Leap Week FAQ

We understand that transitioning to college life can bring up many questions. Whether you're an incoming student or a parent/family member, we're here to support you every step of the way. This FAQ page is designed to provide quick answers to the most common questions about LEAP Week and the broader transition experience at Augusta University.

FAQ's

General Information

  • What is LEAP Week? LEAP Week is Augusta University's official welcome program for new students, running August 14-17, 2026. This three-day experience helps you connect with fellow students, explore your interests, learn essential skills for academic success, and become part of the Jaguar family.
  • When is LEAP Week 2026?

    • Pre-LEAP Week Activities: Wednesday, August 12 and Thursday, August 13 (Welcome) - for early move-in students and local students only

    • Main LEAP Week: Friday, August 14 (Launch) through Sunday, August 16 (Ascend)

  • Is there a cost to participate in LEAP Week activities and events? All official LEAP Week activities and events are free for registered students to attend. However, some events may offer optional opportunities to purchase items such as snacks, merchandise, or souvenirs. Any additional purchases are the responsibility of the student.
  • Who must attend LEAP Week? LEAP Week participation is mandatory for all new incoming students at Augusta University, including both new freshmen and new transfer students.
  • What are the daily themes?
    • Thursday (Welcome): Jaguar Town + Jaguar Bazaar Marketplace and Jaguar Nights Activities
    • Friday (Launch): Jaguar Town + Jaguar Bazaar Marketplace and JagBASH Welcome Party
    • Saturday (Engage): Community track experiences and Jagaplooza Celebration
    • Sunday (Ascend): Community track experiences and Sunday Send Off Event
    • Monday (Propel): Convocation and academic preparation opportunities

Registration

  • How do I register for LEAP Week? Complete your registration through the LEAP Week portal. You'll select your track experience and evening activity preferences during registration. Registration will launch on August 7, 2026.
  • Can I change my registration after submitting? Sometimes! Talk to a staff member for more information. Due to capacity limits and complex logistics, changes need to be handled manually by staff.

Track Information

  • What are track options for LEAP Week? Registration will launch on August 7, 2026 with all track options noted.
  • How does track selection work? Track selection operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Popular tracks fill up quickly, so register early.
  • What if my preferred track is full? If your preferred track is full, you can request to be added to a waitlist. If no spots become available, you'll participate in your currently assigned track.
  • Can I switch tracks after registration? Track changes are handled on a case-by-case basis due to capacity limits. Talk to a staff member for more information.
  • How do I see the full schedule of activities? You'll receive access to your personalized schedule within 24 hours of registration completion. Any changes or schedule conflicts should be discussed with a staff member.

Specific Activities

  • What is the Jaguar Bazaar? The Jaguar Bazaar is a campus marketplace held at the Campus Recreation Center on the Health Sciences Campus (Thursday and Friday). Local artisans and vendors come together for a vibrant community celebration where you can browse unique handmade goods and support local businesses.
  • What is Jaguar Town? Shuttles will be taking students to and from downtown North Augusta to shop local and see what all the town has to offer! Various stores will be running deals for students. 
  • What is Convocation? Freshman Convocation is Augusta University's formal welcome ceremony held on Monday at Maxwell Theatre. This tradition celebrates your entry into the Jaguar community and includes university leaders and your fellow students. This is a student-only event.

Check-In and Logistics

  • Where do I check in? Details on check-in will be sent to you soon, so stay on the lookout!
  • What should I bring to check-in? Bring your student ID, and your check-in QR code if you pre-registered for LEAP Week!
  • Do I need to download any apps? Yes! Download GroupMe before LEAP Week begins. Your LEAP Week Leader will use GroupMe to communicate with your group throughout the program.
  • Is transportation provided? Yes, transportation is provided for off-campus activities. Shuttle pickup locations will be communicated with your schedule. 
  • Where do I find my personalized schedule? After registration, you'll receive access to your customized schedule through the student portal, including all events you're registered for. Please allow a full 24 - 48 hours for this to populate.

Parking Information

  • Where should I park during LEAP Week?
    • Wednesday-Friday (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM): Residential students should park in the parking deck adjacent to Elm Hall as per the move-in flow.
    • Thursday and Friday for Jaguar Bazaar & LEAP Week Check-In: Commuter students should park in Lot 69 and walk down Laney Walker to the Student Center.
    • Evening events: We suggest parking in the parking deck adjacent to Elm Hall.
    • Weekend events: We suggest parking in the parking deck adjacent to Elm Hall.

Transportation

  • Can I drive my own vehicle to activities? No. If you have a vehicle, you cannot drive it to the activities. You MUST check in with your LEAP Week leader and take the university-provided transportation. This ensures you are accounted for and safe.
  • Is transportation provided? Yes, transportation is provided for all off-campus activities. Shuttle pickup locations and times will be communicated with your schedule.

Dining and Meals

  • Are meals provided during LEAP Week? Important: Please see below!
    • Meal access depends on your meal plan status. Everyone must bring their JagCard to access meal services.
    • How meal access works:
      • Students with existing meal plans: Access meals at the Atrium through Dining Services by swiping your JagCard after checking in with LEAP Week staff.
      • Students without meal plans: Purchase individual meals through Sodexo at the Atrium Dining Hall (Wednesday-Saturday), or purchase a meal plan ahead of time.
    • Are there food options at evening events? Free snacks are provided at movie screenings and all evening events.
  • Available for students with existing meal plans or those planning to purchase meals:

    • Saturday: Coming Soon

    • Sunday: Coming Soon

    • Are there food options at evening events? Free snacks are provided at movie screenings and other select events. Specific meal information will be included in your detailed schedule.
  • Cost Planning: Students should budget for meals during LEAP Week unless they already have a university meal plan.

Attendance and Participation

  • What if I can't attend LEAP Week?
    • LEAP Week attendance is mandatory. If you cannot attend due to exceptional circumstances, contact the LEAP Week team immediately.
  • What if I can't attend a specific event?
    • Contact the LEAP Week team as soon as possible. Some events may have alternatives, but capacity limits may prevent changes.
  • What if I'm running late to an event?
    • Check in with LEAP Week staff at the event location. They'll help you catch up and join the activities in progress.

  • Do I need to stay for the whole event?

    • While we highly suggest you do, and recommend planning to be there for the entirety, you are free to leave as you wish.

What to bring?

  • What should I pack generally?
    • Pack what you will need for your specific experience. We recommend comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and bug spray for most activities.
  • What should I pack for water activities? 
    • Bathing suit, Towel, Sunscreen, Bug spray, Waterproof case (or ziplock bag) for your phone
    • Note: We highly discourage bringing bags that you would not want to get wet
  • What should I wear for painting?
    • Wear clothing that can get a little messy. Note that if you get paint on yourself, it may not be removable in the wash.
  • What's the dress code for evening events (JagBASH, Jagaplooza)? 
    • Wear something comfortable and Augusta University themed!

Guests and Family Attendance

  • Can I bring guests to LEAP Week events?
    • Outside of Jaguar Bazaar and Jaguar Town, guests are discouraged and cannot attend LEAP Week events. These experiences are designed specifically for new students to build connections with their peers and transition into the Augusta University community.
  • Can my parents/family attend any events?
    • Parents and family members may only attend Jaguar Bazaar (Thursday and Friday, 10am- 4pm at Campus Recreation). All other LEAP Week events are exclusively for new students.
  • Why are guests not allowed at most events?
    • LEAP Week is designed to help you build independence, form new friendships, and fully engage with your new university community. These goals are best achieved when events are focused on student-to-student connections.

Technical Issues

  • I'm having trouble with the registration system. What do I do? Contact the LEAP Week team directly for technical support. Due to the complexity of the registration system, staff assistance may be needed for troubleshooting. Email orientation@augusta.edu for assistance.
  • I can't access my schedule. How do I get it? Your personalized schedule is available through the student portal. If you're having access issues, contact the LEAP Week team for assistance after 48 hours.

Special Accommodations

  • I have dietary restrictions. Can these be accommodated? Yes! Use the Change Request Form to discuss dietary accommodations for meals and events. Note, no activity includes a full meal.
  • I need accessibility accommodations. Who do I contact? Use the Change Request Form as early as possible to arrange necessary accommodations for all activities and venues.
  • I have a medical condition that might affect my participation. What should I do? Use the Change Request Form to discuss how your medical needs can be accommodated, especially for physical activities marked with an asterisk.

Contact Information

  • Who do I contact with LEAP Week questions? New Student and Family Transitions Office

    • Email: orientation@augusta.edu

    • Phone: (706) 737-1610

    • Instagram: @AUG_NEWJAGS

What forms are available for LEAP Week?

  • What if I have an emergency during LEAP Week? Emergency contact information will be provided with your LEAP Week materials. LEAP Week staff will also be available throughout all events.

After LEAP Week

  • What happens after LEAP Week ends? You'll transition into regular classes and campus life. Use the connections you've made and resources you've learned about during LEAP Week throughout your time at Augusta University.
  • How can I stay connected with people I meet? Follow @AUG_NEWJAGS on Instagram and use #LEAPWeek2026 to share memories and stay connected with your LEAP Week cohort.
  • Will there be follow-up surveys? Yes, your feedback is essential for improving future LEAP Week experiences. Complete the Daily Satisfaction Survey each day and the Overall Evaluation at the end of the program.
  • Still have questions? Contact the New Student and Family Transitions office at orientation@augusta.edu, call (706) 737-1610, or follow @AUG_NEWJAGS on Instagram for additional support.