Welcome, new Saints! Student Orientation & Registration (SOAR) is for incoming first-year students who will be starting at the University of St. Francis in August of the next fall semester. SOAR is a way for new students to register for classes, get to know USF better, and begin their lives as new college students. An additional part of SOAR is Welcome Weekend, which is the major orientation that takes place at the start of each school year during the weekend before classes begin in August. It includes a transfer orientation. This year’s Welcome Weekend will take place August 16-18, 2024.9
Over the summer, complete the required enrollment verification process. In order to start classes, all students are required to complete a final check-in process through the USF portal. Starting in July 2024, when you log into the portal, you will be prompted to complete these steps.
Finalize/Confirm:
How to complete payment options:
Welcome Weekend is a series of informative sessions about USF over the weekend before classes begin in August. It provides an opportunity for new students to meet other students in their class while attending fun events. The next Welcome Weekend will take place August 16-18, 2024.
The first day of classes is August 19, 2024 more details about the academic calendar can be found here: stfrancis.edu/calendar. As a new student to keep up to date on what is going on download the Suitable app and see what events are happening on campus Apple Store download Google Play download.
Welcome Weekend Schedule for First Year Students and Guests (coming soon)
Would you like to be paired with a returning USF student who has the same interests as you? Someone to show you the ropes of being a successful college student… a “go-to” person who can answer questions or attend events with you? Take advantage of our Bernie Buddies Program!
Casual, comfortable attire is recommended. If you’ve got USF swag, wear it, and you may want to bring a light sweater or jacket as some rooms tend to be on the cool side.
For your convenience, listed below are several hotels located in the Joliet area and near the University of St. Francis. When making your reservation, please advise them you are with the University of St. Francis to take advantage of and receive the USF discount rate were applicable.
Use this RSVP to attend a scheduled SOAR registration event or to make an individual appointment. At the scheduled SOAR events, you will register for your fall semester classes with an advisor. Class registration happens on a first come first serve basis, so students benefit from coming early. See you soon!