Get ready for an immersive, two-day summer orientation experience where you’ll meet new friends, get connected to resources and start preparing for academic and campus life. All incoming first-year students are required to attend one SLO Days session.
In-Person Sessions — 2026
- June 30-July 1; Tuesday-Wednesday.
- July 7-8; Tuesday-Wednesday.
- July 10-11; Friday-Saturday.
- July 13-14; Monday-Tuesday.
- July 17-18; Friday-Saturday.
- July 20-21; Monday-Tuesday.
- July 27-28; Monday-Tuesday.
Virtual Session — Reserved for International and Out-of-State Students
Parent and Supporter Sessions
Supporter sessions are held the same dates as student sessions for in-person sessions. Students will register their supporters when they register themselves. Supporters may also be added after the student completes their own registration.
SLO Days at a Glance
Here's a look at what students will experience during the in-person sessions.
Student Track - Day 1
During the first day of SLO Days, students will:
- Check in and explore the Resource Fair.
- Attend the Student Life Essentials presentation.
- Meet their SLO Days group and begin building connections.
- Learn about academic expectations through the "Journey to Academic Success" presentation.
- Enjoy meals in campus dining facilities.
- Engage in community-building and inclusion-focused presentations.
- Learn about mental health resources and support services.
- Participate in evening social activities such as SLO Nights at the Recreation Center and an outdoor movie night.
Student Track - Day 2
On the second day, students will:
- Reconnect with their SLO Days group.
- Learn about paying for college and financial expectations.
- Attend a presentation on navigating alcohol and other drugs at college.
- Explore advising tools and academic planning.
- Participate in a closing session celebrating their transition to becoming a Mustang.
A full schedule will be available on the Cal Poly Orientation app by downloading "New Mustang Guide 2026."
Preparing for Your In-Person Session
What to Bring
- A photo ID to check in for your SLO Days session.
- Your Cal Poly Username and password.
- Your toiletries and a sleeping bag (or sheets) and a pillow for your overnight stay.
- A sweatshirt or jacket — it gets chilly at night.
- Closed-toed shoes for the Cal Poly Recreation Center (required).
- Meals are provided, but you can bring a few small snacks in case you are hungry between meals.
Arriving on Campus
Student check-in begins at 11 a.m. for those staying overnight in the yakʔitʸutʸu Residence Halls (students only).The recommended parking structure is the Grand Avenue Structure or Structure 131. Parking is included in the SLO Days fee. Students will receive a parking code for them and their supporters and instructions by email about two weeks before their registered session.
Preparing for your Virtual Session
During the virtual SLO Days session, students can expect:
- A welcome and overview of the SLO Days experience.
- Mandatory presentations from key campus partners and student support offices.
- Multiple breaks throughout the day.
- A closing “Now You’re a Mustang” session.
A Zoom webinar link will be sent to each registrant two days prior to attending their session.
What to Bring
- A device capable of running Zoom.
- Your Cal Poly Username and password.
Stay Connected
Keep checking your Cal Poly email for important updates and information from Admissions. Once you register for your SLO Days Session, you will receive information about how to prepare. Questions? Email orientation@calpoly.edu.
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Download the New Mustang Guide
The detailed SLO Days schedule will be available in early June, including session times, locations, maps and real-time updates. Download the "Cal Poly Orientation" app in the App Store or Google Play and search for "New Mustang Guide 2026" before you arrive on campus.
