FAQs

Issues with creating BU Email Account

If you don’t receive the email invitation within 7 business days of deposit payment, lose the email, or encounter any problems during the account creation process, then please call the Information Technology Help Desk at 617-353-HELP(4357) or email ithelp@bu.edu

An up to date listing of Hours of Operation for the Help Center can be found here.

Otherwise, any issues or concerns related to the Orientation program specifically should be directed to Boston University Orientation.

Making Changes to your Registration

After submitting your Orientation registration, students can log back into MyBU Student Portal to make changes up to a particular date ahead of the on-campus Orientation program. For students starting in Fall 2025, the deadline to make changes is August 1. In the event you need to make changes or cancel after this date, please contact us as soon as possible and we will work with you.

Account Lacks Proper Level of Authorization

If you are getting the “Lacks the appropriate level of authorization” error when trying to sign into your MyBU Student Portal or other webpages, you are likely either signing in with your applicant credentials or your computer has that information saved and is trying to sign in with those credentials. Please try the following steps:

  1. Go to bu.edu/logout
  2. Clear your cache: https://www.bu.edu/tech/support/browsers/clear-cache/
  3. Go back to the website they are trying to sign into
  4. Make sure you are signing in with your BU login. Please note this is different than your personal email address or your applicant account sign in.

If still unsuccessful, then please contact IS&T for further assistance.

Can’t Participate

While Boston University views the Orientation experience as foundational for a successful start both academically and socially, we recognize that certain circumstances may prevent a new student from fully participating. If you are unable to attend, please submit the form on our contact us page and select “I can’t attend Orientation.”  A member of the Orientation team will then reach out to you to discuss your situation.

Remember, the online Orientation course is also part of your Orientation experience. Even if you are unable to attend the on-campus Orientation program, course completion is still mandatory.

College of General Studies Students

All incoming College of General Studies first-year students (Spring 2026 start date) will attend Spring Orientation which will take place Thursday, January 15 – Sunday, January 19, 2025.

What if I miss a deadline?

Contact our office and we will do our best to help you by connecting you to the people who can answer your questions.