Start Strong

Welcome to Start Strong!

Interested in getting a jump start on your academic career at SUNY Cortland through courses this summer? We welcome all incoming undergraduate transfer students to learn more about the Start Strong program!  Please note that incoming first year students are not eligible for the Start Strong program prior to their Fall admit term. 

Course Schedule

Public Course Schedule (full course details including course descriptions, seats available and search by attribute/general education functions)
Summer Session Course Listing (shows courses available by term)

Start Strong Process

Step 1: Visit the course schedule. Complete our online form and indicate your interest in Start Strong no later than Friday, June 14.

• To allow for sufficient time for review, all necessary approvals and registration, please begin this process at least one week prior to the course beginning.
• Tuition and fee information is available for Summer Session 2024.
• Visit Summer Session for additional information on the term, services available and more.

Step 2: Advisement and Transition will contact you to set up a phone appointment to discuss specific courses, amount of credit, need for financial aid, and experience with online courses. Initial contact will be via e-mail.

Step 3: Advisement and Transition will approve your course(s) in prior to registration.

• If you are interested in at least 6 credits and utilizing financial aid, we will provide additional information. You will be referred to Financial Aid to complete an application for summer aid and discuss how this will impact your overall aid package. It is recommended that students complete the 2024-2025 FAFSA by May 1. The student must initiate the conversation with Financial Aid, if directed. Details regarding Summer Session Eligibility is available through Financial Aid.

Step 4: You will receive an email from the Registrar's Office with information on how to register. You will register for the courses yourself online, via myRedDragon.

Step 5: Accept your charges and pay your bill via myRedDragon. SUNY Cortland does not mail bills.

• Summer Session bills are due by May 3.
• Students must confirm their attendance and pay their bill prior to the course beginning. 
• Instructions are available from Student Accounts on how to view your bill and accept your charges and pay your bill.
• Students must drop the course via myRedDragon if they are no longer attending the course and to avoid liability for the course.

Step 6: Prepare for your course!

• Be sure to verify the start date for your course(s)! Summer Session has multiple terms with courses beginning in May, June and July!
• The Extended Learning Office will send multiple e-mails prior to and throughout the term with important reminders and helpful information for navigating Summer Session.