Schedule of Events

If unable you were to complete uniform measuring and issue while waiting to be called to the CPTF, you will be directed to return to the initial uniform measuring and issue point in Cameron Hall to complete that process.

Following Matriculation in Cameron and CPTF, you will proceed to barracks for check-in. All luggage should be marked with your full name.Unload luggage in the front of barracks at the designated arch which was provided in CPTF.  All luggage must be taken to assigned rooms in barracks before 1:30 p.m.

After unloading luggage at barracks, vehicles must immediately be moved from in front of barracks to designated parking on the Parade Ground (weather dependent), prior to checking into barracks. There will be individuals to point you in the correct direction. Parents or family members will be permitted into barracks, and everyone must proceed together.  Cadet escorts will be available to answer questions and show you to the 4th stoop and barracks room. 

Appointed students are reminded to keep one set of civilian clothes in their luggage to be stored at VMI. It is recommended that these clothes be suitable for milder weather and for wear off post, as they may not be needed until later in the semester. 

Packing: Each student is allowed to have one piece of luggage.  The dimensions of a large suitcase are between 28 and 32 inches long and approximately 19 inches wide and when stacked no taller than 16 inches deep.  Smaller luggage pieces/stored belongings must fit inside the large piece of luggage because there is limited space in the trunk rooms located in the concourse area of the barracks. It is recommended that luggage be lockable. Sensitive and expensive items should not be stored in the barracks trunk room. VMI is not responsible for damage, loss, or theft of personal property stored in the barracks trunk room, barracks cadet rooms, or other areas on post.

It is recommended that personal items be labeled with your full name. If you are driving to VMI, consider bringing some of your items in a cardboard box that can be recycled or a plastic bin that can go back home after you are dropped off at VMI.  Most items should be brought from home, but some items may be purchased at the VMI Bookstore (540-464-7637). The bookstore accepts all major credit cards. The number of clothing items which can be found in the New Cadet Handbook recommended is the minimum based on having to change clothes two or three times a day during the August heat. Laundry is sent out once a week so plan accordingly. You may purchase shirt stays, mouth guards, and academic bags at the VMI Bookstore on Matriculation Day. 

Camel back must be black in color. 

During the 9 days after Matriculation, Rats (VMI’s term for freshmen after Matriculation) are not authorized to have food in barracks. Nonperishable items will be placed in the trunk room with their luggage until after the 9-day Matriculation week.

Parents should give their children spending money, credit cards, checkbooks, etc. prior to departing from their barracks room for lunch and the Superintendent’s Welcome. These items should be left in the Barracks room and secured. Lockboxes are sold (limited quantity) at the Matriculation Fair in Cocke Hall.  We ask that you do not bring them to Cameron Hall, as the new cadets cannot carry items when they depart Cameron Hall.

Matriculants should change into athletic uniforms (gym dyke) after lunch. They are required to be in their athletic uniform with their name tag for the 2:00 p.m. Superintendent’s Welcome in Cameron Hall.

Various VMI agencies, local bankers, churches, and representatives from several other organizations will be present from the VMI community.

Athletes may attend beginning at 7:30 a.m. and all others can attend beginning at 8 a.m. The fair ends at 1 p.m. to all matriculants time to get back to Cameron Hall for the Superintendent’s Welcome.