University of Central Arkansas

 If you find that none of the existing organizations meet your needs, follow the step-by-step guide to starting a new student organization. Feel free to contact UCA if you have any questions along the way.

Before you begin the process, consider the following:

CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL

In order to be recognized as a new UCA group, the organization must:

  Complement the University's mission.

  Have a clear purpose.

  Demonstrate an unmet need that is not duplicated by another student group or campus department.

  Comply with all local, state and federal laws.

  Involve activities that do not create undue risk or liability to the University.

  Have a separate President, Financial Officer, Faculty or Staff Advisor and eight (8) Signatory Members.

  Upon request, groups submit budgets and other information based on the type and complexity of the organization.

  Create a name that clearly represents the function of the student group.

Please note: Submitting an application for a new student organization does not guarantee recognition

TYPES OF ORGANIZATIONS

Activity/Service            Residence Hall Council

Departmental             Sorority/Greeks

Fraternity/Greeks       Honorary

Governing                   Religious

REGISTRATION DEADLINES

New RSOs will only be reviewed for recognition by UCA at the beginning of each semester. New group proposals can take considerable time for review, so those interested should submit their proposal at least a month in advance from these deadlines.

Semesters (2009-2010)               Deadline

Fall Semester                                 September 15, 2009

Late Fall Registration ($25)         October 15, 2009

Spring Semester                             February 1, 2010

Late Spring Registration               March 1, 2010

*Now, you are ready to begin the process. Follow this step-by-step guide

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE to Starting a New Student Organization

Don't miss a step…

Step 1. Read the Student Handbook

Everything you need to know about student organizations at UCA is in the handbook.

Step 2. Find a UCA Advisor

The advisor requirements and role are very important. Make sure when selecting an advisor, it is a good fit for both the group as well as the advisor.

Step 3. Develop a Constitution

Each constitution submitted must follow the sample constitution and constitution guidelines in order to be approved as a recognized student organization. 

Step 4. Submit Constitution

The UCA Review can take anywhere from 4 - 8 weeks. You will receive an email when your group has officially been recognized or if your group needs to make revisions.

Step 5. Register your Group

Now that your group has successfully been approved, you must register your group (link to registering your group page) each semester by September 15 and February 1. A $25 late fee will be imposed if your group registers after the deadline. Late registration is only extended for 30 days after the original deadline.  After 2 semesters of not re-registering, your group will be dropped. In order to re-activate your group, you must go through the New RSO process again and wait for the group to be re-approved. During that period, all RSO privileges will no longer exist for the group.

Step 6. Attend Mandatory Workshops

Each RSO is required to attend 1 workshop during the school year offered through the Student Life Office. Workshop dates are listed on the RSO home page.

Step 7. Check Mailbox on a weekly basis

All student organizations must manage their mailbox located in the Student Center, 207. If the mailbox is not being checked, the RSO advisor will be contacted, and the mailbox will be re-assigned to another group. You will not be able to get your mailbox back, until a vacancy occurs.

CONGRATULATIONS AND WELCOME, you are now RECOGNIZED!!!