generalbots/bottemplates/edu.gbai/edu.gbkb/student-guide/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!