Common Questions and Answers
What is a Non-Traditional Student?
Any applicant who satisfies the following may be admitted on a non-traditional student basis:
- Has graduated from an accredited high school or satisfied requirements for the General Educational Development (GED) Equivalency Certificate.
- Has been out of high school or previous college five years or longer or is 25 years or older.
- 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
Where can I get a Time Schedule and General Catalog?
Both the Class Schedule and GSW Curriculum sheets are available online at https://rain.gsw.edu/. Should you have questions about the schedules, contact the Office of Registrar at 229-931-1331. We recommend that you always use the webpage Class Schedule, if possible, because it is updated daily and is therefore always correct. The Class Schedule lists the courses and class times for the upcoming semester. The Curriculum Sheets offer a comprehensive overview of GSW and guide you with your academic career.
How do I register for courses?
You will need to sign up for the registration period of which you are planning to take courses. Once you attend the Registration program, you will have an opportunity to meet with an advisor to register for classes. During the Fall semester, there is a specific Non-Traditional registration day specifically designed for you. Please pay attention to the Orientation website as to when this date is.
How do I find out about placement testing?
You can sign up for a placement test that is convenient for your schedule please check the website at Compass Test Schedule for test dates. You may also contact Mrs. Paula Gillis to setup a time that is not listed. Please call her at 229-931-2320 or email her at pcg@gsw.edu
What if I am a transfer student?
Contact the Admissions Office 229-928-1273 for information on applying to Georgia Southwestern State University as a transfer student.
Academic Advising
What is an advisor?
Each student at Georgia Southwestern is assigned an advisor. Most advisors are faculty members at GSW, and are familiar with the university and college requirements. Our faculty will be an excellent resource for you throughout your college experience.
How do I get an advisor?
Your advisor has been assigned to you based on the college and academic department you selected on your admissions application. You may call or stop by the department office and ask who your advisor is.
What if I put General Studies or Undeclared on my admissions application?
Freshmen and sophomore students who indicate General Studies or remain Undeclared on their admissions application, will receive advising from the General Studies Advisor.
Why do I need to see an advisor?
Your advisor is a very important key to your success at GSW. You must see an advisor before registering for classes every semester. In addition, you are strongly encouraged to meet with your advisor anytime you need academic assistance or help. Your advisor will be familiar with the university and can best explain the requirements and expectations.
What should I ask my advisor?
Be proactive, and prepare a list of questions to ask. Listed below are a few examples to get you started:
- How many credits should I take?
- What is the Core Curriculum and how does it apply to me?
- Do I have advanced placement? (English, Math, Foreign Language and CLEP)
- I am undecided about my major interest area; how should I plan my course selection?
- Where can I get career information on this major?
- If I major in this specific area, are there any course or grade requirements that I should know about?
- How often should I schedule advising appointments?
- What are your office hours?
- Where can I get help if I have difficulty with my classes?
You may be concerned about how you will do in your courses if you have been out of school for awhile. Many opportunities exist on campus to assist you in succeeding in your courses here at the UI. These professionals are interested in meeting and helping you if you should need it! Take a few minutes to stop by and introduce yourself!
The staff of the First-Year-Experience feels that parents are an essential part of the students' education. Therefore, it is our desire to keep you informed of events and important dates and services through our Parent Newsletter.
The First-Year-Experience offers assistance to students through college survival skills, classes and workshops. The First-Year-Experience also provided free tutoring in most subjects. Student should sign up with the Director of the First-Year-Experience early to begin the process.
The Center is also equipped with a computer center, study booths, tutorial classrooms, and high-tech classroom, and a conference room for students to use.
Sandra Fowler, Director
Academic Center for Excellence, 229-931-2766
The UI Career Services is available to all GSW students, regardless of major or year in school. Using the resources available at the Career Services can put you ahead in your job search, whether through on-campus interviewing, use of the library resources or individual planning. This year, you will have even greater access to career planning sessions, career development workshop opportunities and summer job opportunities. Visit us in the Academic Center for Excelence. We are here to serve your career-related needs.
