Parents and Family
Welcome to the University of Montana Family!
We are excited to be a part of your student's transition to college, and we realize families play an important role in this experience. We invite parents, guardians, spouses and other family to attend certain portions of New Student Orientation.
You will have the opportunity to meet professional staff and administrators who can answer your questions and provide you with information on student programs and services. You can talk to current students who can give you a realistic idea of college student life. Our program also offers a variety of social events where we extend our casual Montana hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I come to New Student Orientation?
How will my first-year student get into their classes?
Spring Start - After completing their Online New Student Orientation students will meet with their assigned academic advisor who will assist them with the course registration process.
Fall Start - Here at UM we pre-register new first-year students in their Academic Core Courses. These are the classes recommended for their academic major or their area(s) of interest. This will begin in the spring, and students will have the opportunity to adjust their classes after completing Online Bear Tracks. In order for us to register students in their Core Courses they must complete Bear Tracks and My Academics Tasks by the posted deadlines.
How does my first-year student access My Academics? (Fall Start Only)
After registering for a Bear Tracks event, students will receive an email with instructions on their next steps. Students use their NetID and password to log in to My Academics. Please encourage your student to take their time, read each task carefully and watch the helpful videos. My Academics must be completed in order for the student to leave Bear Tracks with their courses scheduled.
When will my student speak with an advisor?
Students will have the opportunity to connect with academic advisors remotely after they have completed their Online New Student Orientation (spring start) or Online Bear Tracks (fall start). Additionally, there are sessions built into the New Student Orientation program where students will be able to meet their departments and other incoming peers. Encourage your student to make a follow-up appointment to meet one-on-one with their advisor during the first few weeks of classes.
Additional Information
- Visit our Resources page for additional information on travel & accommodations, outdoor trips, and campus contacts.
- Griz Family News is the official newsletter for families of enrolled students at the University of Montana. This newsletter is published monthly during the academic year and offers useful information and dates for families and students.
- For more information about the New Student Orientation programs, please visit the First-Year or Transfer Student pages.