We've put together a simple checklist to keep the process of becoming a Lumberjack easy and hassle-free. Follow these steps, and you won’t have to worry about forgetting a thing, from improving your chances of getting a scholarship to lining up your housing.

And if you haven't already, be sure to visit campus!

Step 1: Apply to SFA

  1. Create a résumé: Assemble a list of activities and honors to help speed up your application process.
  2. Transcript and scores: Send your official high school transcript and SAT/ACT scores to the university.
    • While these are optional for admission decisions, they may help your eligibility for certain scholarships.
  3. It's time to complete your application! Applying early has its benefits, but there is no deadline to apply.
    • Essays and letters of recommendation are not required.

Lumberjack Early Achievement and Decision program 

Apply early to SFA for priority perks

  Complete your admission application by Dec. 1
  Submit additional documents* by Jan. 15
  Receive priority financial aid packaging, early access to the housing application and first dibs on Orientation dates.

*As part of this step, you'll receive a student email account.
Monitor this inbox regularly — important details regarding the option to opt-in to these LEAD program benefits are only available via email.

Submit your additional documents

While you wait for admission decision

Complete these right after you apply to take advantage of opportunities where space is limited.

1. Set up your mySFA account

This is the main portal for information exchange between you and SFA. You’ll get your own mySFA account the same day your application is received by the Office of Admissions. mySFA is the official communication method of the university. Log on and set up your account right away to check on financial aid offers, housing assignments and class registration.

2. Submit your records as required by Texas law

IMPORTANT: You must have these resolved before you can apply for on-campus housing or register for Orientation. Your document status is available in your mySFA portal.

  • Meningitis Immunization Record

Required by Texas law, students who plan to live on campus or take face-to-face classes must have a bacterial meningitis vaccine. Submit your meningitis shot records as soon as possible; it must be processed and approved before you can apply for housing or register for Orientation.

  • Texas Success Initiative scores

Required by Texas law, the Texas Success Initiative program's requirements apply to all students in Texas public colleges and universities. Learn more about how to register for a placement test and to determine if you are exempt. Your scores or exemption must be received and processed before you can apply for housing or register for Orientation.

Bonus: Apply for aid and scholarships!

Get started early! You don’t have to be admitted to apply for aid and scholarships in your mySFA account. Learn more about the different types of aid options that may be available to you, like grants, loans, scholarships and more. View important financial aid dates and deadlines.

Admission decision

Look for your decision letter two to three weeks after your completed application is received.

 

Admitted? Congratulations!

Next Step: Get ready for your first semester

Apply for on-campus housing

You must submit your Texas Success Initiative scores and have your meningitis immunization record approved to mySFA to be eligible to register for Orientation.

Monitor your student email for details on access to the appropriate housing application.

View Residence Life website.

Register for an Orientation session

You must submit your Texas Success Initiative scores and have your meningitis immunization record approved to mySFA to be eligible to register for Orientation.

Orientation attendance is required for incoming first-year and is recommended for transfer students.

During orientation, you'll have the chance to get to know the campus, ask questions and learn more about academic programs and areas of study. You'll also have the opportunity to meet with academic advisors and faculty members.

Visit the Orientation website for more information.

Purchasing parking permit and paying tuition

After you register for classes, you'll want to:

Register for Jack Camp!

Offered in August each year for incoming freshmen and transfer students, this three-day overnight camp occurs in Trinity, Texas and offers a unique opportunity to make friends, have fun and build on the excitement of joining the Lumberjack family.