7 Critical Steps For FAU New Student Orientation (SOAR) 2025: Dates, Checklist, And Mandatory Requirements
Preparing for the transition to Florida Atlantic University (FAU) requires navigating the mandatory New Student Orientation, officially known as SOAR (Student Orientation, Academics, and Resources). As of December 20, 2025, the university has finalized the key dates and a crucial three-phase program structure for all incoming First-Year and Transfer students for the upcoming Summer and Fall semesters, making this information essential for securing your spot and registering for classes. Participation in SOAR is not optional; it is a required step for all new Owls to gain access to academic advising and complete their final enrollment process.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the essential 2025 schedule, the non-negotiable checklist items, and the specific departments you must engage with to ensure a smooth and successful start to your academic journey at the Boca Raton, Davie, or Jupiter campuses. From mastering the Canvas virtual modules to reserving your in-person session, here is everything you need to know to officially join the Owl Family.
Your Mandatory 2025 FAU New Student Orientation (SOAR) Dates
The Office of New Student Orientation has structured the 2025 SOAR program to accommodate various student types, including First-Year, Transfer, and Graduate students. Knowing your specific session date is the first critical step in your enrollment process.
Key Mandatory & Recommended Orientation Dates for 2025:
- Fall 2025 First-Year Student SOAR: The main in-person session for Fall starters is scheduled for the first Saturday, August 17, 2025. Students should check their official FAU email for the specific time and location details for this required event.
- Summer 2025 Student Orientation: The required "How to Florida Atlantic" program for all incoming Summer students will take place on June 21, 2025.
- Wilkes Honors College Orientation: Incoming First-Year and Transfer students admitted to the Wilkes Honors College on the Jupiter campus have a dedicated orientation on Thursday, August 14, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Graduate Student Orientation (Recommended): While not mandatory, the Graduate College highly recommends attendance. The Boca Raton Graduate Orientation is scheduled for Tuesday, August 12, 2025, with registration starting at 5:00 p.m.
All students must reserve their orientation spot through the university's online system after submitting their required Tuition Deposit. This reservation is a prerequisite for registering for classes.
The 3-Phase Mandatory Orientation Checklist for Enrollment Success
FAU’s orientation process is not a single-day event; it is a multi-step program designed to ensure you are fully prepared for academic and campus life. For First-Year and Transfer students, the process is generally broken down into three critical phases that must be completed in order.
Phase 1: The Virtual Orientation Course on Canvas
This is the first and most crucial step. All new students are required to complete a self-directed Virtual Orientation course hosted on FAU’s Canvas learning platform. This module covers essential topics like academic policies, student conduct, and financial aid basics.
- Mandatory Requirement: You must score 100% on all quizzes within the Canvas Virtual Orientation course to satisfy this requirement.
- Access: Access to the course opens as early as April 1 for Fall starters. You must complete this phase before attending the in-person session.
Phase 2: Academic Advising and Class Registration
Once the Canvas course is complete, you will gain access to the resources needed for academic planning. This phase is where you officially Register for Classes.
- Academic Advising: The virtual orientation modules contain instructions for connecting with an Academic Advisor. This is essential for selecting the correct courses for your major.
- OwlDone Portal: You will use the OwlDone portal to track your progress and access specific advising instructions, ensuring you meet all prerequisites.
Phase 3: The In-Person SOAR Session
The final phase is the on-campus experience. For First-Year students, this is typically a two-day program (or a single extended day for some Transfer and Summer students) that provides a comprehensive introduction to the campus community.
- Welcome to FAU: The session includes a formal welcome, a guide to Academic Success, and a breakdown of your "Success Network" on campus.
- Campus Resources: You will engage with key departments such as the Student Government (SGA), Student Health Services, and the Career Center (which uses the Handshake platform).
- Campus Tour: A physical tour of the campus helps you locate essential academic buildings, the library, and student life centers.
Essential Entities and LSI Keywords: Your FAU Support Network
To establish topical authority and ensure you are fully prepared, it is vital to be familiar with the key entities and support services you will interact with during and after your orientation. These departments are your Success Network and cover every aspect of your life at FAU.
Financial and Administrative Entities:
- Financial Aid: A key component of orientation is understanding your financial obligations, including tuition, scholarships, and grants. You must officially Apply for Financial Aid before orientation.
- Registrar's Office: Manages your official academic records and class registration.
- Immunization Records: Submission of up-to-date and complete Immunization Records is a mandatory prerequisite for enrollment.
- Residency Documentation: Required to confirm your Florida residency status for tuition purposes.
Campus Life and Student Services Entities:
- University Housing: If you plan to Apply for On-Campus Housing, orientation is a great time to ask final questions about residence halls and move-in logistics.
- Student Affairs: Oversees all non-academic student life, including student organizations, campus events, and the Owl Central platform for involvement.
- Student Government (SGA): Represents the student body across all campuses (Boca Raton, MacArthur, Davie, Harbor Branch, SeaTech) and is comprised of Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches.
- Learning Support: Includes tutoring and academic coaching to ensure your Academic Success.
A Note on Family Orientation
FAU understands that the transition is a family affair. Family Orientation is offered concurrently with both First-Year and Transfer student sessions. The program provides a separate, dedicated virtual session on Canvas and an in-person component to help parents and family members understand the university's resources, student privacy laws, and how they can best support their student. This is highly encouraged, though not mandatory for the student.
Completing the full fau new student orientation program, from the virtual Canvas course to the in-person SOAR session, is the final hurdle before you begin your studies. By reserving your spot early and diligently completing the pre-orientation checklist, you will ensure a smooth, stress-free start to your career as a Florida Atlantic Owl. The Office of New Student Orientation is your primary resource for any questions regarding the 2025 schedule and requirements.
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