Add to Your Calendar:
Spring Orientation - International Students
- Thu, Jan 14–Sat, Jan 16, 2027
We look forward to welcoming you!
Arrival and move-in: January 14, 2027
Plan to arrive in Grand Rapids, Mich. on Thursday, January 14 to move into your dorm or apartment.
Orientation program schedule
Programming includes campus tours, immigration sessions, setting up a checking account, visits to a grocery store, winter coat shopping, and opportunities to explore Grand Rapids.
Stay tuned for the full orientation schedule and details!
Additional Information
- Map: See our campus maps for driving directions and building locations.
- Meals: All meals for all new students are provided during Spring Orientation. For students who have meals plans, those plans begin on Sunday at lunch.
- Lodging: Housing will not be provided for family members. The Prince Conference Center and Hotel, located on campus, is owned and operated by Calvin University and has rooms available for a fee. Use the discount code: PRNT if you are booking online, or mention that you are with the Orientation program for a discount. There are also several other hotel options nearby.
- Cost: An orientation fee applies but is part of the onboarding fee you already paid. The fee covers all costs (including meals) associated with orientation; there is no cost for families to participate.
Other details you'll need
ARRIVAL DAY - IMPORTANT: Please plan to arrive in Grand Rapids, Mich., on this day: January 13, 2026
Please review the following information before you plan your travel to campus. Contact Jonathan Umran with questions!
Travel
As soon as you have your travel plans set, fill out the Arrival Form »
- Our staff will pick you up from the airport if you need transportation (which you will indicate on the Arrival Form).
- If you are arriving to campus on your own, we will meet you at your residence hall with your keys and check you in there.
Please prepare these printed documents in advance for travel:
- I-20
- Bank/financial statement
- Financial package from Calvin that lists your tuition and scholarships/awards
- Copy of your ID card from your country which is not your passport
Packing
Moving to another country in January can be overwhelming!
In Grand Rapids, Mich., January is the middle of winter. It can be cold and snowy, but people in Michigan use warm clothing and footwear to enjoy going outside and all West Michigan has to offer. Here are a few suggestions about what to pack.
Clothes
- A lot of casual clothing, especially jeans, t-shirts, and sweatshirts, jackets, and/or sweaters
- A limited amount of formal clothing which might be worn at a special banquet or church
- A traditional outfit that could be worn at a cultural event (optional)
- Comfortable shoes
Money
- Cash (not more than a few hundred dollars) to spend on supplies when you first arrive
- Check from your bank, made out to yourself, in U.S. dollars for larger amounts
Purchase after arriving
- School supplies
- Laptop computer
- Bedding
- Towels and washcloths
- Winter attire
Residence halls
If you are moving into campus, see complete information about our residence halls.
Available in the dorms
- Beds, mattresses, mattress pads, dressers, desks, desk lamps, and chairs
- Bathroom with shower, toilet, sink for every two bedrooms
- Toilet paper and cleaning supplies
- Closets with shelves and built-in bookcases
- Campus cable system, computer access including wi-fi access
- Washing machines, dryers, ironing boards, and irons
- Computers and printers; also available in the library and labs
Note – in the US the voltage is 120 with Type B and A plugs
Moving In
Our team will help you move into your dorm room, and get your student ID.
Meals
Meals for new students, both on- and off-campus, are provided during Spring Orientation.
Housing/Lodging
If you will be living on campus during the school year, you will move into your residence hall before orientation.
Housing will not be available for family members. The Prince Conference Center and Hotel, located on campus, is owned and operated by Calvin University and has rooms available for a fee. If you call to reserve a room, mention that you are with the Orientation program for a discount. There are also several other hotel options nearby.
Cost
A $300 orientation fee will be charged to your student account a few weeks following orientation; it gets deducted from the enrollment fee you already paid. This fee covers all costs (meals, too!) associated with orientation; there is no cost for families to participate.