Jump Start Scholars FAQs
What is Jump Start Scholars?
The Jump Start Scholars program is designed to empower new students by building connections with peers, faculty, and staff, while providing academic and financial support. The program gives students the opportunity to move onto campus before Panther Welcome and classes begin, at no cost, so they can get acclimated, meet others, and begin their college journey with confidence. Through the program, students gain a deeper understanding of their academic journey, campus resources, and financial planning, setting them up for success throughout their college experience. Please contact jumpstart@uni.edu or call 319-273-4260 with questions!
- When is Jump Start Scholars?
Jump Start Scholars will take place from Sunday, August 16 - Wednesday, August 19, 2026. Students who sign up for the program commit to the full four days of programming.
- If I have already attended summer orientation, why should I also attend Jump Start Scholars?
The Jump Start Scholars program provides an extended orientation opportunity for new students, with benefits ranging from early move-in to your campus residence hall to more connections with new students, faculty and staff members, and in-depth exploration of university resources before classes begin and even before the rest of the incoming class arrives. Jump Start Scholars also participate in fun and interactive sessions on topics such as student involvement, budgeting, academic planning and leadership.
- Is the room that I move in to for Jump Start Scholars the same room I will be living in during the academic year?
Yes. Jump Start Scholars students will move in to their assigned residence hall room one week early at no additional charge, with the requirement that participants attend all Jump Start Scholars program sessions. Residence hall move-in for Jump Start Scholars will take place in the morning of Sunday, August 16, 2026.
- Will meals be provided during Jump Start Scholars?
Yes. Students will receive a meal plan for the duration of Jump Start Scholars programming.
- Do I have to attend all activities throughout Jump Start Scholars?
Yes. Each participant must commit to attending all sessions during Jump Start Scholars.
- What kind of activities will I participate in during Jump Start Scholars?
Students will participate in a variety of fun and educational sessions, with topics such as student involvement, budgeting, academic planning and leadership. You will participate in these activities with a small group of other new students, guided by a current UNI student known as a Pathfinder.
- When will I receive more information about Orientation and Jump Start Scholars?
After accepting your offer to the University of Northern Iowa for the Fall 2026 semester, you'll get an email to sign up for Orientation once registration is live starting February 3. Then eligible students will receive an invitation via email to sign up for Jump Start Scholars once registration is live starting February 16. Sign up for orientation is available at success.uni.edu/orientation.
- Will I be able to participate in the Panther Welcome program if I am a part of Jump Start Scholars?
Yes! Jump Start Scholars is just the start to your UNI journey, and Panther Welcome is the next step. Panther Welcome is the official welcome for all new students and begins right after Jump Start Scholars, to learn more visit success.uni.edu/panther-welcome.
- What should I pack for Jump Start Scholars programming?
Students are encouraged to bring the following items: water bottle, comfortable walking shoes, athletic or comfortable clothing, swimsuit, notetaking items, and backpack to carry items.