# Starting a New Semester

A new semester is a busy time with many things to take care of. This article will guide you through the transition. ActiveNow is here to make it easier.

## What to set up before the new semester

Make sure the following are configured in the system before the semester begins:

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
**Calendar dates and breaks**

You need to set the dates for the new semester and define any breaks. Go to *Settings* and find the *Season settings* section. Click *Start new season*, enter the date range, and add any breaks using the *Add a break* button.

![Settings view with season dates configuration and Start new season button](/files/DRzPF85Mti4rdQ8tp0Jq)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Pricing**

If lesson prices have changed, go to *Settings* and update them in *Pricing settings*.

If you use pricing based on the number of classes per week, contact us — we'll help you transition to the new semester together.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Making up for absences**

If your school allows make-up classes, go to *Settings* → *Making up for absences* and configure the new season's make-up policy.

![Settings view showing make-up classes season configuration](/files/oRTUQrBgBo6RJSAoNPln)
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## What else to do before the new semester

Once settings are in place, go through the following steps:

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
**Create new courses**

You can clone courses from the previous season and update their dates. If your courses and participants aren't changing — let your account manager know and our team will clone everything for you.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Add the registration form to your website**

This allows new clients to sign up for courses. Learn how to do it in the [Online sign-ups](/en/online-sign-ups.md) section.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Send an SMS or email to your clients**

Let them know that sign-ups are open.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Inactive participants**

Once a semester ends, participants whose courses have finished will automatically become inactive. As soon as you add them to courses in the new semester, they'll become active again. Any outstanding payments are tracked by the system regardless of a participant's active or inactive status.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

Once you've completed all of the above, you're ready to kick off a new semester with ActiveNow. **Good luck in the new year!**


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