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Online New Student Orientation

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Online Student Resources
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Welcome to Montclair Online!

The Montclair Online New Student Orientation will provide you with a strong start to your online learning experience at Montclair State University. The orientation consists of a self-paced Online Orientation Canvas course to guide you through the essentials. Some programs may host a virtual Academic Connection session where you’ll connect with your academic program.*

Montclair Online New Student Orientation Dates

For programs that begin on March 16, 2026 (Session C):

  • Sunday, March 2, 2026 to Thursday, March 12, 2026

*Not every program will host a live Academic Connection session, you will receive additional information about this in the Online Orientation Canvas Course.

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Online Orientation Canvas Course (Asynchronous)

This self-paced course in Canvas is designed to support online program (ONP) students at Montclair. By engaging in interactive modules, you’ll become familiar with online learning tools, student resources ​(including NEST and the Online Student Center), and virtual success strategies. 

  • Learn to navigate the Canvas learning platform
  • Explore the support services and resources available to you
  • Connect with other new students
Log Into Canvas to Access Orientation

Frequently Asked Questions

I am having trouble accessing the Online Orientation Canvas Course.
  • New Montclair Online students will receive an automated email invitation from Montclair Canvas to access the Montclair Online New Student Orientation course on March 2, 2026. You must accept the invitation to the course before it will show up on your Canvas account. Please check your email for more details. You can also go to NEST and search for the link to access Canvas. If you’re still unable to access the course, contact Montclair Online at unboundsuccess@montclair.edu or call 973-655-7110 for assistance.
Is the Montclair Online: New Student Orientation required?
  • Yes, the Montclair Online: New Student Orientation is required as it is designed to help students start off on the right track. The live Academic Connection session is also strongly encouraged, as it provides an opportunity to connect with your program advisors and peers just before the semester begins, ensuring that all students are ready to start the semester.
I am not a new online student at Montclair, is the Montclair Online New Student Orientation Canvas course still required?
  • While the Montclair Online New Student Orientation Canvas Course is not required for returning Montclair online students (e.g. completed an online certificate program and are now starting an online master’s program), it is highly encouraged as you will be introduced to resources that are specific to being an online student at Montclair.
Will my program host a live Academic Connection Session?
  • Not every online program will host a live virtual Academic Connection Session. You will receive additional information about this in the Online Orientation Canvas Course.
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Contact Us

If you need more information, please contact us:

Email: unboundsuccess@montclair.edu  |  Phone: 973-655-7110