Welcome to Saint Leo University.
Fall 2026 New Student Orientation (NSO) is designed to prepare incoming students for a smooth and successful transition into the Saint Leo community. NSO includes a variety of programs and events that will set students on the path toward academic and personal success at Saint Leo University. Students entering the University for Fall 2026 will participate in in-person activities. These experiences will acquaint students with our campus, support services, policies, faculty, and staff while allowing them to complete all Admitted Students Checklist items prior to the start of classes. NSO will also provide incoming students with the opportunity to build friendships before the semester.
Please note that New Student Orientation is mandatory for all incoming students (commuter, resident, first-time-in-college, and transfer). All students are required to attend.
Participating students and their families will learn about opportunities and responsibilities both in and out of the classroom. By exposing students to the key services and resources available to them, we hope to empower them to make well-informed decisions.
Please take a moment to review our helpful New Student Checklist to familiarize yourself with the various documents and tasks you will need to complete prior to your arrival here on campus for the semester.
Your Journey as a Lion Begins Here
Welcome to Saint Leo University! Starting college is an exciting milestone, and we believe every student deserves to begin their journey feeling supported, inspired, and ready to thrive.
New Student Orientation is more than just learning where things are on campus; it’s your first step into a community committed to your success. At Saint Leo, we believe the university should be ready for you, and Orientation is designed to connect you with the people, resources, and experiences that will help you succeed from your very first day.
This is where your journey as a Lion truly begins.
What You’ll Experience at Orientation
- Explore Your New Campus – Become familiar with classrooms, study spaces, dining locations, and student support services.
- Meet the People Who Are Here for You – Connect with faculty, advisors, and staff dedicated to your success.
- Prepare for Academic Success – Learn about expectations, advising, and tools to thrive.
- Build Your Lion Community – Meet fellow students and begin forming lasting connections.
- Discover Ways to Get Involved – Explore organizations, leadership opportunities, and campus traditions.
- Get Your Questions Answered – Connect with university teams and feel fully prepared.
Important Dates: Orientation Schedule
Orientation is a required part of joining the Saint Leo community, and every incoming student — commuter, resident, first-time-in-college, and transfer — is expected to attend. Here's the schedule of available sessions.
Thursday, August 20
International Orientation
Friday, August 21
New Student Move-In - 8:00 a.m.
Commuter Student Check-In - 1:00 p.m. (Wellness Center)
New Student Welcome Ceremony - 3:00 p.m. (Bowman Gym)
Class Photo - 4:00 p.m. (Lacrosse Field)
Mandatory Hall Meeting - 8:00 p.m. (Residence Hall) *Residential Students Only*
Karaoke Night - 9:00 p.m. (Benedict's)
Saturday, August 22
Breakfast - 8:00 a.m.
Rotation Block #1 - 9:20 a.m.
Lunch - 11:50 a.m.
Rotation Block #2 - 12:30 p.m.
The Roar Welcome Fest - 7:00 p.m. (Kirk Lawn)
Sunday, August 23
Lion's Lagoon - 2:00 p.m. (Wellness Center)
Sunday Night Worship - 7:00 p.m. (Kirk Lawn)
Welcome Week
August 24 - August 30
Why Orientation Matters
Your success starts before the first day of class. Orientation helps you begin your Saint Leo journey with confidence and clarity.
- Understand what to expect in your first semester
- Build meaningful connections with other new Lions
- Learn how to navigate campus and access key resources
- Discover the many ways Saint Leo will support your growth
- Start your college experience prepared and confident
Who Should Attend
New Student Orientation is required for all new Saint Leo students beginning in Fall 2026. It is an essential part of your transition and ensures every new Lion begins their journey with the tools, connections, and confidence needed to succeed.
- Connect with fellow new Lions
- Meet faculty and staff
- Access important campus resources
- Prepare for your first semester academically and socially
For Parents & Families
Your student's journey as a Lion is a family milestone, and Saint Leo is committed to supporting you every step of the way. We know that sending your student to college brings both excitement and questions, and Orientation isn't just for students; it's an opportunity for families to feel confident, informed, and connected to the Saint Leo community.
Throughout New Student Orientation, families will have the chance to learn about the resources, people, and support systems that will surround your student during their time here. Our goal is simple: for you to leave knowing your student is in a place that is ready for them.
What Families Can Expect
- Meet the Team Behind Your Student's Success – Connect with the faculty, advisors, and staff dedicated to your student's academic and personal growth.
- Understand Campus Resources – Learn about the support services available, from academic advising and financial aid to counseling, health, and safety.
- Get Your Questions Answered – Speak directly with university teams about billing, housing, dining, academics, and more.
- Learn How to Stay Connected – Discover the best ways to stay informed and involved throughout your student's Saint Leo journey.
- Join the Saint Leo Family – When your student becomes a Lion, so do you. We look forward to welcoming you into our community.
Partnering in Your Student's Success
The transition to college is a shared journey. As your student grows in independence, our faculty and staff are here to guide, challenge, and support them. We encourage families to stay engaged while empowering your student to take ownership of their new experience.
Questions before Orientation? Contact the Office of Student Engagement and Leadership at Orientation@saintleo.edu and we'll be glad to help.