Student Orientation, Advising & Registration Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does SOAR stand for?
A: SOAR is an acronym for all the fundamental parts that make up this Introduction Phase of your transitional journey – Orientation, Advising and Registration.

Orientation

Step 1: Complete the online orientation.

Q: How will I receive the link to online orientation?
A: When you signed up for SOAR, you should have received a confirmation email with a link to online orientation.

Q: What if I lost the email or never got it?
A: No problem. The link can be found on our SOAR webpage.

Q: Do I have to complete the online orientation?
A: Yes. The online orientation will greatly enhance your understanding of what you need to know about being a student at MSUM including the steps necessary to make a seamless transition into the university.

Advising and Registration

Q: How will I get registered for classes and how will an advisor know what classes I should take?
A: An advisor will put together a schedule for you based off of the information you provide in the Pre-Enrollment survey which includes your major, areas of interests, special accommodations needed, college level course work previously or currently taking, and anything else you wish for the advisor to know.

Q: Will I be registered for classes that I don’t need to take?
A: No! An advisor will register you for the following courses:

• Major requirements
  • approximately 2 to 3 courses (6 to 9 credits) required for your degree of study.
• Graduation requirements
  • Liberal Arts & Sciences Curriculum (LASC)
    • Approximately 2 to 3 courses (6 to 9 credits) will begin to fulfill the LASC general education graduation requirement which consists of a minimum of 14 classes (42 credits) of course work.
  • First Year Experience Course (FYE)
    • FYE is a 1 credit course that is required of all students entering MSUM with less than 24 credits and highly recommended for all new students. The course focuses on academic success skills and university navigation.

Q: Do I need my official transcripts sent to MSUM before SOAR?
A: We strongly recommend having your official transcript sent to MSUM before your SOAR date so the academic advisor will have the most complete picture of your academic record

Q: What if I want to change my whole schedule?
A: The advisor can help you make those changes at your Advisor meeting.

Q: Will SOAR be held in person, or virtually?
A: The SOAR dates for Fall 2024 admits are June 11 - 14 and July 18 - 19 are in person. If you are unable attend during this time, please contact First Year Programs at firstyearprograms@mnstate.edu.