General Information

As a new student you should become familiar with the “basics” of OU. There are specific terms, acronyms and policies that will help you understand life at OU — and turn you into a Golden Grizzly in no time.

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Important Dates

October 1, 2021

FAFSA available for 2022-23 academic year

April 15, 2023

Summer 2023 Payment Due

May 8, 2023

Summer 2023 classes begin (16 weeks)

May 8, 2023

Summer I 2022 classes begin (8 weeks)

July 5, 2023

Summer II classes begin (8 weeks)

October 1, 2022

FAFSA available for 2023-24 academic year

October 1, 2022

Fall 2023 housing sign-up available

September 5, 2023

New Student Welcome

September 6, 2023

Fall 2022 classes begin

October 1, 2022

FAFSA available for 2023-24 academic year

November 1, 2023

Winter 2024 housing sign-up available

December 15, 2023

Winter 2024 payment due date

January 4, 2024

Winter 2024 classes begin

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Campus Resources

Connect with valuable resources around campus and enhance your experience.

Career Services

Career Services is the gateway to your future. They are here to help open doors to opportunities at OU and beyond, while providing resources and support during your journey to success.

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Diversity Resources

Oakland University is committed to creating and supporting a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment for all community members.

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Kresge Library

The Library is a critical center of learning in our educational community, providing access to scholarly information, research support, library instruction, computing and study facilities.

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Study Abroad/Away

OU students can study abroad in more than 40 countries around the world or study away at nearly 200 universities in North America. From foreign language and art to business and engineering, OU offers a variety of international education options for all interests.

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Graham Health Center

Graham Health Center provides convenient, affordable, high quality health care right on campus.

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OU Counseling Center

The Oakland University Counseling Center offers a broad range of mental health services provided by licensed psychologists and interns. The first six sessions are free. All sessions thereafter are only $12 each.

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Finances

Staying on top of your financial aid and eBill is important. Learn about your financial responsibilities here at OU.

Financial Aid Status

Financial aid award notifications are sent to your OU email address with instructions to view the award information and requirements on MySAIL. It is important to complete any unsatisfied requirements as soon as possible to ensure your financial aid is ready when the semester begins.

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Proxy

Identify a family member or significant other (a proxy) to view and access your academic information, including class schedules, grades, and financial aid awards and requirements in MySAIL.

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eBill

A notification will be sent to your official OU email address when your bill is available to view in eBill. Paper statements are not mailed.

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Authorized User

If someone is helping to fund your college education, make it easy by granting them access as an authorized user. They can view account details and make a payment electronically.

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Payments and Cancellation

Full payment of your University bill is due before the start of the semester. Mark your calendar with the payment due date or enroll in a payment plan to avoid cancellation.

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Payment Plans

OU offers payment plans to assist students in paying their student account balance over time.

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Tuition and Housing Charges

Tuition and university housing rates are determined each summer for the upcoming academic year.

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Student Employment

Getting an on-campus job is a great way to complement your academic experience. Explore Handshake for internships and career opportunities with Fortune 500 companies and local organizations.

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Student Privacy Rights and Notifications

Keeping students safe is a priority. This includes protecting your student records and also keeping you informed during emergencies.

Dean of Students

The Dean of Students Office works with you as you encounter milestones, achievements and challenges as an OU student. The staff promotes and upholds the campus values of integrity, community, respect and responsibility. If you don't know who to contact for a specific situation, the Dean of Students Office is a good place to start.

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Family and Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

FERPA protects student records, including but not limited to academic records, financial records, medical records, etc.

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Emergency Notifications

The Oakland University Police Department uses the OU Alert Notification System to inform the campus community of an emergency. Register your cell phone to receive text message alerts.

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Campus Dining

Start your day off right with a specialty pastry from Grizzly Express or take a load off between classes with some Panda Express. Enjoy the variety of food options OU has to offer.

Chartwell Dining Services

OU offers a variety of food options in many campus locations. All dining facilities accept Meal Plan Dollars, credit cards, cash and GrizzCa$h.

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Board Meal Plans

For students living in the residence halls, a meal plan is included in the price of room and board. These plans give students the opportunity to eat at any of the dining facilities on campus.

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Optional Meal Plans

Meal dollars and block plans are available to student apartment residents, commuter students, faculty and staff.

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Dietary Restrictions

OU accommodates various dietary needs and allergies for students that dine on campus.

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