We’re excited that you’ve chosen to attend George Mason University and that you will be joining us for the Student Transition Empowerment Program! We know that you have a lot on your plate and a lot of questions about what is next, so we’ve provided a list of things you can do before you join us this summer.
1.Sign and Return STEP Contract
Once you have been accepted into the program, we will send an email to let you know! Inside your acceptance email is your STEP Contract. This document is extremely important, and you cannot attend STEP without signing it. We ask that you sign the contract as soon as possible so you can reserve your spot this Summer.
2.Apply for Financial Aid
Apply for financial aid by March 31. You must complete the following:
- 2025-26 FAFSA (GMU code: 003749)
or
More details can be found on the Office of Financial Aid website.
- Create Patriot Pass and Access George Mason Email Account
After you have paid your enrollment deposit and created your patriot pass you can now access your GMU email. It is important to set up your email account right away and monitor it daily as many communications from STEP and other departments will be sent to you over the course of the summer. - Submit Your Vaccination Records
Virginia law requires all admitted university students to submit immunization documentation. George Mason’s deadline for incoming first year students is August 1st. You can submit your records to the immunization office. You will need to include George Mason University’s Certificate of Immunization and supporting documents. If you have questions around your caccination records please contact the immunization office at [email protected] or 703.993.2135 - Visit Admitted Freshman Website
While we have provided a list of things you can do to prepare for STEP there are things you still need to do for the Fall. GMU has created a to-do list for the fall, we encourage you to try and do all that you can before coming to STEP. However, if there are things on the list that you need assistance with, we will work to assist you with this checklist during your time with STEP. See the Admitted freshman to do list here! - Brush up on some adulting skills
For many students STEP is the first time they have left home and there are a few skills that our students find essential for successfully dorm living. We suggest that students brush up on bathroom cleaning skills, laundry, kitchen safety, and general tidying. While the dorms do have cleaning staff students are in charge of keeping their rooms, bathrooms, and communal kitchen spaces clean. Below are resources on how to use the laundry and kitchen equipment and general information on keeping your living space clean.
7.Pack for STEP
When June comes it is time to pack! Since you will be with us for 5 weeks, we ask that you come prepared. As the date for STEP approaches, we will send an email to your GMU Email with a list of things to bring. However, we also know you might want to have a quick way to check what you may need, so we have linked our list here!
Questions?
Please feel free to contact us at [email protected].