Whether your idea centers around culture, career interests, faith, creativity, or something completely new, the Student Organization Council (SOC) is here to help you get started. RSO Registration is currently CLOSED and will reopen on August 3, 2026 for the 2026-2027 academic school year.
What Is an RSO?
A Registered Student Organization (RSO) is an officially recognized group formed by students who share a common interest, mission, or purpose. RSOs are a major part of campus life and give students opportunities to:
- Build community
- Explore passions outside the classroom
- Develop leadership skills
- Make meaningful connections
- Create experiences that last beyond college
If your idea is aligned with our mission and brings students together, it has a place here.
Why Start an RSO?
Because student led ideas shape campus culture!
Starting an RSO means:
- Creating opportunities for students to feel a greater sense of belonging
- Qualifying for university funding opportunities
- Accessing event space reservations & promotional support
- Developing leadership skills that matter beyond college
- Leaving a legacy for future students
If you have the passion, we’ll help with the process.
How to Start a New RSO
Starting a new organization is easier than you think.
Here’s how it works:
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Think about what your organization will focus on and why it matters. Ask yourself:
- What is our purpose or mission, and does it align with the university?
- Who is this organization for?
- How does it benefit students and campus life?
- Does our university have anything like this already?
Don’t worry about having everything perfect, just get started & your team can help you.
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Every RSO needs 5 individual Executive Board (e-board) members and at least 5 general body members. You’ll select:
- A President
- A Vice President
- A Secretary
- A Treasurer
- A Marketing Representative
- + FIVE (5) General Body Members
Your team doesn’t have to be large, just committed.
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All RSOs must have a signed agreement from a full time Faculty or Staff Advisor who is willing to provide the e-board support and guidance. Advisors don’t run the organization, they’re there to mentor and help you navigate the process.
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Complete the New RSO Application through Engage.
- Click This Link
- Select "Student Organization"
- Complete the registration form
You’ll be asked to provide:
- Organization name and mission
- Student leadership and member information
- Advisor details
- Organization’s Constitution
Failure to answer all questions entirely, upload all required documents, or have all leadership positions filled may lead to a rejection of your RSO. SOC and the Department of Student & Family Engagement will review your application at their weekly council meeting and follow up via email to schedule an interview.
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SOC invites all new student organizations for an interview when pending approval. During this interview, the President and Vice President will meet with SOC representatives to:
- Share why your organization is needed on campus
- Answer any questions SOC has about your mission and plans
- Ask SOC any questions about next steps, expectations, and resources
This interview is meant to be supportive and conversational. It’s a chance for SOC to get to know your organization and help set you up for success.
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If your organization is approved following the interview, it will move into a “Pending Approval” status. At this stage, SOC will invite your organization to complete required trainings through Canvas, including:
- RSO E Board Training (on demand) – required for all executive board member
- RSO Advisor Training (on demand) – required for your advisor
These trainings ensure your leadership team and advisor understand policies, expectations, and available resources before officially operating. RSO’s will not be approved until training is completed.
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Once all interviews, applications, and required trainings are completed, your organization will receive full RSO approval and gain access to all the benefits of being a registered student organization.
⏰ Important Deadline:
All steps — application submission, SOC interview, and required trainings — must be completed by the sixth week of the semester to be officially approved. If the deadline is missed, your organization will need to wait until the following semester to complete the process.
After approval, congratulations — your organization is officially registered and ready to operate!
Ready to Get Started?
If you have an idea, curiosity, or even just a question — SOC is here to help.
- 💡 Need help preparing for your interview?
- 📋 Unsure about trainings or requirements?
- 🤝 Looking for guidance along the way?
The Student Organization Council is excited to support you from idea to impact. Let’s build something meaningful together.
Frequently Asked Questions
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You can hold up to two (2) total executive board positions across all RSOs. You may serve as President of only one (1) organization at a time.
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Everything is managed through Barry Engage. This is where you’ll:
- Submit and promote events
- Access all documents and request forms
- Re register your organization each year
- Keep your RSO information up to date
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Full time faculty or staff members may advise up to two student organizations at a time.
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After your RSO application is submitted and your interview is completed, your advisor and all e board members will receive a RSO Training invitation via Canvas.
Didn’t receive an email or having trouble accessing training? Email SOC@barry.edu for support.
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New RSO applications are due by the 4th Friday of the fall and spring semesters. All interviews and trainings must be completed by the end of the 6th week of the respective semester to be officially approved.