Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if I am worried about my grades or GPA?
If you are having difficulty with a course, contact Melanie Boston, the International Academic Coordinator. She can recommend strategies and resources. We believe that you can be successful despite challenges such as language and cultural differences, and it is important to ask for help as soon as you have a concern.
I want to drop a class, but I need 12 credits. What should I do?
F-1 visa students must maintain full time academic status (12 credits) to fulfill Department of Homeland Security Requirements. Dropping below 12 credits can have serious results for your academic plans, visa status, and finances, so please consider it carefully.
You have two options:
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Stay in the class and talk to someone about your difficulties and the possibility of passing the class. Start with Melanie Boston, International Academic Coordinator, and your academic adviser.
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Check if you are eligible for Exception to Full Time Enrollment. If yes, apply for a Reduced Course Load through iStart. See Dagmara Karnowski, International Student Adviser, for help with this process. Remember, there is no guarantee that your request will be approved.
Please note the university policies for dropping a class (particularly the Late Drop policy). You still need to go to LionPath OR the Registrar’s Office in 121 Sutherland to drop or Withdraw from classes, even if it is approved by the International Student Advisor. She does not handle the academic side.
Any time you are having a problem and need to miss classes: Be aware that absences will affect your grade. If the problem is serious, please contact Global Programs.
I was suspended for low GPA. What should I do next?
Since you are not eligible to enroll for the next two terms, your I20 record will be terminated, and you will have to leave the United States.
If you are planning to return after two semesters, contact Melanie Boston, International Academic Coordinator, and Dagmara Karnowski, International Student Adviser, for steps you will need to take.
Are there any courses designed for international or multilingual students? English is not my first language.
AIMSS (Academic Integration for Multi-lingual Student Success) courses are specifically designed for international students' first year success.
We recommend that all international students take ENGL 83S in the first semester as the course will help first-year students feel part of the campus community, acquire academic skills, and navigate university resources and services. Other AIMSS courses include 400-level sections of ENGL 15 (Writing), CAS 84 (Intercultural Communication), and CAS 100A (Public Speaking).
How do I make an appointment with my academic adviser through Starfish?
Go to Starfish, scroll down to “Make an Appointment through Starfish”.
When do I register for next semester?
Always read emails from the Registrar and your academic adviser! Global Programs also sends reminders and information through Canvas. The registration time tables and other important registration information are available at the Office of the Registrar.
What is the Center for Student Achievement?
The Center for Student Achievement (CSA) provides tutoring support for students in math, science, writing and study strategies. Tutoring and writing consultations are usually on campus, or in person.
How do I make an appointment for tutoring?
See detailed instructions at The Center for Student Achievement.
