Depending on their background, students have to undergo a six-month orientation phase before proceeding with the preparation phase.

During this phase, IMPRS-TRUST offers a broad variety of course options, other activities, and individual mentoring. Students take foundational courses in different areas so as to complement and broaden their undergraduate education. In addition, they attend a summer school and an in-depth course and/or seminar to obtain a first sense of scientific research work.

Each student is assigned an individual mentor from the IMPRS faculty, from day one. The mentor advises the student on course selection and planning of other activities. At the end of the orientation phase, the mentor helps the student plan for the subsequent preparation phase.