Review the topics below for important information on how to prepare for your first year as a Bulldog.
Important Tasks & Deadlines
REQUIRED TASK
ADD YOUR EMERGENCY CONTACT
We ask all students to provide the University with an emergency contact to have on file if needed. To do this, log in to my.butler.edu, click on the PS Campus Solutions tile, and then select Student Center. In the Personal Information section, click on Personal Emergency Contacts, then click Add an Emergency Contact. If you list more than one person, be sure to mark one as your primary contact. This step is required for your safety while you're a student.
ADD YOUR EMERGENCY CONTACT
We ask all students to provide the University with an emergency contact to have on file if needed. To do this, log in to my.butler.edu, click on the PS Campus Solutions tile, and then select Student Center. In the Personal Information section, click on Personal Emergency Contacts, then click Add an Emergency Contact. If you list more than one person, be sure to mark one as your primary contact. This step is required for your safety while you're a student.
PAST DUE
SIGN YOUR ORIENTATION WAIVER
Orientation and the beginning of the semester are quickly approaching! To participate in Butler University’s Orientation events, all incoming students are required to read, review, and digitally sign a waiver. Please check your Butler email for the link to access the waiver. Be sure to complete it by Sunday, August 17 at 5:00 PM ET.
SIGN YOUR ORIENTATION WAIVER
Orientation and the beginning of the semester are quickly approaching! To participate in Butler University’s Orientation events, all incoming students are required to read, review, and digitally sign a waiver. Please check your Butler email for the link to access the waiver. Be sure to complete it by Sunday, August 17 at 5:00 PM ET.
DUE BY AUG 20
RSVP TO ACADEMIC DAY LUNCH
On Monday, August 25, all incoming students will enjoy lunch with faculty and staff from their college and academic departments. Please RSVP for your Academic Day lunch using this form by Wednesday, August 20 at 12:00 PM ET.
RSVP TO ACADEMIC DAY LUNCH
On Monday, August 25, all incoming students will enjoy lunch with faculty and staff from their college and academic departments. Please RSVP for your Academic Day lunch using this form by Wednesday, August 20 at 12:00 PM ET.
DUE NOW
COMPLETE BUTLER'S HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
You are required to have your immunization records and recent physical exam on file with Health Services by August 1. You are also required to complete the Health History form, TB Screening questionnaire, and TeleMedicine Consent found in the online health portal. Failure to comply with any of the immunization requirements or above mentioned health requirements by the due date will result in a hold being placed on your account and registration for future courses cannot be completed. For any questions related to these requirements, please reach out to Health Services at 317-940-9385 or healthservices@butler.edu.
COMPLETE BUTLER'S HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
You are required to have your immunization records and recent physical exam on file with Health Services by August 1. You are also required to complete the Health History form, TB Screening questionnaire, and TeleMedicine Consent found in the online health portal. Failure to comply with any of the immunization requirements or above mentioned health requirements by the due date will result in a hold being placed on your account and registration for future courses cannot be completed. For any questions related to these requirements, please reach out to Health Services at 317-940-9385 or healthservices@butler.edu.
EARLY SHIPPING TO BUTLER
The Butler University Mail Center has begun receiving new student mail. The Mail Center will hold these packages and begin delivery to residence halls starting August 22. Outside carriers will resume normal deliveries on August 25.
Please note: We strongly discourage shipping large items such as carpeting, futons, and refrigerators prior to move-in. Due to limited space, these items are difficult to store and deliver. We recommend having oversized packages delivered after move-in, when students are present to receive them directly.
The Butler University Mail Center has begun receiving new student mail. The Mail Center will hold these packages and begin delivery to residence halls starting August 22. Outside carriers will resume normal deliveries on August 25.
Please note: We strongly discourage shipping large items such as carpeting, futons, and refrigerators prior to move-in. Due to limited space, these items are difficult to store and deliver. We recommend having oversized packages delivered after move-in, when students are present to receive them directly.
DUE BY AUG 23
ORIENTATION ONLINE MODULES
Prior to Orientation, all incoming students are required to complete the Orientation modules on Canvas including the Orientation Course, “Decisions: Alcohol Awareness and Education” Assignment, and “Cultivating Awareness & Prevention of Sexual Violence” Assignment.
Visit our website for more information.
ORIENTATION ONLINE MODULES
Prior to Orientation, all incoming students are required to complete the Orientation modules on Canvas including the Orientation Course, “Decisions: Alcohol Awareness and Education” Assignment, and “Cultivating Awareness & Prevention of Sexual Violence” Assignment.
Visit our website for more information.
DUE BY AUG 25
COMMON READ ASSIGNMENT
Due by August 25, 2025 (Academic Day of Orientation)
COMMON READ ASSIGNMENT
Due by August 25, 2025 (Academic Day of Orientation)
The faculty and staff at Butler have chosen a “common read” that we believe will benefit your transition to college by encouraging you to reflect on how people spend time alone or with others and how that impacts our personalities, politics, and more.
Please read this long-form article titled The Anti-Social Century by Derek Thompson. Spend some time thinking about the themes. Choose a line, phrase, or an idea that you would like to talk about. We look forward to hearing your voice and getting to know you in a student leader-led discussion during Orientation and further engagement in your First-Year Seminar class.
It will take about 30-45 minutes to read the essay. Audio and translated copies of the reading are available within the library link.
NOT SURE ABOUT YOUR MAJOR?
It’s completely normal to feel unsure about your major or to have questions about whether it’s the right fit. You’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out on your own! At Butler, our Student Success Center offers resources and one-on-one conversations to help you reflect on your academic interests, explore your options, and feel confident about your path forward.
If you're having questions now, you’re welcome to reach out before arriving on campus. While most official changes to your major will happen once you’re settled in, early conversations can help you make the most of your first semester.
It’s completely normal to feel unsure about your major or to have questions about whether it’s the right fit. You’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out on your own! At Butler, our Student Success Center offers resources and one-on-one conversations to help you reflect on your academic interests, explore your options, and feel confident about your path forward.
If you're having questions now, you’re welcome to reach out before arriving on campus. While most official changes to your major will happen once you’re settled in, early conversations can help you make the most of your first semester.
Reminders
CHECK YOUR BUTLER EMAIL (DAILY!)
Most future communication from Butler will be sent to your Butler email address, including important information such as deadlines, Orientation, and housing information. You should get in the habit of checking this account daily. Instructions for adding your Butler email account to your mobile device are available on our website.
Most future communication from Butler will be sent to your Butler email address, including important information such as deadlines, Orientation, and housing information. You should get in the habit of checking this account daily. Instructions for adding your Butler email account to your mobile device are available on our website.
JOIN DAWG POUND
Be a part of the official student section at all Butler Athletic events and become a Dawg Pound member! Members receive an exclusive Nike membership shirt each year, have early access to home game tickets, early entry to all Men's Basketball games, receive member-only giveaways, first access to away trips and post-season tickets, and much more. Be a part of the energy to cheer on the Dawgs! Choose between a one year membership for $65 or a four-year membership for $195, which is one year for free!
Be a part of the official student section at all Butler Athletic events and become a Dawg Pound member! Members receive an exclusive Nike membership shirt each year, have early access to home game tickets, early entry to all Men's Basketball games, receive member-only giveaways, first access to away trips and post-season tickets, and much more. Be a part of the energy to cheer on the Dawgs! Choose between a one year membership for $65 or a four-year membership for $195, which is one year for free!
SUBMIT YOUR FINAL TRANSCRIPT
First-Year Students
Please have your high school send your final transcript, including your graduation date, to the Office of Admission by August 1. For AP exams, request your scores be sent to Butler. If you took dual-credit courses, request an official transcript from the college(s) that offered the courses.
Transfer Students
Your official transcript(s) from your previous college(s) showing all completed courses must be sent to the Office of Admission within two weeks after grades are posted at your prior institution. Transcripts may be mailed or submitted electronically.
First-Year Students
Please have your high school send your final transcript, including your graduation date, to the Office of Admission by August 1. For AP exams, request your scores be sent to Butler. If you took dual-credit courses, request an official transcript from the college(s) that offered the courses.
Transfer Students
Your official transcript(s) from your previous college(s) showing all completed courses must be sent to the Office of Admission within two weeks after grades are posted at your prior institution. Transcripts may be mailed or submitted electronically.
FEDERAL LOANS & OTHER FINANCING OPTIONS
If you plan on utilizing the Federal Direct Loan(s) that were offered in your financial aid offer, please ensure that you have accepted your loan(s). You can do so on your Student Financial Planning tool—navigate to my.butler.edu and click on the Financial Aid tile. Make sure you've also completed the Master Promissory Note/Loan Agreement and Entrance Counseling at www.studentaid.gov. Information on additional financing options can be found here.
If you plan on utilizing the Federal Direct Loan(s) that were offered in your financial aid offer, please ensure that you have accepted your loan(s). You can do so on your Student Financial Planning tool—navigate to my.butler.edu and click on the Financial Aid tile. Make sure you've also completed the Master Promissory Note/Loan Agreement and Entrance Counseling at www.studentaid.gov. Information on additional financing options can be found here.
BUTLER CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS
First-Year Students
All Butler students must attend eight Butler Cultural Requirement (BCR) events during their time at Butler. With over 120 BCR events each semester, there’s something for everyone, and most are free! To claim BCR credit, simply scan the QR code at the event and log in with your Butler credentials; your attendance will be recorded and reflected on my.butler.edu the next day. For more information, visit butler.edu/bcr or email bcr@butler.edu.
Transfer Students
All transfer students must attend one Butler Cultural Requirement (BCR) event per semester during their time at Butler. With over 120 BCR events each semester, there’s something for everyone, and most are free! To claim BCR credit, simply scan the QR code at the event and log in with your Butler credentials; your attendance will be recorded and reflected on my.butler.edu the next day. For more information, visit butler.edu/bcr or email bcr@butler.edu.
First-Year Students
All Butler students must attend eight Butler Cultural Requirement (BCR) events during their time at Butler. With over 120 BCR events each semester, there’s something for everyone, and most are free! To claim BCR credit, simply scan the QR code at the event and log in with your Butler credentials; your attendance will be recorded and reflected on my.butler.edu the next day. For more information, visit butler.edu/bcr or email bcr@butler.edu.
Transfer Students
All transfer students must attend one Butler Cultural Requirement (BCR) event per semester during their time at Butler. With over 120 BCR events each semester, there’s something for everyone, and most are free! To claim BCR credit, simply scan the QR code at the event and log in with your Butler credentials; your attendance will be recorded and reflected on my.butler.edu the next day. For more information, visit butler.edu/bcr or email bcr@butler.edu.
EVALUATE OPTIONS TO PAY THE BILL
If you need additional assistance to cover educational expenses, Butler offers financing options to invest in your education. Payment plans and Private Education Loans are available regardless of financial aid eligibility. For more information, click here to visit The Office of Student Accounts website. Additionally, you may be eligible for a Federal Direct PLUS Loan by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Refer to your Financial Aid Offer or click here for more information on financing options.
If you need additional assistance to cover educational expenses, Butler offers financing options to invest in your education. Payment plans and Private Education Loans are available regardless of financial aid eligibility. For more information, click here to visit The Office of Student Accounts website. Additionally, you may be eligible for a Federal Direct PLUS Loan by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Refer to your Financial Aid Offer or click here for more information on financing options.
BUTLERONE: FIRST-YEAR EXPERIENCE PODCAST
Your college journey is just beginning and it’s okay if it doesn’t feel perfect right away. In this podcast created just for you, Senior Director of Student Experience and Engagement, Nii Abrahams, along with student hosts, dive into real and honest stories from Butler students, faculty, and staff about the highs, lows, and in-betweens of the first-year experience. From making friends and finding your place to failure and impostor syndrome, within the transition lies an opportunity for transformation! Start listening now on Spotify.
Your college journey is just beginning and it’s okay if it doesn’t feel perfect right away. In this podcast created just for you, Senior Director of Student Experience and Engagement, Nii Abrahams, along with student hosts, dive into real and honest stories from Butler students, faculty, and staff about the highs, lows, and in-betweens of the first-year experience. From making friends and finding your place to failure and impostor syndrome, within the transition lies an opportunity for transformation! Start listening now on Spotify.
THINKING ABOUT STUDYING ABROAD?
It’s never too early to think about study abroad! Talk to your advisor at Butler and attend an Info Session, offered monthly during the school year, to explore your options for the best semester, break, or summer abroad.
It’s never too early to think about study abroad! Talk to your advisor at Butler and attend an Info Session, offered monthly during the school year, to explore your options for the best semester, break, or summer abroad.
MEET WAYHAVEN: YOUR BLUEPRINT FOR SUPPORT
College is an exciting journey—but it can also be overwhelming. That’s why Butler has partnered with Wayhaven, an AI-powered well-being coach available 24/7 to support you through challenges like stress, academics, and campus life.
College is an exciting journey—but it can also be overwhelming. That’s why Butler has partnered with Wayhaven, an AI-powered well-being coach available 24/7 to support you through challenges like stress, academics, and campus life.
Wayhaven connects you with Butler-specific resources (like counseling hours and peer support), using evidence-based tools like mindfulness and cognitive strategies. It’s not a replacement for campus services—just extra support when you need it, anytime, confidentially, and for free.
Download the app from the App Store or Google Play, or visit wayhaven.app to get started with your Butler email.
ALL-CAMPUS MUSICAL THIS FALL
Jordan College of the Arts and Butler Theatre proudly present The SpongeBob Musical at the Schrott Center for the Arts November 12–16, 2025. Based on the beloved animated series, this high-energy musical extravaganza features an incredible score of original songs by a diverse group of well-known artists!
The SpongeBob Musical auditions will be held on campus at Butler University between 5 PM and 9 PM on Tuesday, August 26 in the Lilly Hall Studio Theatre, with call backs the evening of Wednesday, August 27 from 7–9 PM. As with past productions, the department will open up casting to non-theatre majors.
Please email Wendy Schrepferman at wschrepferman@butler.edu if you are interested in securing an audition spot.
Jordan College of the Arts and Butler Theatre proudly present The SpongeBob Musical at the Schrott Center for the Arts November 12–16, 2025. Based on the beloved animated series, this high-energy musical extravaganza features an incredible score of original songs by a diverse group of well-known artists!
The SpongeBob Musical auditions will be held on campus at Butler University between 5 PM and 9 PM on Tuesday, August 26 in the Lilly Hall Studio Theatre, with call backs the evening of Wednesday, August 27 from 7–9 PM. As with past productions, the department will open up casting to non-theatre majors.
Please email Wendy Schrepferman at wschrepferman@butler.edu if you are interested in securing an audition spot.
STUDENT ORGANIZATION INTEREST CALCULATOR
Want to explore our 200+ student organizations? Use the Student Organization Interest Calculator to get a personalized list of options that fit your interests. You can explore these organizations via Butler Engage or you can schedule a consultation with the Office of Student Activities to go over your results.
Want to explore our 200+ student organizations? Use the Student Organization Interest Calculator to get a personalized list of options that fit your interests. You can explore these organizations via Butler Engage or you can schedule a consultation with the Office of Student Activities to go over your results.
COMPASS CENTER
Ice Cream Social and Open House
Join us at The Compass Center (located on Sunset Avenue across from Schrott Center) on August 25 right after Playfair. Learn from student communities on how to get involved in religious, spiritual, and secular organizations at Butler while enjoying delicious ice cream and toppings. All are welcome!
Ice Cream Social and Open House
Join us at The Compass Center (located on Sunset Avenue across from Schrott Center) on August 25 right after Playfair. Learn from student communities on how to get involved in religious, spiritual, and secular organizations at Butler while enjoying delicious ice cream and toppings. All are welcome!
FINANCIAL ADVICE TAILORED TO STUDENTS
Elements Financial, Butler’s credit union, offers financial advice through your dedicated financial expert Eliza Claborn. She is available on campus Tuesdays from 11:00 AM–1:30 PM, in DH202. Services include:
Elements Financial, Butler’s credit union, offers financial advice through your dedicated financial expert Eliza Claborn. She is available on campus Tuesdays from 11:00 AM–1:30 PM, in DH202. Services include:
- Creating a budget to grow your savings and minimize your expenses
- Reviewing your credit score to help you understand how to build it
- Maximizing student loan options
- Opening student checking accounts with exclusive perks, including a Butler-branded debit card
FROM IDEA TO LAUNCH
Butler’s Growing Ecosystem for Student Entrepreneurs
Jumpstart your journey before classes even begin with summer mentorship, workshops, and idea support. In the fall, dive into hands-on courses where you can explore ideas and launch real businesses. You'll also get access to alumni mentors, startup funding, and pitch opportunities—all from our expanding on-campus innovation space. Whether you're just curious or ready to build, we’ve got you covered.
Questions or interested in getting started? Contact Nick Smarrelli at nsmarrelli@butler.edu.
Butler’s Growing Ecosystem for Student Entrepreneurs
Jumpstart your journey before classes even begin with summer mentorship, workshops, and idea support. In the fall, dive into hands-on courses where you can explore ideas and launch real businesses. You'll also get access to alumni mentors, startup funding, and pitch opportunities—all from our expanding on-campus innovation space. Whether you're just curious or ready to build, we’ve got you covered.
Questions or interested in getting started? Contact Nick Smarrelli at nsmarrelli@butler.edu.
JOIN THE CHOIRS AT BUTLER
Are you someone who loves to sing as part of a choir? If you're looking for a way to connect with others on campus who also love singing, consider joining a choral ensemble at Butler this fall. Our choral ensembles meet Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 12:30 to 1:50, and you can even fulfill a core requirement (PCA) by singing. If you're interested in being part of our choral program, please contact Dr. Becky Marsh, Associate Professor of Choral Music Education. It's not too late build this into your schedule!
Are you someone who loves to sing as part of a choir? If you're looking for a way to connect with others on campus who also love singing, consider joining a choral ensemble at Butler this fall. Our choral ensembles meet Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 12:30 to 1:50, and you can even fulfill a core requirement (PCA) by singing. If you're interested in being part of our choral program, please contact Dr. Becky Marsh, Associate Professor of Choral Music Education. It's not too late build this into your schedule!
NEED HELP FINDING AN ON-CAMPUS JOB?
Join an On-Campus Job Search 101 Workshop! These informal sessions cover where to search for jobs, tips on presenting your best self, and next steps after landing a job. Learn about Butler's active student employers and how to navigate to both the On Campus Jobs Board and to Handshake, the University's external jobs portal. To see all available workshops, click the Events tab, and search 'On-Campus Job Search 101.'
To access Handshake, login with your Butler username (do not include ‘@butler.edu’). Your password is the first nine digits of your 11-digit student ID number, found in My.Butler under Student Self Service.
Join an On-Campus Job Search 101 Workshop! These informal sessions cover where to search for jobs, tips on presenting your best self, and next steps after landing a job. Learn about Butler's active student employers and how to navigate to both the On Campus Jobs Board and to Handshake, the University's external jobs portal. To see all available workshops, click the Events tab, and search 'On-Campus Job Search 101.'
To access Handshake, login with your Butler username (do not include ‘@butler.edu’). Your password is the first nine digits of your 11-digit student ID number, found in My.Butler under Student Self Service.
SUMMER PLANNING FOR FALL ON- OR OFF-CAMPUS JOBS/INTERNSHIPS
The Federal Government requires an I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification for all paid jobs (part-time, internships, etc). The verification process is easy to complete but requires unexpired, original documents. So if you need a social security card, birth certificate, updated passport, or renewed driver's license, now is the time to secure those documents. Page two of the I-9 form notes the combination of identity/employment authorization documents required to work.
The Federal Government requires an I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification for all paid jobs (part-time, internships, etc). The verification process is easy to complete but requires unexpired, original documents. So if you need a social security card, birth certificate, updated passport, or renewed driver's license, now is the time to secure those documents. Page two of the I-9 form notes the combination of identity/employment authorization documents required to work.
REGISTER WITH STUDENT DISABILITY SERVICES
The Office of Student Disability Services offers accommodations and support services for students with documented disabilities. If you had accommodations in high school, or if you think you might need accommodations in college, getting registered for those accommodations before the start of school can really improve your transition to college. To learn more about our services as well as disabilities that qualify, please check out our website. If you are interested in registering for accommodations with Student Disability Services, fill out an SDS Interest Form.
Upon logging in to the system with your Butler credentials, select Accommodations > SDS Interest Form from the menu on the left side of the screen. If you receive an error, please email sds@butler.edu as we may have to set up an account for you.
The Office of Student Disability Services offers accommodations and support services for students with documented disabilities. If you had accommodations in high school, or if you think you might need accommodations in college, getting registered for those accommodations before the start of school can really improve your transition to college. To learn more about our services as well as disabilities that qualify, please check out our website. If you are interested in registering for accommodations with Student Disability Services, fill out an SDS Interest Form.
Upon logging in to the system with your Butler credentials, select Accommodations > SDS Interest Form from the menu on the left side of the screen. If you receive an error, please email sds@butler.edu as we may have to set up an account for you.
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
College comes with a lot of new terms—some of which may be unique to Butler. Our Glossary of Terms is designed to help undergraduate students and families get familiar with commonly used language, resources, and university lingo. Use it as a quick reference, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you ever need more clarity!
College comes with a lot of new terms—some of which may be unique to Butler. Our Glossary of Terms is designed to help undergraduate students and families get familiar with commonly used language, resources, and university lingo. Use it as a quick reference, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you ever need more clarity!