Stanford Move-In Day 2025 takes place on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, marking the official start of your Stanford University journey.
This comprehensive Stanford move-in guide covers everything you need to know about the move-in process, from essential packing tips to navigation instructions for a smooth transition to campus life.
Table of Contents
- Stanford Move-In Day 2025 Key Dates and Deadlines
- When Is Stanford Move-In Day 2025?
- Stanford Move-In Day Packing Checklist
- How to Navigate the Stanford Move-In Check-In Process
- Stanford Move-In Day Family Tips
- Stanford New Student Orientation (NSO) Move-In Integration
- Essential Stanford Contacts for Move-In Day 2025 and Orientation
- Stanford Campus Resources and Local Support
- Stanford Move-In Day FAQ
- When is Stanford Move-In Day, and what if I arrive late?
- How early can I move into Stanford housing?
- How to coordinate roommates for Stanford move-in?
- What if I forget an item during Stanford Move-In Day?
- Who to contact if late for Stanford Move-In Day?
- How can current students get involved with Stanford Move-In Day?
Stanford Move-In Day 2025 Key Dates and Deadlines
- Date: Tuesday, September 16, 2025
- Check-in Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Recommended Arrival: By 12:00 PM
- Location: Housing Service Center (designated campus location)
- NSO Dates: New Student Orientation runs from Tuesday, September 16, 2025, to Sunday, September 21, 2025
Important Academic Year Dates
Check out the Stanford Academic Calendar for more details.
- Move-In Day:Â Tuesday, September 16, 2025
- Autumn Quarter: September 22 – December 12, 2025
- Winter Break:Â Housing closes on Saturday, December 13, 2025. Find more information on the Stanford Holidays Calendar.
- Spring Quarter Move-Out:Â March 21, 2026 (for students not in residence spring quarter)
- Stanford Admit Weekend 2025:Â April 24-26, 2025
Stanford Move-In Day 2025 Requirements
Mandatory Requirements for All New Students.
- Government-issued identification (required for check-in)
- Housing portal confirmation through MyHousing.Stanford.edu (reminders sent ~2 weeks before)
- Check-in by 5:00 PM deadline on September 16, 2025
- New Student Orientation participation is mandatory from September 16-21, 2025
- @stanford.edu email must be used for all university communications
- Students must not make other plans during NSO week
When Is Stanford Move-In Day 2025?
Stanford Move-In Day 2025 officially begins on Tuesday, September 16, with Stanford housing check-in procedures running from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The university strongly encourages arrival by noon to participate in Stanford New Student Orientation welcome events beginning that afternoon.
Stanford Move-In Date and Time Optimization
Best arrival window: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM provides optimal volunteer assistance for Stanford move-in support while ensuring full participation in Opening Convocation and other first-day events.
Students participating in pre-orientation programs receive earlier Stanford campus arrival instructions, typically arriving a few days before the general move-in date.
Your specific check-in time within the 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM window doesn’t need to be exact, but earlier arrival enhances your Stanford NSO orientation schedule experience.
Housing Portal and Confirmation
Housing Service Center check-in Stanford reminders arrive via MyHousing.Stanford.edu approximately two weeks before your move-in date.
Students must confirm their arrival plans through the Stanford housing portal or notify housing staff of any delays to avoid late-arrival fees.
Stanford Move-In Day Packing Checklist
Strategic packing transforms your Stanford dorm move-in from overwhelming to manageable. This Stanford freshman move-in checklist prioritizes immediate needs while avoiding common overpacking mistakes.
Essential Items: What to Bring for Stanford Move-In Day
First-Night Essentials
- Government-issued identification (required for check-in)
- Twin XL bedding (standard twin sheets won’t fit Stanford dorm mattresses)
- Personal toiletries and prescription medications
- Complete change of clothes in an easily accessible bag
- Face masks (recommended for crowded indoor spaces)
- Hand sanitizer and personal health items
Stanford Dorm Essentials First Night
- Desk lamp (essential task lighting for studying)
- Power strips with surge protection (choose models with USB ports)
- Storage bins (clear, stackable containers maximize limited space)
- Laundry supplies (detergent, fabric softener, mesh bag for delicates)
Electronics and Connectivity
- Laptop and chargers (top priority for academic success)
- Portable battery packs (backup power for long campus days)
- Phone chargers and essential cables
Kitchen and Common Area Items
Coordinate with roommates before Stanford Move-In Day to avoid duplicate purchases:
- Basic utensils, plates, and cups
- Reusable water bottles (support campus sustainability)
- Small appliances (verify residence hall policies first)
Personal Documents and Health
- Insurance cards and medical records
- Emergency contact information
- Prescription medications (one-month supply minimum)
- Photocopies of essential documents (store separately from originals)
Stanford Packing Guidelines for New Students
Shipping Strategy: Consider shipping non-essential items after Stanford Move-In Day rather than carrying everything during travel. Local Palo Alto stores and campus convenience shops stock the most commonly forgotten essentials.
How to Navigate the Stanford Move-In Check-In Process
Stanford housing move-in logistics balance efficiency with personal attention to ensure every student feels welcomed during this important transition.
Parking and Arrival Instructions
Stanford Move-In Day parking pass instructions: Print your parking pass before arriving on campus. Digital versions can be difficult to display clearly for parking staff. Review your specific parking assignments rather than relying on previous years’ information, as designated areas change annually.
Where to Park on Stanford Move-In Day
- Use the designated residential parking lots indicated on your printed parking pass
- Temporary curbside parking permitted for unloading under volunteer guidance
- Move vehicles to long-term residential permit parking immediately after unloading
Check-In Process and Volunteer Assistance
The Housing Service Center serves as the primary check-in location with clear campus maps and directional signage. Expected wait times range from 15-45 minutes during peak hours, though early arrivals often experience shorter delays.
Volunteer assistance for Stanford move-in comes from trained student volunteers who provide:
- Rolling carts and dollies
- Guidance about efficient room access routes
- Help with Stanford dorm move-in unloading
Tips for Unloading at Stanford Dorm Move-In
Curbside etiquette guidelines:
- Follow volunteer directions carefully
- Avoid blocking fire lanes or emergency vehicle access
- Have all required documents easily accessible
- Coordinate with family members for efficient unloading
Accessibility and Special Needs
Students with mobility challenges, medical equipment, or special transportation needs should contact the Housing Service Center at least two weeks before Stanford Move-In Day to arrange appropriate assistance.
Stanford Move-In Day Family Tips
Can Families Help with Stanford Move-In?
Yes! Families can definitely assist with Stanford Move-In Day unloading and participate in welcome events. After completing the move-in process, families can join:
- Residence hall open houses throughout the afternoon
- Opening Convocation with President Levin (formal welcome ceremony)
- Family programming is designed specifically for parents and guests
The Opening Convocation serves as the traditional departure point for families, marking the student’s transition to independent campus life.
Family Departure and Transition
Stanford Move-In Day combines logistical tasks with emotional milestones. The campus atmosphere buzzes with energy as hundreds of families navigate similar experiences, creating a welcoming community environment designed to guide newcomers efficiently.
Stanford New Student Orientation (NSO) Move-In Integration
Stanford Move-In Day seamlessly transitions into New Student Orientation programming designed to integrate newcomers into campus academic and social communities.
Stanford NSO Orientation Schedule
Key NSO events include:
- Opening Convocation (same day as move-in)
- Academic advising sessions
- Introduction to Stanford traditions
- Campus resource orientation
- Beyond Sex Ed and Faces of Community featured programs with student speakers and performers
The complete orientation schedule becomes available online by September 1, with detailed event information posted in the Canvas NSO module for new students. You can review the 2024 NSO Student Program (PDF) for reference until the 2025 schedule is published.
Event Updates and Communication:
- Updates to NSO events will be posted in the Approaching Stanford course in Canvas
- Check your @stanford.edu email regularly for official communications
- Use the Stanford Mobile app or campus-map.stanford.edu for searchable campus maps and locations
- Find campus eateries and all-gender restrooms through the mobile app
NSO Student Staff Support
Stanford’s New Student Orientation is supported by dedicated student staff who ensure a welcoming and comprehensive experience:
Orientation Coordinators (OCs) serve as the core student staff supporting both Approaching Stanford and New Student Orientation programs. These experienced students provide leadership and guidance throughout the orientation process.
NSO Community Coordinators (CCs) work with community centers and offices to plan specialized community events during NSO, ensuring diverse programming that reflects Stanford’s inclusive community.
Orientation Volunteers (OVs) support NSO staff in carrying out programs and events throughout the entire orientation week, providing peer support and assistance to new students.
NSO Requirements and Participation
Important Deadline: All new students must be checked in by 5:00 PM on Move-In Day, Tuesday, September 16, 2025.
New Student Orientation 2025 runs from Tuesday, September 16, to Sunday, September 21, and is required for all new undergraduate students. Students must not make other plans during this time, as NSO participation is mandatory and comprehensive.
Planning Your NSO Week
Required Events and Scheduling:
- Attend all required events and advisor meetings
- Choose among the optional events throughout the week
- Balance a busy schedule with adequate rest, meals, and transition time
- Wear your NSO nametag for entry to all events
Family Departure Timeline: Plan to say goodbyes to accompanying family members before dinner on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. Do not make plans with family for the remainder of the week, as you’ll be fully occupied with NSO events and programming.
Health and Safety Guidelines:
- If feeling ill, stay home from events
- Carry your reusable water bottle throughout NSO
- Look for sustainability practice signs around campus
- Check your @stanford.edu email regularly for official communications
Essential Stanford Contacts for Move-In Day 2025 and Orientation
The Approaching Stanford/New Student Orientation team welcomes questions from students and families throughout the summer.
Important: Students should always use their @stanford.edu email account when contacting University offices for identity verification.
Primary Orientation Support
Approaching Stanford/New Student Orientation
- Phone: (650) 723-7674
- Email: approaching@stanford.edu
- For: General questions about Approaching Stanford process, forms, emails, mailings, preparing for Stanford, New Student Orientation, or chatting with student staff
Housing and Move-In Support
Residential & Dining Enterprises: Student Housing
- Phone: (650) 725-1600
- Website: services.stanford.edu
- For: Housing assignments, move-in instructions, room layouts, and housing-related questions
Residential & Dining Enterprises: Student Dining
- Phone: (650) 723-4751
- Email: diningplans@stanford.edu | nutritionist@stanford.edu
- For: Student meal plans, food allergies, and dietary needs
Financial and Administrative Support
Financial Aid Office
- Phone: (888) 326-3773 or (650) 723-3058
- Email: financialaid@stanford.edu
- For: Financial aid packages and outside scholarship awards
Student Financial Services
- Phone: (866) 993-7772 or (650) 723-7772
- Website: services.stanford.edu
- For: University billing process and financial aid disbursements
Health and Accessibility Resources
Vaden Health Center
- Phone: (650) 498-2336
- Email: vaden-emr@stanford.edu
- Website: services.stanford.edu
- For: Health requirements, online health forms, health services, Cardinal Care health insurance, waivers, and coverage
Office of Accessible Education
- Phone: (650) 723-1066 or TTY (650) 723-1067
- Email: oae-contactus@stanford.edu
- For: Services and resources for students with disabilities and academic/housing accommodations
- NSO Accommodations: Email approaching@stanford.edu for accommodations needed during NSO (students or family members)
Diversity and Access Office
- Email: disability.access@stanford.edu
- Phone: (650) 725-0326
- For: Disability access information during NSO
- Special Services: Students needing assistance should register and schedule rides with Disability Golf Cart Service
International Student Support
Bechtel International Center
- Email: new_intl_students@stanford.edu
- For: International student questions about visa matters and International Student Orientation (ISO)
Contact Tips for Stanford Move-In Day Success
- Keep key contact numbers easily accessible on your phone
- Use your @stanford.edu email for all university communications (required for identity verification)
- Contact offices early if you anticipate any issues or special needs
- Save both phone numbers and email addresses for backup communication methods
- Lost and Found: Contact the NSO Office at Sweet Hall, 1st floor to submit or claim items lost during NSO
- Download the Stanford Mobile app for campus navigation and essential information
Stanford Campus Resources and Local Support
Palo Alto Move-In Resources
Local businesses and services support Stanford families during move-in:
- Campus convenience stores for forgotten essentials
- Local Palo Alto stores for dorm supplies
- Delivery services to residence halls
Stanford Student Resources
Essential campus resources for new students:
- Stanford health and counseling services
- Stanford ID issuance process
- Stanford dining options during Move-In Day
- Stanford roommate matching tips and support
Stanford Move-In Day FAQ
When is Stanford Move-In Day, and what if I arrive late?
Stanford Move-In Day 2025Â is Tuesday, September 16, with check-in from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Students expecting to arrive after 5:00 PM should notify the Housing Service Center in advance to arrange late check-in procedures and avoid additional fees.
How early can I move into Stanford housing?
Early move-in is generally restricted to students participating in approved pre-orientation programs such as athletics, international student programs, or specific academic preparation courses. Check the official Stanford housing portal for eligibility and specific early arrival dates.
How to coordinate roommates for the Stanford move-in?
Coordinate arrival plans with your roommate via email or the housing portal before Stanford Move-In Day. If arrival times differ significantly, communicate about shared item responsibilities and key pickup logistics.
What if I forget an item during Stanford Move-In Day?
Palo Alto local stores and campus convenience shops stock most essential items that students commonly forget. You can also arrange online deliveries to your residence hall after completing move-in.
Who to contact if late for Stanford Move-In Day?
Contact Residential & Dining Enterprises: Student Housing at (650) 725-1600 or visit services.stanford.edu for check-in difficulties or housing assignment problems. For orientation-related questions, contact the Approaching Stanford/New Student Orientation team at (650) 723-7674 or approaching@stanford.edu.
How can current students get involved with Stanford Move-In Day?
Current Stanford students can participate in the Move-In Day experience through several volunteer opportunities:
Move-In Day Volunteers: Help welcome new students on September 16, 2025 (sign-up deadline: August 31, 2025)
Orientation Volunteers (OVs): Support NSO programs throughout the orientation week (sign-up deadline: June 22, 2025)
Community Coordinators (CCs): Help plan community events for NSO (priority application deadline: April 27, 2025)
These roles provide meaningful ways for current students to give back to the Stanford community and help new students transition successfully to campus life.
