How Does the Process Work?
Students who want to start a New Student Organization (NSO), recognized by Student Engagement, must submit an application via the submission form on ’Cuse Activities.
The Fall 2025 application period will open on Monday, September 15th.
For an in-depth overview of the NSO process and timeline, please refer to the NSO Information Packet.
Complete applications are due by Friday, October 3rd at noon.
- Applications must have a minimum of eight (8) members, including four (4) filled executive board positions.
- 51% of your members must be undergraduate students, and your executive board should consist of on-campus, undergraduate students. Students studying abroad cannot hold executive board positions, in accordance with the RSO Handbook.
- Applications must include an Advisor Contract, signed by the Advisor and available via ‘Cuse Activities.
- Applications must have all questions answered and completed.
- All proposed organizations are expected to attend a required pitch meeting upon approval of their initial application. During the pitch meeting, members of the proposed NSO will engage with the NSO Review Team, providing comprehensive responses to any relevant inquiries. Further details regarding pitch meetings can be found on the final pages of the NSO Information Packet.
Approved NSOs will complete a registration process during the semester of their approval. This registration process is required for all NSOs to become fully functioning RSOs the following semester. This process will be explained in depth at the required NSO Orientation workshop. Please be aware that approved NSOs who complete the registration process will become fully active RSOs beginning the semester following their approval.
Any organization denied NSO status must wait an entire academic year before they can submit an application again. For example, if an organization applies in Fall 2025 and is denied, or fails the NSO registration process, they must wait until Fall 2026 to reapply for recognition
If you have questions, please email Student Engagement for more information.
New Student Organization (NSO) Resources
NSO Application: Application form that needs to be completed to apply to be a new student organization. Because the form is updated each semester, it will be made available when the NSO application period is open.
NSO Advisor Application: Application form to be completed by NSO Advisors. This form is not intended for pre-existing RSOs.
NSO Information Packet [PDF]: This packet covers all the information about becoming a new student organization including FAQs about the application and registration process, the various RSO communities, and overall requirements of the process.
Pitch Meeting Presentation Prep: This guide contains what will be assessed during NSO pitch meetings. NSO applicants are encouraged to prepare a brief presentation addressing the questions included in this guide.
How to Write a Constitution [PDF]: Tips and template to writing your organization’s constitution.
Advisor Packet [PDF]: Information provided in the Advisor Packet includes what it means to be an advisor and the complete advisor application.
Advisor Resource Sheet [PDF]: Quick article overview for advisors.