The increasing diversification of study programs is one of many challenges when choosing the right degree program. An orientation program enables participants to explore various degree programs over the course of up to two semesters and to take a closer look at their individual interests and abilities. The orientation program at the TUD Dresden University of Technologyacts as a preparatory program prior to regular studies and offers a wide range of events as well as mentoring and coaching support to facilitate an informed and motivated study decision. Be-fore the start of the first cohort, 2043 people were asked about the current status of the concept by means of an online survey. The results were used to further develop the concept and to re-search the reasons and backgrounds for interest in an orientation program. Around 90 per cent of participants consider it to be a useful offer and agree or tend to agree with the statement that the orientation program can be helpful in deciding for or against a degree course. The article picks up on these and other results after introducing the concept of the orientation program.