Welcome to the SOA Passport Program
- the ultimate Northwestern path to getting off campus and exploring all the experiences the Chicagoland area can offer! This program offers students a variety of FREE experiences that include attending major league sports games, visits to local cultural institutions like the Shedd Aquarium and the Art Institute of Chicago, popular theatrical performances, and so much more. Enrich your undergraduate experience by snagging your own SOA Passport, collecting stamps at each event, and making memories along the way!
In concert with SOA's Barrier Free mission, SOA will provide registered and participating undergraduate students entry into the experience and round-trip transportation via charter bus or CTA passes. Students collect stamps for each event they participate in and can cash in their stamps to win prizes at our annual Final Flight event at the end of the year!
*Each event has limited capacity and reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis. This program is for currently enrolled undergraduate students only.
HERE'S HOW TO SIGN UP!
- Fill out the brief Qualtrics form below. We will process your completed form and add you to our page on the new 'Cats on Campus platform.
- Once in the platform, come by our table by the revolving doors on the first floor (west entrance) of Norris University Center on one of our designated distribution days (listed on 'Cats on Campus). Have your Wildcard ready and we'll verify your registration to get your very own SOA Passport!
- Keep an eye out for event announcements and registation openings on 'Cats on Campus!
Join today! Registration is open on a rolling basis.
Dive right into Spring by adventuring with the SOA Passport Program through the Chicagoland area at one (or more) of these experiences:
Broadway in Chicago: HAMILTON
April 10th, 2026
Join the Passport Program for an unforgettable night at , the groundbreaking musical that has taken the world by storm! Blending hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and traditional Broadway, this award-winning show tells the story of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton in a bold and innovative way. Performed at Chicago’s historic , Hamilton delivers a powerful and fast-paced production filled with unforgettable music, dynamic choreography, and a diverse cast that brings history to life on stage. Whether you’re a longtime fan or seeing it for the first time, this is a theater experience you won’t want to miss!
Registration opens April 2nd on ‘Cats on Campus.
University Night at the Art Institute
April 16th, 2026
Join the Passport Program for a special evening at the during the inaugural UNIQLO Third Thursday! Enjoy exclusive after-hours access alongside a vibrant, student-centered atmosphere while exploring one of the world’s most renowned art museums. This exciting new partnership brings enhanced Thursday night programming to the museum, featuring public tours, lectures, performances, pop-up bars, and other unique activities throughout the evening. From iconic masterpieces to contemporary works, there’s something for everyone to discover at this incredible Chicago sight! For more information visit the
CTA passes will be available via registration on ’Cats on Campus and distributed at the Passport table from April 13th through 16th.
Final Flight Party!
May 27th, 2026
Have you been collecting Passport stamps throughout your time at Northwestern? Now it’s time to cash them in! Celebrate the end of the year at the Passport Program’s annual Final Flight event. Each stamp earns you a raffle ticket for the chance to win a variety of exciting prizes. Join us for a fun send-off where your participation pays off with giveaways, prizes, and a chance to celebrate all the adventures you’ve experienced this year. Whether you’ve attended one event or many, Final Flight is the perfect way to wrap up the year with the Passport community.
Open to all current Passport holders. RSVP on 'Cats on Campus✈️
Chicago Sky vs. Minnesota Lynx
May 29th, 2026
Join the Passport Program, in collaboration with the Office of Student Transition Experiences, for an exciting night of professional basketball as the Chicago Sky take on the Minnesota Lynx! Experience the energy of the WNBA live in Chicago, where some of the league’s top talent hit the court at the for what is bound to be an exciting matchup. The , featuring young, standout players such as Angel Reese, Hailey Van Lith, and Kamilla Cardoso, face off against a consistently strong Lynx team, led by All-Star forward Napheesa Collier. Whether you're a longtime basketball fan or just looking for a fun night out in the city, this is the perfect chance to cheer on Chicago’s hometown team and experience the excitement of the WNBA. For all the latest updates, game schedules, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content, visit the official website and follow them on .
Registration opens May 19th on ‘Cats on Campus.
To request a replacement SOA Passport, please fill out the form here -
Winter 2026
- Second City: This Too Shall Slap
- Shedd Aquarium
- University Partner Fest - Art Institute Chicago
- Chicago Bulls vs OKC Thunder
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I get my SOA Passport?
To pick up your SOA Passport Booklet, come to our table by the revolving doors on the first floor (west entrance) of Norris University Center. Have your Wildcard ready and we'll verify your registration to get you very own SOA Passport! Dates for our next round of distributing Passport Booklets will be announced soon.
Are the events required?
No, none of the events are required to participate in the program. Each event will fill up quickly. Some events will have more availability while others will have more limited seats, availability depends on each event.
How will I know when events are happening?
new! SOA will host event details, registrations, and communications through the new 'Cats on Campus platform! Make sure you've downloaded the app to stay in the know and to sign up for our events. We have a live website, SOA Passport that you can visit to check out all of the program offerings and dates!
Can I get a replacement passport?
If you've received and lost/misplaced your SOA Passport, you are able to request one (1) replacement SOA Passport. To do this please visit and fill out our Passport Replacement Form here and we'll process these on an individual basis.
What if I forget my passport at home?
If you forget your Passport for an event, you can come to The Source and receive your stamp after the event, but no later than the end of the year we offer that event!
What if an event is sold out and I want to go?
If you want to attend an event and were unable to sign up, you can meet SOA at the loading location of the specific event to wait and see if seats become available. (Example. Waitlist for the Architecture Boat tour will be at the dock on 400 N Michigan Ave or for the Botanic Gardens waitlist will be at Arts Circle on campus at bus loading). We will fill in remaining seats on a first-come, first-served basis!
Who can register for the SOA Passport Program?
The SOA Passport Program is only available for currently enrolled Northwestern undergraduate students.
I registered for the SOA Passport Program, but don't have access to the 'Cats on Campus group?
Enrollment for the SOA PAssport program is on a rolling basis and is currently updated manually. We will update the listserv and provide the "Welcome" email on Mondays. (Example: If you register on a Tuesday, you'll be added to our listserv the following Monday)
Who can I contact if I have more questions?
If you have more questions about the Passport Program, you can reach out to K. Parker Hess at kparkerhess@northwestern.edu or Marie Hauck at marie.hauck@northwestern.edu.