New Student Orientation, sponsored by the Campus Life Office, is designed to introduce the new student to campus life and to acquaint them with NOBTS policies, registration procedures and curriculum information. There are also opportunities for interaction with faculty, staff, administration, and other students. New Student Orientation happens twice a year at the beginning of the Fall and Spring semesters. All approved students are required to attend orientation.

During orientation, new students are able to have student identifications made, get car decals, and have pictures made for the campus directory. Students will be set up on IQ Web at the Information and Technology Center. IQ Web will enable the student to access important NOBTS information online. It will also enable them to register for classes online for the next semester. Students will also attend a tour of the library and Lifeway book store. A true N'awlins lunch of Red Beans and Rice will be provided for the new students.

New students will be divided into smaller groups by degree programs for Orientation Day. An Orientation “Shepherd” will serve as a tour guide for the day, helping students go from place to place during the day. This person becomes a key contact as the new student begins a degree program. The Shepherd will be available to answer any questions.

The day will end with the Campus Life Fair at the Hardin Student Center. The Campus Life Fair is an opportunity to meet many of the seminary faculty, staff and other students. Campus organizations and offices, local area businesses, local churches and various local ministries set up booths and distribute information and materials. The Campus Life Fair is a great overview of what the seminary and the city has to offer.