NACAC’s annual conference is one of the best opportunities for professionals to learn the latest trends and network with colleagues across the field of college admission counseling. Each year, 2,000+ first-time attendees participate in NACAC conference.

To support these professionals, there is a can’t-miss First Timers’ Orientation that will introduce you to other first timers and provide some insider tips about navigating your first NACAC conference. We recommend including this as part of your experience during the conference registration process.

We also recognize that attending a conference for the first time can be daunting. Below, we hope to provide some answers to the most popular questions that first timers might have while planning their NACAC conference experience.

Most Popular Questions

When should I arrive in Minneapolis?

  • NACAC Conference 2026 officially runs from October 8-10. However, there is programming that takes place ahead of the conference, including preconference workshops, seminars, college tours, and receptions. We recommend arriving early to take advantage of these opportunities. It’s also nice to have a day to get settled, pick up your conference badge and swag, and explore the area.

How does housing work for NACAC Conference 2026?

  • Once you register for conference and payment is made, you will receive an email with a unique housing link. Here you can peruse NACAC room blocks to select the best hotel to meet your needs and budget. You are not required to book a hotel in a NACAC room block, though these tend to be the best rates.

When should I depart Minneapolis?

  • All education sessions conclude on Saturday afternoon. With a closing mainstage and reception to follow. We recommend departing in the evening on Saturday, October 10 or the next day on Sunday, October 11.

Are there additional events I can sign up for?

  • College Tours: Check back soon to see which local universities will be offering tours.
  • Preconference Workshops and Seminars: Preconference workshops and seminars provide a deep dive into specific educational content before the conference begins. All preconference workshops and seminars are available for an additional fee and your options and pricing is reflected in the registration experience.
  • Unofficial NACAC Events: Many exhibitors and sponsors host events that take place outside of official NACAC programming. If you’re interested in learning more about a specific exhibitor, attendee, or participating organization, we recommend reaching out so you can be added to their guest list if they plan to host an event. Please note, these are not official NACAC conference events.

For more information regarding NACAC Conference 2026, visit our FAQ page.