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Decoding College Lingo

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Going to college can be confusing. There is a lot you have to know just to get started! But it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are some useful tips and vocabulary to help you decode higher education lingo. And don’t worry…there won’t be a quiz. 😉

“I NEED TO…”

Determining the right action word to use while navigating the enrollment process can be a lifesaver. Asking the right questions and using the right terminology will save you a lot of headache. Say these out loud with me:

  • ENROLL: Officially registering as a member of an institution. This encompasses everything from the application to the first day of classes. EFSC’s enrollment steps can give you an overview of the process based on what type of student you are.
  • APPLY: Making a formal request to become a student by filling out an application. Shameless promotion: Apply to EFSC!
  • REGISTER: The process of signing up for classes. This cannot be done until Admissions has approved your application. Check out EFSC’s current course offerings.
  • ADD/DROP: Deciding to take (or not to take) a class before a specific deadline set by the institution.
  • WITHDRAW: Deciding not to take a class after the add/drop deadline, which may result in financial aid penalties. Learn about the differences between dropping a course and withdrawing at EFSC.
  • TRANSFER: The process of leaving one institution to attend another. This can be done before or after completing a degree. EFSC offers many transfer opportunities after you earn your Associate degree.

“I NEED TO COMPLETE…”

There are many admissions requirements that must be completed once you’ve applied:

  • RESIDENCY: Claiming residency at an institution for the state in which you live often comes with a financial benefit. Out-of-state residents typically pay two to three times more in tuition. You must prove that you are a Florida resident to be eligible for in-state tuition rates at EFSC.
  • ORIENTATION: New student orientation is your road map to success. With the exception of dual enrolled students, who must complete orientation on campus, all new students at EFSC are required to complete orientation online. A lot of information is provided during orientation, so be sure to take great notes. Topics covered include:
    • Available resources to help you succeed
    • How to use EFSC-related web applications (registration system, email, etc.)
    • School policies and procedures
    • Identifying various offices and resources
    • Key campus security provisions
  • TESTING: Placement tests (such as the Florida Post-Secondary Education Readiness Test [PERT], the SAT, the ACT or the Accuplacer Computerized Placement Test/FELPT [Florida Entry-Level Placement Test]) are taken in a proctored testing center. Your scores determine your level of college-readiness. Developmental courses (remediation) may be required to help students acquire the skills necessary to succeed in college-level courses. The courses recommended to you correspond with your test scores.
  • TRANSCRIPTS: A transcript is a record of your academic history and accomplishments. Transcripts from your high school and any previous post-secondary institutions are required to attend college. Official transcripts refer to sealed (unopened and unaltered) copies of your record that are sent directly to the institution you’re applying to. Here are some of the different documents you may need to submit:
    • Original or copy of your high school diploma (with a graduation date)
    • Unofficial high school transcript indicating a standard high school diploma
    • Official/unofficial regionally accredited college transcript with college-credit course work completed
    • Original or copy of college diploma from a regionally accredited institution

“I NEED TO SPEAK TO…”

There are many offices you may need to visit or communicate with as you navigate the enrollment process. Don’t be discouraged if you visit the wrong office; it happens ALL the time! We promise they’re here to help:

  • ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES: Coordinates accommodations for students with documented disabilities that significantly impact major life functions. EFSC’s Student Access for Improved Learning (SAIL) Office ensures that students with documented disabilities have equal access to programs and services and that reasonable accommodations are provided, allowing students to reach their individual potential.
  • ADMISSIONS OFFICE: The Admissions Office is the department that receives your application for admission after you submit it. They determine if all the requirements have been met to admit you to the institution.
  • ADVISING OFFICES: Advisors assist prospective and current students with planning their academic careers. Think of this office as your next-level high school guidance office. You can’t succeed without them! Here are some of the tasks they can help you with:
    • Learning more about courses (general advising offices)
    • Helping you map out your schedule for each term
    • Helping you create your college plan and determine your goals
    • Discussing transfer options and resources
  • BOOKSTORE: The Bookstore is typically your one-stop shop for new, used, rental and eTextbooks, as well as college supplies, clothing, gifts and sundry items. The staff can help you purchase the right textbook for each of your courses – but be sure to bring your schedule.
  • CASHIER’S OFFICE (BURSAR): The Cashier’s Office can assist you with setting up different methods of payment for classes, fees, etc., or with setting up payment plans. Please note that they are not the same thing as the Financial Aid Office!
  • FINANCIAL AID OFFICE: The Financial Aid Office can provide you with financial resources and information on scholarships, grants, loans and work-study. To be eligible for federal aid, you must complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
  • FOUNDATION OFFICE: Institutionally related foundations are separate 501(c) (3) non-profit organizations dedicated to the support of a college or university. Foundations must continuously raise and manage private funds to expand and improve academic programs, increase the number of student scholarships and add critical facilities and equipment. All of these activities are essential to the success of students. Learn about the EFSC Foundation and how Titan Scholarships are helping students to achieve their academic goals.
  • REGISTRAR’S OFFICE: The Registrar’s Office maintains a record of each student’s academic work. This is the place to obtain an official record of your college transcripts, which are protected by FERPA (the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act). Oh, and keep in mind: It’s REGISTRAR, not REGISTER!

FOR THE OVER-ACHIEVERS

I lied! There is a quiz! Let’s test your knowledge to see if you know your college jargon (scroll down to double check your answers):

  1. Which office handles student applications?
  2. If you have questions about fees on your student account, where would you go?
  3. What are the four main types of financial aid?
  4. Where can you get information on programs and classes?
  5. What does FERPA stand for?
  6. What does FAFSA stand for?

ANSWER KEY

  1. Admissions Office
  2. Cashier’s Office
  3. Scholarships, Loans, Grants and Work-Study
  4. Advising
  5. Family Education Rights and Privacy Act
  6. Free Application for Federal Student Aid
Christine Tripp
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