First Semester 101: Understanding the 3 parts of Orientation

Here is a practical guide to the three parts of RMIT Orientation and why each one matters.

Starting university is exciting and a bit nerve-wracking. Orientation is not just a box to tick. It is how you turn the unknown into something manageable and start finding people who will be part of your first year.

How2RMIT: your easy first step

How2RMIT is the online module that makes the basics feel familiar before you arrive. Think of it as 45 minutes that buys you confidence. Complete it with a coffee, in the sun, or lying in bed.

You will learn how timetables work, where to find Canvas content, and what support services exist. Doing this early means your first day is less about figuring out systems and more about meeting people and settling in.

If you ask, “Will this actually help me?”, the honest answer is yes. Small preparation reduces the odd little panic moments that can pile up on day one.

Program induction: learn the map of your course

Your program induction is where you learn about your course and ask the questions that matter. This includes how assessments are structured, what attendance looks like, where your labs, studios or workshops are, and who your key teaching staff are.

You will also meet the cohort you will be studying with. Many of them will be feeling the same way you are.

Show up even if you feel awkward. Seeing the teaching spaces and hearing how the semester will run makes everything feel less abstract. It turns your program from a name on a screen into something real.

Arrive a little early, get comfortable, and remember there will be plenty of people around to help if you are lost or unsure.

You will receive your program induction confirmation via your RMIT email. This is also where you can personalise your O Week by adding specific activities. Haven’t accessed your RMIT email yet? Click here.

O Week: start getting comfortable on campus

O Week is designed so you can personalise your introduction to campus life. You might go on a campus tour, grab free food, register for one of the many fun activities, or explore campus at your own pace. You can also read more about what to expect, including sensory and accessibility information, here to help plan what feels right for you.

Even attending for a short time helps you get familiar with campus before classes start. Knowing how to get there, where buildings are, and where to buy lunch can make your first day feel far less stressful. Your campus will start to feel less like a collection of photos and Google Street View, and more like somewhere familiar.

Why Orientation matters

Orientation shortens the list of first-week surprises, introduces you to people who will be in your classes, and gives you a few safe ways to explore campus.

Showing up prepared does not remove nerves, but it makes them much easier to manage.

03 February 2026

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

Learn more about our commitment to Indigenous cultures