Graduate Orientation
Welcome to Grad Launch! Get ready for a transformative and rewarding graduate experience at UCF. This is more than just an orientation; it’s your opportunity to connect, grow, and thrive as you begin your graduate journey!
It is delivered in three phases.
PHASE I
The Essentials
Explore our interactive online modules covering essential topics from financial opportunities to campus life secrets and academic integrity standards! Complete these knowledge-boosting modules before your first term begins — Launching January 2026 and Required for all incoming Master’s and Doctoral degree-seeking students beginning with the Summer 2026 term!
Note: to access these modules, you will need your NID and NID password. Your NID is your secure sign-on for many systems at UCF, including Grad Launch, myUCF, and more. To obtain your NID, go to myUCF, click Sign On, click What is my NID, then follow the instructions to obtain your NID and create a password.
PHASE II
Live Orientation
Connect with your fellow graduate students and discover the resources that will fuel your UCF graduate experience. Tour the university campus while learning what makes UCF an exceptional place for your graduate students. Refreshments will be provided for on-campus sessions.
Summer 2026 Orientation will be for In-Person Programs (Friday, May 8, 2026, from 12 – 1:30 PM, Virtual via Teams).
UCF Online Students Only: Participate in virtual sessions tailored to make the most of your online experience.
UCF Online session (Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 5:30 – 7:30 PM, Virtual via Teams)
Future Live Session Dates
| Semester | In Person | Online |
| Summer 2026 | Friday, May 8 | Thursday, May 6 |
| Fall 2026 | Thursday, August 13 | Tuesday, August 11 |
| Spring 2027 | Thursday, January 7 | Tuesday, January 5 |
| Summer 2027 | Thursday, May 13 | Tuesday, May 11 |
*Several colleges and programs also offer their own orientation sessions. Please check with your graduate program for any additional events that you may be required to attend.
PHASE III
Semester Takeoff Celebrations
Blast into your first term with the Semester Takeoff. Join new and returning Graduate Knights for networking, campus exploration, and community building—with complimentary refreshments at many events.
Additional Requirements and Details
As part of your UCF Graduate Program onboarding, a $35 orientation fee will be applied to your student account. This fee supports orientation activities and professional development opportunities designed to prepare all UCF graduate students for success during their time here and beyond.