Orientation Guidelines & Expectations

Your transition into college life and start your Lincoln journey strong.

These guidelines encompass key aspects, including attendance expectations, conduct standards, and respect for diversity. The habits and attitudes you form now will shape your entire university experience. We encourage you to approach these guidelines with an open mind and a willingness to engage fully in the orientation process.

W. E. B. Du Bois, Mary McLeod Bethune, and Horace Mann Bond, 1950
Group portrait of W. E. B. Du Bois, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, and Lincoln University President Dr. Horace Mann Bond after receiving the university's Alpha Medallion Awards.

  • ATTENDANCE

    Attendance is required for all programs marked as mandatory; attendance at other events is optional. Click on your specific schedule above to view the sessions you are required to attend.

  • ADVISOR & COURSE REGISTRATION

    All new students will receive a Success Coach who will serve as their academic advisor for their first year before declaring their major.

    Transfer students who have declared their major will have a Success Coach and an advisor in their academic department.

  • CAMPUS DINING

    During orientation, meals will be served only in the Thurgood Marshall LLC Café. Other dining options will open during the first week of classes. Some late-night events will include food (first-come, first-served).

  • CURFEW

    A 12:00 midnight curfew is in effect each night during NSO (August 16–23). You must be in your room by midnight to ensure your safety and readiness for daily sessions, which start around 8:30 AM. Violations may result in disciplinary action.

  • LION CARD (LINCOLN UNIVERSITY STUDENT ID)

    You’ll receive your Lion Card during Lion Link Up or on move-in day. It is required for all meals, residence hall access, and must be shown when requested by staff. Always carry it along with your room key.

  • PARKING

    First-year students are not allowed to have vehicles on campus. Transfer students must register their vehicles within three days of the start of the semester by providing a valid driver’s license, current insurance, registration, and permission from the vehicle's owner. Registration is available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with no exceptions for missing documents. If you have questions or concerns, please email us at lupublicsafetydepartment@lincoln.edu.

    Any student who has less than 30 credits is required to get permission from the Office of the Dean of Students to reserve a vehicle. You can complete the Student Personal Vehicle Request Form to submit your request.

    Consideration is only given to students who have an extenuating circumstance that is supported by documentation. The deadline to apply for this is the first day of classes for each semester.

  • PEER MENTORS

    A Peer Mentor is an upperclassman student who is here to help guide you through your first year at Lincoln. They have been in your shoes and are ready to support you, from your first day on campus through the end of your first-year. Think of them as your go-to person for advice, answers, and encouragement.

  • STUDENT CONDUCT

    You are expected to abide by the Lincoln University Code of Student Conduct. You are also expected to dress appropriately for all activities.

  • WHAT AROUND LINCOLN

    Lincoln University is located in scenic southern Chester County, just minutes from the historic town of Oxford, PA—home to local shops, restaurants, and community resources. To explore nearby businesses and services, visit the Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce Member Directory.

    The ChescoBus SCCOOT route, managed by TMACC, provides weekday bus service between Oxford (including Lincoln University) and West Chester (with connections to SEPTA 92, 104, and 135). Contact Krapf’s Coaches at 610-431-1500 for bus status and route questions.

    Food Delivery: If you order food to be delivered from a specific place or a delivery service, you must meet to pick it up at the main gate.