Before the Fall Orientation

Your YDS journey begins soon.
August 19 - 22

 
 
 
 

 

This is the place where you begin your YDS experience.

Before the Fall Orientation (BTFO) is your first experience as new students at YDS, organized through the Office of Student Affairs (OSA).
All incoming students are to attend BTFO.

This website is your resource space to prepare for BTFO and beyond! We'll post information on actions you need to take, BTFO information to get your orientated to orientation, and additional information such as resources for spouses and partners, exploring your new New Haven home and more. Check back regularly over summer 2025 and when we email you via our BTFO newsletters!

Before You Arrive

Before BTFO begins, you must complete some action items over the summer. Click below to read through and make sure you are on track for orientation!

Review the requirements!

Diving Into Divinity

This non-credit summer online course introduces you to the academic study at YDS and allows you to connect on the content with your peers.

Dive Into Divinity!

Meet Your BTFO Leaders!

Getting excited about BTFO? Take a moment to meet the students who will be working with you during BTFO! You never know, you might find something in common!

Meet Your Leaders Now!

Summer Zoom Info Session: Steps to Orientation

As you prepare for your YDS adventure, there are a few logistical tasks over the summer. Among these are submitting your health requirements and preparing to transition your healthcare to New Haven. In July, you will also have access to your student financial account through YalePay. Join us for a Zoom gathering, where we will discuss all the things you need to make sure you are clear to register for classes on August 27!

RSVP NOW!

    Most Recent BTFO Summer Newsletters:

    Uploaded by Kit Heeley

    Jun 22, 2025 - YDS Office of Student Affairs

    [BTFO Email #3] Summer Newsletter

    Read More

    Uploaded by Kit Heeley

    Jun 8, 2025 - YDS Office of Student Affairs

    [BTFO Email #2] Summer Online Orientation: Diving Into Divinity

    Read More

    Uploaded by Kit Heeley

    May 30, 2025 - Office of Student Affairs

    [BTFO Email #1] Welcome to Yale Divinity School from the Office of Student Affairs

    Read More

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    All Summer Newsletters

    BTFO is organized by the Office of Student Affairs

    Vicki Flippin Profile

    Vicki Flippin

    Associate Dean of Student Affairs
    Kit Heeley Profile

    Kit Heeley

    Director of Student Life
    Muriel Drake Profile

    Muriel Drake

    Student Services Coordinator