New Student Checklist

If you haven't already, register for SOAR (Student Orientation Advising & Registration) to meet with a faculty advisor, register for classes, learn more about student life, technology and career development and chat with your new classmates. This orientation is required for new Dominican students and takes place in June and July. SOAR sessions available in a variety of modalities, both in-person or online in a synchronous format to fit your preference. Spaces fill quickly, so reserve your spot today!

After you register for classes, required tasks and resources will open for you in a course on Canvas, our learning management system. This course will introduce you to the many resources available at Dominican. Keep an eye on your inbox after your Advising & Registration appointment for more details.

If you plan to live on campus, you must submit a housing application along with a $200 housing deposit to secure your on-campus residency. Dominican is surrounded by the shops, restaurants, recreation areas and historic, tree-lined neighborhoods of Oak Park and River Forest—yet we’re just minutes from downtown Chicago. Questions? Email Residence Life or call (708) 524-6218. 

Your Dominican email is where you'll receive all communication after the first day of classes. But, some important information will also be sent there as soon as you deposit, so it's important to check both your personal and Dominican accounts regularly. Follow instructions to add your Dominican email to your iPhone or Android or have your messages forwarded to your personal email so you don't miss these updates. Questions? Check the KnowledgeBase or contact the IT Help Desk. 

Review your financial aid award letter. If you have only received an estimate, please submit outstanding documents, which are needed by the Financial Aid Office to finalize your award. Don't forget, you're required to accept or decline your student loans online and complete Entrance Counseling and a Master Promissory Note (MPN) if you are accepting student loans. If your parent is interested in a Parent PLUS loan, please complete the authorization form. Questions? Contact the Financial Aid Office at (708) 524-6809. 

Tuition is due on the first day of class and can be paid in the Stars Connect office or online. A bill will not be mailed to you—you will receive an email notification sent to your Dominican email address that your e-bill is ready to be viewed. Before the first day of classes, you need to make arrangements to pay your tuition in full or to choose a monthly payment plan for a fee of $45.00 per semester. If tuition is not paid in full by the first day of class and a monthly payment plan is not elected by that date, you are subject to a $90 non-refundable deferment fee and ongoing finance charges. 

All students are required to comply with the University policy for Immunizations. Prior to the first day of class all students must log in to the Wellness Center Online and upload documentation of the required immunizations. The Wellness Center portal is synced with the Illinois registry so some of your immunizations may already be uploaded. If it reads “Compliant Verified” you are compliant and nothing more needs to be done. Required Immunizations include 2 MMRs, TDAP within the last 10 years, and Meningitis (if under 22 years of age). You will also need to complete the required TB screening form. Failure to comply with the immunization policy may result in a fine.

Access the Wellness Center Online (link opens in new window). You will use your DU credentials to log in.

Questions can be directed to the Wellness Center at (708) 524-6229 or wellness@dom.edu.

Dominican University requires that all new students complete online training on sexual assault prevention, hazing prevention, and creating inclusive communities. This interactive online tool will help Dominican students further their understanding of important topics like sexual harassment and bystander intervention that will not only be beneficial in the campus environment but also in the community. If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Karolina Staros.

For more information about diversity, equity and inclusion, or to make a bias incident report, please visit our Office of Justice, Equity and Inclusion web page. 

Working on campus not only provides a paycheck but also valuable experience you can apply to your future career. There are a limited number of part-time jobs available university-wide. Search employment opportunities to find a job that interests you. 

Dominican hosts an entire weekend of fun for you and your family from Friday, August 23 to Sunday, August 25. Welcome Weekend includes residential move in on Friday for students living on campus. Saturday is a full day of programming and events, including informational workshops, students’ first seminar gathering, and Mass of the Holy Spirit. Sunday is our university’s kickoff event, DU Fest, for students, faculty, and staff. You won’t want to miss it! Visit the Welcome Weekend page for more information.