Academics

1. What is a recommended course load for an incoming Freshman?

   The recommended academic load for an incoming freshman is 15-16 units although many take even more. It really depends on what you think you can handle. Many upper division students would suggest taking a lower number of units until you get situated into Biola.

2. How will I be able to add/drop any classes?

   You can add or drop any of your classes via webreg or you can wait and do it on campus. As a new student we recommend you speak with Academic Advising to make sure you are taking required courses.

3. When and where do I purchase my textbooks?

   You have two options for purchaisng your textbooks, depending on the information you have. If you already have your class schedule, they will be sent out mid July, you can order your books online at http://www.biolabookstore.com/. You will then pick up your books when you get to campus. Your second option is to wait till you come to campus and purchase your books in the bookstore.

4. How many hours of homework can be expected each week with a normal freshmen load?

   Depending on your major, and whether you begin major classes right away. My estimate is that would would have between 20-30 hours of homework. This can vary with classes and the speed that you are able to do things. Hope this helps!

5. where can my student find out more information on double-majoring?

   The best department to contact would be registrar in order to declare a second major. But if they just want to talk to someone about whether or not it would be a good idea, they can talk to their academic advisor.

6. When do classes start?

   The first day of classes is Wednesday, August 26th, 2009

7. I am a parent of an incoming freshman and was wondering what are the courses offered for PE, other than athletic teams (for a non PE major)? I tried the online catalog and wasn't sure I saw all the possibilities.

   When students log on to portal they can see all the PE classes offered. There is a wide variety of options from jogging, to softball, volleyball, basketball, bowling, swimming, tennis, and many other options. Students need four PE classes in order to graduate. Your students can meet with their academic adviser when they get to campus on Monday, August 24 and get more information.

Campus

1. How do I get a parking permit and how much does it cost?

   You sign up for a permit during WebReg Phase II and then pick it up at the Campus Safety Offices when you get on campus. It costs $120 a semester.

2. Is skateboarding or longboarding allowed on campus?

   It is not allowed on the main walkways through campus, but it is allowed around the perimeters.

3. When do meal plans start?

   Mealplans start on August 21, 2009.

4. I need to get a job when I come to Biola, where do I start?

   On campus employment opportunities are found through Human Resources, ext.5214. Off Campus Student Employment office is located in Student Services, ext. 4758. We recommend that you contact these offices as soon as possible.

5. How do I get my ID card?

   ID cards can be made anytime throughout the summer in the office of Student Affairs (across from Chase Gymnasium) Check the orientation schedule to find the best time to get your ID card made.

6. Can freshman park on campus?

   Yes. Freshmen are allowed to have cars on campus. Proper vehicle registration and a parking permit are required. This will all be taken care of during class registration.

7. Is there a ministry requirement?

   Biola encourages its students to be involved with a ministry as an extracurricular element to whole-soul development. There are so many ways to get involved on and off campus in light of your personal gifts, skills, and desires. A good place to get started is in Student Ministries (campus ext. 4754).

8. Do I need to have a car on campus my first year?

   No. If you live on campus, it is not necessary to have a car. Biola is located within walking distance from several grocery stores, while rides from friends are usually easy to come by. The La Mirada Transit also offers door-to-door driving services for the immediate area at a minimal cost.

9. When do we buy and how do we find out about meal plans?

   You will choose and finalize your meal plan when you register (during orientation week). Meal plan information can be viewed at: http://www.biola.edu/admin/auxil/mealplans.cfm

Class Registration

1. When and how do I get my official class schedule?

   The office of Academic Advising will be putting together a schedule for you based on the academic profile sheet you filled out and you will be receiving that in the mail over the summer. After you receive that, you will be able to change your schedule via webreg and there will be instructions in your packet on how to do so.

Computer and Internet

1. how do I get my Biola email address?

   You get your Biola email address through the Biola portal at www.biola.edu/portal and click on the link passwords.

2. is Bubbs biola's student e-mail server? is this a service i can only start useing once i get to campus?

   Bubbs is Biola's email server, along with message boards as well. Once you arrive on campus you will be given your email address, and password. then you can start using Bubbs. Hope this helps!

3. Do I get an e-mail account? If so, when?

   Yes. You will receive your own school e-mail account (BUBBS account) during registration the first week of school.

4. Can I buy a computer for school through Biola?

   Yes. The Biola University computer store (across from Eagle's Nest) offers discounted computers, software, and supplies to students. You can also browse their website at http://www.computerstore.biola.edu/index.html.

5. Where is there internet access on campus?

   Internet access is available in the library, the Metzger computer lab, and all residence hall rooms.

6. Can I get a refund after I have paid for the events or t-shirt?

   No. Unfortunately, there are no refunds available. We purchase the exact amount of tickets for the students who have signed up for the events. You can sell your ticket to another student in your group during orientation if you can not attend an event you signed up for.

7. Is internet access in the rooms free? What speed is it?

   Internet access is free on campus. All of our residence hall rooms (as well as the computer lab and library) are wired with Ethernet for high-speed (broadband) communication with both the Biola intranet and the Internet.

8. I have a ton of computer questions! Where can I go online to have them all answered?

   There is a computer FAQ database at http://www.biola.edu/undergrad/admissions/computers.cfm that should answer most of your computer specific questions.

9. Is internet access in the rooms free? What speed is it?

   Internet access is free on campus. All of our residence hall rooms (as well as the computer lab and library) are wired with Ethernet for high-speed (broadband) communication.

General Orientation

1. When ordering the SOS t-shirt, will it come in a girls or guys size?

   The SOS t-shirts are regular adult size t-shirts and they are not divided by men/women sizes.

2. Are new incoming students required to attend the commencement dinner?

   Incoming students are not required to go to the Academic Commencement Dinner. Although we encourage new students to go because it is a great way to start your academic year at Biola. Plus, its great food, great company, and a great speaker.

3. How should I dress during orientation?

   Official orientation t-shirts are the shirts of choice for students during orientation week. Your t-shirt can be reserved through this website! Other than your t-shirt you may wear anything that is within the Biola University dress code http://www.biola.edu/studentlife/handbook.pdf (on page 34)-- keeping in mind that it is hot in August!

4. Is SOS mandatory?

   SOS is mandatory for all new incoming students. SOS is exciting as well as informative, and something that you do not want to miss out on.

5. i have already paid for al event. i came online today and it says none are paid for yet...what happened? how can i make sure that they scheduled me for all the events i paid for?

   Please email us at sos.director@biola.edu or call 562-944-0351 x5846 and let us know what date you purchased the events, what type of credit card you used, and the events that you purchased and we will be able to fix it. Thank you.

6. How much does the BBQ dinner cost?

   The BBQ dinner is free for new and returning student (you will need to show your ID card). For family and other guests the cost it $8.00 per person. Tickets are available online through Parent Relations www.biola.edu/parents. You can also buy tickets on Friday, August 21st and Saturday August 22nd at the Parent Hospitality Tent or any eating venue on campus. Pre-purchased tickets must be picked up at the Parent Hospitality Tent on August 21st or 22nd.

7. Does Biola University offer an new student orientation in spring 2010 as well?

   Yes we do. You and your student will receive orientation information towards the end of December. Official new student move-in date is January 27 and orientation kicks off on January 28. Blessings!

8. when do you get your parking permit? we ordered it when we registered my son. Do we need to pick it up at Biola? If so, where does he get it & when is the best time?

   Your son can pick up his parking permit when he gets to campus from the Campus Safety office.

9. I cant remember ny password or username how can I log in?

   You can retrieve your password by logging in with your username and it will be mailed to your email address.

10. what day does my son need to come to biola for the sos orientation? He is not staying on campus, so would he need to be there on Friday or just come saturday morning. He did sign up for all the events.

    All students are required to attend mandatory orientation sessions beginning Saturday morning at 9:30am in the Gym.

11. How do I get a parking permit and how much do they cost?

    When you WebReg- (How we register and pay for classes) there's a part to sign up for a parking permit, and it costs $120. When you arrive on campus you can pick it up from Campus Safety. Hope that helps!

Miscellaneous

1. When does orientation begin?

2. What kind of computers do you suggest? Alos, would you suggest a laptop or a desk top?

   Biola's campus is a "mac" ready campus, meaning that all of the computers that you come into contact with on campus will be macintosh (with the exception of one pc lb in the library). Our computer store on campus is also filled with apple computers. In the end, it really is a preference decision, but if you do not have a preference, I would say to get a mac. As fas a whether a desktop or laptop is better, we would definitely recommend a laptop. They are much more convenience when you need to work on group projects or take notes in class. For more information on the Biola computer store visit: www.biolacomputerstore.com

3. Could you please provide the information that I need to mail packages ahead of time for my son's room?

   Hi, you will need to call Biola's mail room which is 562-903-5475. They can give you your student's box number and the address in which you can ship it to. Thanks

4. I was wondering what do I need to do to get into Biola and what kind of grades are acceptable?

   You can contact Biola Admissions and they will give all the correct information you need. 1-800-OK-BIOLA http://biola.edu/undergrad/ Blessings!

5. My incoming freshman has been assigned to Alpha Dorm..It was neither her first or second choice; if fact, it was probably her last choice. Is it possible for her to change dorms?

   Thank you for your question. Unfortunately, there are no other spaces in any other residence halls besides Alpha Chi and Sigma Chi. Almost all freshmen females were placed in Alpha or Sigma. There are two ways that a student can move into a different room (based upon availability). The week of September 3 some triples can move to doubles and some doubles can move to triples, again this is ONLY based on if there is an availability. The other way that a student can move into a new residence hall is at beginning of the spring semester. This is also based on availability. A student will need to check with the Housing Department at the end of the Fall Semester, in December, for availability in other residence halls. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the Orientation (SOS) department or the Housing Office. Thank you!

6. Hi, I'm a commuter student and I was looking at the schedule for tomorrow, Friday, August 22, and I noticed that there wasn't anthing for me to do until the welcome dinner. Is it still mandatory for me to come by in the morning or can i just attend the dinner and dessert.

   Commuter can attend the evening session and do not need to come early. But be sure to come!

7. how do i make my biola.edu email address?

   You will receive your Biola email address during the middle of July via email from academic.advising@biola.edu to your email address that Admissions has on file. If you have any further questions feel free to ask. Thank you, SOS Directors Email: sos.director@biola.edu Phone: 562.944.0351 x5846

8. I've seen written somewhere that your dorm refrigerator should be 1.7 cubic feet. We have the opportunity to get a used one that is 2.7 cubic feet. Is this allowed?

   The only way that the 2.7 cubic feet will work is if you share it with your room mate. You are each allowed to have your own at 1.7, but if you choose to combine the size then you may.

9. When is the first day I can sign up for classes?

   The registrar will actually make your first semester schedule for you and you will receive that in the mail mid-july. If you want to change classes, you may do that in August during webreg phase 2, however we would suggest speaking with an admissions counselor before making any changes to your schedule.

10. Is there much theft of laptops, etc? Are there good ways to safeguard items like that?

    Sadly, we have had laptops stolen from the library and other public places. When studying in places like the library or fountain, the best thing to do is to never leave you computer alone with out someone watching it. When it is in your dorm room, you can either make sure your door is locked OR purchase a lock that you can find in our computer store.

11. How much fun is SOS?

    Loads and Loads!

Moving on campus

1. Do the beds in the dorm rooms take extra long sheets?

   No, as opposed to what department stores will tell you, Biola beds are made for regular twin size, deep pockets sheets. If you request an extra long mattress then you would need extra long sheets.

2. Will we receive a list of things we need to bring?

   Your housing packet, which is sent out mid July, will include a pamphlet on "What to Bring". We have also added a section 'checklists' under our resources tab on the SOS Website so check there for information as well.

3. When do I find out who my roommate is going to be?

   Housing information is sent out mid July. This information packet includes the name(s) of your roommate(s).

4. When do we get our fall on-campus housing assignments?

   The information packets for Fall housing assignments are sent out by mid-July.

5. What are the dimensions for the desk, shelf, wardrobe and dresser?

   The desk dimensions are 42x25 or 36x36 with the dropleaf, the wardrobe is 36x25x72H, the bookshelf is 32x12x30H and the dresser is 32x19x30H.

6. What is open house?

   Open house is a designated time where men can visit women's dorm rooms and vice versa. These times vary during the year, so please check with your R.A. (resident assistant) for specific times and policies.

7. My incoming freshman has been assigned to Alpha Dorm.. Is it possible for her to change dorms?

   Thank you for your question. Unfortunately, there are no other spaces in any other residence halls besides Alpha Chi and Sigma Chi. Almost all freshmen females were placed in Alpha or Sigma. There are two ways that a student can move into a different room (based upon availability). The week of September 3 some triples can move to doubles and some doubles can move to triples, again this is ONLY based on if there is an availability. The other way that a student can move into a new residence hall is at beginning of the spring semester. This is also based on availability. A student will need to check with the Housing Department at the end of the Fall Semester, in December, for availability in other residence halls. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the Orientation (SOS) department or the Housing Office. Thank you!

8. Is it possible to ship my stuff to school ahead of time?

   Thank you for your question. You are able to ship your things ahead of time. There are two ways that can happen. One is, if you complete WebReg early, you will get your student mailbox number. When you mail your things to Biola, be sure to include your name and your mailbox number on the mailing address. The other is, if you do not complete WebReg before you ship your things you need to be sure you include your name and state "New Student" on the mailing address. Either way you will be able to pick up your things at the Mail Services on campus. If you have any further questions, please feel free to call us or email us: phone: 562.944.0351 x5845 email: sos.director@biola.edu Have a great summer!

9. How do I get mail while at Biola?

   You will have a box number assigned to you while you are a student. You will receive your box number when you go through the Web Registration (WebReg) proceess. Your mailing address will be: Student Name, 13800 Biola Ave. Box #0000, La Mirada CA 90639.

10. What furniture is available in a typical Biola dorm room?

    Each resident dorm is furnished with a bed frame, mattress, desk, desk chair, bookshelf, armoire or closet, and a dresser. Each dorm room has the capacity for each student to have internet access provided that the student bring his or her computer.

11. What furnishings our in a 3 occupancy room?

    Each student has a bed, bookshelf, desk, dresser, and either a closet space or an armoire for each residence in the room.

12. Can I put my things in my dorm room before the move in date?

    Hello, Thank you for your question. You are able to move your thing in on the date that you are assigned to move in (Friday, August 21).

13. When is the first day I can move into my dorm?

    The first day you are allowed to move in is on Friday, August 21st, 2008 starting at 8:00 AM. You will not be allowed to move in prior to this date. Make sure you move in on Friday so that you can participate in Orientation week which starts on Saturday.

14. How do I find a bank in the La Mirada area?

    There will be a Bank Fair on Friday August 21st and Saturday August 22nd 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Local Banks will be on hand to answer your questions and open new checking and saving accounts for new students.

15. Can my parents help me move in to my dorm?

    Yes, your family is allowed to help you move into your room on Friday, August 21st, and Saturday, August 22nd.

16. Do Torrey Students get to move in early for Torrientation?

    Torrey Students move in early, on August 17th for Torrey Orientation. The check-is is located in Sutherland Courtyard from Noon-6pm.

17. What are the dimensions of the rooms in Sigma Chi? I want to bring a small couch to read on.

    You will have room for a couch. The dimensions of the room are about 16'8 by 14'8. For more information there is a web page about Sigma. http://www.biola.edu/undergrad/campus/housing/sigma%5Fchi/ Hope this helps! Thanks

18. Can I use a toaster in the dorm room?

    You are not permitted to use a toaster in your room. However most Residence Halls have toasters in the kitchen.

Orientation Events

1. How much does the BBQ Dinner cost?

   The BBQ Dinner is free for new and returning students (you will need to show your ID card). For family and other guests the cost is $8.00 per person. Tickets are available online through Parent Relations www.biola.edu/parents. You can also buy tickets on Friday, August 21st and Saturday August 22nd at the Parent Hospitality Tent or any eating venue on campus. Pre-purchased tickets must be picked up at the Parent Hospitality Tent on August 21st or 22nd.

2. Can I bring friends or family members to the Academic Commencement Dinner?

   No. The Academic Commencement Dinner was specifically designed only for new incoming students.

Parents

1. How can I let my parents know that I will be ok, and it's time to let go?

   Remember that this transition is difficult for your parents too, so the most important thing to do when talking to them is be honest and sensitive. Your SOS leader can assist you when you arrive on campus, while there are special parent programs on opening day to assist your parents through this transition.

2. How much does the Parent Dessert Reception and the Parents' Luncheon cost for parents?

   Free. Both the reception and the luncheon are provided free of charge for parents by Parent Relations. Any additional family members or guests that attend the luncheon can purchase tickets at the door for $8.

3. Where do my parents stay during orientation?

   Parents can stay at any of the local hotels in the Biola area. Many of the hotels offer special "Biola" rates. Please visit the Parent site http://biola.edu/parent/resources/common_questions.cfm for more information.

4. Can my parents attend orientation with me?

   We request that parents do not attend orientation events with their students. There are special parent orientation events on opening day which are designed to help in the parent transition. Check out the parent's section on this site (accessible throught the SOS homepage) for more information on specific events.

Spiritual Life

1. Should I attend church in the area, or is there church on campus at Biola?

   There are no campus services on Sunday mornings. Biola strongly suggests getting plugged into a local church. A church directory can be picked up at Student Ministries (campus ext. 4754) or your SOS leader can get you one when you arrive on campus.

2. What if I don't have satisfactory chapel attendance?

   Students can not register until all chapel make-up requirements have been met. A registration hold will be placed when pre-registration packets are released. You can make-up missed sessions and receive credit through chapel tapes (provided by the Media Center, located in the Library) or attend alternate chapels on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

3. When does chapel begin for the fall semester?

   The first chapel of the semester (Convocation) will be held on Wednesday, August 26th.

4. Is chapel attendance mandatory?

   Yes. Chapel is required for all undergraduate students (full and part time, resident and commuter). Full time students are requried to attend a minimum of thirty chapels a semester. A minimum of eight sessions must be attended during each of the three day Torrey and Missions Conference sessions. Part time students (7-11 units) are required to attend twenty chapels and 5 session from each of the conferences. Each student is required to physically attend 15 regular chapels and 4 conferences each semester in order to fulfill the chapel requirment. Chapel policies can be found at http://studentlife.biola.edu/ministry-and-worship/chapel/chapel-policies/.

Student Life

1. Is there a fee for the Collegium?

   Yes, this semester it is $50 for a semester, or $80 for the whole year. This is a great deal, and the collegium is perfect for commuters to hang out and have a home away from home.
   For more information about The Collegium - Our Commuter Home Away From Home - Please contact Jenny Matthes, Coordinator for Commuter Life at jenny.matthes@biola.edu

2. How do I find out about getting involved on campus?

   There is a Mandatory "Getting Involved" session on Monday, August 25th at 1pm that will answer that question. Also SOS Leaders will be leading SOS Workshops on Tuesday August 26th of SOS Week. "How to get involved on campus" will be one of the workshops for new students so we recommend that you attend that workshop.

3. Where can I find the student handbook?

   The student handbook can be viewed at the following link: http://www.biola.edu/studentlife/handbook.pdf

4. When do meal plans start?

   Meal plans start on Friday August 21, 2009.

Transfer Students

1. Can you tell me if my course work from another school will transfer to Biola?

   Yes. The registrar's office approves all transferable course work from other colleges and universities. Please consult them before taking any courses outside of Biola. Your best bet would be to talk to them in person when you arrive on campus, or you can call them prior to your arrival on campus. (562-944-0351 x4720)

2. Do transfer students have their own, seperate orientation?

   No. Transfer students are broken up into groups seperately from freshman groups. There are specific transfer events during orientation week which can be located in the orientation schedule.

3. Do transfer students have to take the first year seminar class?

   Transfer students do not have to take the First Year Seminar class. It is only required for First Year Students to take this class.

Website Registration Problems

1. If I do not have a zip code, what information do I enter?

   You can enter a part of your street name. For example, if your street name is Tucker Towne Road, you should enter "tucker" to register.

2. Does the SOS orientation online site work for graduate students too? I can't seem to register.

   Unfortunately, at this time, the SOS site is for undergrauate students only.