Life at SAU
Life at Spring Arbor University is all about connection, adventure, and discovering who you’re called to be. Picture this: late-night laughs with friends in the dorms, grabbing coffee at Sacred Grounds or the Arbor Cafe before class, and cheering on the Cougars at the big game. Whether you’re joining a club, vibing at a campus event, or volunteering in the community, there’s always something happening to keep life exciting. And don’t forget the gorgeous campus views—they make the perfect backdrop for hanging out or getting inspired. At SAU, you’ll find a place where faith, friendships, and fun collide, helping you grow into the best version of yourself while having the time of your life.
You, Transformed
Your spiritual development is as crucial as your academic progress. We aim for you to experience a holistic transformation here, discovering and refining your God-given talents. Supported by a loving community, you'll grow deep roots in Jesus Christ while you're at SAU. Spiritual Life at SAUBe a Part of the Tradition
Tradition has been central to SAU for over 150 years, uniting our community and creating lasting memories. From the iconic Parting at the Plaza to the cherished Cutting of the Ivy, there are countless opportunities to forge lifelong friendships and engage in distinct SAU experiences. Traditions at SAUAn Involved You is the Best You
Find your niche on campus and explore everything SAU has to offer! There are plenty of opportunities to get involved in sports, clubs, service projects, and more. Some of your lifelong friends and favorite memories of college are here. Get Involved at SAUStudent Blog
Discover the latest happenings on campus through our student blog! Written by students for students, it covers campus life, activities, and more, giving you an insider’s view of what’s going on at SAU. Read our Student BlogResidence Life
Whether you are a traditional student living on campus, a commuter looking for dining options, or exploring academic support options, we are here to help! Discover what best fits your needs.
Commuter Life
At SAU, we are committed to making every student feel at home, whether they live on campus or commute. Recognizing that commuting can sometimes create barriers to full campus engagement, we provide dedicated amenities and services for commuter students, such as comfortable lounges, study spaces, and convenient meal options. We also offer flexible parking and host events, orientation sessions, and involvement fairs to help you connect with peers and explore student organizations. Our staff and faculty are here to support you with academic advising, career planning, and personal guidance, ensuring that you have a fulfilling and integrated college experience no matter where you live.
On the MySAU portal, students will find the student handbook, class lists, chapel absence record, financial aid, class schedule, student employment listings and more. If you are an accepted student, you can access the portal.
Our Core Program is designed to help you discover your purpose. CORE 100 is for freshman students learning to adjust to college life and grasp their calling. Like all incoming residential students, commuters are also assigned to a CORE group, consisting of 15 freshmen, a peer advisor (PA) and a faculty or staff member (transfer students are assigned to a Core group of other transfer students).
Use this opportunity to make friends, get connected to what’s happening on campus and get involved!
If you have a student ID, you have free access to the McDonald Athletic Center! Students are welcome to use the facilities, including the fitness center, basketball courts and indoor track.
All regular season intercollegiate games are free to students .
As a student, you have free access to all of the campus computer labs and White Library. Computer labs are located on the main floor of White Library, the upper level of Lowell Hall, the third floor of Gainey Hall, and the lower level of Whiteman-Gibbs Science Center.
The librarian at White Library is available to help students with class research. The library staff work closely with students to provide reference help, bibliographic instruction, and meet class assignment needs. Check the White Library website for hours of operation, reference desk hours and other information about the library.
Commuter students park in the Prop Shop parking lot or in the back of The Arbor Church. Commuter students pay a $50 campus services fee per year, which covers a parking permit and security services. The fee is for every student enrolled in seven credit hours or more. Call ext. 1911 or 517.750.6911 for campus security.
Diversity at SAU
Spring Arbor University is a community of learners committed to reflecting the Kingdom of God in the diversity of our students, faculty, staff, trustees, and other community members. Valuing the dignity of every human being is part of the historic legacy of our founding denomination.