Parent and family resources

We’re all part of the Vandal Family

As a parent or guardian, you play an essential role in both shaping your student’s journey to U of I and supporting their success once they’re here. For future Vandals, you help guide and encourage them through the college search, application and transition process — from navigating deadlines and requirements to building excitement for the opportunities ahead. For current students, your support continues as you cheer them on, connect them to resources and encourage them to make the most of their Vandal experience. Together we’re building a strong Vandal Family where your involvement makes all the difference.

Future Vandal resources

Supporting your student through their transition to college starts here. Help them stay on top of important tasks before their first day at U of I.

Admitted student to-do: Understand all the steps your student needs to accomplish before the first day of the semester, from setting up their Vandal accounts and filing their FAFSA to confirming on-campus housing and more.

Access the admitted to-do list
Future Vandal dates and deadlines: There are a lot of important things to remember (and specific deadlines to meet) as your student prepares to attend U of I — help them stay on track.

See important dates and deadlines
Get help from an admissions counselor: U of I has a dedicated team of admissions counselors who offer personalized assistance and support throughout the application process.

Find your student’s admissions counselor
New Student Orientation: Parents and guardians are invited to New Student Orientation. Plan to stick around for specific programming. Book accommodations in advance as space is limited.

Read about New Student Orientation

Financial aid and scholarships are waiting

Financial planning is a key step in preparing for college. Start by using the Net Price Calculator to estimate the cost of attendance at U of I and then explore available financial aid options.

Questions about FAFSA, scholarships or the cost of attendance? Connect with our financial aid team.

Visit us in Moscow

The best way to experience U of I is to see it for yourself! Explore our beautiful campus and discover the tight-knit community that makes University of Idaho special.

We love when parents and families visit us in Moscow. Whether your student is interested in UIdaho, preparing to start their Vandal journey or currently attending U of I, we’ve got tips for planning your visit.

Explore campus virtually

Current parent resources

As a Vandal parent/guardian, you’re here to support your student’s success and help them stay on top of important responsibilities.

Accessing my student’s records: FERPA is a federal law that protects student education records and privacy. Learn about these regulations and how your student can grant access to their records. See FERPA release information.
Manage my student’s account: Stay updated on tuition payments, financial aid and other student records.
Getting around: How will my student get around Moscow, campus and get home? Learn about the many options to get around without a car. More on the Vandal Break Bus and other transportation options.

Help your student make the most of their Vandal experience

U of I offers hundreds of opportunities for personal and professional development. From student organizations and campus leadership roles to study abroad programs and hands-on learning experiences, there are countless ways for your student to make the most of their time here.

Explore student life

Additional links

Helping your student

College is exciting, but it also comes with new responsibilities, challenges and opportunities for growth. While your student is becoming more independent, your encouragement and support still matter.

At University of Idaho, students have access to a network of services designed to help them stay healthy, overcome challenges and thrive — academically, physically and emotionally.

You don't need to know every answer. You just need to know where to start.

When should I encourage my student to seek help?

Sometimes students don't realize support is available until a challenge becomes overwhelming. Encourage your student to connect early—not just during a crisis.

They may benefit from support if they are:

Feeling overwhelmed or unusually stressed
Struggling academically or personally
Feeling anxious, lonely or isolated
Sick or injured
Unsure where to turn for help
Looking for healthy ways to manage stress
Experiencing an unexpected life event

Know the student wellbeing resources

Student Health Clinic

For students who are sick, injured or need routine medical care.

The student health clinic provides services including:

Illness and injury care
Physical exams
Immunizations
Prescription support
Lab services
Preventive care

Counseling and Mental Health Center

For emotional well-being and mental health.

Students can receive support for:

Anxiety
Depression
Stress
Relationships
Life transitions
Grief
Coping skills

Counseling isn't only for emergencies. Many students use counseling to build healthy habits and navigate everyday challenges. It's free and confidential, providing students with the space to explore these experiences on their own terms as they grow into this new chapter of adulthood.

VandalCare

Life doesn't always fit neatly into one category.

VandalCare connects students with resources when they experience unexpected challenges that may affect their success, including financial hardship, food insecurity, housing concerns, personal emergencies and other barriers.

Dean of Students Office

Not sure where your student should go? Start here.

The Dean of Students Office helps students navigate university resources and connects them with the right support. If your student doesn't know which office can help, the dean of students can guide them to the appropriate resource.

Recreation and Wellbeing

Wellbeing is more than healthcare.

RecWell and the Student Rec Center help students stay physically active, reduce stress and build community through:

Fitness
Intramural sports
Outdoor recreation
Wellness programming
Group fitness classes
Recreation opportunities

How can I support my student?

One of the most important things you can do is encourage your student to ask for help early.

You can support them by:

Checking in regularly
Listening without immediately trying to solve every problem
Encouraging healthy sleep, nutrition and physical activity
Reminding them that asking for help is a sign of strength—not failure
Helping them identify the right campus resource
Encouraging them to schedule appointments before problems become crises

Frequently asked questions

What if I’m not sure where my student should go?

That's okay.

Many students and parents aren't sure which office is the right fit.

Start with the Dean of Students Office. Staff can help your student understand available resources and connect them with the office best equipped to help.

In an emergency

If your student is experiencing an immediate medical or mental health emergency, call 911 or contact local emergency services.

For urgent campus concerns, contact the Dean of Students office, University Public Safety or submit a CARE referral.

Will I be notified if my student receives services?

Federal privacy laws (FERPA and HIPAA, when applicable) generally protect your student’s privacy. In most cases, university staff cannot share personal information without your student’s permission.

Can I contact a campus office if I’m worried?

Yes. If you're concerned about your student’s wellbeing, contact the Dean of Students office. Staff can discuss available resources, explain next steps and help determine the most appropriate support, even if they cannot share confidential information about your student.

My student says they don't know where to start.

Tell them one thing:

Start with the Dean of Students Office. We'll help you find the right place.

Student success links

Experiential learning for student success

At University of Idaho, we're committed to helping your student achieve their academic and career goals. From summer internships and on-campus research to co-op programs and practicums, experiential learning opportunities give your student hands-on experience to set them up for success in their future careers.

You can play a key role in your student's journey by:

Encouraging self-awareness of their interests, skills, work values and career goals
Recommending visits to academic advisors, career consultants and faculty mentors
Supporting exploration of different opportunities
Affirming their strengths and abilities
Promoting campus involvement and engagement

Discover experiential learning at U of I

Education at home, and abroad

Your student can expand their horizons through an education abroad experience.

See the options

Questions?

Feel free to reach out to askjoe@uidaho.edu and ask any questions regarding your current student. Parents of future students, just email futurevandals@uidaho.edu. We're here to help you and your student.

U of I on social media

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