Summer Welcome Gatherings 2026

Below you will find a collection of questions and areas of interest we weren’t able to cover during our time together.

There is a parent-run Facebook page for parents and families that is a great place to ask questions and advice of other parents, with very quick responses. Search for "University of Puget Sound Parents Group" on Facebook.

You’ll see below some broad topics that cover a wider range of more specific questions, as well as more detailed questions. This Enrollment FAQ is a great resource for incoming students frequently asked questions. 

You can always reach out to the Office of Alumni & Parent Relations at alumoffice@pugetsound.edu or 253.879.3245 with further questions. Follow our office on Instagram @pugetsound_alumni.

Textbooks

• Course books and materials can be purchased through the bookstore. There are used books for purchase but there may be limited supplies. If you order through an online retailer, make sure the IBSN number matches so that you’re getting the correct edition. Visit the bookstore online.

Choosing Courses & Advising

• Incoming students will be assigned a class schedule for their first semester by their advisor. During Orientation, students will meet with their advisors and can discuss course selection and class schedule.
• Information about academic support and resources.

Health Insurance

• It is important that students carry health insurance coverage. Many students have, or can obtain, health coverage through a parent’s or guardian’s policy. All students should: Remain or enroll under a parent/guardian policy (where feasible) or purchase an individual health insurance policy
• If you are out of your normal health insurance service area, your health insurance policy may work differently than it would at home.
  • Health Insurance Information
• To consult with a broker, at no cost to you, Jeff Johnson has worked with many Puget Sound students and families over the years! He is a good resource for questions and options for insurance coverage applicable while students are in the State of Washington.

Homecoming & Family Weekend

• Homecoming & Family Weekend 2025 will take place October 10-12, 2025 and is planned to be in-person and on campus.
• Check out the full schedule of events. Registration opens in late August.

Passages Orientation & Move-In

• Puget Sound's Office of Alumni and Parent Relations invite the guests of new students to an Orientation Lunch and Info Sessions on Saturday, August 24.
  • There will also be an info table to answer any questions families may have at Wheelock Student Center from 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. that day. Stop by, pick up a nametag, enjoy complimentary coffee, and say hello!
• Parents/Families are encouraged to say their goodbyes to their students on Saturday evening, August 24, or early the following morning. They have a full schedule thereafter!
• As Orientation draws near incoming students will be able to view their detailed and personalized orientation schedule for Passages in the myPugetSound portal. Personalized schedules have been sent to students Puget Sound email accounts within the last few weeks.
• Full Orientation schedule
• Check out this helpful “what to pack” list
• Residence Life floorplans of residence halls
• The university does not offer rental of mini-fridges or microwaves. Best means of getting a minifridge would be at local Target, Fred Meyer, Lowe’s, et cetera, all in close proximity to campus.
• Purchasing Recommendations and Discounts

Parking and vehicles on campus

• All students who wish to park motorized vehicles in university parking facilities must register their vehicle/s with Security Services. visit Campus Parking, Traffic, and Transportation Information for more information.

Storage

• Residence Life is able to provide limited summer storage to students living on campus on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Storage areas are designated in each community based on space and availability. Students using on-campus storage must agree to the terms of on-campus storage, acknowledging they understand the university is not responsible for the loss, damage, or theft of their stored belongings. An application is required to secure storage space. Applications will be approved on a rolling basis and until storage capacity has been reached.
• More information about residential storage.

Bikes on Campus

• Each building has a bike storage area. Your student should ask an RA or a residence hall staff member where to find the space. U-bolt locks recommended.
• There is a bike shop on campus that offers free bike repair service and education for students - only pay for new parts, used parts are free.
• Bicycles on campus should be registered.

Study Abroad

• Students most typically study abroad during their junior year.
• More information can be found through the International Programs office.

Thanksgiving Break

• Thanksgiving break covers: Thursday, November 27—Sunday, November 30. Wednesday the 26 is considered a ‘travel day’ with no classes held.
• The dorms remain open over the break but The Dining Hall closes at 3 p.m. on November 26 for the break.
• The dates for Thanksgiving Break as well as the full academic calendar can be found on the academic calendar.

Fall Break

• Fall break is Saturday, Oct. 18-Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025.
• Residence halls remain open along with Dining Services.