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Welcome to Grand Valley!

Congratulations on your acceptance to Grand Valley State University! We are pleased you chose us to pursue your graduate degree.

This page is designed to let you know the steps you will need to complete for getting started at Grand Valley. Follow the links below and learn more about all the ways The Graduate School can assist you.  

ADMITTED GRADUATE STUDENT SESSIONS

Join our Graduate Admissions team for a live-hosted virtual Admitted Graduate Student Next Steps Session! This Zoom session will focus on what you need to know as a newly admitted graduate student. You will learn about course registration, funding opportunities and we will walk through the admitted student checklist. This session is intended for graduate students who have been admitted to Grand Valley State University. These sessions are supplementing not replacing program specific orientations.  

Start Here: Your Next Steps

1. Apply for Financial Aid

If you are interested in receiving financial aid at Grand Valley, file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). FAFSA is available online at studentaid.gov/fafsa. Be sure to include GVSU school code 002268 to ensure we receive your information.

apply for financial aid

2. Register for Classes

You should connect directly with their graduate program director regarding academic advising and registration. Contact information for each graduate program is available at gvsu.edu/graddirectors.

register for classes

3. Attend Orientation

All new graduate students are invited to attend an orientation session. There are program-specific, virtual, and general on-campus options available.

register for orientation

4. Make Your Tuition Payment

You will receive email notifications for new charges or upcoming payments. Billing timelines, payment plans and deadline can be found at gvsu.edu/studentaccounts.

Paying the Bill

5. Obtain a Student I.D.

Grand Valley’s student ID card grants you access to specific buildings, free bus rides, discounted software, free athletic event entry, and discounts at nearly 70 local businesses and attractions. Visit a Student Assistance Center to request your ID and to be photographed; in Allendale (300 Student Services Building) or in Grand Rapids (DeVos 115 C).

View Campus Maps

6. Purchase Textbooks and Supplies

Shop online or at one of our two Laker Stores stores on the Allendale and Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campuses.

Visit the laker store

7. Schedule a Campus Visit

We offer many visit opportunities for students. For those unable to make the trip or want a virtual view of Grand Valley, visit our Virtual Tour.

graduate campus visit

8. Purchase a Parking Permit

Parking permits are available for online purchase.

buy a parking permit

9. Apply for Housing

Housing is available for graduate students on both our Grand Rapids and Allendale campuses.

gvsu housing

Page last modified August 18, 2026