Welcome you to Montclair State University! Orientation for Spring 2026 first-time freshmen will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Secure your spot by accessing the Orientation Portal via NEST below.
Orientation Requirements for Incoming Freshman Students
Before you are able to access your Orientation Portal you must claim your NetID and password.
When a student is accepted to Montclair State University and pays their New Student Deposit (if required), they will receive an email from Undergraduate Admissions to their personal email address about how to claim their University NetID.
Access your Montclair Email and the Orientation Portal
Check your Montclair email regularly as important University communications will be sent there. Learn how to setup your Montclair email on your mobile device.
Orientation Portal | Available Now!
Students who have claimed their NetID can access the Orientation Portal in NEST.
Students must complete all tasks on their personalized Task List in order to be assigned their on-campus, Undergraduate Orientation session, “Ready to Soar.”
- Ready to Soar for Spring 2026 first-time freshmen students will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
Financing Your Education Orientation+ Webinar | December 15 & 17
An online webinar designed to introduce students and their families to the financial responsibilities of student life at Montclair.
This webinar is hosted by University staff in the offices of Red Hawk Central, Financial Aid, and Student Accounts. Registration is available on your Task List in the Orientation Portal!
Revisit the Freshman Student Checklist page and make sure you have either reviewed or completed all the next steps needed to be a successful new Red Hawk!
Remaining steps may include submitting a photo for your ID card and completing mandatory health requirements.
Your one-day, on-campus welcome and orientation to Montclair State University! At Ready to Soar, students will:
- Connect with peers and Orientation Leaders
- Learn from faculty and academic advisors
- Engage with the Montclair campus community
More information will be communicated to your Montclair email address.
- Ready to Soar for Spring 2026 first-time freshmen students will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.