Overview

Fall Welcome Week takes place directly ahead of the first day of fall classes in August and is required for all incoming students beginning their studies in the fall semester.

Experience

Fall Welcome Week

Full of excitement, celebration, and school spirit, Welcome Week is designed to help you connect with your classmates, explore campus, and experience the spirit of URochester's motto of Meliora.

Take a look back at Fall 2026's program to get ready for your own Welcome Week experience.

A student with a temporary Rocky face tattoo poses with Rocky for another student taking a photo with their phone

Save the Date

Fall Welcome Week

2027 dates: August 23 through August 28

While the schedule varies each year, here are the types of events and activities included in the six-day program:

  • Social events to help you get to know your classmates
  • Activities to help you get familiar with campus and student services
  • Opportunities to connect with your college advisor and academic departments
  • Programs to help you learn about getting involved on campus

The full Welcome Week schedule will be available in early August 2027.

Students cheer and hold up phones to record in front of a lit-up Rush Rhees Library during Candlelight Ceremony

Learn more

Welcome Week traditions

Fall Welcome Week is full of events and activities that celebrate the University of Rochester's rich history.

Learn more

Launching in summer 2027

There's more to come! As Fall 2027 Welcome Week gets closer, we'll share more details about the schedule, arrival information, parent and family events, and more.

Arrival information

Step-by-step instructions for arriving on campus, including how to move into your residence hall, check in for Welcome Week, and pick up your most important Welcome Week essentials.

An iPhone laid on a table with the home screen showing

Welcome Week app

Available on iOS and Android, this includes the full Welcome Week schedule, as well as other quick links to help you make the most of the week. Use it to create your own schedule for Fall Welcome Week with timely event reminders, important notifications, and help navigating campus.

Parent and family events

Fall Welcome Week is not just for students! There are many events specifically designed to help new URochester parents and families learn more about their student's experience, meet other families, and connect with University leadership and staff.