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First Semester Registration Steps

Gather information

Attend the First Semester Academic Planning Webinar on June 2! The link to register is in your New Student Portal. Parents and families are welcome to attend. Professors and staff describe the registration process, suggest strategies for developing your schedule, and answer other questions you have about academics at Macalester. 

Plan ahead

Your First Year Course Preference Form is due on June 16 2026. You can find the form in your New Student Portal . This form will ask you to rank your FYC preferences from 1-4. Provide any special considerations in the comments section, including anticipated credit from AP/IB exams, majors/minors you are considering, etc.

You’ll get your First Year Course assignment in early to mid-July. The instructor of your FYC will be your initial academic advisor, and you’ll have a chance to meet with them over Zoom before registration. Before you meet with your advisor, you should fill out the Course Planning Form found in the New Student Portal. This form is not binding, but it is a good planning tool, and your advisor will be able to see your selections as a starting point for your conversation.

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 August 3 – 14.

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