The Orientation Process
The Orientation Process consists of two primary steps at the University of Iowa. Plan to select a time frame to meet virtually with your Academic Advisor for your Student Online Advising & Registration (SOAR) Appointment. Part two is attending a Becoming a Hawkeye Program On-campus in June or July.
New Student Checklist
Being a new student can be overwhelming! We simplified your college transition into a checklist of to-do items.
New Student Transition Timeline for Spring 2026 Admits
Reservation System Opens
October 13All students who have accepted admission and paid the $325 acceptance fee can sign up for their orientation experience.
SOAR Page Opens
November 17Students can start completing their required pre-advising materials, including placement tests on the soar page. The page must be completed one week prior to their Student Online Advising & Registration (SOAR) appointment.
Student Online Advising & Registration Appointments
December & JanuaryStudents sign up for their online advising appointment and register for classes during their advising meeting.
Success at Iowa Course Opens
January 6The Success at Iowa online course opens. All new students complete this transition course that wraps up halfway through the semester.
On Iowa! Spring Welcome
January 18-25On Iowa! spring welcome events will help you become familiar with the University of Iowa community, opportunities, and resources during the first week of class.
First Day of Spring Semester
January 20
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Best public university in the country (U.S. News & World Report)
Top 3 %
of universities worldwide (U.S. News & World Report)
95 %
job/graduate school placement rate
