Summer Start 2026 FAQ
University of Central Arkansas
You have questions? We have answers!
When does Summer Start begin?
August 11, 2026 at 4:30pm in Windgate Performance Hall on the corner of Bruce Street and
Donaghey Street. Parking is available. (Check-in opens at 4:00pm.) Families are invited to
attend the Opening Session with you, but will be dismissed at 5:30pm for the Team Dinner
When does Summer Start end?
August 14, 2026 at 4:30pm
What does Summer Start cost?
Students admitted into the 2026 program are charged a $25 registration fee that you need to
submit through your student portal. Your registration is not complete until the fee payment is
received, and seats are limited. (The total value of Summer Start per student is approximately
$325. The program is also funded by UCA Student Success Services, PepsiCo, and Aramark
Food Services.)
Does Summer Start run all day?
As a Summer Start participant, you should plan to be on campus and busy from 4:30pm-6:30pm
on Tuesday, and 9:00am-4:30pm Wednesday-Friday. The evening activities are optional, but
also some of the most fun events, so plan to stay for those, too!
Do I have to participate in all Summer Start activities?
Generally, yes, you are expected to participate in all of the events offered during Summer Start
to the best of your ability. This program has limited seats and costs are being underwritten for
you. Failure to attend the daytime sessions and workshops may result in your being removed
from the program. (Note: if you are removed from the program, costs for Early Arrival
(room/meals) will be applied to your student account.
How do I get to know other students? Who can help me if I have questions?
To help you get connected right away, each Summer Start student will be assigned to a team for
the week, with many of your teammates also being part of your Living Learning Community. The
team activities are designed to build community, support your transition to college, and add
some fun along the way, so be sure to get involved in your team’s activities and your team’s
presentation during our Closing Ceremony on Friday! Each team will be led by a Team Leader, an upperclass student who can answer your
questions, help you stay on schedule, and offer guidance throughout the program. Don’t know
who to ask about something? Reach out to your Team Leader!
What do I need to bring for Summer Start?
It will probably be hot so please bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and anything else you need to
stay cool.
Are meals included in Summer Start?
Yes. Summer Start includes the Team Dinner on Tuesday night, as well as breakfast, lunch, and
dinner on Wednesday-Friday. (Saturday brunch and dinner will also be covered for residents).
Most meals will be in the UCA Cafeteria. Just show your Summer Start ID when you arrive.
What should I wear?We will be mostly inside but we will be walking across campus, so be sure to wear comfortable
clothing and shoes. Buildings are often cool, so wear layers and bring a hoodie or jacket. You
may also need closed-toe shoes (sneakers) for the service project activity.
Can I live on campus during Summer Start?
Yes, if you have applied for Fall housing and been assigned a room, you can move into that
room on August 14th before the program begins. Be sure to complete the Early Arrival Form
(See more here: https://uca.edu/housing/move-in/. You do not need to pay the Early Arrival fee if
you are part of Summer Start and complete the program!)
● If you are not fully moved in by 4:00pm, please come to the Opening Session on time
and complete your move-in later!
If I’m living on campus for Summer Start, what do I need to bring?
Be sure to bring sheets, blankets, pillows, personal items, medications, and things you need
daily if you are moving to campus that week. You may also bring all of your items you want for
Fall semester, but please note that Early Arrival does not include assistance moving in. You will
need to unload and take your belongings to your room.
Can I park on campus during Summer Start?
Yes, UCA has designated parking areas for commuters (white stripes) and residents (green
stripes). Please see a parking map to locate the parking area closest to your residence hall or,
if you’re commuting, nearest to that day’s activities. You will be able to pick up your 2026-2027
Parking Permit during the first full day of the program, and will need to display it on your vehicle
throughout the week. (Generally, parking rules are more loosely enforced during the summer,
but should you be ticketed for not displaying your parking permit the day you arrive, please give
the ticket to the Student Success staff.) Never park in a spot designated handicap without the
proper documentation!)
BEFORE you arrive on campus, please be sure to complete the Student/Resident Parking
Permit Registration Form here: https://uca.edu/police/
What if I need accommodations during Summer Start?
Summer Start staff and the Office of Accessibility Resources and Services (OARS) staff can
work with you to ensure you have the best experience possible during Summer Start. Be sure to
let Student Success Services know if you require accommodations or assistance, or contact
OARS directly at https://uca.edu/oars/.
Why does Summer Start include a service project activity?
Giving back to the UCA community is an important part of being a Bear. Service is also a great
way to expand your skills and learn more about the world, so we want to start you off right with a
service project. Each year, our Summer Start participants start building their service hours at
UCA by working in the campus garden, helping at local food banks, sorting donations in one of
Conway’s many thrift stores, preparing a daycare center for students to arrive, or other activities.
Your hours are tracked in GivePulse and count toward earning your Service Cord to wear at
graduation! The hours also count toward requirements for UCA Commitment, Greek Life, and
other programs.
What do I do if I get sick during Summer Start?
There are several walk-in urgent care clinics open in Conway and Conway Regional Hospital is
a block from campus. If you do get sick or are unable to attend an event or day, you need to let
your Team Leader know. If you think you need to leave the program, please also contact
Student Success at studentsuccess@uca.edu or 501-852-2117.
How do I cancel my registration if I can’t attend Summer Start?
If you decide you cannot attend, please contact Student Success Services at
studentsuccess@uca.edu as soon as possible and state that you want to cancel your Summer
Start registration. Please use your UCA email address to do this. Registration fees are
refundable as long as you cancel your registration by August 4th.
Note: If you cancel your Summer Start registration but choose to move in for Early Arrival, all
costs for early move-in will be charged to your student account.
QUESTIONS?
If you have other questions about Summer Start, just ask! You can contact us here:
● Email: studentsuccess@uca.edu
● Phone: 501-852-2117