where black ut begins
New Black Student Weekend (NBSW) is the University of Texas at Austin’s official welcome experience for incoming Black FIRST YEAR and transfer students. Now in its 30th year, NBSW is hosted to help Black students build community, learn the culture, and feel confident before day one of class.
WHY ATTEND NBSW?
Incoming students will:
Meet other Black first years and upperclassmen mentors
Join a team and compete in games and the Class Dance
Get free shirts, food, and exclusive giveaways
Learn about Black student organizations, scholarships, and leadership
Build connections and confidence before classes begin
2025 NBSW Weekend Dates: August 21–23, 2026 (MOOV-in Weekend)
Registration opens August 1, 2026. There is a $40 fee.
Join the UBCA Newsletter to receive a reminder when it opens.
WHAT IS FADE?
FADE is our early welcome series for incoming students throughout the summer. It includes:
In-Person Events at Orientation: You’ll see us at every summer orientation session with panels, mixers, and student org spotlights.
Online Summer Engagement: When you’re not on campus, follow our Instagram below (@texasubca) for live Wednesdays, polls, games, and Black Org Spotlights to help you start learning the campus community before you arrive.
First FADE session is Monday, June 1st at the Malcom X Lounge at 9:00 PM CT
Whether you’re visiting in person or tuning in from home, FADE keeps you connected all summer long.
Stay updated on our instagram!
NBSW MEMORIES
Class dances
PROMOS + RECAPS
Volunteer
for NBSW
Volunteers help power every part of NBSW. Whether you're leading a team, planning events, or representing us at orientation, you make the experience unforgettable.
Volunteer applications for 2025 are currently closed.
Applications will reopen in Spring 2026.
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Represent UBCA during the 7 in-person summer orientation sessions. Greet students, speak on panels, and introduce NBSW.
There is not a maximum number accepted for this position.
If you miss the application deadline, no worries! Please contact us to volunteer for FADE. This is only available for this position.
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Mentor a group of incoming students during the weekend. Be their guide, motivator, and friendly face throughout the experience.
There are 8 Team Leaders accepted for this position. -
Join the NBSW planning team. Help design the schedule, manage logistics, and keep everything on track.
There is not a maximum number accepted for this position.
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Lead one of our interactive breakout sessions! Workshop facilitators help students explore identity, leadership, wellness, campus resources, and more.
There is not a maximum number accepted for this position.
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The very first event of New Black Student Weekend, this Friday evening meet-up connects incoming first-years and transfers with returning students from their academic college. As a volunteer, you’ll welcome attendees, help facilitate introductions, and represent your college with pride, setting the tone for an empowering and engaging NBSW weekend.
STAY Connected
Listen to the Official 2025–2026 UBCA Playlist
Curated by and for our community. Add your songs, share your sound, and set the tone.
Collaborative Spotify Playlist »
Join the 2025-2026 GroupMe
Get reminders, resources, and real-time updates. Everyone’s invited.
Join GroupMe »
View All Black Student Organizations
Explore both umbrella and non-umbrella Black student orgs at UT and find your space.
View the Full List »