The Class of 2029 will arrive to campus on Aug. 22. Read up on what to know for Move-In Day 2025.
Elon University students will move into their new homes on Aug. 22 as the 2025-26 academic year kicks off. The move-in process can be stressful, but staff with Elon’s Residence Life and New Student Programs offer some tips for a seamless start to college.
For full information on move-in and New Student Orientation, visit the New Student Orientation website.
What should I expect on move-in day?
- Know your Schar Center check-in time and print your dashboard sign, both accessible to you via your Acorn Account. All new students should have received one (including first years and transfers, living on and off campus). The Schar Center check-in is the one-stop shop for all things check-in related. New students will receive their new student packet, which contains their orientation materials, name tag, parking pass (if applicable), room key (if applicable), Phoenix Card (if you submitted a photo in advance), pre-ordered wristband and New Student Convocation rain tickets.
- When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by volunteers who will walk you through the whole check-in process — you won’t even have to get out of your car! Make sure you are compliant with all immunization requirements to avoid any potential delays checking in.
- After you check in, you’ll be given a hangtag. The hangtag corresponds with your move-in location, and it will get you access to that specific area. It is important to have that hanging in your rearview mirror during move-in.
- Once you get to your move-in area, you’ll be greeted by a team of Orientation Leaders, Resident Assistants, Move-in Team members and Elon staff who will help you unload your car and get moved into your room. Students should know the names of both their neighborhood and building as signage around campus may vary.
- Once you’ve finished unloading, you’ll move your car to a long-term parking location for the rest of the day. New Student Orientation begins at 4:30 p.m.
What should I bring and how should I pack?
The suggested packing list is available on the “Your Summer Checklist” webpage through New Student Programs. There is also a Residence Life webpage that details the residential policies on what not to bring. Pack your belongings in a plastic tote (in case of rain) or boxes. Everything should be labeled with your name, room number and a contact phone number. This includes suitcases, boxes, lamps, loose items, shelves, etc. Dress comfortably, bring water and snacks, and enjoy the process.
While there are lots of helpers on Move-in Day, we do encourage families to arrive ready to help move their student in. Wear sneakers, bring a dolly if you have one and pack as if you’ll be carrying things yourself.
What if I forgot something?
It’s OK if you don’t have everything you need right away. In fact, less is more. Residence hall rooms are small and you won’t need to bring a trailer full of stuff with you. You can always have items sent to the mailroom or grab an Elon Express bus to local area shopping.
Will we have time to hang out with our family?
Move-In Day isn’t only for the students; Elon has programming planned for the entire family over the weekend.
All new students are required to attend New Student Orientation following move-in but the whole family is part of the Elon community. There are several events specifically for families during New Student Orientation, including a session with Elon’s senior leaders, a meeting with your student’s academic advisor, a coffee social for you to meet other Elon families, and a Family Sendoff Picnic. You can view the full orientation schedule here.
How can I make connections and get involved?
Get involved and go to the Student Organization Fair on Thursday, Sept. 4, to introduce yourself to different clubs and groups. Get on Phoenix Connect to join clubs, learn about upcoming events and more.
Talk to your student leaders as well. Orientation Leaders, Resident Assistants, Elon 1010 peer educators are all there to help you get connected to the Elon community. The Student Involvement Office also has Involvement Ambassadors who are here to help you explore the multitude of opportunities to connect. Visit the second floor of the Moseley Center to check out the Student Life offices and meet new people.
“Be curious, be brave, and start small,” said Kirsten Carrier, assistant dean of Campus Life and director of Residence Life. “College is full of chances to connect, but you don’t have to do everything at once. Go to that first hall dinner, stop by a club meeting that sparks your interest, or just say hi to someone new in your building. Those first steps can turn into some of your closest friendships and help you feel at home at Elon in ways you might not expect.”
What if I don’t make new friends immediately?
College is a marathon, not a sprint. Take time to try new things, join a club or study abroad.
“It’s completely normal if friendships don’t click right away,” said Emily Krechel, director of New Student Programs. “The first few weeks are full of changes, and it often takes time to build real connections. Go to events, say yes to new experiences, and be patient with yourself — your people are out there, and it’s okay if it takes a semester or two to find them.”
Late Night Elon also offers lots of fun options Thursday through Saturday nights and it is a great way to meet new people.