Committed Students Next Steps

We are excited to have you join us at Alma College.

Here’s your essential guide to kickstart your journey as a Scot. Check out our New Scot Checklist for all the must-dos to get you prepped and pumped for the fall semester and to make sure you’re all set to thrive when you arrive on campus!

• Sign up for Becoming a Scot Day. 
• Log into your student portal and do the following:
  • Complete your housing steps. There are three steps to the housing process. With each step, you’ll receive instructions in your Alma email and be directed to your portal. The housing process will begin on March 18, 2024
  • Accept, decline or adjust any student federal loans. Once in your portal, go to “My Self-Service Account” and select “Financial Aid Counseling.” You must also complete the Master Promissory Note (MPN) and the Entrance Counseling for loans to be activated and reflected on your bill.
• Complete the New Scot Survey (check your Alma email starting April 20 for the link).
  • This survey is key to activating your advising sessions. It will introduce you to your advisor so you can start registering for classes.
• Request final official transcripts from your previous institution and send to registrar@alma.edu.

• Sign up for Becoming a Scot Day. 
• Log into your student portal:
  • Complete your housing steps. There are three steps to the housing process. With each step, you’ll receive instructions via your Alma email. The housing process will begin on March 18, 2024
  • Explore the portal and familiarize yourself with the system. You’ll use this portal to also select a meal plan, review financial aid, and pay your bill.
• Complete the New Scot Survey (check your Alma email starting April 20 for the link)
  • This survey is key to activating your advising sessions. It will introduce you to your advisor so you can start registering for classes.
• Prepare for August move-in
• Determine your arrival date. After you have received your visa, book your flight to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. You will need to arrive on August 15 or August 16. Alma College provides a free shuttle service from the airport to campus on both days. The shuttle will leave the airport at 9 pm. If you have any questions, please reach out to Ellen Richter.
• Sign up for transportation from the airport. Please make sure to sign up for the free shuttle here: https://alma.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2oF4J4Tq5obkuDI
  
• Move in to campus. When you arrive on campus, you will be met by a member of the Alma College staff member who will provide you with dinner, bedding, and a pillow for your new room.
• Attend Pre-Orientation Program. International students will participate in pre-orientation programming that begins on Monday, August 19, 2024. During this time, you will get to know your fellow international students, explore campus and the city of Alma, learn about American culture, and visit local places (like a home goods store, grocery store, cell phone store, and bank).
• Attend Tartan 101 Orientation Program. International students then participate in Tartan 101 with all other new Alma College students starting Wednesday, August 21.

Welcome to the Alma family. We’re grateful that you’ve entrusted us with your student’s education and look forward to partnering with you in the years ahead. To prepare for your student’s time at Alma, consider the following tips to familiarize yourself with the campus schedule, culture and resources.

• Confirm that your student has registered for Becoming a Scot Day (BASD). At BASD, they’ll prepare to be an Alma student by meeting faculty, staff and students; learning important college policies and procedures; exploring campus services at a resource fair; and receiving important items like an ID card and parking pass.
• Register for the Parent & Supporter Portal, which provides a steady feed of the info you need to support your Scot: key events; deadlines and milestones; and tips to help your student make the most of college. The portal is focused on what matters most: your student’s success at Alma.
• Mark important dates on your calendar. Make note of the academic calendar, exam schedule, and important housing dates for the upcoming academic year.
• Assist your student in setting up proxy access. This enables you to have direct access to important financial aid and billing information.
• Follow Alma College on social media. Stay up-to-date on campus culture, news, and announcements.
• Watch for the Parent and Family e-newsletter. If you provided your email to Alma College during the admissions process you will automatically be signed up.