Frequently asked questions
Onboarding FAQs for parents and families
Will NAU be hosting in-person Summer Onboarding sessions for Fall 2025 new students?
No, all in-person Onboarding events will take place during and after move-in.
What are the dates of Onboarding for Fall 2025 new students?
The in-person components of Onboarding experience will occur alongside the Campus Living Move-in on Friday, August 22 through Sunday, August 24 with additional “Welcome Week” events continuing into the beginning of the semester.
Is Onboarding required?
Onboarding is required for student success. All first-year students should complete the online modules in Canvas and attend the in-person events designed to ease their transition to college.
How does a student’s move-in time affect Onboarding?
Onboarding events and programming are designed to accommodate students who may be moving in as late as Friday, August 22. Students will be able to select a specific date and time to move-in into their Campus Living Communities. Students will be able to see the options for move-in within their housing portal later during the Spring semester.
What will be available for students and families during the summer?
Beginning in May, students will have access to online Onboarding modules through NAU’s Canvas system. These modules are designed to provide critical information (e.g. financial aid, required vaccinations, JacksCard, etc.) students will need to prepare for their first semester. We will also be hosting two live Lumberjack Family Chats (5-6pm on June 25 and July 23). These sessions, hosted by Family Access, Communication, Transition and Support (FACTS) will introduce you to NAU staff who will answer your questions about your student’s journey to becoming a Lumberjack.
Will there be Onboarding programming specifically for parents and families?
Yes, webinars are available during the summer and an in-person event for families during Onboarding in August. For updates about Onboarding and to receive information specifically designed to prepare families for their student’s first year as a Lumberjack, we encourage you to sign up for The Lumberjack Family Hub.
How much does onboarding cost?
All Onboarding events and services are free. Similarly, optional Welcome Week events are paid by student fees and do not have an additional cost.
What is the difference between Onboarding and “Welcome Week” events?
Onboarding events and programming are designed specifically for new Lumberjacks. Welcome Week events are for all students (including first-years). New students should attend all Onboarding in-person events and as many Welcome Week events as they are able. Attending these events is a critical way that NAU welcomes and integrates new students in our campus community.
What if students have further questions regarding Onboarding?
Consult NAU’s Orientation website for updates.
You can also email Onboarding@nau.edu.