The present invention relates to a new process for the preparation of substituted quinoxalines (I) by cyclization of the corresponding dianiline with 2,3 dihydroxy-1,4-dioxane. In a preferred embodiment, the invention provides a process for the preparation of compounds having the formula wherein Q is a nitrogen protecting group. Compounds of formula III and their derivatives are precursors to certain aryl fused azapolycyclic compounds which exhibit activity as agents for the treatment of neurological and psychological disorders.