botserver/templates/edu.gbai/edu.gbkb/student-guide.md

# Student Guide

## Welcome to Our Educational Institution

This guide will help you navigate our services and make the most of your educational experience.

## Getting Started

### New Student Checklist

1. **Complete Registration**: Submit all required documents
2. **Activate Your Account**: Set up your student portal access
3. **Review Course Catalog**: Explore available courses and programs
4. **Meet Your Advisor**: Schedule an initial advising session
5. **Attend Orientation**: Learn about campus resources and policies

### Required Documents

- Official transcripts from previous institutions
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of residency (if applicable)
- Vaccination records
- Financial aid documentation (if applicable)

## Enrollment and Registration

### How to Enroll

1. Log into the student portal
2. Select "Enrollment" or ask this assistant "Enroll in a course"
3. Search for your desired course
4. Check prerequisites and availability
5. Add the course to your schedule
6. Confirm enrollment

### Registration Periods

| Period | Dates | Who Can Register |
|--------|-------|------------------|
| Priority | 2 weeks before term | Seniors, Honors students |
| General | 1 week before term | All students |
| Late | First week of term | With advisor approval |
| Add/Drop | First 2 weeks | All enrolled students |

### Prerequisites

Some courses require completion of other courses first. To check prerequisites:
- View the course description in the catalog
- Ask this assistant about specific course requirements
- Consult with your academic advisor

## Academic Programs

### Degree Types

- **Certificate Programs**: 6-12 months, focused skills training
- **Associate Degree**: 2 years, foundational education
- **Bachelor's Degree**: 4 years, comprehensive education
- **Master's Degree**: 1-2 years post-bachelor's
- **Doctoral Degree**: 3-5 years post-master's

### Majors and Concentrations

Contact your academic advisor or ask this assistant to explore:
- Available majors in your school
- Concentration options within majors
- Minor programs
- Dual degree opportunities

## Class Schedules

### Viewing Your Schedule

Ask this assistant "My class schedule" or log into the student portal to see:
- Course names and codes
- Meeting times and locations
- Instructor information
- Important dates (exams, project due dates)

### Schedule Formats

| Format | Description | Best For |
|--------|-------------|----------|
| In-Person | Traditional classroom | Hands-on learning |
| Online Synchronous | Live virtual classes | Remote with interaction |
| Online Asynchronous | Self-paced online | Flexible schedules |
| Hybrid | Mix of in-person and online | Balanced approach |

## Grades and Transcripts

### Grading Scale

| Grade | Points | Percentage |
|-------|--------|------------|
| A | 4.0 | 90-100% |
| B | 3.0 | 80-89% |
| C | 2.0 | 70-79% |
| D | 1.0 | 60-69% |
| F | 0.0 | Below 60% |

### Checking Your Grades

- Ask "Check my grades" to this assistant
- Log into the student portal
- View grade reports by term

### Requesting Transcripts

Official transcripts can be requested for:
- Graduate school applications
- Employment verification
- Transfer to other institutions

Processing time: 3-5 business days

## Tuition and Financial Aid

### Payment Options

1. **Full Payment**: Pay entire balance before term starts
2. **Payment Plan**: Spread payments across the term
3. **Financial Aid**: Grants, scholarships, and loans
4. **Employer Reimbursement**: Deferred payment with employer letter

### Financial Aid Types

- **Grants**: Free money based on need (no repayment)
- **Scholarships**: Merit-based awards (no repayment)
- **Work-Study**: Part-time campus employment
- **Loans**: Borrowed funds (must be repaid)

### Important Deadlines

- FAFSA Priority Deadline: March 1
- Scholarship Applications: Varies by award
- Tuition Payment: 2 weeks before term start
- Payment Plan Enrollment: 1 month before term

## Academic Support Services

### Tutoring

Free tutoring available for:
- Writing assistance
- Math and science help
- Study skills coaching
- Test preparation

### Library Services

- Research databases and journals
- Study rooms (reservable)
- Interlibrary loan
- Research librarian consultations

### Academic Advising

Your advisor can help with:
- Course selection
- Degree planning
- Career guidance
- Academic concerns

## Campus Resources

### Student Services

- Career Center
- Counseling Services
- Health Center
- Disability Services
- International Student Office

### Technology Resources

- Campus WiFi (eduroam)
- Computer labs
- Software downloads
- IT help desk

## Academic Policies

### Attendance

- Regular attendance is expected
- Excessive absences may affect grades
- Notify instructors of planned absences
- Medical documentation may be required for extended absence

### Academic Integrity

All students must:
- Submit original work
- Properly cite sources
- Not share exam answers
- Report academic misconduct

Violations may result in course failure or dismissal.

### Withdrawal Policy

- Full refund: Before term starts
- 75% refund: Week 1
- 50% refund: Week 2
- 25% refund: Week 3
- No refund: After week 3

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: How do I change my major?**
A: Schedule a meeting with an academic advisor to discuss requirements and submit a change of major form.

**Q: Can I take courses at another institution?**
A: Yes, with prior approval. Submit a transient student form before registering elsewhere.

**Q: What is the minimum GPA requirement?**
A: You must maintain a 2.0 GPA for good academic standing. Some programs require higher GPAs.

**Q: How do I appeal a grade?**
A: First discuss with your instructor. If unresolved, submit a formal grade appeal within 30 days of grade posting.

**Q: Can I take a leave of absence?**
A: Yes, submit a leave of absence request to the registrar. Leaves are typically approved for up to one year.

**Q: How do I get accommodations for a disability?**
A: Contact Disability Services with documentation. They will work with you to arrange appropriate accommodations.

## Getting Help

For immediate assistance:
- Ask this assistant any question
- Visit the Student Services office
- Email: studenthelp@institution.edu
- Phone: 1-800-STU-DENT

We're here to support your academic success!