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Undergraduate Bulletin

2008-2009

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STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

The statements set forth in this catalog are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as the basis of a contract between a student and this institution. While every effort will be made to ensure accuracy of the material stated herein, Georgia Southwestern State University reserves the right to change any provision listed in this catalog, including but not limited to academic requirements for graduation, without actual notice to individual students. Every effort will be made to keep students advised of such changes. Each student is assigned a faculty advisor who will assist the student in interpreting academic regulations and in planning a program of study chosen by the student. However, final responsibility of selecting and scheduling courses and satisfactorily completing curriculum requirements for any degree rests with the student.

Information regarding academic requirements for graduation is available in the offices of the Registrar, Deans of Schools and Chairs of Departments, and the Vice President for Academic Affairs. It is the responsibility of each student to keep himself or herself apprised of current graduation requirements for a degree program in which he or she is enrolled.

DIRECTORY OF CORRESPONDENCE
For Information on: Write to:
Gifts, Bequests, and Scholarship Donations President
General Information and Admissions Director of Admissions
1-800-338-0082
Graduate Programs Dean of the appropriate school
Financial Aid, Scholarships, Student Employment Student Financial Aid Director
Housing Vice President for Student Life
Fees, Expenses, and Method of Payment Vice President for Business and Finance
Course Offerings, Academic Reports, and other Scholastic Matters Vice President for Academic Affairs
Transcripts and Records of Former Students Registrar
Publicity Director of Public Relations
Alumni Director of Development/Alumni Affairs

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES
Areas of Study B.A. B.F.A. B.S. B.S.N. B.B.A. B.S.Ed.
Accounting         x  
Art x x        
Biology     x      
Chemistry     x      
Computer Information Systems     x      
Computer Science     x      
Dramatic Arts x          
Early Childhood Education           x
English x          
English with Teacher Certification x          
English with Professional Writing Option x          
Exercise Science/Wellness           x
Geology     x      
Health & Physical Education           x
History x          
History with Teacher Certification     x      
Human Resource Management         x  
Management         x  
Marketing         x  
Mathematics     x      
Mathematics w/ Industrial Mathematics Option     x      
Mathematics with Teacher Certification     x      
Middle Grades Education           x
Music x          
Nursing       x    
Political Science     x      
Psychology x   x      
Recreation           x
Sociology     x      
Special Education           x

Georgia Southwestern State University also offers the Master of Education, Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Computer Science, and the Specialist in Education degree. A Bachelor of Science dual degree program in cooperation with Georgia Institute of Technology. Certificate programs are also available in the following areas: Criminal Justice, European Union Studies, Latin American Studies, Religious Studies, Web Design, Caregiving, and Women's Studies.

*Students wishing to pursue teacher certification at the secondary level should meet with the advisor in their discipline to discuss the appropriate curriculum requirements.

Undergraduate and Graduate course descriptions

The descriptions of the courses offered by each school and department follow the information section and listing of degree programs for each school and department.  Numbers following the description of the course indicate the number of weekly class hours, the number of weekly laboratory, practicum, or other type of required contact hours, and the credit-hour value of the course expressed in semester hours.  For example, (3-2-3) following the course description means three class hours, two other hours, and three semester hours of credit.

 

CALENDAR*

Summer Term 2008

Fall Term 2008

Spring Term 2009

Summer Term 2009

   
SUMMER TERM 2008  
Last Day to Apply for Graduate Admission March 15, 2008
Last Day to Apply for Undergraduate Admission for May Term March 14, 2008
Last Day to Apply for Undergraduate Admission for Summer Term April 21, 2008
Last Day to Apply for Re-Admission (May Term) May 12, 2008
Residence Halls Open for May Term - 1:00 pm May 8, 2008
May Term Registration May 12, 2008
May Term Classes Begin May 12, 2008
Midterm for May Term May 20, 2008
Last Day to Withdraw from Class without Penalty for May Term May 22, 2008
Classes Will Not Meet May 28, 2008
Last Day of Class for May Term May 29, 2008
Final Exams for May Term May 30, 2008
Residence Halls Close for May Term - 5:00 pm May 31, 2008
Residence Halls Open for Regular Summer Term - 1:00 pm June 1, 2008
Last Day to Apply for Re-admission (Full-Term and Summer I) June 2, 2008
Registration/Orientation June 2, 2008
Classes Begin June 3, 2008
No Registration or Class Change after This Date June 5, 2008
Midterm for Summer I June 13, 2008
Last Day to Withdraw without Penalty for Summer I June 18, 2008
Last Day of Class for Summer I Session June 25, 2008
Final Exams for Summer I Session June 26, 2008
Last Day to Apply for Re-Admission (Summer II) June 25, 2008
Midterm for Full Session June 26, 2008
Registration for Summer II Session June 27, 2008
Summer Session II Classes Begin June 27, 2008
Last Day to Withdraw from Class without Penalty for Full Session July 2, 2008
Classes Will Not Meet July 4, 2008
Regents Examination July 7, 2008
Midterm for Summer II July 10, 2008
Last Day to Withdraw without Penalty for Summer II July 14, 2008
Fall 2008 registration (for students enrolled summer 2008) July 15-16, 2008
Last Day of Class for Summer II Session and Full Session July 22, 2008
Final Examinations July 23-25, 2008
Residence Halls Close 5pm July 26, 2008
   
FALL TERM 2008*  
Last Day to Apply for Graduate Admission June 30, 2008
Last Day to Apply for Undergraduate Admission July 21, 2008
Last Day to Apply for Re-Admission August 18, 2008
Faculty Planning August 07-08, 2008
Residence Halls Open for Freshmen August 10, 2008
Residence Halls Open for Upperclassmen - 1:00 pm August 11, 2008
Orientation/Testing August 11-13, 2008
Registration/Orientation August 13, 2008
Classes Begin August 14, 2008
No Registration or Class Change after This Date August 19, 2008
Classes Will Not Meet September 1, 2008
Midterm October 3, 2008
Midterm Grades Due October 6, 2008
Fall Break October 13-14, 2008
Last Day to Withdraw from Class without Penalty October 15, 2008
Spring 2009 Registration (for Students Enrolled Fall 2008) October 27-November 14, 2008
Regents' Examination To Be Announced
Thanksgiving Holidays November 26-30, 2008
Registration for Learning Support Students December 4-5, 2008
Last Day of Class December 4, 2008
Reading Day December 5, 2008
Final Examinations December 6-11, 2008
Graduation December 13, 2008 (Saturday)
   
SPRING TERM 2009*  
Last Day to Apply for Graduate Admission October 15, 2008
Last Day to Apply for Undergraduate Admission December 15, 2008
Last Day to Apply for Re-Admission January 12, 2009
Residence Halls Open To Be Announced
Registration/Orientation January 7, 2009
Classes Begin January 8, 2009
No Registration or Class Change after This Date January 13, 2009
Classes Will Not Meet January 19, 2009
Midterm February 27, 2009
Last Day to Withdraw from Class without Penalty March 16, 2009
Spring Break March 09-13, 2009
Regents' Examination - actual dates not yet determined March 16-24, 2009
Summer/Fall 2009 registration (for students enrolled spring 09) March 30-April 17, 2009
Registration for Learning Support Students April 30-May 1, 2009
Last Day of Class April 30, 2009
Reading Day May 1, 2009
Final Examinations May 2-7, 2009
Residence Halls Close To Be Announced
Graduation May 9, 2009
   
SUMMER TERM 2009*  
Last Day to Apply for Graduate Admission March 13, 2009
Last Day to Apply for Undergraduate Admission for May Term March 13, 2009
Last Day to Apply for Undergraduate Admission for Summer Term April 20, 2009
Last Day to Apply for Re-Admission (Full-Term and Summer I) June 4, 2009
Last Day to Apply for Re-Admissions (Summer II) June 25, 2009
Residence Halls Open for May Term - 1:00 pm May 10, 2009
May Term Registration May 11, 2009
May Term Classes Begin May 11, 2009
Midterm for May Term May 18, 2009
Last Day to Withdraw from Class without Penalty for May Term May 21, 2009
Classes Will Not Meet May 25, 2009
Last Day of Class for May Term May 27, 2009
Final Exams for May Term May 28, 2009
Residence Halls Close for May Term To Be Announced
Residence Halls Open for Regular Summer Term To Be Announced
Registration/Orientation June 1, 2009
Classes Begin June 2, 2009
No Registration or Class Change after This Date June 4, 2009
Midterm for Summer I June 12, 2009
Last Day to Withdraw without Penalty for Summer I June 16, 2009
Last Day of Class for Summer I Session June 24, 2009
Final Exams for Summer I Session June 25, 2009
Midterm for Full Session June 25, 2009
Registration for Summer II Session June 26, 2009
Summer Session II Classes Begin June 26, 2009
Last Day to Withdraw from Class without Penalty for Full Session July 2, 2009
Classes Will Not Meet July 3, 2009
Regents' Examination To Be Announced
Midterm for Summer II July 09, 2009
Last Day to Withdraw without Penalty for Summer II July 13, 2009
Fall 2009 registration (for students enrolled summer 2009) July 15-17, 2009
Last Day of Class for Summer II Session and Full Session July 21, 2009
Final Examinations July 22-24, 2009
Residence Halls Close 5pm July 24, 2009

*Correct at date of release; subject to change.



OVERVIEW

Mission Statement

General Education

Confidentiality of Student Records: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

 

GEORGIA SOUTHWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

Georgia Southwestern State University is a senior unit of the University System of Georgia. The University was founded in 1906 as the Third District Agricultural and Mechanical School. In 1926, it was granted a charter authorizing the school to offer two years of college work and to change the name to Third District Agricultural and Normal College. The name was changed to Georgia Southwestern College in 1932, at which time it was placed under the jurisdiction of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. In 1964, the College became a senior unit of the University System, conferring its first baccalaureate degrees in June of 1968. Graduate work was added to the curriculum in June of 1973. In July 1996, the Board of Regents authorized state university status, and the institution became Georgia Southwestern State University.

Georgia Southwestern State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, telephone number 404-679-4501) to award bachelor, master and specialist degrees.

The School of Education is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (2010 Massachusetts Ave NW, Suite 500, Washington, D.C. 20036, telephone number 202-466-7496) and all teacher education programs are recognized and approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (http://www.gapsc.com).

The Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (61 Broadway 33rd Floor, New York, N.Y. 10006; 212-363-5555) and has the full approval of the Georgia Board of Nursing (237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, GA 31217-3858; 478-207-1300 or 1640).

The School of Business Administration is in its third year of Candidacy for accreditation by AACSB International - The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. AACSB International is located at 600 Emerson Road, Suite 300, St. Louis, MO. 63141-6762 USA, telephone number 314-872-8481, and fax number 314-872-8495.

The School of Business Administration has initial accreditation from the International Association of Collegiate Business Education, PO Box 25217, Overland Park, KS 66225, USA, telephone number 913-631-3009, fax number 913-613-9154. The School of Business Administration has also received accreditation from the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The Association is located at 7007 College Boulevard, Suite 420, Overland, KS 66211, USA, telephone number 913-339-9356, and fax number 913-339-6226.

The University is located on 250 acres of improved wooded land in the community of Americus, Georgia, 135 miles south of Atlanta. The attractive campus includes recreational areas, a spring-fed lake, and thirty-five buildings.

Mission Statement

Georgia Southwestern State University is a dynamic community of learning on a residential campus, offering students personalized and challenging experiences in preparation for successful careers, productive citizenship, and a satisfying quality of life. The respected faculty demonstrates intense dedication to teaching and offer outstanding professional degree programs of study with a foundation in the liberal arts and sciences. Learning is strengthened by an effective student-oriented staff committed to the optimal development of each student. The location, atmosphere, and relationships of the University create a stimulating environment for intellectual inquiry in pursuit of truth and knowledge.

Georgia Southwestern State University shares with the other state universities of the University System of Georgia the following core characteristics and purposes:

  • a commitment to excellence and responsiveness within a scope of influence defined by the needs of an area of the state, and by particularly outstanding programs or distinctive characteristics that have a magnet effect throughout the region or state;
  • a commitment to a teaching/learning environment, both within and beyond the classroom, that sustains instructional excellence, serves a diverse and college-prepared student body, promotes high levels of student achievement, offers academic assistance, and provides developmental studies programs for a limited cohort;
  • a high quality general education program supporting a variety of disciplinary, interdisciplinary, and professional academic programming at the baccalaureate level, with selected master and educational specialist degrees, and selected associate degree programs based on area need and/or inter-institutional collaborations;
  • a commitment to public service, continuing education, technical assistance, cultural offerings, and economic development activities that address the needs, improve the quality of life, and raise the educational level within the University's scope of influence.
  • a commitment to scholarship and creative work to enhance instructional effectiveness and to encourage faculty scholarly pursuits and a commitment to applied research in selected areas of institutional strength and area need.

Georgia Southwestern State University endorses the following mission statement for the University System of Georgia and envisions its own mission within the context of the principles adopted by the Board of Regents.

The mission for the University System of Georgia is to contribute to the educational, cultural, economic, and social advancement of Georgia by providing excellent undergraduate general education and first-rate programs leading to associate, baccalaureate, master, professional, and doctorate degrees; by pursuing leading-edge basic and applied research, scholarly inquiry, and creative endeavors; and by bringing these intellectual resources to bear on the economic development of the State and the continuing education of its citizens.

Georgia Southwestern State University academic advising is a teaching and learning process dedicated to student success. Academic advising engages students in developing a plan to realize their educational, career, and life goals and provides a mechanism for monitoring and guiding students' completion of their goals in a timely and efficient manner.

Georgia Southwestern State University shares the following characteristics with other institutions in the University System of Georgia:

  • a supportive campus climate, leadership and development opportunities, and necessary services, all to meet the needs of students, faculty and staff;
  • cultural, ethnic, racial, and gender diversity in the faculty, staff, and student body, supported by practices and programs that embody the ideals of an open, democratic, and global society;
  • technology to advance educational purposes, including instructional technology, student support services, and distance education; and
  • a commitment to sharing physical, human, information, and other resources in collaboration with other System institutions, State agencies, local schools, and technical institutes to expand and enhance programs and services available to the citizens of Georgia.

The programs and educational opportunities at Georgia Southwestern State University are characterized by the following distinctive features: As a residential, comprehensive university, Georgia Southwestern serves a diverse student body, primarily drawn from southwest Georgia, with programs leading to bachelor, master, and education specialist degrees. A growing number of students from across the state as well as international and out-of-state students are also attracted by programs in a number of different areas. For example, international students are attracted to Georgia Southwestern State University's Asian Studies Center, which develops and delivers instructional programs in language and culture. In addition, mature learners are drawn from the region as well as across the nation to the Center for Elderhostel Studies, the second largest Elderhostel program in the U.S.

As a community of learning, Georgia Southwestern faculty and staff are dedicated to creating an environment, work-study appointments, and practicum experiences in a number of businesses and community agencies, including the international headquarters of Habitat For Humanity, are vital elements in creating this environment for learning.

Georgia Southwestern fulfills its commitment to research and public service through the individual efforts of an outstanding faculty and the focused activities of specific centers, which rely heavily on external funding. The Rosalynn Carter Institute serves as a regional and national focal point for research and public service in the area of care giving. The Center For Business and Economic Development conducts research on regional economic issues and facilitates development activities in the region. The program in Third World Studies has served as the guiding force in the development of a professional association and journal contributing to Georgia Southwestern's international reputation. The Center for Community Based Theater, a unique, emerging partnership with the City of Americus, provides opportunities for students, faculty, and community members to explore topics and develop dramatic productions that are drawn from the culture of the community.

Georgia Southwestern State University aspires to become recognized nationally as a state university, which is committed to learning and is responsive to the educational, social, and cultural needs of the region.

General Education in the University System of Georgia

From the origins of intellectual study to the present, general education has been a key to fulfilling life of self-knowledge, self-reflection, critical awareness, and lifelong learning. General education has traditionally focused on oral and written communication, quantitative reasoning and mathematics, studies in culture and society, scientific reasoning, and aesthetic appreciation. Today, general education also assists students in their understanding of technology, information literacy, diversity, and global awareness. In meeting all of these needs, general education provides college students with their best opportunity to experience the breadth of human knowledge and the ways that knowledge in various disciplines is interrelated.

In the University System of Georgia, general education programs consist of a group of courses known as the Core Curriculum as well as other courses and co-curricular experiences specific to each institution. The attainment of general education learning outcomes prepares responsible, reflective citizens who adapt constructively to change. General education programs impart knowledge, values, skills, and behaviors related to critical thinking and logical problem solving. General education includes opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and the experiences that increase intellectual curiosity, providing the basis for advanced study in the variety of fields offered by today's colleges and universities.

@2005 Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia

Confidentiality of Student Records: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

  1. Georgia Southwestern State University is covered by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), as amended, which is designed to protect students' rights in regard to education records maintained by the institution. Under the Act, students have the following rights:
    1. the right to inspect and review education records maintained by the institution that pertain to you;
    2. the right to challenge the content of records (except grades which can only be challenged through the Grade Appeal Process) on the grounds that they are inaccurate, misleading or a violation of your privacy or other rights; and
    3. the right to control disclosures from your education records with certain exceptions.
  2. Any student who is or has been in attendance at Georgia Southwestern State University has the right to inspect and review his or her educational records within a reasonable period of time (not to exceed 45 days) after making a written request. However, the student shall not have access to:
    1. Financial records of parents.
    2. Confidential letters of recommendation placed in record prior to January 1, 1975.
    3. Letters of recommendation concerning admission, application for employment or honors for which the student has voluntarily signed a waiver.
  3. Directory information will be treated as public information and be generally available on all students and former students, at the discretion of the university. Directory information includes the student's name; telephone number; major field of study; dates of attendance; degrees, honors and awards received; level, and full or part time status. Participation in officially recognized sports; height, weight, age, hometown and general interest items of members of athletic teams is also included in Directory Information.
  4. Requests for Education Records should be made in writing to the Registrar, Georgia Southwestern State University. "Education Records" means generally any record maintained by or for Georgia Southwestern State University and containing information directly related to the students' academic activities.
  5. Students who challenge the correctness of student educational records shall file a written request for amendment with the Registrar. The student shall also present to the Registrar copies of all available evidence relating to the data or material being challenged. The Registrar shall forward the information to the custodian of the record who will consider the request and shall notify the student in writing within 15 business days whether the request will be granted or denied. During that time, any challenge may be settled informally between the student or the parents of a dependent student and the custodian of the records, in consultation with other appropriate University officials. If an agreement is reached it shall be in writing and signed by all parties involved. A copy of such agreement will be maintained in the student's record. If an agreement is not reached informally or, if the request for amendment is denied, the student shall have the right to challenge through the Grievance Procedure outlined in the Student Handbook.
  6. Release of protected information in the student's educational record without consent will be allowed to:
    1. Institutional personnel who have a legitimate educational interest.
    2. Officials of other schools where the student seeks to enroll or transfer credit. Information for students in joint degree or dual degree programs will be released as requested by participating institutions. Efforts will be made to notify the student of the release of such information.
    3. Representatives of Federal agencies authorized by law to have access to education records, and state education authorities.
    4. Appropriate persons in connection with a student's application for or receipt of financial aid.
    5. State and local officials to whom information must be released pursuant to a state statue adopted prior to November 19, 1974.
    6. Organizations conducting studies for the institution.
    7. Accrediting organizations.
    8. Parents of a dependent student, as determined by the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended.
    9. Persons necessary in emergency situations to protect health and safety.
    10. Persons designated in subpoenas or court orders.
  7. If a request for Education Records is not covered by the Annual Disclosure Statement provided by the Registrar, the written request for release of information should be submitted to the Registrar and contain the following information:
    1. Specific records to be released.
    2. Reasons for such release.
    3. To whom records are to be released.
    4. Date.
    5. Signature of the student.
  8. Records will be released in compliance with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena. However, reasonable efforts will be made to notify the student in advance of compliance.
  9. Students have the right to obtain copies of official transcripts provided all financial obligations to the University have been met. Students will be charged at the prevailing rate for each certified transcript obtained. Copies of other information in the student's education record will be provided at a cost of $0.25 per page of copy.
  10. Students who feel that their rights have been violated under the provisions of the Family Educational and Privacy Act should write to the following office: Department of Education, 330 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20201.
  11. Georgia has an Open Records Act. All records kept by Georgia Southwestern State University, except those protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, are subject to public open records requests. Requests for public open records should be submitted in writing to the Director of Human Resources, Georgia Southwestern State University.


ADMISSIONS

 

UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS UNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

College Preparatory Curriculum

The following courses are required of students graduating from high school in the spring of 2000 or later who plan to enroll in regular University programs leading to the baccalaureate degree at institutions of the University System of Georgia. Students who graduated high school from spring 1988 through spring 1999 are required to meet the College Preparatory Curriculum requirements in effect at that time.

Course (Units) Instructional Emphasis
English (4) -Grammar and usage
  -Literature (American & World)
  -Advanced composition skills
Science (3) -Physical Science
  -At least two laboratory courses from Biology, Chemistry, or Physics
Mathematics (4) -Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and one course higher than Geometry
Social Science (3) -American History
  -World History
  -Economics and Government
Foreign Language (2) -Skill-building courses emphasizing speaking, listening, reading, and writing in the same language

ADMISSIONS GENERAL POLICIES

Georgia Southwestern seeks to enroll students with inquiring and creative minds who will profit from advanced educational programs in an atmosphere of freedom with responsibility. Admission standards at the University are designed to identify students who have potential for success in the educational programs of the University. Acceptance is based upon the applicant's previous academic record, entrance examination scores and, when necessary, upon results of personal interviews and psychological tests or other appropriate tests which help determine general fitness for admission to the University. Applicants are considered for admission without regard to race, color, creed, age, sex, veteran status, disability, or national origin.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Undergraduate admission forms may be completed online at www.gsw.edu or by writing directly to the Office of Admissions, Georgia Southwestern State University, 800 Georgia Southwestern State University Drive, Americus, Georgia 31709, or by e-mail to gswapps@gsw.edu.

Applications should be accompanied by a $25 application fee and submitted for consideration by the advertised deadline for each semester. A medical history and proof of required immunizations are mandatory for all students who are accepted to the University. Health forms are mailed to accepted students along with housing information by the Office of Student Life.

An applicant who fails to enroll in the semester for which he or she is accepted must reapply for admission by completing the Change of Semester form if he or she wishes to enter the University at a later time.

When the application, ACT/SAT scores, and other required records of the applicant are found to be complete, the applicant will be evaluated in terms of test scores, grades, scholastic aptitude, social and psychological adjustment, and the probability of completing the requirements for the desired degree. The University reserves the right to reject any applicant whose general records, aptitude, and behavior do not indicate a probability of success in the University environment, notwithstanding the satisfaction of other requirements.

If it appears to the Director of Admissions for undergraduates that the educational needs of an applicant can best be met at some other institution within the University System of Georgia, the Director shall refer the applicant to that institution. In order that the appraisal of a student's ability and fitness for University work may be accurate as nearly as possible, officials of the University will study carefully all information that is submitted by the applicant and may require any applicant to furnish additional data. The officials of the University shall have the right to require each applicant for admission to appear for an interview before the application is finally accepted or rejected. The Director of Admissions for undergraduates will notify the applicant of the time and place at which the interview will be conducted.

The decision as to whether an applicant shall be accepted or rejected shall be made by the Director of Admissions for undergraduates. The decision is subject to the applicant's right of appeal, as provided by the bylaws of the University and the Board of Regents of the University System. The Director of Admissions for undergraduates will refer appeals to the Admissions Committee for review. The Committee will forward its recommendation to the Office of Vice President for Academic Affairs for a decision. The applicant shall be informed of the action taken upon the application from the Director of Admissions for undergraduates.

Specific requirements for admission as a beginning freshman, transient, early admission, joint enrollment, or provisional student may be found as follows.

BEGINNING FRESHMEN

  1. The applicant must complete and file with the Office of Admissions for undergraduates an application form accompanied by the applicant's photograph and $25 non-refundable application fee. The application must be filed by the advertised deadline for the term the applicant wishes to enroll. An application cannot be considered until the application form has been properly executed and filed with the Admissions Office. No application will be processed unless it is accompanied by the $25 application fee.
  2. The applicant must submit a transcript of his or her high school record. He or she should ask the guidance counselor of the high school(s) attended to send the transcript(s) directly to the Office of Admissions for undergraduates. The applicant should have a preliminary transcript submitted covering the work completed at the time the application is submitted and listing the courses in which currently enrolled. At the time of graduation, he or she should request the guidance counselor to submit to the Office of Admissions for undergraduates a final high school transcript showing the date of graduation.

    High school credit in the following areas is required:
      Units
    English 4
    Mathematics 4
    Social Science 3
    Natural Science 3
    Foreign Language 2
    The University reserves the right to refuse any of the credits from any high school or other institution, notwithstanding its accredited status. The judgment of the University on this question shall be final.
  3. The applicant must submit an official record of minimum satisfactory scores obtained on either the ACT Assessment [English score of 17 and Math score of 17] or the College Board's SAT [critical reading score of 430 and Math score of 400]. Further information and application forms may be secured from a high school guidance counselor or the registrar of any institution in the University System of Georgia. One may also write directly to ACT Registration, P.O. Box 414, Iowa City, Iowa 52243 or to the College Board, CN6200, Princeton, New Jersey 08541-6200.
  4. All new students are required to submit proof of required immunizations on the form provided by Georgia Southwestern prior to their enrollment.
  5. The applicant shall be required to report to the University for freshman orientation prior to the beginning of the initial term of enrollment. Information will be mailed to the student regarding orientation by the Office of Admissions.


    6. The following is a summary of the requirements a beginning freshman must satisfy prior to enrollment in the University:
    1. Application with fee and photograph.
    2. Official results of ACT or SAT.
    3. Preliminary high school transcript.
    4. Proof of required immunizations.
    5. Personal interview (if deemed necessary by Director of Admissions for undergraduates).

NON-TRADITIONAL STUDENTS

Any applicant who satisfies the following may be admitted on a non-traditional student basis:

  1. Has graduated from an accredited high school or satisfied requirements for the General Educational Development (GED) Equivalency Certificate.
  2. Has been out of high school or previous college five years or longer or is 25 years or older.
  3. Has earned fewer than 30 transferable semester credit hours.

Any student admitted in Non-Traditional Student status will be required to complete a placement inventory at the beginning of the first semester of enrollment. The placement inventory will include placement testing (the University System-wide placement examination) to determine academic deficiencies and a conference with the academic advisor, during which a plan will be developed that will best meet the needs of the non-traditional student.

Students in this category will be required to enroll in Learning Support courses if test results on the placement examination identify a deficiency in reading, mathematics, or English. Once the student is placed in Learning Support courses, he or she will be classified as a Learning Support student and will be required to meet all Learning Support requirements for exit.

A non-traditional student may gain regular admission by meeting regular admission requirements or by completing Learning Support Program requirements, if applicable.

ALTERNATIVE REQUIREMENTS FOR HOME-SCHOOLED STUDENTS AND GRADUATES OF NONACCREDITED HIGH SCHOOLS

Applicants from home schools or graduates of non-accredited high schools may validate the CPC in an alternative way. SAT I scores and satisfactory documentation of equivalent competence in each of the CPC areas at the college preparatory level may be used in lieu of the Freshman Index and Carnegie unit requirements of the CPC. A student whose SAT I Composite (Critical Reading plus Mathematics) score is at or above the average SAT I score of the previous year's fall semester first-time freshman admitted to the USG institution to which he or she is applying and who has completed the equivalent of each of the CPC areas as documented by a portfolio of work and/or other evidence that substantiates CPC completion qualifies for consideration for admission. For students with ACT scores, the ACT composite score comparable (according to the tables from the joint study by ACT, ETS, and the College Board) to the average SAT I total score is required. Students in this category must also meet the minimum SAT I Critical Reading (or ACT English) requirement and the minimum SAT I Mathematics (or ACT Math) requirement for the sector to which they apply.

Applicants who achieve designated scores on each of the following SAT II Subject Tests in a CPC area will be considered to have demonstrated equivalent CPC competence and do not need to submit additional documentation in that area: English Writing, Literature, Math IC or Math IIC, American History & Social Studies, World History, Biology, and one of the following: Chemistry or Physics.

  • MATHEMATICS--To show equivalence with four required CPC mathematics courses (Algebra I and II, Geometry, and one course higher than Geometry), students are required to achieve a score of 500 on the SAT II Math IC test or a score of 570 on the SAT II Math IIC test in order to satisfy the CPC mathematics requirement.
  • ENGLISH--To show equivalence with four required CPC English courses, students are required to achieve a score of 520 on the SAT II English Writing test and a score of 530 on the SAT II Literature test in order to satisfy the CPC English requirement. Achievement of the indicated score on either test will provide credit for two years of CPC English, and achievement of the indicated scores on both tests will provide credit for all four years of CPC English.
  • SCIENCE--To show equivalence with three required CPC Science courses (including one laboratory course from the life sciences and one laboratory course from the physical sciences), students are required to achieve a score of 520 on the SAT II Biology test and a score of 540 on the SAT Chemistry test OR a score of 590 on the SAT II Physics test in order to satisfy the CPC Science requirement.
  • SOCIAL SCIENCE--To show equivalence with three required CPC Social Science courses (including one course focusing on United States studies, one course focusing on world studies, and a third Carnegie unit in this area), students are required to achieve a score of 560 on the SAT II American History and Social Studies test and a score of 540 on the SAT II World History test.
  • FOREIGN LANGUAGE--To show equivalence with two years of high school study of a single foreign language, students will be required to demonstrate proficiency in both oral and written components.

ACCEL (JOINT ENROLLMENT)/EARLY ADMISSION

ACCEL is available at Georgia Southwestern State University for high school students who have completed their sophomore year.

A student admitted for ACCEL may begin course study during the junior and/or senior year and during the summer following the junior year.

A student admitted for early admission would enroll as a regular beginning freshman, thereby omitting the senior year of high school.

Residence hall and dining hall facilities are available during the summer for students who do not live within commuting distance of the University.

Admission Standards: Joint Enrollment and Early Admission

  1. Minimum total Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT I) score of 970 or ACT Assessment composite score of 17;
  2. Minimum score of 430 on the verbal SAT and 400 on the mathematics SAT; or on ACT-E score of 20 and ACT-M score of 20.
  3. Minimum cumulative high school grade point average of 3.0 in college preparatory courses;
  4. Written approval (ACCEL) or written recommendation (early admission) of high school principal;
  5. Written consent of parent or guardian (if the student is a minor);
  6. Completion of the University System of Georgia College Preparatory Curriculum requirements with the following exceptions:
    1. Students with SAT critical reading scores of at least 530 or ACT-E score of 23 who have not completed the final unit of high school English, Math, and/or social studies may be permitted to fulfill these high school requirements with the appropriate University courses taken through the joint enrollment or early admissions program.
    2. Students who have not completed the College Preparatory Curriculum requirements may be admitted through the joint enrollment program if they are enrolled in the necessary high school courses and scheduled to complete the requirements by the end of their senior year.

In addition, students who elect to be jointly enrolled at their high schools and at Georgia Southwestern must satisfy the following conditions:

  1. Continue to be carried on the official roll of their high school.
  2. Minimum University enrollment of three hours per semester.
  3. May enroll for 12 semester hours during the summer term preceding their senior year provided they are enrolled for no high school credit during that term.

Credit is validated for the student after receipt of the high school diploma.

A high school student who meets all the requirements above except the test scores and/or the grade average may enroll as a personal development student (see section entitled Auditors/Personal Development). A student in this category may enroll for the same number of courses as a joint enrollee but, as a personal development student, will receive no academic credit. Study on this basis is designed primarily as an enrichment experience for the student.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT

Georgia Southwestern State University offers advanced placement for beginning students in several fields. Each academic division at the University determines how credit in that division shall be granted. Official copies of test scores must be received before credit can be awarded. Additional information about advanced placement may be obtained from the Office of the Registrar.

REGENTS' TEST EXEMPTIONS

Upon admission to GSW, students with the appropriate minimum test scores listed below on nationally administered standardized tests will have satisfied the Regents Testing requirements. In order to exempt the Regents Reading Test Requirement, students must have one of the following scores:

  • Students may exempt RGTR 0198 (Reading) by scoring at or above specified scores on the following examinations:
    • Regents' Reading Test exemption score: 61
    • SAT-I Verbal exemption score: 510
    • ACT Reading exemption score: 23

  • Students may exempt RGTE 0199 (Writing) by scoring at or above specified scores on the following examinations:

    • Regents' Essay Test exemption score: 2
    • College Board Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition exemption score: 3
    • College Board Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature and Composition exemption score: 3
    • International Baccalaureate (IB) higher-level English exemption score: 4
    • SAT II English Writing exemption score: 650
    • SAT Reasoning Test, Writing Section exemption score: 560
    • SAT Reasoning Test, Writing Section exemption score: 500 (only for students who also have at least a 510 on the SAT Reasoning Test, Critical Reading Section).
  • A score of at least 24 on the ACT Combined English/Writing exam;
  • A score of at least 22 on the ACT Combined English/Writing for students who also earned an ACT Reading score of at least 23.

The following four exemptions for RGTE 0199 are available only for students entering USG institutions before Summer 2008:

  • SAT Reasoning Test, Critical Reading Section score of at least 530 and a grade of "A" in English 1101, or
  • SAT Reasoning Test, Critical Reading Section of at least 590 and a grade of "B" in English 1101, or
  • ACT English score of at least 23 and a grade of "A" in English 1101, or
  • ACT English score of at least 26 and a grade of "B" in English 1101ep

(SAT or ACT scores must be from a national administration. Scores from institutional SAT or residual ACT tests will not be acceptable for this purpose.)

Students are not permitted to re-test after the point of admission. If a student exempts one part of the Regents Test Requirements, the student must satisfy the remaining part. Students can review their status on the GSW transcript that is available on RAIN. Students who were admitted to GSW through an Institutional administration of the SAT exam will not be eligible for this exemption.

Students who are not exempt from the Regents' Test and students who are not enrolled in Learning Support English or Reading courses must officially register for and take the test during their first semester at GSW (this includes transfer students and must continue to register each term thereafter until both portions are satisfied. Students who have two unsuccessful attempts at passing the Regents' Exams are administratively enrolled in the Regents' Skills course(s) and must complete the course(s) to be considered eligible to take the test again. An unsuccessful attempt for the Regents' Test is defined as any attempt in which the student has not passed the Regents' Test, either by not taking the test or taking it but not passing it. Transfer students who do not take or pass the Regents' Test in their first semester and first semester students who score 50 or lower on the Regents' Reading Test will be administratively enrolled in the Regents' Skills course(s) in their second semester.

Students can verify testing status by viewing their GSW Unofficial Academic Transcript.

Transfer students entering GSW from a University System of Georgia institution will have their Regents Test Requirements updated based on the information from the official transcript of the prior school.

Transfer students from private institutions or out-of-state schools will be required to produce one of the following types of documents in order to exempt Regents:

  • Official SAT or ACT scores
  • Official letter from the Registrar of the prior institution, including the school seal, verifying test scores were from a nationally administered test.

TRANSFER STUDENTS

All regulations applying to newly admitted freshmen are applicable to students transferring from other colleges with less than 30 hours of transferable credit.

A student transferring from another college must have official transcripts from all colleges previously attended sent to the Office of Admissions for undergraduates of Georgia Southwestern State University. The Office of Admissions for undergraduates will determine the applicant's academic qualifications for admission on the basis of these college transcripts.

The Office of Admissions for undergraduates of Georgia Southwestern State University reserves the right to reject the application and all or any part of previously earned credits if there is reason to believe that the quality of the educational program of the institution that the applicant last attended is unsatisfactory.

Transfer Admission Requirements and Standards

  • Transfer students from another college must have official transcripts from all colleges previously attended sent to the Office of Admissions for undergraduates of Georgia Southwestern State University.
  • Transfer students should be in good standing at the last institution attended, having a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
  • Transfer students with fewer than 30 semester hours of acceptable academic credit must submit an official record of scores obtained on the College Entrance Examination Board's Scholastic Achievement Test (SAT) or the American College Test (ACT) and an official copy of the high school transcript.
  • Transfer students with fewer than 30 total semester hours of transfer credit must meet the admissions requirement for beginning students, and therefore, may be required to enroll in the Learning Support Program. The Office of Undergraduate Admissions should be contacted for details concerning Learning Support requirements.
  • Transfer students who have participated in and have successfully completed the Learning Support Program at another college in the University System of Georgia may be admitted as regular students provided all other entrance requirements are met. Students enrolled in Learning Support at another college in the University System of Georgia are required to exit the program before transferring to Georgia Southwestern.

Students who have completed a transferable associate degree at an accredited college or university will be admitted as regular students without any referral to Learning Support. Students who have completed an associate degree at a technical college accredited by the Commission on Colleges (COC) will also be admitted as a regular student without any referral to Learning Support.

Following are the requirements which the transfer student must satisfy prior to enrollment:

  1. Application with $25 fee and photograph.
  2. Official transcripts from each college attended.
  3. SAT/ACT scores and high school transcript if fewer than 30 semester hours of acceptable academic credit are transferred.
  4. Completed pre-entrance medical report and proof of required immunizations.
  5. Students who have registered in other colleges may not disregard their records at these institutions. Failure to report previous college attendance at the time of application is sufficient cause for cancellation of the student's enrollment and of any credit earned.
  6. An applicant will not be considered for admission unless the transcript of the college or university last attended shows honorable discharge or unless the officials of the institution last attended recommend the applicant's admission. However, if two or more calendar years have elapsed since the applicant's dismissal from the last college or university attended, the admitting institution may review the application through established procedures to determine whether or not admission should be granted. (BR Minutes, 1983-84, p. 35)

TRANSFER CREDIT POLICY

Transfer credit is normally awarded for all college work earned through any college or university approved by its regional accrediting association, provided the courses presented reasonably parallel the curriculum of Georgia Southwestern State University. When a transfer student is fully accepted to GSW, the Office of Admissions sends the student's folder to the Registrar's Office for evaluation. Transcripts are evaluated in the order in they are received. Once an evaluation is completed, a copy is mailed to the student and the advisor. The Registrar's Office evaluates Areas A-D with Area F and the Major classes are evaluated by the school/college of the degree program. The following stipulations on the transfer of credit are upheld:

  1. Transfer of D credit:


    2. Only courses completed at accredited institutions will be accepted in transfer.
    • All credit earned in 1000 and 2000 level courses used to satisfy Core Curriculum requirements will be accepted, except for English 1101 and English 1102, which require minimum grades of C.
    • Credit earned in upper level undergraduate courses requires a minimum grade of C.
  2. Students who have only partially completed Core requirements at another unit of the University System of Georgia will receive credit in courses completed. Students who have completed one or more Core Area requirements at another unit of the University System of Georgia will receive full transfer credit for those Core Areas. Students who change their major upon transferring may be required to complete requirements in Areas D and F for the new major.
  3. Course work taken in two-year college technical programs is generally non-transferable.
  4. Course work taken at two-year Technical Colleges which are accredited through the Commission on Colleges will be considered in transfer if the course numbering is 190 or above. Courses taken at Technical Colleges accredited through an agency other than the Commission on Colleges may be accepted as transfer credit if the student submits the Evaluation of Credit form and required documentation. The form can be found at http://www.gsw.edu/~aaf/student_forms/ecnontrad.pdf.
  5. Transfer students must meet residency requirements outlined in the Degree Requirements section of this catalog.
  6. Credit earned through correspondence, credit by examination and extension work is accepted, but limited to 30 semester hours.
  7. Credits accepted in transfer by Georgia Southwestern State University do not necessarily apply as hours toward graduation.
  8. Credit hours only are transferred; grades are not.

A student transferring to GSW with a transferable Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree from a college or university within the University System of Georgia will have met the GSW core requirements as long as the student does not change majors. Core courses required by GSW but not by the student's previous institution might have to be taken to prepare the student for upper division course work. However, the student will not be required to complete more than a total of 120 semester credit hours, excluding physical education and orientation, to earn the degree. Students in this category who change majors may have additional core courses to complete, particularly in Core Areas D and F.

A student transferring to GSW with an Associate of Applied Science or an Associate of Science in Nursing degree from a college or university within the University System of Georgia will be required to meet GSW core requirements. Core courses already completed at the previous institution will be considered on a course-by-course basis.

TRANSIENT STUDENTS

A student who has taken work in another college or university may apply for the privilege of temporary enrollment in Georgia Southwestern State University. Such a student will ordinarily be one who expects to return to the college or university in which previously enrolled.

The following policies shall govern the admission of students under transient status:

  1. An applicant for admission as a transient student must present from the registrar of the institution last attended a statement recommending admission as a transient student. The statement should include the courses in which the student will be permitted to enroll.
  2. The Director of Admissions for undergraduates at Georgia Southwestern State University must have evidence that the institution in which the student previously attended is an accredited or approved institution.
  3. Even though the institution that the student last attended is an accredited institution, the Director of Admissions for undergraduates at Georgia Southwestern State University may reject the application if there is reason to believe that the quality of the educational program of that institution is unsatisfactory.
  4. An applicant will be accepted as a transient student only when the applicant's previous academic work appears satisfactory. The Director of Admissions for undergraduates shall have the right to require the applicant to submit a transcript of previous college work.
  5. Since the University is primarily obligated to its regularly enrolled students, Georgia Southwestern State University will consider the acceptance of transient students only when their acceptance will cause no hardship to the University or its regularly enrolled students.
  6. Transient students must present proof of required immunizations prior to enrollment.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

No application will be considered until all items below are received. Allow at least eight (8) weeks for processing.

Submit application with $25 check or money order, a recent photograph and immunization form (provided by the University) of the applicant. To expedite the process, you may submit your application on line by visiting our website http://www.gsw.edu and also our international student website http://www.gsw.edu/international/f1/

  1. Submit official copies of secondary school transcripts and all college transcripts. You must submit your transcripts to an Evaluation Service and have an original evaluation sent directly to us. Southwestern accepts evaluations from Josef Silny & Associates, Inc. http://www.jsilny.com/fcehtml.htm and American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admission Officers (AACRAO) www.aacrao.org/credential/individual.htm.
  2. Submit official Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) score report. The minimum requirement for admission to Georgia Southwestern State University is 523/193/70.
    1. TOEFL 193 and above
      • required to write the compass math placement test for possible placement in Learning Support
      • may enroll in regular credit English core course
      • exempt from CPC
    2. SAT/ACT scores without TOEFL
      • with SAT/ACT English and math scores above cut-off for regular university admission, exempt from compass placement testing, ELI, CPC
      • with SAT/ACT math score below cut-off for regular university admission, must write math placement test for possible placement in Learning Support
      • with SAT/ACT English score below cut-off for regular university admission, must write placement English tests for possible placement in ELI
    3. No TOEFL score or TOEFL less than 193: Admission to the English Language Institute
      • required to enroll in ELI (institutional credit)
      • required to write the compass math placement test when accepted into the regular university program by the Office of Admissions
      • exempt from CPC
    4. International graduate students are CPC and placement testing exempt.
    5. International Rotary students are CPC and placement testing exempt.

NOTE: If international students do not meet TOEFL test requirements for admission to Georgia Southwestern State University, they may review Admission criteria for the English Language Institute program at the following web address: http://www.gsw.edu/eli/eli.shtml

Once these items are received, the Admissions Office will evaluate the applicant's credentials and make an admission decision. If the applicant is accepted to the University, he/she will be notified, and should submit the following item before the SEVIS I-20 will be issued and registration permitted.

A deposit for the first semester's tuition and fees, room and board, ($9,444 U.S. currency) must be sent. Checks or money orders should be made payable to Georgia Southwestern State University. The deposit should be mailed directly to the Business Office, Georgia Southwestern State University, 800 Georgia Southwestern State University Drive, Americus, GA 31709. (This deposit is refundable should the student decide not to attend.)

Each international student must obtain and maintain health/accident insurance. Proof of coverage should be presented prior to registration to prevent the assessment of an insurance fee. International students wishing to purchase the University offered comprehensive insurance plan should contact GSW Health Services. This plan is designed to meet the needs of international student coverage.

Upon receipt of the tuition deposit, the SEVIS I-20 will be mailed to the student. Each international student should be aware that they are responsible for locating their own housing during vacation periods and breaks between academic terms. One residence hall is open during these periods.

PLEASE NOTE: All international students enrolling for the first time to Georgia Southwestern State University are required to have a Tuberculosis screening testing & questionnaire within 10 days of arrival to the GSW campus. Positive PPD test are required to have a follow-up chest X-ray within 2 weeks.

NOTE: If international students are enrolled in a four-year degree program, they are required to meet the Regents' Test requirements at the local level (departmental Regents' Test or the Standard Regents' Test) after they have earned 30 academic hours. If international students fail to pass the Regents' Test or its equivalent test, they will be required to enroll in a Regents' remediation course.

 

F-1 International Students

Georgia Southwestern State University is part of the Department of Homeland Security's Student Exchange and Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Through this system, the university has become a liaison between GSW international students and a number of government agencies. To meet federal obligations imposed by these agencies, Georgia Southwestern State University is required to report certain personal, academic, and employment related data on international students and scholars to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Georgia Southwestern State University is dedicated to enabling international students to accomplish their educational goals on our campus so long as the student maintains visa status and abides by the policies of the university. In an effort to assist students with immigration matters, each international student has been assigned a Designated School Official (DSO). All F-1 international students must consult a DSO before making any changes that will affect their immigration status. These changes include, but are not limited to, a change of schedule, a change of major, a change of degree program, a change of address, a change of school, etc.

Classification Designated School Official
(DSO)		 Assistant Designated School Official
(ADSO)
Undergraduate Student Mrs. Lois Oliver, Assistant Registrar Mrs. Gaye Hayes, Director of Admissions
Mrs. Lynda Lee Purvis, Dean of Academic Service
Graduate Student Mrs. Lois Oliver,
Graduate Admissions		 Mrs. Lynda Lee Purvis, Dean of Academic Service

Beginning Fall 2003, F-1 international students will be required to attend an international student orientation session at the beginning of each semester. The orientation session will inform and remind students of general international regulations that may affect their stay in the United States. As part of the orientation, students will be issued an International Student Handbook to use as a reference for international questions and concerns.

MAINTAINING F-1 VISA STATUS

In order for international students to maintain a valid F-1 Visa status, the following conditions must be met:

  1. Maintain a valid passport at all times.
  2. Attend the University that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has authorized you to attend by stamping your I-20 when you entered the U.S., or by being notified of your transfer to another school.
  3. Continue to carry a full course of study (12 hours for undergraduate students, including English Language Institute students, 9 hours for graduate students) each regular semester (fall and spring).
  4. Apply with your Designated School Official promptly for an extension of stay if you are unable to complete your program of study by the ending date on your I-20.
  5. Apply with your Designated School Official for proper documentation to notify USCIS of a change of education level and/or a change in major.
  6. Do not change schools without first contacting your Designated School Official for proper documentation.
  7. Do not engage in any employment without proper authorization.
  8. Limit on-campus employment to 20 hours per week while school is in session.
  9. Report a change of address to the ADSO or DSO and the Registrar's Office within 10 days of the change.
  10. Carry approved health insurance coverage.
  11. Request travel documents from your ADSO or DSO in advance of leaving the U.S.
  12. Complete the proper U.S. tax forms by April 15 of each year. This is required of all non-resident aliens present in the U.S. for more than 90 days of the preceding year.

*Additional requirements can be found on the F-1 student web site at: http://www.gsw.edu/international/f1/index.html

AUDITORS/PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT STUDENTS

Applicants wishing only to audit courses or take them for personal development are exempt from taking the ACT/SAT. Although no credit is earned, certain admission requirements must be met and regular fees paid. Auditors and Personal Development students will be required to submit the following items:

  1. Application with $25 non-refundable fee.
  2. A recent photograph.
  3. Proof of high school graduation or equivalency (GED).
  4. Proof of required immunizations.

POST BACCALAUREATE

An applicant in this category must have a baccalaureate (undergraduate) degree from an accredited college or university. This type of admission allows one to take undergraduate courses for credit without pursuing an undergraduate degree, i.e. satisfying undergraduate level prerequisite course requirements, or pursuing an undergraduate level certificate of less than 1 year which is not part of a degree program. Students who wish to have certificate courses apply toward a degree program must meet admission requirements.

SECOND BACCALAUREATE DEGREE

An applicant who has already earned a four-year college degree from an accredited college or university and wishes to pursue another degree would apply as a second degree student. This type of admission allows one to pursue a different four-year degree. Applicants should submit an official copy of all college transcripts along with the application of undergraduate admission and the $25 application fee.

STUDENTS AGE 62 OR OLDER

Georgia citizens who have reached the age of 62 may enroll at Georgia Southwestern State University under a special program authorized by the University System of Georgia. To be eligible for enrollment in this program such persons must meet the following requirements:

  1. Must be residents of Georgia, 62 years of age or older at the time of registration, and present a birth certificate or other comparable written documentation of age to enable the registrar to determine eligibility.
  2. May enroll as regular or auditing students in courses offered for resident credit on a "space available" basis without payment of fees, except for supplies, laboratory, or shop fees.
  3. Must in general meet all System and institution undergraduate or graduate admission requirements to include high school graduation, ACT/SAT scores, and Learning Support, if enrolling for credit. In exceptional cases where circumstances indicate that certain requirements such as high school graduation and SAT/ACT scores requirements are inappropriate, the University may waive one or more of these requirements. The University may provide diagnostic methods to determine whether or not participation in Learning Support will be required prior to enrollment in regular credit.
  4. Will have all usual student and institutional records maintained.
  5. Must meet all System, institution, and legislated degree requirements such as Regents' Test and History and Constitution Instruction or Exams, if they are degree-seeking students.
  6. Must submit proof of required immunizations.

READMISSION OF FORMER STUDENTS

Former students who have not been in attendance for one calendar year or more must reapply through the Registrar's Office. Students who were on academic suspension at the time of their withdrawal are required to obtain the approval of the Vice President for Academic Affairs for readmission.

Students who have attended another college since last attending Georgia Southwestern must submit an official transcript from that institution.

Students readmitted or reinstated will be evaluated for graduation from the catalog in effect at the time of readmission or reinstatement or any catalog in effect during subsequent periods of continuous enrollment.

ACADEMIC RENEWAL

The Academic Renewal policy allows University System of Georgia degree-seeking students who have experienced academic difficulty at an institution to have one opportunity to make a fresh start at that same institution after an absence of five calendar years from any and all colleges or universities. A student requesting academic renewal should write a letter to the Registrar.

Any degree-seeking student who has experienced academic difficulty, who has not attended any post secondary institution for a period of five years and who wishes to make a fresh start may apply for Academic Renewal. Former Learning Support students may apply for Academic Renewal only if they successfully complete all Developmental Studies requirements prior to the commencement of the five year period of absence. A student re-enrolling after a five-year absence from Georgia Southwestern State University must apply for Academic Renewal within three terms after re-enrollment or one calendar year, whichever comes first. If a student is granted Academic Renewal, a new grade point average will be established according to the following guidelines:

  1. A Renewal GPA is begun when the student receives approval for Academic Renewal and includes all course work completed following the re-enrollment.
  2. The Academic Renewal GPA will be used for determining academic standing and eligibility for graduation.
  3. All previously attempted course work continues to be recorded on the student's official transcript.
  4. To earn a degree, a student must meet the Georgia Southwestern State University residency requirements after acquiring Academic Renewal status.
  5. At least 50% of work toward a baccalaureate degree must be completed after the granting of Academic Renewal status for a student to be eligible for honors at graduation.
  6. Academic credit for previously completed course work including previous transfer course work will be retained only for courses in which an A, B, or C grade has been earned.
  7. Retained grades are not calculated in a Renewal GPA. Such credit is considered in the same context as transfer credit, credit by examination, and courses with grades of "S".
  8. Courses with D or F grades must be repeated at the Georgia Southwestern State University if they are required in the student's degree program. Further, all remaining courses for the current degree objective must be completed at Georgia Southwestern State University, i.e., no transient credit will be accepted.
  9. Applicability of retained credit to degree requirements will be determined by the degree requirements currently in effect at the time Academic Renewal status is conferred on the student. Specific Georgia Southwestern State University program regulations must also be met.
  10. A student can be granted Academic Renewal status only one time.
  11. Transfer Credit:
    1. A student who has been suspended from Georgia Southwestern State University and has attended one or more other system institutions during the required period of suspension will not be eligible for Academic Renewal.
    2. A student who has not been suspended from Georgia Southwestern State University but who has been absent from Georgia Southwestern State University five years or more and who has attended a school other than that institution during that period of absence may choose only one of the following options.
      1. A student may return to Georgia Southwestern State University subject to all relevant transfer and re-entry policies. No renewal GPA is calculated and transfer credit will be granted for applicable courses taken during the absence.
      2. A student may apply for Academic Renewal. If Academic Renewal status is approved, no transfer credit will be granted for course work completed during the absence.
  12. Any scholastic suspensions that occurred in the past shall remain recorded on the student's permanent record.
  13. The Renewal GPA begins with the semester following re-enrollment. If a student is denied Academic Renewal and subsequently does not re-enroll, he/she may resubmit an Academic Renewal application after no less than one year has passed since the initial petition.
  14. The granting of Academic Renewal does not supersede financial aid policies regarding Satisfactory Academic Progress. Students should discuss how retaking courses effects financial aid with a financial aid counselor.
  15. The granting of Academic Renewal does not supersede the admissions requirements of certain programs, e.g., teacher education, nursing, which require a specific minimum grade point average based upon all course work.

UNDERGRADUATE ENROLLMENT IN GRADUATE COURSES

A student with senior standing at Georgia Southwestern State University with an overall academic grade point average of 3.0 or better may register for graduate courses during the final two terms of undergraduate work subject to the following regulations.

  1. No more than nine hours of graduate credit may be earned.
  2. The maximum course load when enrolled in one or more graduate courses is 15 hours per semester.
  3. Courses taken for graduate credit cannot be counted toward meeting undergraduate degree requirements.
  4. Permission to register for graduate courses must be granted by the Vice President for Academic Affairs prior to registration.

Permission forms are available in the Registrar's Office as well as on RAIN.

GRADUATE STUDENTS

Students seeking admission to Graduate Studies should consult the Graduate Studies section of the Georgia Southwestern State University Bulletin for admission requirements.

 



FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

In accordance with regulations of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, all matriculation charges, board, room rent, or other charges are subject to change at the end of any semester.

BUSINESS REGULATIONS

Georgia Southwestern State University, as a unit of the University System of Georgia, receives the major portion of its operating funds from the State of Georgia through appropriations.

The academic year is divided into two semesters of approximately fifteen weeks and a summer term.

Certain regulations must be observed to conform with the policies of the Board of Regents. Fees and charges are due and payable at the beginning of each term at the time of registration. Registration is not complete until all fees have been paid. Students should not begin the registration process without having sufficient funds to pay all fees.

A student who is delinquent in his or her financial obligations to the the Univeristy may be administratively withdrawn from classes for the term that is unpaid. If this action is necessary, the student is not allowed to remain in class or participate in online classes. The procedures for reinstatiement are as follows: 1) submit payment in full to the Student Accounts Office: 2) request reinstatement in each course and ask the instructor to email the registrar that the reinstatement is approved. Submission of payment does not ensure reinstatement.

A student, who is delinquent in his or her financial obligations to the University, or to any facet of the University community, will not be allowed to register for the next term, to transfer credits to another school, to receive academic transcripts, or to graduate from the University. In some instances the financially delinquent student may be enjoined by the appropriate University official from attending classes for which enrolled and/or from taking final examinations.

A student with outstanding financial obligations to the University, or any facet of the University community, must submit payment in cash for these obligations prior to the release of any refund and/or payroll check(s). Such penalties will accrue in addition to the penalties described above.

Fulfillment of financial obligations restores the student to one's prior status as a member of the University community, except for academic losses, which accrue as a normal result of the prior financial irresponsibility.

If any check is not paid on presentation to the bank on which it is drawn, a service charge of $15 or 5 percent of the face amount of the check, whichever is greater, will be charged. When two checks have been returned by any student's bank without payment, check-cashing privileges will be suspended.

The health service fee provides for limited medical care in the University Health Center and is charged all students taking three or more semester hours of on campus classes.

The student activity fee is assessed to all students taking three or more semester hours of on campus classes. It provides financial support for a broad program of literary, dramatic, musical, and social activities and defrays most of the expenses of publishing the newspaper and other University publications.

The athletic fee is charged all students taking three or more semester hours of on campus classes. It contributes to the financial support of inter-collegiate athletic activities.

The technology fee is assessed to all students.

The postal fee provides funding of a U.S. Post Office on campus for student convenience and is charged to all students taking three or more semester hours of on campus classes.

A student residing on campus and enrolled for one or more semester hours at any location is required to pay the health service fee, student activity fee, athletic fee and postal fee.

The tuition for eCore is $144 per credit hour. Students will be assessed at the per credit rate determined by their enrollment status (undergraduate, graduate, in-state residency or out-of-state residency) and $144 per credit hour for eCore classes. For example, the cost of a three credit eCore class is $432, regardless of the per credit rate of your other courses. Students taking 12 or more hours of non-eCore courses will still have additional tuition costs for eCore courses.

FEE PAYMENT DEADLINES FOR 2008-2009

Fall - August 4, 2008
Spring - December 15, 2008

A late payment fee of $50.00 will be assessed to students not paid in full by the deadline.

 

SEMESTER FEES

All matriculation charges, board, room rates, and other charges are subject to change. The following fees are effective Fall Semester 2008 at the continuing rate.

Full-time Students: (12 or more hours)

  Undergraduate Graduate
Matriculation $1,413.00 $1,695.00
Matriculation Non Resident $5,646.00 $6,775.00
Health Service Fee $68.00 $68.00
Activity Fee $65.00 $65.00
Athletic Fee $153.00 $153.00
Postal Fee $8.00 $8.00
Computer Technology Fee $50.00 $50.00
Student Success Center Fee $15.00 $15.00

Part-time Students: (11 hours or less)

Students enrolled in a single course will pay $118 per undergraduate semester hour and $142 per graduate semester hour (Georgia residents) or $471 per undergraduate semester hour and $565 per graduate semester hour (out-of-state). Students enrolled in three (3) or more hours of on campus (Campus A) classes will pay an additional $309.00 (Health Service Fee, Activity Fee, Athletic Fee, and Postal Fee. NOTE: All students, regardless of number of hours, are required to pay the $50 Technology Fee.

NOTE: All Students, regardless of number of hours, are required to pay the $50 Technology Fee. A student registered for less than three semester hours has the option to pay the health service fee, or a co-pay for each visit.

Food Service: (Three meal plans available)

21 Meals per week (Monday thru Sunday) $1,197.00
15 Meals per week (Monday thru Sunday) $1,162.00
10 Meals per week (Any 10 meals Monday thru Sunday) $1,041.00

All students housed on campus with less than 60 credit hours will purchase one of the above meal plans. No refund will be made on any meal plan purchases unless the student withdraws from the University. Off-campus students may purchase a meal ticket if desired.

Residence Hall Rates

Standard: Double Occupancy $1,350.00
  Single Occupancy $1,850.00
Oaks: Double Occupancy $1,650.00
  Single Occupancy $2,115.00
Pines: 4 Bedroom Suites $2,250.00
  2 Bedroom Suites $2,369.00

Parking Fees: (All students who plan to operate a vehicle on campus)

Annual: Fall-Summer $18.00
($11 Spring-Summer, $7 Summer only)

Other Fees:

Application Fee $25.00
Application Fee - Housing $50.00
Applied Music Fee - 1 hour per week instruction $120.00
Damage Deposit - Housing $250.00
Science Lab Fee (for select Courses) $20.00
Nursing Lab Fee (for select Nursing Courses) $65.00
Art Fee (for select Art Courses) $20.00
Student Teaching Fee $75.00
Testing Fee (for select Psychology/Sociology Courses) $26.00
Theatre Fee (for select Theatre Courses) $15.00

Matriculation Fee and Deposit

Each application for admission, graduate and undergraduate, must be accompanied by a $25 non-refundable application fee. Undergraduate students are required to pay an additional $25 deposit after they have been notified of their acceptance. This deposit may be refunded if an applicant cancels his/her application prior to twenty days before registration. The deposit will be credited toward matriculation fees at the time the student enrolls.

A $50.00 application fee and a $250 damage deposit must be submitted with the student-housing contract. The deposit, less any charges, which may accrue due to damage, improper checkout, etc., will be refunded after the termination of the final housing contract.

GUARANTEED TUITION PLAN

Board of Regents shall annually approve guaranteed tuition rates for each of the institutions comprising the University System of Georgia. Please refer to the information in 704.012 THE GUARANTEED TUITION PLAN of the Policy Manual of the Board of Regents for more information or http://www.usg.edu/regents/policymanual/700.phtml Contact the Office of Admissions or the Student Accounts Office for specific information about your applicable rate. The applicable rate for new freshmen entering in 2008-2009 is $1,549.00 for full time matriculation.

REFUND OF FEES

Students who formally withdraw from the University prior to passing the 60% point in time during the term are eligible for a partial refund of fees. Refunds are made only when a student completely withdraws from the University, and no refunds are made when a student of his or her own volition reduces the course load after the add/drop period. Students may receive a refund resulting from a reduction of their course load during the add/drop period. No refunds for withdrawals will be made after passing the 60% point in time during the semester. It is the student's responsibility to withdraw officially in accordance with University regulations.

Forms for withdrawal from the University are available at http://www.gsw.edu/~aaf/student_forms/withdraw_school.pdf. The completed form should be submitted to the Registrar's Office or faxed to 229-931-2021. A refund of tuition and fees, in accordance with federal, state, and institutional policies, will be issued within 30 days of receipt of completed withdrawal forms by the Business Office.

Students who formally withdraw from the institution on or before the first day of class are entitled to a refund of 100% of the tuition and fees paid for that period of enrollment. (First day of class is defined as "classes begin" date published in the GSW Bulletin.)

Students who formally withdraw from the institution after the first day of class but before the 60% point in time during the term are subject to guidelines established by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. This policy states:

The refund amount for students withdrawing from the institution shall be based on a pro rata percentage determined by dividing the number of calendar days in the semester that the student completed by the total calendar days in the semester. The total calendar days in a semester includes weekends, but excludes scheduled breaks of five or more days and days that a student was on an approved leave of absence. The unearned portion shall be refunded up to the point in time that the amount equals 60%.
 
Students that withdraw from the institution when the calculated percentage of completion is greater than 60%, are not entitled to a refund of any portion of institutional charges.
 
A refund of all matriculation fees and other mandatory fees shall be made in the event of the death of a student at any time during the academic session. (BR Minutes, 1979-80, p.61; 1986-87 pp. 24-25; 1995, p.246)

The University is required to determine how much student financial aid was earned by students who withdraw during the term. If students have 'unearned aid' because they were disbursed more than they earned, it may be necessary for the unearned portion to be returned to the appropriate student financial aid fund. If the students have 'earned aid' that they have not received, they may be eligible to receive those funds.

TEXTBOOKS AND SUPPLIES

Textbooks and school supplies, as well as other student needs, are available in the Campus Bookstore. The cost of books and supplies will vary with the courses selected by the individual student. A fair estimate of this cost is from $300 to $500 per semester.

Refunds for textbooks will not be given without the following:

  1. Cash register receipt dated within current term.
  2. Valid student I.D.

AUDIT (NON-CREDIT) FEE

Fees for attending class on an audit or non-credit basis are calculated on the same schedule as regular academic fees.

OTHER FEES AND CHARGES

LATE PAYMENT FEE:

Failure to submit fee payment on the specified date  
Undergraduate (non-refundable) $50.00
Graduate (non-refundable) $50.00

RETURNED CHECK FEE:

For each check $15.00
OR 5 percent of the face amount of the check, whichever is greater.

TRANSCRIPT FEE:

Initial Request (One Copy) No Charge
Each Official Request Thereafter $5.00

GRADUATION FEE:

Certificate $15.00
Associate Degree $30.00
Bachelor's Degree $30.00
Master's Degree $50.00
Specialist Degree $50.00

TESTING FEES:

CLEP Fee - per exam $75.00
eCore Testing Fee - per exam $15.00
GMAT Testing Fee $50.00
Independent Study Testing Fee $30.00

 

CLASSIFICATION OF STUDENTS AS RESIDENTS AND NON-RESIDENTS

A student is responsible for registering under the proper residency classification. A student classified as a non-resident who believes that he/she is entitled to be reclassified as a legal resident may petition the Registrar for a change of status. The petition must be filed no later than thirty (30) days before the term begins in order for the student to be considered for reclassification for that term. If the petition is granted, reclassification will not be retroactive to prior terms. The necessary forms for this purpose are available in the Registrar's Office and on RAIN.

To register as a legal resident of Georgia at an institution of the University System, a student must establish the following facts to the satisfaction of the Registrar:

    1. If a person is 18 years of age or older, he or she may register as an in-state student only upon showing that he or she has been a legal resident of Georgia for a period of at least 12 months immediately preceding the date of registration.
      Exceptions:
      1. A student whose parent, spouse, or court-appointed guardian is a legal resident of the State of Georgia may register as a resident providing the parent, spouse, or guardian can provide proof of legal residency in the State of Georgia for at least 12 consecutive months immediately preceding the date of registration.
      2. A student who previously held residency status in the State of Georgia but moved from the state and then returned to the state in 12 or fewer months.
      3. Students who are transferred to Georgia by employer are not subject to the durational residency requirement.
    2. No emancipated minor or other person 18 years of age or older shall be deemed to have gained or acquired in-state status for tuition purposes while attending any educational institution in this state, in the absence of a clear demonstration that he or she in fact established legal residence in this state.
  2. If a parent or legal guardian of a student changes his or her legal residence to another state following a period of legal residence in Georgia, the student may retain his or her classification as an in-state student as long as he or she remains continuously enrolled in the University System of Georgia, regardless of the status of his or her parent or legal guardian.
  3. In the event that a legal resident of Georgia is appointed by a court as guardian of a nonresident minor, such minor will be permitted to register as a in-state student providing the guardian can provide proof that he or she has been a resident of Georgia for the period of 12 months immediately preceding the date of the court appointment.
  4. Aliens shall be classified as nonresident students, provided, however, that an alien who is living in this country under an immigration document permitting indefinite or permanent residence shall have the same privilege of qualifying for in-state tuition as a citizen of the United States.

OUT-OF-STATE TUITION WAIVERS

An institution may waive out-of-state tuition and assess in-state tuition for:

  1. Academic Common Market. Students selected to participate in a program offered through the Academic Common Market.
  2. International and Superior Out-of-State Students. International students and superior out-of-state students selected by the institutional president or an authorized representative, provided that the number of such waivers in effect does not exceed 2% of the equivalent full-time students enrolled at the institution in the fall term immediately preceding the term for which the out-of-state tuition is to be waived.
  3. University System Employees and Dependents. Full-time employees of the University System, their spouses, and their dependent children.
  4. Medical/Dental Students and Interns. Medical and dental residents and medical and dental interns at the Medical College of Georgia (BR Minutes, 1986-87, p. 340).
  5. Full-Time School Employees. Full-time employees in the public schools of Georgia or of the Department of Technical and Adult Education, their spouses, and their dependent children. Teachers employed full-time on military bases in Georgia shall also qualify for this waiver (BR Minutes, 1988-89, p.43).
  6. Career Consular Officials. Career consular officers, their spouses, and their dependent children who are citizens of the foreign nation that their consular office represents and who are stationed and living in Georgia under orders of their respective governments.
  7. Military Personnel. Military personnel, their spouses, and their dependent children stationed in or assigned to Georgia and on active duty. The waiver can be retained by military personnel, their spouses, and their dependent children if the military sponsor is reassigned outside of Georgia, as long as the student(s) remain(s) continuously enrolled and the military sponsor remains on active military status (BR Minutes, May 2003).
  8. Research University Graduate Students. Graduate students attending the University of Georgia, the Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and the Medical College of Georgia, which shall be authorized to waive the out-of-state tuition differential for a limited number of graduate students each year, with the understanding that the number of students at each of these institutions to whom such waivers are granted shall not exceed the number assigned below at any point in time:
         University of Georgia - 80
         Georgia Institute of Technology - 60
         Georgia State University - 80
         Medical College of Georgia - 20
  9. Border County Residents. Residents of an out-of-state county bordering a Georgia county in which the reporting institution or a Board-approved external center of the University System is located.
  10. National Guard Members. Full-time members of the Georgia National Guard, their spouses, and their dependent children (BR Minutes, April, 1998, pp.16-17).
  11. Students enrolled in University System institutions as part of Competitive Economic Development Projects. Students who are certified by the Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Industry, Trade & Tourism as being part of a competitive economic development project.
  12. Students in Georgia-Based Corporations. Students who are employees of Georgia-based corporations or organizations that have contracted with the Board of Regents through University System institutions to provide out-of-state tuition differential waivers.
  13. Students in Pilot Programs. Students enrolled in special pilot programs approved by the Chancellor. The Chancellor shall evaluate institutional requests for such programs in light of good public policy and the best interest of students. If a pilot program is successful, the tuition program shall be presented to the Board for consideration.
  14. Students in ICAPP« Advantage programs. Any student participating in an ICAPP« Advantage program.
  15. Direct Exchange Program Students. Any international student who enrolls in a University System institution as a participant in a direct exchange program that provides reciprocal benefits to University System students.
  16. Economic Advantage. As of the first day of classes for the term, an economic advantage waiver may be granted to a dependent or independent student who can provide clear evidence that the student or the student's parent, spouse, or U.S. court-appointed guardian has relocated to the State of Georgia to accept full-time, self-sustaining employment and has established domicile in the State of Georgia. Relocation to the state must be for reasons other than enrolling in an institution of higher education. This waiver will expire 12 months from the date the waiver was granted.

    As of the first day of classes for the term, an economic advantage waiver may be granted to a student possessing a valid employment-related visa status who can provide clear evidence of having relocated to the State of Georgia to accept full-time, self-sustaining employment. Relocation to the state must be for reasons other than enrolling in an institution of higher education. These individuals would be required to show clear evidence of having taken all legally permissible steps toward establishing legal permanent residence in the United States and the establishment of legal domicile in the State of Georgia. Students currently receiving a waiver who are dependents of a parent or spouse possessing a valid employment-sponsored visa may continue to receive the waiver as long as they can demonstrate continued efforts to pursue an adjustment of status to U.S. legal permanent resident (BR Minutes, June 2006).
  17. Recently Separated Military Service Personnel. Members of a uniformed military service of the United States who, within 12 months of separation from such service, enroll in an academic program and demonstrate intent to become a permanent resident of Georgia. This waiver may be granted for not more than one year.
  18. Nonresident Student. As of the first day of classes for the term, a nonresident student whose parent, spouse, or U.S. court-appointed legal guardian has maintained domicile in Georgia for at least 12 consecutive months so long as the student can provide clear evidence showing the relationship to the parent, spouse, or U.S. court-appointed legal guardian has existed for at least 12 consecutive months immediately preceding the first day of classes for the term.

    If the parent, spouse, or U.S. court-appointed legal guardian of a continuously enrolled nonresident student establishes domicile in another state after having maintained domicile in the State of Georgia for the required period, the nonresident student may continue to receive this waiver as long as the student remains continuously enrolled in a public postsecondary educational institution in the state, regardless of the domicile of the parent or U.S. court-appointed legal guardian (BR Minutes, June 2006).

 

FINANCIAL AID TO STUDENTS

The University provides a variety of programs to assist students who have financial need. Scholarships, grants, loans, and part-time work constitute the types of financial aid. It is preferable that financial aid applications for the next academic year be filed by April 1. Detailed information and appropriate forms may be secured by writing to the Financial Aid Office, Georgia Southwestern State University. All awards are contingent on funds being available.

Most types of financial aid are awarded on the basis of a student's academic progress and proven financial need. As used in relation to financial aid, the term financial need means the monetary difference between the total cost of attending the University and the computed amount of financial resources, which the student and the family can contribute toward the total cost. The total cost of attending the University includes tuition and all fees, room and board, books and supplies, personal expenses, and allowable transportation costs.

Financial need is computed by a standard need analysis system using confidential information submitted by the parents or the independent student. The need analysis system used by Georgia Southwestern State University is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) administered by the Federal Government. The analysis of a family's financial resources includes consideration of current family income, assets, family size, and number in college. Federal aid programs, state aid programs and many college programs do not permit aid awards that exceed the computed financial need. Thus, the information on all sources of aid must be provided to the Financial Aid Director. The amount of a student's computed financial need is the total cost of attending Georgia Southwestern State University minus the computed family resources.

Each applicant for the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Work Study Program, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant Program, Federal Perkins Loan, and the Stafford Loan is required to provide an analysis of the family income using the FAFSA mentioned above. These forms are available from many secondary school counselors or from the Financial Aid Office at Georgia Southwestern State University. The completed FAFSA must be sent to the address on the form. Students should remember to list Georgia Southwestern State University, Americus, Georgia (GSW code 001573), as one of the institutions to receive a copy of the FAFSA.

Procedures For Applying For Financial Aid

Students should complete financial aid applications as soon as possible after January 1. Application for financial aid at Georgia Southwestern State University includes the following steps:

  1. Make application for admission to the University. Applicants for financial aid need not be accepted for enrollment before an award is packaged but must be accepted in an eligible academic program before aid is disbursed. Transfer students from other colleges must have a transcript and an admissions application on file at the time of application for financial assistance.
  2. Complete the FAFSA on-line (www.fafsa.ed.gov) or call 800-433-3243 for an application