Priority Next Steps Along Your Journey to UW-Stout
Step 1: Activate Your UW-Stout Microsoft Account
The first step is to activate your UW-Stout Microsoft account (or reset your password, if necessary). If you need help, just contact Admissions, and we’ll help make sure you can access your inbox.
- Pro Tip: Add the Outlook mobile app to your phone or mobile device for easy access to your inbox! Find out how.
If you've already activated, make sure you're checking your email regularly (as a reminder, your email address is formatted username@my.uwstout.edu). You can log into email by clicking on the Login link on the top navigation of the UW-Stout website.
Step 2: Complete your Housing Reservation
After activating your UW-Stout Microsoft account, you’ll have access to the Housing Gateway. There, you can reserve a space in our residence halls by completing and signing your housing contract online. Room selection for first-year students takes place in late June. Selection times are assigned based on when your contract is completed, so the earlier you sign, the earlier you get to choose your room. After signing your contract, you’ll receive additional information about next steps from University Housing.
- Pro Tip: If you can’t log in, you may need to open an incognito browser. (Windows: CTRL+SHIFT+N / macOS: COMMAND+SHIFT+N)
Commuter Alternative
Some students are eligible for commuter status. To be a commuter student, you must live with your parents or legal guardian within a 40-mile driving distance from campus. If you plan to live at home and commute to class, you will need to request commuter status by completing the commuter student form through the Housing Gateway.
Step 3: Sign Up for First-Year Registration & Orientation
Check your UW-Stout inbox for your invitation to First-Year Registration & Orientation (FYRO). FYRO is where you'll get your student ID, register for classes, and learn more about the Stout student experience. This is a required part of your journey to Stout, so make sure you sign up early to make sure you reserve the date that works best for your summer plans.
- Pro Tip: Sign up for your date from the email invite sent to your UW-Stout email address. Registration takes place in June - sign up early for best course selection. For example: Would you rather have classes that start at 8AM... or 11AM?
Step 4: Sign Up for UW Placement Testing - Registration for Fall 2026 students opens March 15
All incoming Universities of Wisconsin students are required to take placement tests in English and math to help make sure they register for the right first-year courses. We've put together a page of information to make your registration process as smooth as possible. Remember: You’ll need to complete your placement tests at least one week prior to your First-Year Registration and Orientation (FYRO) date.
- Pro Tip: When you register, be sure to sign up for your tests using the email invite in your UW-Stout account. This will make sure your scores are sent directly to us.
Learn More about Placement Tests
Other Helpful Information
Future Blue Devil Checklist
We didn't want to overwhelm you, but if you want to keep going, we've created a complete checklist with access links for additional steps you’ll complete between now and when classes start in the fall. Have a look whenever you're ready!
See the Full Future Blue Devil Checklist
Minnesota Reciprocity (MN Residents Only) - Registration for Fall 2026 students opens March 1
Students from Minnesota can use the form below to confirm their address and qualify for a tuition rate adjustment.
Complete the Minnesota Reciprocity Form
Contact the Office of Admissions
We’re here to help! Please let us know if you need assistance with any of these items or have other questions.