FAQs

VZ Orientation: UNA: FAQs

Below are some of our Frequently Asked Questions about orientation. If you still have questions, then please click "Send A Message" above.

Can I switch my major prior to SOAR?

Absolutely!

If you wish to change your major, please submit a major change form two weeks prior to your SOAR session. Go to https://una.edu/registrar/student-resources/forms.html.

Submit that form to the Registrar's Office at registrar@una.edu.

You can contact the Registrar's Office at registrar@una.edu or 256-765-4316 if you have further questions.

Can I get a scholarship/grant?

The key to getting a scholarship or grant is to research options and apply early! Please refer to Student Financial Aid for resources at https://www.una.edu/financial-aid/index.html.

The UNA Financial Aid Office offers assistance in helping you find ways to pay for your college education. Whether you need help completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), accepting Student Loans, finding information on Direct Plus Loans for parents, or how to apply for scholarships, they are happy to support you. You can also learn about alternative loans and payment plans.

Can I bring a car to campus in my first year?

Yes, you can! Freshmen who live on campus will have a designated zone on their parking permit for the particular residence hall where they are assigned.

The University requires all freshman commuters to park off campus and utilize the University bus system. We offer several park-and-ride lots to board the buses to campus. Your only other option is to park off campus on the city streets.

You must have a parking permit for all campus and university-access parking. You need to register your vehicle with Transportation Services and obtain a parking permit. Also, be sure to read the parking regulations.

Children at SOAR

Although we welcome children/siblings at SOAR, the day is full of information sessions for parents and guests. The sessions may seem long and tiring to younger children.

Do I have to stay the entire time?

Yes. We ask that students remain for the entirety of their orientation session.

Does the SOAR program cost anything?

Yes. The fees cover food, a shirt, and the information materials.

Freshman Orientation:

Freshman students pay $100/student.

Guests pay $35/person.

Does tuition need to be paid at SOAR?

No.

Electronic Billing (e-bills) is the official means of providing student account statements to all current UNA students. When a new bill is available an e-mail notification will be sent electronically to the student's UNA Portal e-mail account and any Authorized Users established by the student. Students are advised to check their UNA e-mail regularly. Failure to pay the bill by the deadline will result in cancellation of your class registration. That would mean you would have to go through the registration process again in August.

Family/Guests - Should my family come to SOAR?

Yes, if possible. Members of your family will have many questions that can be answered through

the Family Orientation Program. It is important that they have a good understanding of UNA

programs and services in order to support you in your educational pursuits. Family members will

be charged $35/family member. A maximum of 2 guests are allowed to attend.

NOTE: Although we welcome children/siblings at SOAR, the day is full of information sessions for

parents and guests. The sessions may seem lengthy and tiring to younger children.

NOTE: It is not required for family to attend orientation. We encourage family members (parents, legal guardians, or anyone assisting you with college) to attend to learn the resources for you and for them. Please feel free to contact us if you have questions at soar@una.edu .

How do I obtain a parking permit for the school year?

Parking decals will be issued during SOAR. You can get a head start prior to SOAR by completing the Vehicle Registration process online at

https://www.una.edu/transportation/vehicle-registration.html.

By using this online process, when you arrive at SOAR you will be able to complete and expedite the process at the Transportation Services window, located on first floor of the GUC. If you know which residence hall that you have been assigned to, please inform the staff at the Transportation Services window and they can issue the correct parking permit to you.

Parking Pass for SOAR

You will need to have a parking pass for orientation (SOAR). The parking pass is on the website at www.una.edu/orientation under Parking Permit for the type of session you are attending.

Payment - Do I have to use a debit or credit card?

We encourage you to pay online. However, if you don't have the means to pay online, you may send a check or money order to the following address:

University of North Alabama

Attn: SOAR

One Harrison Plaza

UNA Box 5023

Florence, AL 35632

Please understand that SOAR dates/reservations are confirmed upon payment. Please send checks or money orders in immediately.

Where can I obtain the SOAR Schedule?

You may obtain the SOAR schedule by going to https://www.una.edu/orientation/schedules.html .

Will I be able to purchase books at SOAR?

The bookstore will be open for you to take care of pre-ordering your books once you have registered for classes.

Will parents be with their son/daughter during the entire freshman orientation process?

Portions of the program will bring families and students together throughout the SOAR program. However, the parents will follow a different itinerary and will meet up with their students during lunch and at the end of the orientation session.