Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need an Academic Adviser? 

Advisers guide you in formulating your educational plans, and help you to translate your goals, interests, and career aspirations into an effective education. Your adviser will help you understand the academic requirements that give structure to your study. If you are an Undeclared Student meet with a staff adviser regularly to plan each semester's academic program and to explore how your interests can lead to the choice of a major and even a career.

How do I get a Tutor? 

Tutors are offered by the Student Learning Center. They are located on the 4th floor of the library.

Is it important to get to know professors? What are office hours for? 

It is always useful to get to know your professors. Professors keep office hours, and the times and locations will be on your syllabus, usually distributed on the first day of class. Office hours are a good time to discuss ideas generated in class, to clarify assignments, and to share common enthusiasms with professors. Eventually, you may well be asking professors for letters of recommendation, and strong, specific letters require that your professor know you as well as your work.

Can I take a semester off from school and return?

Yes you can take up to two semesters off with the PEL). The semester you return you simply register for classes along with current students. If you leave for longer than two semesters or did not file a PEL then you need to reapply to the university through records (Meriam Library 180). If you are receiving financial aid, be sure to discuss the implications with a financial aid counselor.

How many units do I need to be a FR, SO, JR, SR?

Freshman status requires 0-29 units
Sophomore status requires 30-59 units
Junior status requires 60-89 units
Senior status requires 90 or more units

What jobs, internships, and opportunities are available for this major?

The Career Center (Student Services Center, Room 270) can help by providing with the information on numerous jobs available for any given major. You are also encouraged to get experience prior to graduation through Internships and Volunteering. Another source for this information is the major advisor for that given major.

What does “R” stand for in the class schedule?

“R” represents Thursday in the class schedule

Registering

How do I find out what classes are available? 

Classes can be found in the class schedule which can be purchased at the bookstore, viewed on-line, and through your portal account for real-time viewing of availability.

Where do I get a catalog?

The University catalog is the essential tool for your college career and can be purchased at the bookstore and viewed on-line.

When do I register for classes?

Find your registration period by viewing the registration timetable.

How do I sign up for classes?

Initialize your portal account (if you have not done so), and then follow the directions on the registration worksheet.

Will I be dropped from a class if I stop going?

It is always the student’s responsibility to drop a class. If a student stops going to a course the instructor will not drop them from the course. The outcome will most likely be a Withdraw Unauthorized “WU” which affects the GPA the same as an “F”.

Why can I not sign up for classes?

There are several possible reasons for not being able to sign up for classes. First, if it is not during the Add/Drop Period, double check if it is your scheduled registration period. Second, check on the Portal under Student Information to see if there are any holds on your account. Third, has the tuition deadline passed and you haven’t paid your fees? These are all possible reasons for not being able to sing up for classes. For further information come in or call Academic Advising.

Major

Do I have to have a major?

Yes. In order to graduate with an undergraduate degree, you must choose and complete a major.

I can’t decide what to major in.

A list of majors is available in the University catalog. A major check list is also available, along with courses that you can take in order to explore the wealth of majors that are available. Career Planning and Placement offers interest inventories to see what majors correspond with your interests, and Academic Advising can help with your choices.

How do I declare a major?

To declare your major you need to print out the Undergraduate Declaration or Change of Matriculation form , and then get the major advisor and department chair signatures. The form is turned into the Records Office located in the Student Services Center 220.

Can I change my major?

To change your major you need to print out the Undergraduate Declaration or Change of Matriculation form, and then get the major advisor and department chair signatures for the new major. The form is turned into the Records Office located in the Student Services Center 220. However, if you have already applied to graduate, please contact Evaluations at 898-5957 before you turn this form in.

New Student

How do I choose my classes?

Summer Orientation is the optimal way to get advising and help with choosing classes from faculty and peer advisors. If you are not able to attend the Summer Orientation or are entering the University during the spring semester, then Academic Advising and within your major.

How many courses should I take my first semester?

Four academic courses (a total of approximately 12-14 units) are recommended for the first semester. However, note that in order to graduate in four years a student does need to average 15 units or more a semester.

How do get a “portal account”?

You initialize your account by going to Portal Login page and clicking on new student account.

How do my AP test scores count?

CSU, Chico grants credit toward its undergraduate degrees for successful completion of examinations of the Advanced Placement Program of the College Board. Students who present scores of 3, 4, or 5 will be granted up to 8 semester units (12 quarter units) of college credit. The number of units and how they meet specific academic content requirements are specified in a chart.

What happens if I don’t take the ELM or EPT?

As an incoming freshman you have to take the ELM and the EPT unless you are exempt by SAT scores.

I have taken the ELM and the EPT - now what?

If you scored high enough you can go directly into the General Education level of English or Math. To see what class you place into refer to the Mathematics and Writing requirements in the catalog.

Transfer Student

How do I know what classes transfer from another college?

Students can view course equivalence through Assist for a college in California to CSU Chico.

How do I know what requirements I have already satisfied?

Students can view how graduation requirements and general education requirements have been met by viewing their degree audit on the portal. To find out how transfer credit may meet major requirements, students need to talk with a major advisor.

What is the General Education Theme?

The General Education Themes are comprise of three upper-division courses (one natural science course, one humanities and fine arts course, and one social science course) that are linked by a topic of far-reaching concern.

Graduation Requirements

What requirements do I need to fulfill in order to graduate?

The requirements can be viewed in the catalog under Bachelor’s Degree Requirements. To see how your coursework has met the requirements you can look at your degree audit on your portal account . If you have questions you can speak with an Academic Advisor (SSC 220) or your Evaluator in Student Services Center (SSC 110) to see how your major requirements are being met.

How many units does it take to graduate?

The number of units needed to graduate depends on the type of bachelors’ degree that you want to earn:

Bachelor of Arts Degree 120-124 units
Bachelor of Science Degree 120-128 units 
Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering 132 units 
Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree 132 units

What is the Cultural Diversity requirement?

You must complete a minimum of two courses that focus primarily on cultural diversity. At least one course must be in United States Diversity (USD) Studies and at least one in Global Cultures(GC) Studies.

United States Diversity
You must complete at least one course concerned primarily with the aspirations and history of ethnic subcultures within the United States. See Cultural Diversity requirement for a complete listing of applicable courses. Some courses used to satisfy this requirement may also be counted toward the 48-unit General Education requirement. Courses from other institutions which meet the intent of this requirement will be accepted.

Global Cultures
You must complete at least one course concerned primarily with cultures and societies outside Western heritage. See Cultural Diversity requirement for a complete listing of applicable courses. Some courses used to satisfy this requirement may also be counted toward the 48-unit General Education requirement. Courses from other institutions which meet the intent of this requirement will be accepted.

How do I calculate my GPA?

To calculate your Grade Point Average (GPA) you divide your Grade Points Earned by Units Attempted. There is also a GPA calculator to see how your current classes could affect your GPA

What is a Degree Audit?

Your Degree Audit shows how courses you have taken apply toward general university requirements, including total units for graduation, upper-division units, residence units, graded units, cultural diversity requirements, and general education requirements. In addition, for some majors your Degree Audit shows how courses you have taken apply toward your major requirements. (Eventually all majors will be available on the Degree Audit.) Your Degree Audit is available to you through your Portal Account . If you have any questions about how to interpret your Degree Audit, please contact the Office of Academic Advising Programs.

What GPA do I have to maintain?

In order to graduate you must have a GPA of at least 2.0 in your Chico, cumulative major work. Click on GPA calculator to view your Chico or cumulative GPA.

How do I apply for graduation?

You will need to complete a graduation application. In addition to the graduation application, you need to meet with your major/minor department adviser(s) and complete your major/minor clearance form(s). Once completed turn clearance form(s) in to Academic Advising Programs, located in Student Services Center 110. All graduation paperwork including application, clearance forms and fees are due one year before graduation!

How do I see how I am progressing toward graduation?

You can view your progress toward graduation using your degree audit which is available through your Portal Account . To see how you are meeting major requirements meet with a major advisor.

General Education

Why am I taking General Education classes?

General Education (GE) will help you to see your major’s place in your total education by showing you that knowledge is not isolated, that what you know of one subject is related to what you know of another, that there is always more to know, and that what you know affects the way you live. By suggesting the essential unity and wholeness of knowledge, GE counteracts the sense of fragmentation you may feel while studying bits and pieces of issues and information through the various colleges, schools, and departments of the university.

You, like many new students, may be uncertain about your choice of a major or career field. Thus, in addition to the primary goal of broadening your awareness and understanding, an early focus on GE may help you become better acquainted with yourself and discover and deepen your interests and abilities in various academic disciplines and programs. If you are undeclared or uncertain about your major, carefully review programs you are considering, taking note of required GE courses and modifications. The Advising and Orientation Office can help you plan your GE program in such a way that you take full advantage of GE as a powerful career exploration tool.

What are the GE requirements?

The General Education requirements are available in the University catalog. To receive additional help with understanding general education, picking courses that can explore possible majors, and double counting courses in GE and your major go to the Academic Advising Office.

What is the General Education Theme?

The General Education Themes are comprise of three upper-division courses (one natural science course, one humanities and fine arts course, and one social science course) that are linked by a topic of far-reaching concern.

Can I get D grades in GE courses?

It depends on the GE area! You can earn a D in GE courses but not in GE Area A, the General Education core, which includes:

Area A1 – Oral Communication
Area A2 – Written Communication
Area A3 – Critical Thinking
Area A4 – Mathematics

Warning: Do not get too many Ds because you need a 2.0 GPA to graduate.

Dropping/Withdrawing From Courses

How do I drop classes?

You are able to drop courses through your Portal Account through the end of the Add/ Drop period or the end of the second week of classes. After this you will need to use a Drop form with only the Professor’s signature until the end of the Limited Add Drop period or the fourth week of classes. After the forth week of classes you will need to have a serious and compelling reason and the signatures of the Professor, the Department Chair, and the Dean.

What is a serious and compelling reason to drop a course?

The following situations are typical of those for which “serious and compelling” is appropriate justification for approving withdrawals, dropping, and changes of grade option after the fourth week of classes:

• An extended absence due to a verifiable accident, illness, or personal problem serious enough to cause withdrawal from the university; for example, a one- to two-week absence with a doctor’s written excuse.
• An extended absence due to a death in the immediate family. This applies to absences exceeding a week due to family affairs that must be attended to by the student. 
• A necessary change in employment status which interferes with the student’s ability to attend class. This change in employment status must be verified in writing by the student’s employer. 
• Other unusual or very special cases, considered on their own merit.

The following situations would not fall under the intent of “serious and compelling”:

• Grade anticipated in class is not sufficiently high, or student is doing failing work. 
• Failure to attend class, complete assignments, or take a test. 
• Dissatisfaction with course material, instructional method, or instructor. 
• Class is harder than expected. 
• Pressure of other classes, participation in social activities, or simple lack of motivation. 
• A change of major.

What happens when I withdraw from all my courses?

If you withdraw from the university, a portion of your fees will be reversed for withdrawals which occur on the first day of classes through the 60% point of the semester. Fees will not be reversed for any withdrawals that occur after this date, except for students who are unable to continue courses because of compulsory military service. If you find it necessary to withdraw from the university during the semester, you must complete the necessary forms available in the Office of Advising and Orientation.

During the final three weeks of the semester, you are normally not eligible to withdraw and receive W grades, except in the case of “serious illness or accident” when assignment of an Incomplete is not practical. Under no circumstances will you be allowed to withdraw if you have taken final examinations.

Failure to withdraw officially can result in grades of F, U, or NC in each course. If you are considering withdrawing, request assistance in the Office of Advising and Orientation and discuss your situation with your faculty adviser. If for any reason you are unable to withdraw in person, write or call the Office of Advising and Orientation to request withdrawal.

What is the difference between dropping and withdrawing?

Dropping refers to a single course whereas withdrawing refers to all courses one is enrolled in.

Incomplete and Repeating Courses

What is the policy on repeating courses?

Students may repeat courses originally taken for a letter grade if the earlier attempt resulted in a grade of C- or lower. Graduate students may repeat courses in which they earned a grade of B- or lower. The repeated course grade will be averaged with all other grades in determining the grade point average. There is no limit to the number of units which may be repeated when grades are averaged together under this policy. Except for specially designated courses, units earned for a course count only once toward degree requirements. In instances where a student repeats a course for which a grade of “C” or better (B or better for graduate students) was earned, neither units attempted, passed, or grade points will be counted toward degree requirements. Courses originally taken in which the student earned a grade of No Credit may be repeated. If a student enrolls in a course for which the grade of record is “I”, the “I” will revert to an “IC” grade and be counted as an F in the grade point average calculation.

In any course or program where enrollment demand exceeds the resources to offer sufficient openings or sections to meet that demand, the academic unit may give registration priority to students taking the course for the first time.

Undergraduate Repeat with Forgiveness 

This policy applies to a course repeated at Chico, not elsewhere. If you have graduated, you may not use the provisions of this policy to repeat for forgiveness a course taken prior to your date of graduation. 

No more than two courses may be repeated with forgiveness at CSU, Chico. 

Undergraduate students who wish to repeat courses at CSU, Chico and have the earlier letter grades deleted in the computation of their cumulative grade point averages may do so under the following conditions:

• If the earlier attempt resulted in a grade of C- or lower; 
• The student has already enrolled in the course; 
• There is no regression involved; 
• A petition stating that the course is being repeated with grade forgiveness is submitted by the student to the Office of Student Records and Registration; 
• The student has not exceeded the two course limit.

The office of Student Records and Registration will determine whether the petition meets these five criteria. If the course was originally taken at another institution, the department will be responsible for determining whether there is reasonable equivalency. Under this policy, only the last grade earned will be calculated in the grade point average. All grades will remain on the student’s permanent record, but the record of a previous grade in the course will be marked to indicate that the course has been repeated. This forgiveness policy may not be invoked to remove an incomplete, nor does it apply to a course first taken Credit/No Credit.

Students may receive approval for only two repeat-with-forgiveness petitions. If a petition to repeat with forgiveness does not meet the five criteria and the course is completed, then the repeated course grade will be governed by the General Repeat Policy above.

Other schools outside the California State University system, including professional and graduate schools, may not honor this policy on repetition of courses with forgiveness. Veterans should consult the Office of Veterans Affairs to determine the impact of course repetition on their eligibility for benefits.

Forms are processed three times a year, after each grade cycle. If you are submitting a repeat petition after the grade cycle, the petition will be processed in the next grade cycle (at the end of the next semester) unless a “Rush Fee” is submitted with the petition to pay for immediate processing.

What does an “I” grade mean on my transcript?

An “I” signifies that a portion of required coursework has not been completed and evaluated within the prescribed time. Incompletes (I) will be assigned only in cases where instructors conclude that a clearly identifiable pattern of course requirements cannot be met for unforeseen reasons.

An incomplete must be made up within one calendar year from the end of the term for which it was assigned whether or not you maintain continuous enrollment. Failure to complete the assigned work will result in a grade change from “I” to “IC” or “NC”, depending on the grading method for the course.

It is your responsibility to bring pertinent information to the instructor and to reach agreement on the means by which you will satisfy remaining course requirements. The conditions for removal of the incomplete shall be put in writing by the instructor and given to you with a copy placed on file in the department office. A final grade is assigned when the work agreed upon has been completed and evaluated.

You are NOT to re-enroll in a course in which you have received an incomplete, “I”, grade. If you do, the “I” reverts to an “IC” or “NC”, depending on the grading method for the course

What does an “IC” grade mean on my transcript?

The “IC” symbol may be used when a student who received an authorized incomplete (I) has not completed the required course work within the allowed time limit. The “IC” replaces the “I” and is counted as a failing grade for grade point average computation (it is the equivalent to an “F”). You have one year (two semesters) to complete all work for a course in which you received an “I” grade.

How long do I have to complete an Incomplete?

You have up to one year after you were assigned the incomplete grade until it turns into an “IC”.

Probation & Disqualification

What is Academic Probation?

You are placed on academic probation any time either your cumulative or CSU, Chico grade point average falls below 2.0. The Academic Senate has recommended that you limit your course load to no more than 14 semester units until you are removed from probation. If you are on academic probation, you are required to meet with your academic adviser no later than the end of the second week of classes each semester until you attain clear standing. You are also strongly encouraged to meet with a staff member in the Office of Advising and Orientation. You will be removed from academic probation when both your cumulative grade point average in all college work attempted and your CSU, Chico grade point averages are 2.0 or higher. To see what grades it will take to attain clear standing, use the GPA Calculator.

What is Academic Disqualification?

You become subject to academic disqualification while you are on academic probation. Disqualification is a consequence of failing to earn enough grade points based on what your class level will be at the end of the semester and the number of units you have attempted. If disqualified, you will not be allowed to continue in the university unless you are reinstated.

If your Chico or cumulative grade point average is less than 2.0, you should check whether your grade point deficit makes you subject to disqualification as follows: First, determine the number of grade points you would have if you had a 2.0 grade point average by multiplying the number of units you have attempted by two. Next, subtract from this number the number of grade points you have actually earned. The result is your grade point deficit. For electronic assistance in computing your grade point average, visit the URL at https://em.csuchico.edu/aap/Undergrad/GPACal/.

To determine if you will be disqualified, check the scale below. If you entered the semester on probation and your grade point deficit is equal to, or greater than the deficit listed for your class level, then you are subject to disqualification.

Grade Point Deficiency below 2.0 GPA by Class Level:

Freshman-Sophmores (0-59+ Units) - 15 or More
Juniors (60-89 Units) - 9 or More
Seniors (90 and above Units) - 6 or more 

Most disqualification actions are taken at the end of the spring semester. Notification to students affected is made as soon after the end of the semester as possible. Disqualified students may take self-support courses through Continuing Education but will not be allowed to enroll in courses taught under the Open University program except with special permission.

You may also become subject to academic disqualification while not on academic probation if your cumulative grade point average falls below 1.0, and the cumulative grade point average is so low that in view of the student's overall educational record, it seems unlikely that the deficiency will be removed within a reasonable period.

What do I do if I am disqualified?

When disqualified you should immediately consult with an Advisor at Academic Advising to go over your options. Some of these options include taking courses through a Community College to help raise your cumulative GPA and show academic progress. You are still able to take CSU Chico courses through Open University just not as a continuing student.

How do I get reinstated?

You may seek academic reinstatement after one year (two semesters) has elapsed since disqualification. You must submit a letter of appeal with your reinstatement coversheet before the established deadline. These deadlines can be found on the reinstatement coversheet.You must also submit your application for readmission and application fees during the admission period for the given semester. Consult the Office of Advising and Orientation for assistance. Send your letters of appeal to the Academic Status Committee, in care of the Office of Advising and Orientation.

For questions regarding admissions