STEPS AFTER BEING ACCEPTED

Congratulations on your acceptance to Northern! If you have not visited campus yet, there is still time. Schedule a campus visit.

Step 1: Visit Campus

If you haven't made your college selection and have not visited campus, now is the time. Schedule an individualized visit to learn more and help make an informed decision. Schedule a campus visit by contacting admissions@northern.edu or calling 605-626-2544.

Step 2: File Your FAFSA

File your FAFSA (the Free Application for Federal Student Aid) if you haven't already. We use this information to help determine the aid, grants and scholarships for which you may be eligible. Northern State University's FAFSA code is 003466. Learn more about the FAFSA and financial aid options.  

Step 3: Setup Your Wolves Email

Check your email for a message from Northern State University Admissions. This email will contain important information about setting up your NSU Wolves email account and other enrollment details. Important information about Northern State University will be sent to this email address as you prepare for campus and throughout your time at NSU, so be sure to check it often. If you haven't received information about your NSU email yet, contact admissions@northern.edu.

Step 4: Register for New Student Orientation (HOWL)

Register for HOWL (Helping Our Wolves Learn) New Student Orientation. Registration link will be emailed to you by the Admissions office. During HOWL, you will:

• Complete required setup steps including NSU credentials and technology accounts
• Schedule an academic advising appointment to register for classes
• Meet with your academic advisor to register for classes and review your course schedule
• Attend a HOWL event (or participate virtually if eligible)
• You will also complete required Sexual Assault Prevention training during this time. This training is required for all students.
   

Step 5: Apply for Campus Housing

Complete the Residence Life housing application to secure on-campus housing. We encourage all students to live on campus as it enhances the college experience and supports student success. Contact the Office of Residence Life for more information.

Step 6: Complete Final Admissions Requirements

Complete the following items to finalize your admission to Northern State University:

• Request final transcripts from your high school or previous colleges. These must be sent directly to the NSU Admissions office. If you are a transfer student with an Associate or Bachelor's degree, high school transcripts are not required.
• Submit final ACT or SAT scores to the Admissions office. While not required for admission, these scores are preferred for some scholarships and course placement.
• Submit Advanced Placement (AP) scores to the Admissions office if applicable. AP scores of 3 or above are needed to earn college credit.
• Submit a final copy of your immunization records to the Admissions office unless you are an online-only student. Contact NSU Campus Health for guidance.
   

Step 7: Set Up Your Technology

Set up all necessary technology accounts and applications for your coursework:

• Download the Navigate360 app to access academic progress information, upcoming tasks, important dates, and connect with advisors and tutors.
• Review the NSU laptop policy and ensure your personal device meets the requirements for classes.
• Download the Brightspace Pulse app, which is the application for Desire 2 Learn (D2L), the learning management software at NSU. This allows you to access your courses from your smartphone or tablet.
• Review student privacy and FERPA guidelines. Submit a FERPA release form if preferred.
   

Step 8: Setup a Tuition Payment Plan

Once you are registered for classes, set up your tuition payment plan. Student bills must be paid in full or have a payment plan in place before classes start. You will not receive a paper statement—statements are posted on Self-Service Banner and updated weekly. Statements are also sent to your NSU Wolves email.

Complete attendance confirmation on Self-Service Banner each fall and spring semester. Attendance confirmation must be completed by the Census Date.

Explore other financial aid options including outside scholarships, student employment, Tribal assistance, Military Service Member and Veteran benefits, Vocational Rehabilitation services, and payment plans.

Step 9: Order Your Textbooks

Find what materials are required for your classes and get the best value on textbooks and course materials through Northern State University's official online bookstore. Order your textbooks before classes begin to ensure you have what you need on the first day.

Step 10: Prepare for Classes

Get ready for a successful semester:

• Review your course schedule on Self-Service Banner or the Navigate360 app. Be mindful of important dates for each term including schedules unique for partial term and summer courses.
• Create a plan for studying and academic success using support resources available through the Student Success Center.
• Complete the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program application if eligible. Actively participate in every class whether online or in person and connect with your faculty directly.
   

Step 11: Purchasing a Parking Permit

If you are bringing a vehicle to campus and wish to park in designated student parking lots, you will need a Student Parking Permit. Permits may be purchased online annually and are required for use of university parking lots. Contact Campus Safety for more information.

Step 12: Get Involved on Campus

Make the most of your Northern State University experience by getting involved:

• Participate in your orientation program. If you will attend classes on the Aberdeen campus, make plans to attend Wolf Pack Welcome. Online-only and Huron Community Campus students will receive orientation details prior to the start of the term.
• Connect with Career Services about on-campus and off-campus employment and work-study opportunities.
• Become active in campus life through recognized student organizations, student government, campus activity board, homecoming, intramurals, American Indian Circle Program, music and fine arts events, and student athletic events.
• Explore wellness offerings available through Counseling Services, Student Accessibility Services, and Student Health.
• Review campus dining options and select a plan that's best for you. If you live in on-campus housing, a campus mailbox will be assigned to you at the NSU Post Office in the Student Center.
   

Arriving on campus can feel overwhelming, so we've outlined key steps to guide you from now through your arrival. If at any point you have questions, please reach out to your admissions counselor or email admissions@northern.edu or call 605-626-2544.