Graduate students are a vital part of our academic community. Their success and engagement at Ball State are among our highest priorities — and it all starts before enrolling in classes or arriving on campus.
To help new students transition to graduate student life at Ball State, the Graduate School puts together orientation resources to supplement your academic department’s orientation. We also have resources intended for both our online and on-campus students.
If you have any questions, please contact the Graduate School.
Graduate Student Orientation Events
New Student In-Person Orientation (with Zoom option for Online students)
Join the Graduate School for its annual orientation event in the Student Center Cardinal Halls (2nd Floor), Thursday, August 14, 2025, 3-5 pm!
During orientation you will meet the Graduate School’s staff, network with other graduate students at our reception that includes lots of free food, learn about key resources and policies for graduate students, and connect with more than 20 local and campus organizations including Open Door Health Services, Minnetrista, Muncie OUTreach, the Writing Center, the Black Graduate Student Association, and many, many more!
The Graduate School will also raffle off TONS of free swag including coffee mugs, water bottles, blankets, planners, and t-shirts.
On-Campus Students: REGISTER HERE.
Online Students: REGISTER HERE.
Campus Tour
Come explore Ball State's vibrant campus with the Graduate School on Thursday, August 14, 2025, 5-6 pm (meeting at Benny)!
Meet other graduate students, learn about Lucina, the Student Center, Bracken Library, the Atrium, David Owsley Museum of Art, and end at the Graduate Student Orientation for some more information and free refreshments. REGISTER HERE.
Welcome Picnic
Join the Graduate Student Wellness Initiative for its annual welcome back picnic on Friday, August 22, 2025, 4:30-6 pm on the University Quad (in front of the David Owsley Museum of Art). All attendees will receive a free Graduate School red fan!
Grab a sandwich, soda, and cookie and celebrate the beginning of the academic year by meeting the Graduate Student Wellness Initiative coordinators and other graduate students across campus. REGISTER HERE.
Additional Orientation for International Students
The University’s International Student Services office offers a separate, mandatory orientation for international students. International students are also invited to participate in the Pre-arrival orientation and attend the orientation reception and resource fair. Learn more about orientation for international students.