
- Click Accept Award Offer
- Accept and/or decline items listed
- Click Submit Decision
If you are accepting loans for the first time:
- Apply with Direct Loans
- Take the loan entrance counseling quiz
How do I check my SIUE bill?
- Visit CougarNet
- Click Enter CougarNet with your e-ID or Enter CougarNet with your University ID
- Click Student
- Click Student Account
- Click Account Detail for Term
- Click the drop-down menu
- Select the correct term
- Click Submit
