New Student Orientation

Dear Class of 2030,

Congratulations on your acceptance to Soka University of America (SUA)! We look forward to welcoming you soon.

We have transitioned to providing admitted students with a digital Welcome Packet. Please find the links to the included items below. In particular, please take the time to read through the Welcome Brochure, which contains important dates and lists of items that need to be submitted before your arrival. 

There will be more updates to come in June. Please stay tuned! Should you have any questions, please contact Brian Durick, bdurick@soka.edu or Diana Ueda, dueda@soka.edu

Important Dates

Below is a list of crucial dates incoming students must know for a smooth orientation and onboarding experience:

Check-in Dates

  • Sunday, August 9th from 9am - 5pm
  • Monday, August 10th from 9am - 3pm

Submission Deadlines

  • First-Year Housing Application: June 28th
  • Health History & Immunization Forms: July 1st
  • Submission of Student Photo: July 1st
  • Health Insurance Waiver: July 1st

Frequently Asked Questions

Will SUA Provide transportation from airport to SUA?

Students will need to make their own transportation arrangements from the airport to SUA. Below are links to the ground transportation options from the various nearby airports:

- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- Santa Ana / John Wayne Airport (SNA)
- Long Beach Airport (LGB)

How will students get to know their Classmates? Will Orientation include some social Events?

Each student is placed in an Orientation Group alongside 10-12 classmates. The group is led by a Student Orientation Leader. These upper division Soka students lead ice breakers, organize hangouts, and foster community building. The SOL connects individually with each student in their group on a weekly basis and serves as a resource and guide to help new students navigate the college journey.

Will there be a formal President's 'Welcome Ceremony' for students?

The university plans a formal President's Welcome ceremony for incoming students and two guests. Following the ceremony, an outdoor reception dinner will be served to students and their guests. For more information, click here.

When does class start?

You will begin your first class called Core I: Enduring Questions of Humanity on Monday, August 17. This is an intensive three-and-a-half-week course taken during the Fall Block and is required of all first-year students. You will automatically be registered for this class.

What Academic resources are available to students as they begin college?

Students will meet a variety of academic resources during Welcome Week including the SUA Writing Center specialists, Library Staff, and IT staff who can all help students navigate in-person and virtual resources. In addition, professors host regular office hours to connect with students.

How and when do I register for classes?

During Orientation, you will receive academic advising and receive training on how to register for fall semester classes.

How will updates or changes in plans be communicated?

Enrolled students will directly receive any updates via the Orientation Sokannect page. The soka.edu website is the primary source of updates for all other audiences.