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First Semester Registration Steps

Gather information

  • If you weren’t able to attend the Course Selection Advice Panel on May 27, the recording is available to view anytime. Professors and staff describe the registration process, suggest strategies for developing your list of course preferences, and answer other questions you have about academics at Macalester. 
  • Then in your New Student Portal, sign up for a small group advising session with a faculty member to answer your more specific questions before you complete your Course Preference Form. These sessions take place on Zoom between June 2 – 13. They are limited to students, and capped at 20 participants to ensure that everyone has a chance to get their questions answered.
  • Check out the links below with course options and advice from departments. These will be helpful as you fill out your Course Preference Form and complete registration.
First-Year Courses
Fall Course Schedule
Course Advice by Department

Plan ahead

Your Course Preference Form is due on Monday, June 16 2025. You can find the form in your New Student Portal . This form will ask you to do a few things:

  • Rank your FYC preferences from 1-4. Enter these selections on the form.
  • Provide any special considerations in the comments section, including anticipated credit from AP/IB exams, majors/minors you are considering, etc.
  • List 10 additional courses you are interested in taking for the fall. Remember that one course in your first semester must carry the argumentative writing (WA) or writing as craft (WC) designation.  Many FYCs will carry this designation, but be sure to include courses with this designation in your course plan if several of your FYC choices are not WA or WC designated.
Elizabeth, a student worker in the Registrar's office Open Modal
Plan your fall schedule

Learn how to register for a course

Elizabeth shows you how to register for your first semester at Macalester.

Plan your fall schedule

Learn how to register for a course

Elizabeth shows you how to register for your first semester at Macalester.

Register!

Once you get your FYC assignment in July, it is time to start preparing for registration. You’ll have a group number in the New Student Portal, which will tell you what day and time your registration window will open. Registration runs from July 21 – August 1.

Registration Instructions

Questions?

Contact Us

Academic Programs and Advising
https://www.macalester.edu/academic-programs
651-696-6036

Registrar’s Office
www.macalester.edu/registrar/
[email protected]
651-696-6200