College Advising & Registration FAQ

What is academic advising?

Academic advising is a collaborative process where you meet with an advisor to plan your academic pathway, choose courses, understand degree requirements, and access campus resources that support your success. Advising is ongoing throughout the academic year – not just during registration periods.

Do I have to meet with an advisor before registering?

Yes.  Always.  We require new students and some continuing students to meet with an advisor before registration. Even if it’s not mandatory, it’s highly recommended to avoid taking unnecessary courses or missing requirements.

How do I schedule an advising appointment?

• Upper classmen check Banner 9 under your Student Profile page for your assigned Advisor
• Freshmen (29 credits and below) check in with ACE (second floor of Johnston Memorial Library)

What should I bring to my advising appointment?

Always bring:

• A list of questions
• Your Advising Sheet
• Your laptop
• Degree audit or program requirements
• Any paperwork related to major/minor changes, transfer credits, etc.

How do I know what classes I need to take?

• Use your Advising Sheet which lists required courses
• Your advisor’s recommendations
• Your long‑term academic plan

What if the class I want is full?

• Choose a different section or course
• Talk to the instructor or department about overrides (if allowed)
• Ask your advisor for alternatives or backup plans
• Take your unrestricted electives

When can I register for classes?

• Check your student portal or academic calendar for the exact date.

How do I register for classes?

• Start with your Advisor to arrange your classes and obtain your ALT PIN
• Search for classes
• Add them to your “plan”
• Submit/confirm your registration

Your advisor can walk you through the process if you need help.

What is a prerequisite?

A prerequisite is a course or skill you must complete before taking another course. If you haven’t met the prerequisite, you may not be able to register.

What is a corequisite?

A corequisite is a class you must take at the same time as another course (e.g., lecture + lab).

How do I change my major?

Check with your Advisor

• Submit a major change form
• Talk with Advisors in your potential major

What happens if I want to withdraw from a class?

Before withdrawing, speak with an advisor—withdrawals can affect:

• Financial aid
• Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)
• Graduation timeline
• Athletic eligibility (if applicable)
• Be aware of deadlines to drop or withdraw

How many credits should I take each semester?

A common guideline:

• 12 credits = full-time
• 15 credits = on track to graduate on time (for most of our programs) advisor can help you decide based on academic preparation, work schedule, and personal responsibilities.
• You may take a maximum of 18 credits.

What if I am struggling in my classes?

Speak to your advisor early. You may also have access to:

• Tutoring services
• Success coaching
• Academic workshops
• Disability support services
• Counseling or wellness resources

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

Most colleges accept transfer credits after:

• An official transcript evaluation
• Reviewing course equivalencies
• Confirming accreditation and grade requirements

Your advisor or the registrar can explain how credits apply to your program.

What is a degree audit?

A degree audit is a digital checklist of all requirements for your program. It shows:

• Completed courses
• Courses in progress
• Remaining requirements
• GPA information

Do I have to follow the catalog year in which I started?

Typically, yes—your “catalog year” determines your program requirements. Sometimes students may request to update to a newer catalog.