Go to the freshman orientation. This will help you get familiar with the campus and meet your fellow students.
Fill out the FAFSA. The earlier you fill it out, the better chance you have at getting the financial aid you need. Be sure to have your parents tax information ready as this is what sets most people back. Don't forget to check online for scholarships and grants. FastWeb is a great one. You can also get financial aid through your school. The key to this is to apply early and check the school financial aid website for the scholarships and grants you qualify for.
Schedule your classes. This should be done as soon as you are able to sign up. By doing this, you will be able to take the classes that you want.
Determine your living situation. Living on campus, off campus, or with your parents all have their own benefits. It's up to you to decide what's best for you.
Decide on your payment options. This includes both tuition and housing. Once you know how much you're getting in financial aid, you will know how much you'll have to pay. There are payment plans that you can consider if you can't pay for it all at once.
Know what books you'll need. Simply go to your school's bookstore website and track down the books you'll need for each class. If you don't want to spend a lot of money on the books through the bookstore, there are other means to get your books like eBay or Amazon.
Get a computer. This computer should be able to last throughout your entire college career if you take care of it. If you can't afford to buy a new computer, know that you can always use the computer labs at the school.
Get your school supplies. You will feel more prepared when you have everything you need for the semester. This includes pens, pencils, notebooks, folders, highlighters, and anything else that you'll need.
You will want to keep in contact with your friends. Make sure you get their contact information before each of you goes your separate ways.
If you're going to live on campus, know your move-in date and who you're rooming with. Contact your future roommate to discuss what you will each be bringing. Plan what you'll need to bring and start packing a week before you have to leave.