Welcome to Parent Engagement at ORU—we’re so glad you’re here. Choosing a college
is a big decision for your family, and we want you to feel confident about where your
student will grow over the next few years. At ORU, your student will be supported
academically, spiritually, and personally within a close-knit, Christ-centered campus
community that truly cares. From strong academic advising and career preparation to
vibrant student life and meaningful spiritual development, every part of the ORU experience
is designed to help your student thrive.
The Office of Parent Engagement is your go-to connection point for staying informed
and involved. Whether you have questions about campus resources, upcoming events,
or how to best support your student, we’re here to walk alongside you. We also invite
you to join the ORU Parent Portal to stay connected, receive important updates, and
remain part of the ORU community throughout your student’s journey.
Why ORU Is the Best Christian College for Your Student
At Oral Roberts University, your student will receive a practical, Spirit-empowered
education that prepares them to become Whole Leaders for the Whole World. Through
strong academics, meaningful spiritual growth, and real-world preparation, ORU equips
students to graduate with purpose, confidence, and direction.
At ORU, a Spirit-empowered education means your student’s faith is nurtured alongside
their academic growth. Every faculty member is a committed Christian who intentionally
integrates faith and learning, helping students develop strong character, discern
their calling, and grow in spiritual maturity. Through twice-weekly Chapel services,
student-led worship, global missions opportunities, and daily discipleship on campus,
ORU provides a distinctly Christian environment where your student is known, supported,
and encouraged to deepen their relationship with Christ.
If I could go back, I would choose ORU over and over again. After my first visit,
I can’t really explain what I felt, but it was different. I knew I could see myself
living here.
Mikayla McClary
Charleston, South Carolina
150+ Academic Programs to Prepare Your Student for Any Career
ORU offers more than 150 academic programs across business, education, engineering,
theology, healthcare, and more, giving your student options aligned with their goals.
Hands-on experiences—like study abroad, innovation through the Stovall Center for
Entrepreneurship, and advanced nursing simulation labs—build real-world skills. Strong
support services, including advising and success coaching, help students stay on track
and graduate with confidence.
Talk to Your Student About Their Choices for Confidentiality
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects
the privacy of a student’s educational records. Once a student turns 18 or enrolls
in college, access to their academic and financial information belongs to them—not
their parents—unless they choose to grant permission. We encourage families to have
open conversations about FERPA so your student can make an informed decision about
the level of parental access that feels right for them.
FERPA protects more than just your student’s grades—it covers a wide range of education-related
records, including financial aid, housing, billing, and student conduct information.
Without your student’s written permission, details such as semester billing statements,
financial aid award offers, housing assignments, or academic performance cannot be
shared. Explore the categories below to better understand what information is protected.
Academic Records
Academic records include grades, transcripts, class schedules, academic standing,
degree progress, and any documentation related to your student’s coursework or performance.
Professors and university staff cannot release this information without your student’s
consent.
Housing
Housing records include residence hall assignments, room changes, housing contracts,
and related correspondence. Details about where your student lives on campus or issues
related to their housing are protected under FERPA.
Financial Aid
Financial aid records include scholarship awards, grants, loans, verification documents,
and financial aid eligibility information. Specific details about your student’s award
package or aid status require student authorization to be shared.
Billing, Tuition & Fees
Billing records include tuition charges, fee statements, payment history, account
balances, and payment plans. Even if a parent is making payments, access to detailed
billing information requires student permission.
Student Conduct
Student conduct records include disciplinary actions, incident reports, and outcomes
related to violations of university policy. These records are confidential and protected
under federal law.
Faculty & Professors
Communication between faculty and students regarding grades, performance, or classroom
matters is protected. Professors cannot discuss a student’s academic progress or classroom
concerns with parents unless permission has been granted.
Parent of a High Schooler? Get Ahead with ORU’s Dual Enrollment Program
If you’re the parent of a high school student, ORU Advantage Dual Enrollment allows
your student to earn college credit early—saving valuable time and tuition dollars
later. Students gain a head start on their degree while experiencing college-level
coursework in a supportive, Christ-centered environment. It’s a practical way to reduce
future costs and help your student step securely into their college journey.
We invite you and your student to experience ORU in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where a beautiful
campus and vibrant city come together to create an exceptional college environment.
As you explore campus, you’ll see recent and upcoming enhancements to academic facilities,
dining and residence halls, and research initiatives—including continued investment
in science and healthcare spaces. Visiting in person is one of the best ways to envision
your student thriving in our welcoming community.
Every student deserves access to an exceptional Christian education, and ORU is committed
to making that possible. Through abundant scholarship opportunities, grants, work-study
options, and personalized financial aid packages, we partner with families to make
the cost of a degree manageable. Our team is here to walk with you and help you understand
every option available.
Get Ready for Move-In! See Where Your Student Will Live on Campus
There’s nothing quite like move-in day—when your student begins making ORU their home.
From comfortable residence halls to welcoming community spaces, campus housing is
designed to foster connection, growth, and belonging. Explore housing options and
move-in details to start planning for this exciting milestone.
Your student’s safety is a top priority at ORU. With campus security, safety protocols,
and a proactive approach to student care, we are committed to providing a secure environment
where students can focus on learning and growing.
ORU supports the whole person through comprehensive wellness resources, including
access to the recreation center, fitness classes, counseling services, and programs
that promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Our disability services team partners with students and families to provide resources
and reasonable accommodations that allow students to thrive in the classroom and campus
community.
Help Your Student Apply Today—It’s Free and Easy
Applying to ORU is simple and student-friendly. The application is free, and most
students receive an admission decision within three days of completing their file.
All it takes is submitting the online application along with official transcripts
and optional test scores—so you and your student can get started today with clarity
and confidence.
The Office of Parent Engagement is here to support you as your student considers ORU
and transitions into college life. While we’re always happy to connect personally,
reviewing these frequently asked questions is a helpful place to begin.
At ORU, your student's first year is designed to lay the foundation for a successful
college experience. Through Whole Person education, intentional community, academic advising, residence
life, chapel, and Student Success resources, students are equipped to grow academically,
spiritually, physically, and socially from the moment they arrive on campus.
Applying to ORU is simple. Students complete an online application and submit their
official high school transcripts. Upon admittance, our Admissions team guides them
through each enrollment step, making the process clear and manageable for both students
and families.
The Office of Parent Engagement is here to keep you informed throughout your student's
ORU journey. Through the Parent Portal, you'll have access to important deadlines, campus updates, helpful resources, family
events, and answers to common questions so you can confidently support your student
every step of the way.
Instagram
Learn more about ORU and what your student can expect as a Golden Eagle!
Stay connected and informed by joining the ORU Parent Portal. You’ll receive important
updates, event information, and helpful resources designed to keep you engaged in
your student’s ORU experience.
We welcome your questions and look forward to connecting with you. Whether you’re
exploring ORU for the first time or preparing for your student’s next step, our team
is here to support your family every step of the way.
