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Next Steps for New Students
You’re venturing to Arcadia University, and we’re here to help! This summer, you’ll complete tasks that help you stay on track, and we’ll connect you with services, resources, and support.
VENTURE TO ARCADIA
Summer Welcome Days
During this required event for new students, you’ll get to know classmates, campus, and much more. On-campus Summer Welcome Days will be held on Friday, July 15, Tuesday, July 19, Friday, July 22, and Saturday, July 23. Virtual options—reserved for transfer students and students living 250+ miles from campus—will be held on Thursday, June 23 and Thursday, Aug. 11.
To register, click the button that applies to you:
Before you start this fall:
Task |
Due Date |
Questions? |
| After you deposit, activate your Arcadia email address and access PortalGuard. You’ll need to activate your account from a computer and have a secondary device (i.e. your cell phone or tablet) handy to set up your email address, password, and two-step verification. | May 15 | helpdesk@arcadia.edu |
| Activate your Financial Aid Portal. | May 15 | finaid@arcadia.edu |
| Submit your housing application. Log into MyArcadia, select “PortalGuard” on your MyArcadia homepage, and click the “StarRez Housing Portal” application. | May 30 | housing@arcadia.edu |
| Complete your Math, English, and Modern Language placement tests by logging into Canvas through PortalGuard. You'll also find practice exams, which we highly recommend! Exams should be taken at a computer. | May 30 | studentsuccess@arcadia.edu |
| Upload your health information and immunization documentation, including COVID vaccination and booster information (if applicable), in your Patient Portal. | Aug. 1 | shs@arcadia.edu |
| Submit your photo to the GET app for your KnightCard (once you have your student ID number). | Aug. 1 | knightcardservices@arcadia.edu |
| Upload your proof of insurance. Website will be available after July 15. | Aug. 15 | shs@arcadia.edu |
| Submit your final high school transcript. | Aug. 15 | admiss@arcadia.edu |
|
Apply for a passport. If you have one, check the expiration date. Processing time for U.S. passports currently takes up to 18 weeks. |
globalengagement@arcadia.edu |
Campus Housing
Arcadia is a residential campus, meaning that students who do not live within 25 miles live on campus for their first two years. Our residence life team fosters a welcoming community that celebrates diversity and encourages individuality. With dedicated health and safety support, students who live on campus graduate at a 30% higher rate.