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Soar Success Program

Soaring Through Greater Heights

The Soar Success Program at the University of Central Florida is a dynamic on-campus initiative created to support first-time-in-college students in their transition to university life. Aimed at ensuring academic readiness, this invitation-only program offers a unique opportunity for students to build a strong foundation before the fall semester begins. With a focus on academic preparedness, Soar equips students with essential skills and knowledge to navigate higher education successfully. Throughout the program, participants are introduced to crucial campus resources, effective learning strategies, and meaningful opportunities to foster connections with peers and faculty.

Running during UCF’s Summer B term from late June to early August, the Soar Success Program immerses students in a six-week in-person experience. Students enroll in two courses while participating in structured activities designed to boost their confidence and competence in college-level academics. From workshops to study groups and personalized academic support, participants develop key skills in critical thinking, time management, and other areas vital to academic success. The hands-on nature of Soar ensures students gain the practical experience necessary to meet the demands of their college journey.

The program has demonstrated significant success, with an annual summer retention rate of 97% or higher. Additionally, Soar students show higher retention rates at the end of their first academic year compared to regularly admitted UCF students, indicating the program’s positive impact on student persistence and engagement.

Beyond the academic benefits, Soar emphasizes community building, encouraging students to engage in meaningful conversations, collaborate, and establish supportive relationships. This strong sense of belonging and community continues to support participants throughout their entire college experience. By the end of the program, students feel not only prepared for the rigors of the upcoming fall semester but also more confident in their ability to thrive at UCF.

Soar Success at a glance

rockets shooting over Millican Hall

About

The Soar Success Program at the University of Central Florida is a premier initiative designed to support first-time-in-college students in making a smooth and successful transition into university life. As an invitation-only program, Soar offers a unique opportunity for selected students to maximize their academic potential before the start of the fall semester. With a focus on academic preparedness, the program equips participants with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the challenges of higher education. Students are introduced to essential campus resources, strategies for effective learning, and opportunities to build lasting connections with peers and faculty.

The program has demonstrated significant success, with an annual summer retention rate of 97% or higher. Additionally, Soar students show higher retention rates at the end of their first academic year compared to regularly admitted UCF students, indicating the program’s positive impact on student persistence and engagement.

The Soar Success Program begins with students enrolling for an in-person six-week experience during UCF’s Summer B term, from late June to early August. During the summer term, Soar students attend two in-person courses and engage in structured academic activities designed to build confidence and competence in college-level coursework. Through study groups, workshops, and personalized academic support, participants develop critical thinking skills, time management techniques, and other strategies essential for academic success. The immersive, hands-on nature of the program ensures that students gain practical experience in tackling the demands of college life.

Beyond academic enrichment, the Soar Success Program fosters a strong sense of community among its participants. Students are encouraged to collaborate, engage in meaningful discussions, and develop relationships that will serve as a support system throughout their college careers. By the end of the program, students not only feel prepared for the academic rigor of the fall semester but also have a deeper sense of belonging and confidence in their ability to succeed at UCF.

Program Components

The Soar Success Program aims to help students achieve success from day one. Soar is designed to provide comprehensive support to students throughout their UCF college journey. Soar students benefit from a robust combination of academic courses, specialized academic support, personalized guidance, and peer mentorship, all aimed at fostering a strong foundation during their first year.

Summer Courses

The six-week in-person summer term provides students with a unique opportunity to jumpstart their academic journey at UCF. During this term, students will enroll in two courses: one selected from the UCF General Education Program (GEP) and the other being SLS 1501, Strategies for Learning Success at UCF. The GEP course will be carefully chosen in collaboration with an Academic Success Coach, ensuring it aligns with each student’s intended major, providing them with a tailored academic experience from the start. The SLS 1501 course is designed to equip students with essential academic strategies, study skills, and personal development tools that will foster a strong foundation for long-term college success.

Classes are held in-person Monday through Thursday on UCF’s main campus, offering students a structured and immersive learning environment. With mandatory attendance, students are encouraged to fully engage in the coursework, develop time management skills, and form valuable connections with their peers and instructors. This intensive summer term not only helps students earn academic credits before the fall semester but also provides them with the opportunity to acclimate to the campus and UCF’s academic culture, setting them on a path to thrive in their college experience.

Academic Support

Soar students are provided with t academic support designed to complement their coursework and enhance their overall learning experience. Soar students will attend weekly in-person academic support sessions which will play a pivotal role in helping students develop and reinforce essential learning strategies. These sessions are carefully structured to ensure students remain on track academically, while also providing them with tools to manage their workload effectively. Through a variety of targeted services, Soar creates an environment where students can build confidence in their academic abilities and continuously improve their performance.

To meet the diverse needs of students, a range of support options is available, including Supplemental Instruction, Academic Coaching, and Writing Center Consultations. Each resource is designed to address specific learning challenges and provide personalized support. Supplemental Instruction offers peer-assisted study sessions, while Academic Coaching helps students set goals, manage their time, and stay motivated. Writing Center Consultations guide students through the process of improving their writing skills for assignments and projects. Together, these resources empower students to achieve academic excellence, fostering a deeper understanding of their coursework and contributing to their long-term academic success.

Peer Mentoring

At the heart of the Soar program is our peer mentoring component, designed to support students as they navigate their first academic year at UCF. Each Soar student is paired with a dedicated peer mentor who provides personalized guidance and fosters a sense of belonging. Mentors meet with students both individually and in small group settings, offering insight on how to successfully navigate university life, manage academics, and overcome personal challenges. Through these connections, students gain valuable perspectives from peers who have walked in their shoes, helping them feel supported during this critical transition into college.

In addition to one-on-one meetings, peer mentors facilitate regular communication with their mentees to ensure they stay connected and engaged throughout the year. Whether through scheduled meetings, group activities, or informal check-ins, mentors play a key role in creating a supportive community. By offering practical advice and encouragement, they empower students to build confidence and thrive both academically and personally. This structured mentorship fosters a sense of accountability and provides the tools necessary for long-term success at UCF.

Friday Fuel Ups

Friday Fuel Ups are a unique part of the Soar experience, offering students a chance to recharge and connect while exploring the campus. On select Fridays during the summer B term, Soar students engage in in-person, interactive co-curricular activities specifically designed to introduce essential campus resources and services. These sessions go beyond simply providing information—they empower students to navigate university life with confidence and set the stage for long-term academic and personal success.

Participants will not only learn about key resources but also have the opportunity to bond with peers, expand their networks, and create a supportive community within the Soar Program. Each Friday Fuel Up is structured to inspire and energize students as they embark on their academic journey. Details on scheduled Friday Fuel Ups will be shared during the Soar presentation at Orientation, ensuring that students are equipped to make the most of these enriching experiences.

Student Success Conference

The 2025 Student Success Conference is an essential and mandatory part of the Soar Success Program, designed specifically for incoming students, including both freshmen and new transfer students.
The UCF Student Success Conference provides an opportunity for students to gain valuable knowledge, network with peers, faculty, and industry professionals, and build connections that can support their growth and success at UCF. The conference fosters a sense of community and belonging by encouraging meaningful dialogue and collaboration among attendees. By attending the 2025 Student Success Conference, Soar students will not only develop a clearer understanding of how to achieve their goals but will also be empowered to take ownership of their academic success and future career paths. For a glimpse into the impact of last year’s conference, visit the UCF Student Success Conference page.

two students posing back-to-back

Student Success Conference

This conference provides an immersive experience that equips participants with the necessary tools, strategies, and insights to be successful in their academic, personal, and professional journeys at UCF.

From dynamic keynote speakers who will inspire students with their experiences and wisdom to interactive breakout sessions that focus on various aspects of student success, students will leave with actionable steps to help them navigate their college journey effectively.

Each session is carefully curated to address the unique challenges students may face, offering practical solutions, advice, and guidance.

Student Success Conference 2024

FAQs

To enroll in the fall 2025 term, Soar Program participants must:

  • Complete two summer courses with a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
  • Must not receive 3.5 or more absences.
  • Participate in all required program activities (academic support/learning support, peer mentoring sessions, and Friday Fuel-Ups).
  • Attend the Student Success Conference.

Not showing up to class or a program component (academic support/learning support, peer mentoring sessions, or Friday Fuel-Ups) will count for 1 absence for each class or component missed.

  • If a student is late to class or program component by 11 minutes or more that will count toward 1 absence. For example, if a program component starts at 12:00pm and the student arrives at 12:10pm, they will not receive an absence. However, if the student arrives at 12:11pm, they will receive 1 absence.
  • If a student is in attendance at a program component without a valid ID (UCF ID card or driver’s license) and checks-in with a Soar representative will receive a half absence (.5). If a student does not check-in with a Soar representative, they will receive 1 absence.

Given the program’s intensive schedule, students are encouraged to prioritize their academic and program commitments. It is possible for a student to work after 6:00pm Monday-Thursday and after 2pm on Friday’s or on weekends.

The Soar Success Program is in-person and requires full commitment, including daily in-person attendance Monday through Friday.

For the 2025 Summer B term:

  • Florida residents: $212.28 per credit hour.
  • Non-Florida residents: $748.89 per credit hour.

*These costs do not include any additional fees for housing, books, meal plans, etc.*

Yes, Soar students can apply for on-campus housing for Summer, Fall, and Spring terms. To secure housing, students should apply as soon as possible due to limited space. Visit UCF Housing website for more details.

Yes, Soar students will need to select one of the two orientation sessions designated for Soar. During orientation, students will receive their class schedule and attend a program overview session.

For specific questions:

Students in the Soar Program are pre-registered for two summer courses that count toward general education and elective requirements. Course selection is based on earned and pending college credits and intended major. Students receive their class schedule during Soar Orientation.

The Student Success Conference is a three-day, two-night event focused on helping students build a foundation for success at UCF. It includes workshops on academic skills, time management, and campus resources. Attendance is mandatory for Soar students continued enrollment in the fall term.

Each Soar student is matched with a peer mentor who provides guidance on college transition matters, establishing college goals, understanding campus resources, and policies.

Yes, family members are encouraged to join the family program offered at Orientation to learn more about supporting their student’s transition to UCF. Family members are welcome to attend the Soar Overview session during orientation.

Soar Program participants have access to structured academic support sessions directly linked to their summer courses. These sessions are led by trained UCF students and are designed to reinforce course material.

To apply for financial aid, students should submit both the 2024-2025 FAFSA application for summer 2025 aid and 2025-2026 FAFSA application for Fall 2025 – Summer 2026. UCF school code is 003954.

To change your intended major, follow these instructions:

  1. Log in to my.ucf.edu
  2. Click “Student Self Service”
  3. Click the Other Academic drop-down menu.
  4. Select “Change Major Request”.
  5. Click on the double arrow circle to the right
  6. After reviewing the information on the page, click on the “Next” button at the bottom right.
  7. Click “Add” or “Change” in the major box.
  8. Click the magnifying glass to select the college or specific major.
  9. Click “Look up” to view the listing of majors and select the specific major.
  10. Click “Next” and then “Submit”.

The program officially starts on June 23, 2025, with the beginning of Summer B classes. A detailed schedule, including classes and program components, will be provided during orientation.

Soar Program participants typically have classes and activities scheduled Monday through Thursday from around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with occasional activities on Fridays. No weekend activities are scheduled.

To prepare, students should review the Soar Success Program website, accept the program offer, and pay the enrollment deposit. After, submit the Soar student agreement, UCF immunization forms, apply for on-campus housing (if applicable), and complete the FAFSA