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Roar Ahead is an early-start opportunity for incoming students who want to begin their »Æ¹Ï¶ÌÊÓƵ journey virtually over the summer and arrive to campus in August with the larger new class. This unique program allows new freshmen who meet Summer 2026 admission criteria to complete a fully asynchronous online, one-credit required course designed to strengthen their transition into college. 

Benefits 

Students who participate in Roar Ahead gain an early connection to AU faculty, staff, and culture, creating a smooth transition into college. The program offers the chance to join JagNation over the summer and receive structured support before arriving on campus in the fall. Its fully online format provides flexibility for students managing busy summer schedules or living outside the Augusta area. And it allows high-achieving students without college entrance exam test scores to become a Jaguar as a first-year student! 

Roar Ahead is for students who have applied for Fall 2026 admission but are currently admissible for Summer 2026. These are typically students who have not yet submitted test scores or whose scores do not meet Augusta University’s Fall 2026 requirements. Eligible students will hold a recalculated high school GPA of 3.4 or higher and are on track to meet Georgia’s Required High School Curriculum. Students are invited to participate by the Office of Undergraduate »Æ¹Ï¶ÌÊÓƵ based on the information submitted in their fall application. 

Coursework 

Students will take a fully asynchronous online, one-credit course (INQR 1000) focused on critical thinking, engagement, connection-building, and foundational academic success strategies. The course runs from June 26 to July 31, 2026. All expectations, requirements, and instructions will be outlined clearly before the term begins so students can confidently prepare for a strong start. 

Important Note -- INQR 1000 is a part of the required curriculum for all AU students in all programs. While only one credit hour and offered virtually, this is a real college course that students must successfully complete to graduate from AU. Participation should be taken seriously, as a poor grade can impact academic standing and the institutional grade point average. 

Program Cost & Financial Aid 

The cost of tuition for a one-credit hour course is either $235 or $303, depending on the student’s major. There is also a $34 prorated summer online learning fee. There is no anticipated expense for course materials. 

Georgia residents with the HOPE or Zell Miller Scholarship can expect their tuition ($235 or $303) to be covered by that award, leaving only the $34 online learning fee expense. Students must submit the 2025-26 FAFSA or GSFC HOPE Application before June 1, 2026 in order to ensure funding is processed before classes begin. 

The standard new freshman enrollment deposit of $200 will be waived for Roar Ahead students.

Securing a Spot 

To secure a spot for the Roar Ahead program, invited students should complete the Acceptance Agreement located in their »Æ¹Ï¶ÌÊÓƵ Portal. Once submitted, they will receive a confirmation email outlining next steps. Additional guidance will follow, including required forms, technology access, course expectations, and additional enrollment steps. Students are encouraged to check their email and »Æ¹Ï¶ÌÊÓƵ Portal regularly throughout the spring and early summer to stay informed. 

New Student Orientation 

Students must register for and attend a New Student Orientation session before classes begin in August. There are multiple sessions offered on-campus throughout the summer. Learn more at /orientation/. Students are highly encouraged to attend a session prior to Roar Ahead classes starting on June 28 if possible. Registration is linked in the »Æ¹Ï¶ÌÊÓƵ Portal.