Frequently Asked Advising Questions
Do I need to fulfill the requirements outlined in the most recent catalog to complete my degree? If not, which catalog do I use?
In determining if you are eligible to graduate, the Registrar's Office follows the requirements defined in a single edition of the Boise State University Catalog. You may select any edition of the catalog, provided it was published and in use while you were enrolled at Boise State University and the catalog is not older than six academic years at the time of your graduation. However, if your program requirements have changed recently, you will want to work with your academic advisor (in your academic department) to determine which curriculum is best for your needs and future education/employment.
How is my registration appointment determined?
If you are a continuing student, registration is held in April for the summer and fall semesters and in late October/early November for the spring semester. Registration dates are determined by standing with seniors registering first and freshman last. Your appointment placement within your class standing is based on the number of credits you have completed. Those credits currently in progress are not counted toward your standing.
If you are a new, returning, or transfer student, you will participate in an orientation session during the summer for the fall semester, December for the spring semester, or April for the summer semester. You will need to log on to your BroncoWeb account, RSVP for, and attend an orientation program, in order to be assigned a registration appointment.
How many credits must I take each semester to remain in good academic standing for financial aid?
To maintain financial aid eligibility, you are required to complete at least 75% of all credits attempted. For example, a student registers for 18 credits during the fall semester and 9 credits during the spring semester for a total of 27 credits attempted. If you complete 21 of the 27 credits, then 75% of the total credits attempted have been completed and the criteria for Satisfactory Academic Progress has been met. Your GPA also impacts Satisfactory Academic Progress. Credits attempted include all classes for which you receive a passing grade, or "F" or "I" (incomplete), or "W" (withdrawal). Credits completed are all classes for which you receive a passing grade of 'A', 'B', 'C', 'D', or 'P' (pass). Transfer credits are not used to determine your eligability for financial aid at Boise State Unviersity. For information, contact the Financial Aid Office in the Administration building, room 113, 426-1664.
Why am I required to complete core requirements to receive a Baccalaureate degree?
Core requirements are structured to provide you with a broad educational foundation across many fields of study. These fields of study represent the eight different colleges within Boise State University. Core classes are your opportunity to explore areas that are interesting to you and possibly discover interests you didn't know you had. See the Boise State Catalog and the Directory of Classes for full listings of Core classes. Core also provides students with an academic foundation upon which to base all other classes. In Core classes, you will develop reading, writing, speaking, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills necessary to be successful in all other courses.
What is Provisional Admission Status?
A student is assigned Provisional status when one of the following apply:
- Boise State requirements for high school GPA and ACT/SAT scores are met but the Idaho College Admission Core was not completed.
- A student earned a General Equivalency Diploma (GED), or graduated from an unaccredited high school or home school.
- A student was originally denied admission to the university, but was then admitted by the Special Admissions Committee after requesting that the committee review unique circumstances.
The provisions of this admission status are that 14 credits of course work must be completed within 3 semesters. Those 14 credits must include one English composition course (ENGL 101 or 102) and one class from each of the three areas that make up the Core (arts/humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences/mathematics). A grade of C- or better must be earned in each of the classes.
Who are the best instructors for the courses that I am taking?
As each student has unique skills, interests, and circumstances, so does each student have unique preferences in instructors and teaching styles. It is very common for one student to like an instructor that another student doesn't; therefore it is best to go into a course with an open mind and make your own decisions about the teaching styles you prefer.
Where do I take the Placement Exams?
Placement Exams are given in the Technical Services building, room 115. Call 208-426-2762 for information on testing hours. Math and English composition courses both require placement through ACT/SAT scores, pre-requisite courses or Compass placement. Some Modern Language, Chemistry and computer courses may also require placement.
Why is it important for me to meet with an advisor?
Your academic advisor is trained to address a variety of issues and questions and may also have necessary information, of which you may not be aware. Your advisor will help you stay on track and enable you to reach your educational goals in a timely manner. Meeting with an advisor is an excellent opportunity for you to talk with a supportive staff member about your unique skills, interest, and circumstances.
How do I declare a major?
You may declare/change your major on BroncoWeb. Go to your personal BroncoWeb account,click on Update Major/Minors on the BroncoWeb Main Menu and follow the prompts. You can also complete a Student Information Update form and turn it into the BroncoWeb Help Center in the Administration building, room 110.
When should I declare a major?
The earlier in your academic career, the better. However, you can declare your major anytime you have analyzed your values, goals, interests and circumstances and have made your decision. You are required to have a declared major by the time you are classified as a Junior (58 credits).
Can I change my major?
Yes, over 70% of college students change their major. Do your homework, analyze your strengths and don't hesitate to talk to a career counselor at the Career Center, an academic advisor, professors and professionals in the workplace. People generally enjoy talking about their careers, so don't feel uncomfortable speaking with someone working in a field in which you're interested. Professionals and faculty consider it a compliment to have someone interested in the work they do and the path they chose. Also, remember you have the freedom to change your major/career path at any time.
This web page was last updated Aug 2006