Helpful reminders for the Class of 2030 as they begin their journey at Elon, with Move-In Day on Aug. 21.
Elon University students will move into their new homes on Friday, Aug. 21 as the 2026-27 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.
Be mindful of campus construction projects, including the Stattery Center and Mooney Building. Information on traffic and parking can be found in the traffic and parking article.
What should I expect on move-in day?
Know your Schar Center check-in time, accessible to you via your Acorn Account, and print your dashboard sign, accessible to you via Phoenix Living.
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 Elon Bound 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 online.
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.
“It’s okay if your first few weeks at Elon feel a little uncomfortable—that’s often where the most meaningful growth happens,” said Kirstin Carrier, assistant dean of campus life and director of residence life. “College is full of new experiences that will challenge you, and stepping outside your comfort zone is one of the best ways to learn more about yourself. Whether it’s introducing yourself to someone new, attending a campus event, joining a club, or asking for help when you need it, every small step will help you find your community and make Elon feel like home.”
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.
“Orientation is just the beginning of your college story not the finish line. You don’t have to meet your best friends during the first week,” said Destiny Payne, interim director of New Student Programs. “Every class, residence hall conversation, student organization, and campus event is another opportunity to connect with someone new. Give yourself grace, stay open to new experiences, and trust that your community will grow over time. The friendships that matter most are often built through shared experiences.
Late Night Elon also offers lots of fun options Thursday through Saturday nights and it is a great way to meet new people.