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 all incoming students (whether commuter, resident, first-time-in-college, or transfer) are highly encouraged to participate in as many components of New Student Orientation as possible.
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.
Register for New Student Orientation
Choose the Orientation session that works best for you and reserve your spot today. Sessions fill quickly, so we encourage you to register early.
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
Choose the Orientation session that works best for you and reserve your spot.
Thursday, August 20
International and Late Deposits
Friday, August 21
New Student Move-In
Convocation in Bowman (Time TBT)
New Student Weekend
Friday, August 21 - Sunday, August 23
Week of Welcome
Monday, August 24 - Saturday, August 29
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
Online Orientation Course
This short course will cover important new student topics to prepare incoming Lions for a successful first semester.
Complete the New Student Orientation Online Course through OKTA. This online course is designed to introduce students to Courses, our D2L system, and the resources available to them at Saint Leo University. The course is accessible 24/7 starting December 5th (Date Subject to change). The first lesson can be viewed by clicking on the button below.
For Parents & Families
To help you feel informed and confident, we’ve created a series of recorded sessions covering key topics related to Orientation, move-in, and campus resources.
Watch & Learn: Orientation Support Series
Explore these recorded sessions to hear directly from our staff and student leaders, and get answers to common questions about your student’s transition to Saint Leo.
- Friday, November 21, (w/Orientation Leaders) View Recording >>
- Thursday, December 4, (w/Residence Life) View Recording >>
- Tuesday, December 9, (w/Student Financial Services) View Recording >>
Contact Us
Scan the QR Code to join our WhatsApp Community
For questions regarding New Student Orientation, please contact orientation@saintleo.edu or call us at (352) 588-8499 or (352) 588-8992.