Just For Rogue Valley Raiders
The Southern Oregon University community is a natural fit for students who are residents of the Rogue Valley. We are dedicated to creating opportunities for locals to obtain an excellent four-year college experience while staying close to home.
Staying in the Rogue Valley for college offers many benefits. First and foremost, local students typically have lower personal and transportation expenses. And being familiar with the area, weather, and landscape can help ease the transition to college, giving students more time to focus on academics and activities!
SOU’s commitment to students from the Rogue Valley area is evident through a variety of customized programs that provide affordability or extra support. Take a look below to find out more!
Jackson & Josephine County Pledge
For graduates of Jackson and Josephine county schools
This pathway for 2020 graduates of Jackson and Josephine county schools offers a “Degree In Three” plan (three years vs. four) with a substantial tuition discount: $121 per credit as compared to the Oregon resident tuition rate of $189 per credit. Pledge students can save up to $3,060 per academic year! Learn More at sou.edu/pledge
The Bridge Program
For graduates of Oregon high schools
The Bridge Program at SOU is a first-year experience that supports students’ social, emotional, and academic strengths during the transition to college. Open to graduates of Oregon high schools, especially underrepresented students, Bridge includes a free pre-fall session, up to seven tuition-free credits, mentoring, and more. Visit sou.edu/bridge for more details.
SOU Pathway Programs
For Latino students in grades 8-12 in Phoenix-Talent & Medford Schools
Three Pathway Programs – Pirates to Raiders at Talent Middle/Phoenix HS, Bulldogs to Raiders at McLoughlin Middle/South Medford HS, and Hornets to Raiders at Hedrick Middle/North Medford HS – offer a wide range of resources to prepare 8th grade students for high school success and college readiness. In partnership with schools, their own families, and SOU, students begin the program in 8th grade. Successful completion of the program in 12th grade culminates in admission to SOU. Learn More at sou.edu/pathways
The Innovation and Leadership Program
For working professionals
This accelerated bachelor’s degree completion program is available through evening coursework at the Higher Education Center in Medford or in a 100% online format. The INL program builds upon students’ workplace experiences, fostering confident leadership skills. Learn More at sou.edu/inl
Oregon Army National Guard
For qualifying Oregon residents
Students who commit to the Oregon Army National Guard (or are current members) may be eligible for state tuition assistance grants upon admission to SOU.
Contact SFC Sheri Hoddle to find out more.
Transfer Articulation Agreements
For students transferring from RCC, KCC or other community colleges
SOU partners with community colleges through articulation agreements. Students who successfully complete coursework as designated in an articulation agreement will qualify to transfer with junior standing at SOU. Details about participating partners and transfer policies can be found at sou.edu/transfer
Additional Support
Admissions Counseling
SOU Admissions Counselors are dedicated to providing expert guidance and advice to better serve students and improve the college transition process. Admissions counselors may visit your school to present or to lead an application workshop, but are also available by appointment. Find the admissions counselor for your area here, or contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@sou.edu or 855.470.3377 to speak with the counselor of the day.
Financial Aid
Loans, grants, and work-study are available. Students must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility.
Scholarships
Oregon residents who apply before the February 1 priority date are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships upon admission to SOU – no separate application is required. Admitted students should also complete the Southern Oregon Scholarship Application (SOSA), a general application with over 80 local scholarships.
Application Fee Deferral
Eligible students may defer the $60 admission application fee. The deferral form can be found at apply.sou.edu
Transportation
SOU students may purchase a Rogue Valley Transportation District bus pass for $15 per term. Starting September 16, 2019, RVTD will run a Medford to Ashland Express bus, serving four stops in Ashland. This route will operate Monday through Friday from 6 am to 8 pm. For information about bus routes and schedules, visit rvtd.org
First-year Campus Housing Exception
First-year freshmen are required to live in campus housing during their first year. However, students who live within a 35-mile radius of the SOU campus may be eligible for a housing exception on a case-by-case basis. Once accepted to SOU, contact housing@sou.edu or 541.552.6371 for information about this process.
Contact SOU Admissions
SOU Admissions Department
1250 Siskiyou Blvd.
Ashland, OR 97520
541.552.6411 (local)
855.470.3377 (toll-free)
– Questions About Admissions? –