Welcome to Alaska Pacific University Orientation
Congratulations on Joining the APU Community!
You’re about to embark on a purpose-driven journey that will inspire, challenge, and shape your future. At Alaska Pacific University, we’re committed to providing you with more than just an education – we offer a unique, hands-on, and personalized experience set against the breathtaking backdrop of Alaska.
Orientation is your first step into this transformative experience. Join us August 20-23, 2026, for a few days of connection, discovery, and preparation for some of the most memorable years of your life. Our staff, faculty, and community are excited to welcome you and ensure you feel at home as you begin your adventure at APU.
Please register for orientation and see the day-of-activities schedule below!
This is a checklist for students who are living on campus.
This check list is merely a suggestion; feel free to bring whatever would make you feel more comfortable. Campus Life will provide you with your roommate information. Feel free to contact each other regarding items you may bring to campus.
Each room comes with the following: a bed, dresser, lamp, desk, and either a wardrobe or a closet. You may consider bringing a personal computer, but we do have computer labs on campus in case you do not own one.
Items you will need to bring or purchase when you arrive at APU:
- Bed linens and a pillow (regular twin size)
- Bathroom towels
- Toiletries
- Laundry detergent & laundry basket (laundry machines only accept quarters, coin machines are available on site)
- Cooking utensils (For those living in Segelhorst or University Row)
- Clothes hangers
- Surge protectors (regular extension cords are NOT permitted)
- Microwave and mini-fridge (optional)
- Television (optional)
Check with your roommate before coming to campus!
We will provide you with your roommate’s contact information before you come to campus, so don’t forget to talk to each other about things than may be shared in the room, such as stereos, TV, game systems, or microwaves.
Orientation FAQ
Airport transportation is meant for individual students traveling alone to Anchorage and is only offered during the week of orientation. Please contact orientation@alaskapacific.edu to schedule a pickup day and time. *Some exceptions may apply depending on the time of your arrival.
Move-in day is on Thursday of Orientation week and starts at 9 a.m. All students moving into the residence halls should come to Atwood Center to check in and meet your RA. If you need to move in early or late, please email housing@alaskapacific.edu prior to arriving on campus. We ask that you email us as soon as possible with your travel plans. We look forward to seeing you soon!
New students are highly encouraged to attend Orientation. A lot of important information will be discussed during this time and it is a great opportunity to meet the APU staff and faculty, as well as other APU students.
Research on the residence experience indicates that students living on campus tend to earn higher grades, express more satisfaction with their college experience, are less likely to drop out, are more involved in campus activities, and experience greater personal growth. In short, the residence experience contributes significantly to a student’s education. For this reason, APU has made living on-campus part of its educational design for freshmen.
Yes. Parking is free to all students and visitors! All student vehicles are required to have an APU parking sticker that you can get when you arrive. Anchorage also has the People Mover public transportation system that is free for APU students that show a current student ID. You will be issued your student ID when you arrive.
ASAPU (Associated Students of Alaska Pacific University): ASAPU is the student government of APU. ASAPU is run by a group of elected student representatives. ASAPU serves as the voice of all students by promoting and coordinating student involvement and by representing the interests, needs, and welfare of the student body to the staff, faculty, and the Board of Trustees. If you are interested in being a part of student government, reach out to the Dean of Students Office (DOSOff@alaskapacific.edu).
RAP (Resident Activity Programming): The RAP Board is a group composed of current residents who are tasked with the creation and execution of events that are designed to help bring the resident community together. These events vary from semester to semester and can range from pool parties to movie premieres to camping trips. If you live on campus this is a great way to get involved!
Student Activities: The Student Activities Office is in charge of putting on events for the entire student body. We are always looking for new ideas and suggestions so feel free to contact us to get involved!
Outdoor Programs: APU’s Outdoor Programs has what you’re looking for to get outside. Whether you simply want to try something new or are an experienced adventurer looking to teach or lead a clinic, we have something for every skill level.
Recreation Programs: Recreation Programs strives to provide fitness and wellness opportunities for the APU Community as well as members of the Anchorage community. We also strive to provide leadership opportunities for APU students to work for Recreation Programs and Outdoor Programs.
Alaska’s weather varies each year and can be very unpredictable. In Anchorage, it can vary from -10 (deg. F) to the high 80s depending on the season. We recommend you have a variety of clothes, especially warm clothes for winter.
We totally understand! Sometimes we don’t always get along with new roommates, or maybe we just don’t like our room/bed/dresser/carpet pattern. While we hope to foster an environment where students can manage individual conflicts in a mature and respectful manner, the RAs and the Campus Life staff is available to help you through difficult times.