Welcome to the Centennial Scholars Program!

New Student Welcome is designed to help you begin your JMU journey with confidence. You'll meet fellow Centennials, connect with staff and mentors, learn about program expectations, and prepare for your first semester. Check back throughout the summer as additional information is added.

Event at a Glance

Thursday August 20, 2026 | Festival Ballroom

Time Scheduled Activity

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location Varies

  Early Move-In

12:00-12:30 

 Registration

12:30-1:45 

 Catered lunch

1:45-2:45

Financial Aid Presentation and Q&A

3:00-4:15 

 Parent Panel

3:00-4:15 

 Student Session – Meet Your Mentor

4:15-4:30 

 Closing

RSVP

 Click here to complete RSVP

 

Parking

You and your guests may park in student lots, in any unmarked, non-metered space. Avoid pay-by-plate spaces, fire lanes, and areas marked for special use. 

If you have any questions about parking on August 20, please contact Parking and Transit Services at parkingservices@jmu.edu or call 540-568-3300.

Parking Map

What to Expect

We'll continue updating this page throughout the summer.

  • Early move-in information

Questions?

Questions before New Student Welcome? Email us at centscholars@jmu.edu or reach us at 540-568-2803.

New Student Welcome FAQ

FAQs
New Student Welcome is required for all incoming Centennials, including first-year students, transfer students, and current JMU students who are newly joining the program. Guests are also welcome to attend from 12:00 PM–4:30 PM.
Early Move-In (8:00 AM–12:00 PM) is only for students living on campus. Commuters and students who are not living in university housing are not expected to attend this portion of the day.
No. Students who have already moved in through another JMU program are not required to attend New Student Welcome. 

If you are participating in Early Move-In, follow your assigned move-in schedule between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM. All other incoming Centennials should plan to arrive by 12:00 PM at Festival Ballroom for the New Student Welcome.

Please allow extra time for parking and walking to the event location. You may park in any unmarked, non-metered space. Avoid pay-by-plate spaces, fire lanes, and areas marked for special use.

Bring anything you'll need for move-in, a water bottle, your JACard (if you've already received it), and a positive attitude, we're excited to welcome you!
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. You'll be moving into your residence hall, walking around campus, and participating in activities throughout the afternoon.
Yes. Lunch is a required part of New Student Welcome (August 20) for all incoming Centennials. If you have dietary restrictions or another concern, please let us know on your RSVP form so we can do our best to accommodate your needs.

Yes! Meals will be provided throughout the New Student Welcome.

  • Thursday Lunch: Provided for Centennials and their registered guests.
  • Thursday Dinner: Provided for Centennials.
  • Friday Lunch: Provided for Centennials.

Additional details about meal times, locations, and menus will be shared closer to the event.

New Student Welcome is required for all incoming Centennials. If you are unable to attend due to extenuating circumstances, please indicate this on your RSVP form so we are aware of your plans.

Yes. Family members and registered guests are welcome to attend the New Student Welcome program even if the student is unable to attend. If you will not be attending, please indicate this on your RSVP form and note that your family or guests will still be attending.

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Centennial Scholars Program
Student Success Center
MSC 1025
738 South Mason Street
Room 2180
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807

Hours of Operation:
Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm

Summer Hours of Operation:
Mon-Thurs: 8am-5pm
Fri: 8am-12pm