Welcome to American University! This page will help incoming students navigate advising in their first year at AU. Regardless of intended major, this page will help students understand the first steps for advising.
Are you an incoming first-year student with questions about registration? On June 4th, you'll receive an email from your advisor/advising team with more information about registration and recommended courses for your first semester. Please wait until then to schedule advising appointments. Have questions in the meantime? Please email [email protected]!
For more information regarding course registration, please visit our First Year Student Registration Support page.
To support and advance student learning, success, and thriving through transformative educational experiences
To engage holistic and collaborative academic advising that assists students in achieving their academic, personal, and career goals focused on graduating engaged and productive citizens who respect diverse perspectives.
All students will receive information about advisement from the Advising Unit of their intended major. Advisors provide support as students navigate AU academically, socially, culturally and psychologically. Advisors provide the highest level of student service and advocacy possible, but also recognize the importance of student responsibility and self-efficacy. We provide students with all of their options and then support them in making and taking ownership of their decisions and education.
In the first year, students have one intended major and will receive an Academic Advisor based on that primary intended major. Students officially declare their major in the second year. Students who wish to pursue a second major or minor will be able to officially declare those after they officially declare their first major.
Understand how to search for classes and add them to your planner
Viewing the "Section Details" screen to find information on pre-requisites, restrictions, & more
Registering for courses and more.
Academic Programs (major, minor, certificate requirements)
Academic Calendars (add/drop deadline, withdrawal deadline, etc.)
University Regulations and Policies
Suggested courses for your intended major
A course planning checklist that will guide you through the course planning process including items to reflect on, items to prepare for, and items to plan.