Florida State University 2008-2009 General Bulletin Undergraduate Edition

Admissions

Director of Admissions: Janice Finney

Associate Director: Hege Ferguson

Assistant Directors: Melanie Booker, Donna Bostwick, Lori Hamilton, Amelia Mann, Leah Paul, Wendy Weldon

General Information

Florida State University encourages applications for admission from qualified students regardless of gender, culture, race, religion, ethnic background, national origin, age, or disability. Admission of students to Florida State University is within the jurisdiction of the University, but subject to minimum standards adopted by the State Board of Education within the State of Florida, Division of Colleges and Universities. The admission requirements stated below are minimum requirements. Admission shall be on a competitive basis within curricular, spatial, and fiscal limitations, and satisfaction of minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to Florida State University.

An application for admission may be obtained online at http://admissions.fsu.edu.

An application should not be submitted earlier than one year prior to the term for which admission is desired. The Office of Admissions reserves the right to return all applications received after the published deadline for a particular term or after any enrollment limit or program limit is reached.

The Office of Admissions will mail decisions regarding admission or denial on a scheduled notification system for beginning freshmen and a modified rolling basis for transfers. Admission is for a specific term. If the student is unable to enroll for the term indicated in the letter of admission, the Office of Admissions should be informed immediately. An applicant should not assume that admission is automatically deferred to a future term.

Offers of admission to the University are often contingent upon the subsequent receipt of official college, university, and/or high school transcripts indicating successful performance, and verification of high school graduation. Poor performance and/or failure to meet the conditions of admission stipulated in the official acceptance letter can result in the offer of admission being rescinded. Failure to submit such documents before enrollment could result in the cancellation of admission and registration.

Undergraduate applicants who are denied admission to the University may appeal the admission decision to the University Admissions Committee if they feel that because of some extenuating circumstance or unrevealed information the admission decision was inequitable. Applicants are requested to appeal in writing to the Admissions Committee through the Director of Admissions.

An application or residency statement submitted by or on behalf of a student that contains false, fraudulent, or incomplete statements may result in denial of admission or denial of further registration and/or invalidation of Florida State University credit and related degrees.

Prior to registering for classes, accepted students must submit information regarding their immunizations and health history, and they must provide proof of adequate health insurance coverage. For information regarding these requirements, refer to "New Students–Health Requirements" at http://www.tshc.fsu.edu. Florida State University reserves the right to cancel the admission of any applicant whose health record indicates the existence of a condition that may be harmful to members of the University community.

Admission from Secondary School

Any applicant who desires admission as a beginning freshman student after graduating from high school and before attending an accredited post-secondary institution must provide the Office of Admissions with the following:

Application for Admission. The completed application for admission and a nonrefundable $30.00 fee payable to Florida State University should be submitted as soon as possible at the beginning of the senior year, preferably in September, October, or November. Although it is the policy of the University not to defer or waive the application fee, this fee might be waived for applicants who can document that they have received a fee waiver from the American College Testing (ACT) Program or College Board (SAT).

Secondary School Record. An official high school transcript (sent directly by the high school to the Office of Admissions) reflecting work from the beginning of the 9th grade through whatever portion of the 12th grade has been completed at the time of application is required.

College Transcripts. Students who have registered for any course work at a community college, four-year college, or university through dual enrollment or special student status must submit an official transcript from that post-secondary institution.

Test Scores. Results from the ACT or SAT are required of all applicants for freshman admission. Either one or both of these tests should be taken no later than the February testing date of the senior year. Since the highest combination of scores is always considered, students should feel free to repeat a test.

Note: Applicants planning to take only the ACT should also sit for the ACT Writing Test.

Auditions. Auditions are required of all applicants wishing to major in music, dance, or the bachelor of fine arts (BFA) degree program in theatre. In addition to submitting the application for admission and other supporting information, prospective students should contact the College of Music or the College of Visual Arts, Theatre, and Dance for details.

Departmental Application. A departmental application is required of all applicants wishing to major in motion picture, television, and recording arts or the Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree program in theatre. In addition to submitting the application for admission and other supporting information, prospective students should contact the College of Motion Picture, Television, and Recording Arts or the College of Visual Arts, Theatre, and Dance for details.

Deadlines for Applications and Supporting Documents for Secondary School Applicants

Summer semester January 28
Fall semester January 28

The University accepts freshman applications for the summer and fall terms only.

The University reserves the right to close freshman admissions earlier, and/or to increase requirements, if warranted by enrollment limitations and the number and quality of applications.

International students should refer to the "International Student Admission" section of this chapter.

Admission Requirements

Required High School Course Units

Specific high school course units are required for admission to the freshman class. An academic unit is the equivalent of a year-long course that is not remedial in nature. Upon graduation from high school, applicants must have earned four (4) units of English (at least three [3] with substantial writing requirements); three (3) units of mathematics (algebra I level and higher); three (3) units of natural science (at least two [2] with laboratory); three (3) units of social science (includes history, civics, political science, economics, sociology, psychology, and geography); two (2) sequential units of the same foreign language; and three (3) elective units (preferably from the English, mathematics, natural science, social science, or foreign language areas). The units listed above represent the minimum required for admission consideration but do not guarantee admission. Most students accepted to the University exceed the minimum.

Note: Beginning in 2011, a freshman applicant to one of the Florida public universities must successfully complete four (4) academic units in mathematics, all of which must be at the Algebra I level and higher.

Academic Qualifications

Most Florida students accepted to the University present at least a 3.5 (A-/B+) average in all academic subjects (grades 9 through 12) and test scores of at least 24 (composite) on the ACT or 1100 (critical reading and mathematics sections) on the SAT. Non-Florida applicants will be held to higher standards. In addition to academic grade point average and test scores, a variety of additional factors are considered. These include a written essay, the pattern and quality of courses and curriculum, grade trends, class rank, and educational objectives. Applicants who bring to the University community other important attributes may also receive additional consideration. These applicants include visual and performing artists and skilled athletes.

Note: Beginning Summer Term 2009, Florida public universities will use all three (3) sections of the SAT (critical reading, mathematics, and writing) in the admission process. It is anticipated that most Florida students accepted to Florida State University will present a score of at least 1620 on the SAT. Non-Florida applicants will be held to higher standards.

Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE)

Through the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE), the University offers a special admission program dedicated to assisting students who have been disadvantaged due to economic, educational, or cultural circumstances. CARE provides a comprehensive program of orientation and academic support designed to ease the transition from high school to college and to build a strong academic foundation. The majority of applicants selected to participate will be first generation college students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. Students admitted to the University through CARE will begin their studies in the summer. Interested students should submit the application for admission to the University, a supplemental CARE application available at http://www.care.fsu.edu, a short essay of no more than 500 words describing the student's educational goals, and two (2) letters of recommendation (one from a high school guidance counselor). The minimum requirements for consideration include a "C+" grade point average and either an ACT composite score of 19 or SAT total score (critical reading and mathematics) of 900.

Note: Beginning Summer Term 2009, Florida public universities will use all three (3) sections of the SAT (critical reading, mathematics, and writing) in the admission process. CARE applicants should present a minimum score of at least 1330 on the SAT.

Freshman Scholarships

All freshman applicants who are admitted to the University are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships. Recipients are selected based upon high school grades and test scores. Because scholarships are limited, students with strong academic records should apply to the University as early as possible.

Early Admission

Florida State University provides an opportunity to outstanding high school students for early entry into the University. The following guidelines are used to consider these students: 1) sufficient maturity as evidenced by age at the time of admission and/or written recommendations pointing out the candidate's maturity; 2) a 3.5 or better weighted high school grade point average in the academic subjects; 3) a minimum composite score of 27 on the ACT1 or 1220 on the critical reading and mathematics sections of the SAT2; 4) sufficient strength in the academic units as evidenced by the high school transcript; 5) evidence of a lack of curricular opportunity in the existing high school setting; and 6) three (3) letters of recommendation, one of which must be from the high school principal or a representative of the principal.

Note: 1Applicants planning to take only the ACT should also sit for the ACT Writing Test. 2Beginning Summer Term 2009, Florida public universities will use all three (3) sections of the SAT (critical reading, mathematics, and writing) in the admission process. Early admission applicants should present a minimum score of at least 1800 on the SAT.

Freshman Admission Deposit

All freshman applicants who are admitted to the University are required to submit a $200.00 nonrefundable admission deposit to ensure a place in the freshman class. Upon enrollment, the deposit will apply toward the student's tuition.

Admission by Transfer

Applicants desiring admission by transfer from other colleges or universities must provide the Office of Admissions with the following:

Application for Admission. The completed application for admission and a nonrefundable $30 fee payable to Florida State University should be submitted from six (6) to nine (9) months prior to the term for which admission is desired. It is the policy of the University not to defer or waive the application fee.

College Transcripts. Official transcripts from each college and university attended must be submitted to the Office of Admissions. Transcripts are considered official when they are sent directly from a college or university to the Office of Admissions and contain an official seal and/or signature. Transcripts bearing the statement "Issued to Student" or transcripts submitted by the applicant are not considered official.

Secondary School Record. An official high school transcript is required of all transfer applicants who have less than sixty (60) semester hours of transferable credit (as evaluated by the Office of Admissions). The transcript must reflect work completed from the beginning of the ninth grade through the twelfth grade and the date of graduation.

Test Scores. Results from the ACT or SAT are required of all transfer applicants who have less than sixty (60) semester hours of transferable credit (as evaluated by the Office of Admissions) or who require exemption from the Florida College Level Academic Skills Test (CLAST). Arrangements should be made for test results to be forwarded directly to the Office of Admissions.

Verification of Foreign Language. Two (2) sequential units of the same foreign language in high school or at least eight (8) semester hours of the same foreign language at the college level (or documented equivalent level of proficiency) are required of all transfer applicants.

Florida College Level Academic Skills Test (CLAST). Passing results on each section of the Florida CLAST, or an approved alternative, are required of all transfer applicants. Refer to the "Undergraduate Degree Requirements" chapter of this General Bulletin for more details.

College and/or Major Requirements. All majors have individual milestones (prerequisites and/or specific grade point averages) that must be met prior to transfer. In addition, some majors require auditions, departmental applications, portfolios, or other information for consideration. Please refer to the "Academic Programs" section of this General Bulletin or http://www.academic-guide.fsu.edu for more details.

Deadlines for Applications and Supporting Documents for Transfer Students

Spring semester November 1
Summer semester March 1
Fall semester July 1

The University reserves the right to close transfer admissions earlier, and/or to increase requirements, if warranted by enrollment limitations and the number and quality of the applications.

International students should refer to the "International Student Admission" section of this chapter.

General Admission Requirements

Applicants who have received an associate in arts (AA) degree from a Florida public institution immediately prior to transfer will receive priority consideration for admission, provided an application and all supporting documents (including foreign language verification) have been received by the deadline and they meet the requirements for admission to their college/major.

Applicants With Sixty (60) or More Semester Hours of Transferable Credit (As Evaluated by the Office of Admissions) Must:

  1. Have at least a 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) grade point average (GPA) on all college work attempted;
  2. Have at least a 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) GPA on all college work attempted at the last institution attended, if more than one institution is attended;
  3. Have met the foreign language admission requirement;
  4. Have satisfactorily completed the Florida CLAST or an approved alternative to the CLAST; and
  5. Have met the requirements for admission to their college/major.

Applicants With Less Than Sixty (60) Semester Hours of Transferable Credit (As Evaluated by the Office of Admissions) Must:

  1. Meet Florida State University's freshman criteria for high school academic GPA, academic units, and test scores (refer to the 'Freshman Admission Requirements' section of this chapter);
  2. Have at least a 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) GPA on all college work attempted;
  3. Have at least a 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) GPA on all college work attempted at the last institution attended, if more than one institution is attended;
  4. Have satisfactorily completed the Florida CLAST or an approved alternative to the CLAST; and
  5. Have met the requirements for admission to their college/major.

Teacher Education Programs

All students planning to pursue a teacher education program at Florida State University must be formally admitted to Teacher Education. Admission to Teacher Education is administered by the Dean of the College of Education and assigned to the Office of Academic Services and Intern Support, 108 Stone Building. Note that application for admission to Teacher Education is distinct from admission to an upper-division college or program and is a required step for graduation and certification.

Section 1004.04, Florida Statutes, Public Accountability and State Approval for Teacher Preparation Programs, State Board of Education Rules 6A-4.0021 and 6A-5.066, and the Florida State University Council on Teacher Education require that all students seeking admission to undergraduate teacher education programs at Florida State University meet the following requirements prior to entering the program:

  1. Have at least a 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) grade point average (GPA) on all college work attempted; and,
  2. Have a grade of "C–" or better in each required general education English and general education mathematics course; and,
  3. Take and achieve a passing score on all sections of the Florida CLAST (exemptions not acceptable) or pass the General Knowledge portion of the Florida Teacher Certification Examination.

Note: There is no minimum composite/total score on the ACT or SAT for admission to Teacher Education. However, programs with limited enrollment status may require submission of these scores and may use them as criteria for determining which students will be admitted.

Prior to entry into the degree program (upper division), students must have completed the State of Florida Common Course Prerequisites, which include: a) three (3) education core courses of EDF 1005, EDG 2701, and EME 2040; and, b) up to fifteen (15) semester hours of general program prerequisites specified by each degree program (see degree program sections for specific prerequisites).

  Common prerequisites and admissions criteria for state-approved teacher preparation programs are subject to revision based on changes in Section 1004.04, Florida Statutes, Public Accountability and State Approval for Teacher Preparation Programs, State Board of Education Rule 6A-4.0021, Florida Teacher Certification Examinations, and State Board of Education Rule 6A-5.066, Approval of Educator Preparation Programs.

Limited Access Programs

A limited access program utilizes selective admission to limit program enrollment. Limited access status is justified where student demand exceeds available resources (student/faculty ratios, instructional facilities, equipment, or specific accrediting requirements). Criteria for selective admission include indicators of ability, performance, creativity, or talent to complete required work within the program. Admission to such programs is governed by the Articulation Agreement and by the State Board of Education administrative rules.

For a number of degree programs, access is limited at the upper-division level to those students meeting certain additional criteria. These additional criteria are applied equally to AA degree transfers from Florida public community/junior colleges, AA degree transfers from other state universities in Florida, and rising juniors at Florida State University.

Limited access programs are offered by a number of different colleges. For specific requirements for admission to a particular department or college, refer to the appropriate section of this General Bulletin.

Limited Access Degree Programs at Florida State University Include:

Transfer Scholarships

Associate in Arts (AA) degree recipients from Florida public community/junior colleges who enroll directly at the University and who display high academic achievement are awarded academic scholarships on a competitive basis by Florida State University. Applicants with cumulative grade point averages of at least 3.8 will be automatically considered.

International Student Admission

Applicants to Florida State University are considered international if they are not U.S. citizens, dual citizens, or Permanent Resident Aliens.

International applicants must provide the Office of Admissions with the following:

Application for Admission. The completed Application for Admission and a nonrefundable $30.00 fee in U.S. currency must be submitted. If paying by check or money order, either must be drawn on a U.S. bank and made payable to Florida State University. The application will not be processed without the application fee and under no circumstances will the University waive or postpone this fee.

Academic Records. Official or certified copies of all academic records and/or examination results from every institution attended are required. Records are considered official only when sent directly from the issuing institution, and must bear the original seal of the institution or the original signature of the institution's records official. All documents must be issued in the native language and be accompanied by certified English translations.

Test Scores. Results from the ACT or SAT are required of all freshman applicants and all transfer applicants who have less than sixty (60) semester hours of transferable credit (as determined by the Office of Admissions after a course-by-course evaluation has been submitted), or who require exemption from the Florida College Level Academic Skills Test (CLAST). Arrangements should be made for test results to be forwarded directly to the Office of Admissions from the American College Testing Program or College Board.

Note: Applicants planning to take only the ACT should also sit for the ACT Writing Test.

English Proficiency Test. If an applicant's native language is not English, the applicant must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A minimum score of 550 on the paper-based test or 80 on the Internet-based test is required. TOEFL scores are considered official only when they are sent directly to the Office of Admissions from the Educational Testing Service (ETS).

Verification of Foreign Language. Two (2) sequential units of the same foreign language in high school or at least eight (8) semester hours of the same foreign language at the college level (or documented equivalent level of proficiency) are required of all transfer applicants whose native language is English.

Florida College Level Academic Skills Test (CLAST). Refer to the "Admission by Transfer" section of this chapter.

College and/or Major Requirements. All majors have individual milestones (prerequisites and/or specific grade point averages) that must be met prior to transfer. In addition, some majors require auditions, departmental applications, portfolios, or other information for consideration. Please refer to the "Academic Programs" section of this General Bulletin or http://www.academic-guide.fsu.edu for more details.

Transfer Credit. An official course-by-course evaluation is required for all academic records from non-U.S. institutions. We recommend the evaluation be done by a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (http://www.naces.org) or the International Education Credential Services provided by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (http://www.aacrao.org).

Certification of Finances. Certification of finances must be completed before the Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20 or DS-2019) is issued. The I-20 and DS-2019 are immigration forms presented to the United States Embassy/Consulate in order to obtain a U.S. Student Visa. The University is required by immigration authorities to verify the financial resources of each applicant prior to issuing the Form I-20 or DS-2019; therefore, it is important that the applicant knows the costs of attending the University and has the necessary support funds for the entire period of enrollment. The Certification of Financial Responsibility (CFR) form must be completed, signed by the applicant and/or sponsor, and submitted, along with verification of funding from the applicant's or sponsor's bank or financial institution, to the Florida State University International Center. The applicant must show proof of financial support for the first year of study and demonstrate availability of funds for the length of the academic program. More information on the CFR is available at http://www.ic.fsu.edu.

Deadlines for Applications and Supporting Documents for International Students

Freshmen (first-time-in-college and undergraduate transfer applicants with less than twelve [12] semester hours of transferable credit as determined by the Office of Admissions after a course-by-course evaluation has been submitted):

Summer semester January 28
Fall semester January 28

Transfers (applicants with twelve [12] or more semester hours of transferable credit as determined by the Office of Admissions after an evaluation has been submitted):

Spring semester November 1
Summer semester March 1
Fall semester July 1

The University accepts freshman applications for the summer and fall terms only.

The University reserves the right to close freshman and transfer admissions earlier, and/or to increase admission requirements, if warranted by enrollment limitations and the number and quality of applications.

Admission Requirements

Freshmen

Admission to Florida State University requires graduation from a recognized secondary program with certain academic units, a successful performance average in those academic units, and appropriate ACT or SAT scores. Four (4) units of English, three (3) units of mathematics (algebra I level and higher), three (3) units of natural science (at least two [2] with a laboratory), three (3) units of social science, two (2) sequential units of the same foreign (non-English) language, and three (3) units of electives (preferably in above areas) are required. A unit is the equivalent of a yearlong subject that is not remedial in nature. Applicants from non-English speaking countries must also present a minimum TOEFL score of 550 on the paper-based test or 80 on the Internet-based test. Academic qualifications for freshmen are described above in 'Academic Qualifications' in the 'Admission Requirements' section.

Note: Beginning in 2011, a freshman applicant to one of the Florida public universities must successfully complete four (4) academic units in mathematics, all of which must be at the Algebra I level and higher.

Transfers

Applicants who have received an associate in arts (AA) degree from a Florida public institution immediately prior to transfer will receive priority consideration for admission, provided an application and all supporting documents (including verification of foreign language competency) have been received by the deadline, and they meet the requirements for admission to their college/major.

Transfers With Sixty (60) or More Semester Hours of Transferable Credit Must:

  1. Have at least a "B" average (3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale) on all college work attempted;
  2. Have at least a "B" average (3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale) on all college work attempted at the last institution attended, if more than one institution is attended;
  3. Submit an official course-by-course evaluation of all academic records from each non-U.S. college and/or university attended(ing);
  4. Have met the foreign language admission requirement if the applicant is from a country where the official language is English;
  5. Submit required TOEFL score if the applicant is from a country where English is not the official language;
  6. Have satisfactorily completed the Florida CLAST or an approved alternative to the CLAST; and
  7. Have met the requirements for admission to their college/major.

Transfers With Less Than Sixty (60) Semester Hours of Transferable Credit Must:

  1. Meet Florida State University's minimum freshman admission requirements of secondary school academic performance (academic courses only), academic units, and test scores;
  2. Have at least a "B" average (3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale) on all college work attempted;
  3. Have at least a "B" average (3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale) on all college work attempted at the last institution attended, if more than one institution is attended;
  4. Submit an official course-by-course evaluation of all academic records from each Non-U.S. College and/or university attended(ing);
  5. Submit required TOEFL score if the applicant is from a country where English is not the official language;
  6. Have satisfactorily completed the Florida CLAST or an approved alternative to the CLAST; and
  7. Have met the requirements for admission to their college/major.

Notice of Admission

Formal notification of admission to Florida State University comes from the Office of Admissions and is for a specific term. The International Center will issue the appropriate immigration form (Form I-20 or DS-2019) necessary to obtain the student's visa when formal admission is granted and all required financial documentation is received.

If the student is unable to enroll for the term indicated in the notice of admission, the Office of Admissions should be informed immediately. If the student wishes to be reconsidered for a different term, the Office of Admissions must be advised in writing. The student also must notify the International Center of any changes by email at IC-NewStudents@fsu.edu or by faxing a letter to (850) 645–2112.

Finances

Before a United States Consul will grant a visa, international applicants must prove that they will have sufficient funding to meet all of their expenses while studying in the United States. Applicants must explain the source of funds noted on their I-20 or DS-2019 form and guarantee that they will receive funding for the duration of the program.

If the student's government limits the amount of money that can be sent to students in the United States, the applicant should make sure that sufficient funds will be available. When applicants leave their country, they must have enough money to pay for traveling expenses to the University, fees for the entire term, living expenses until more money arrives, and the return fare to their home country. Students must be sure that they will have sufficient financial resources to cover all costs during their stay at the University. If the applicant's government requires verification of enrollment before money can be forwarded, the student may request verification from the Office of the University Registrar after registration is completed at the University.

A number of international students arrive at the University without being aware of the amount of money they will need. On-campus employment opportunities are limited, and most international students are not permitted to work off campus except under special circumstances. Each year, many students find themselves in serious financial difficulties because they did not arrange for adequate support. Before making firm plans to come to the United States, international applicants should read the following sections carefully.

The costs given are estimated minimums and are subject to change. Students should have access to approximately half of the estimated total yearly amount at the beginning of each semester, since University fees must be paid upon registration at the start of each term. Students should also be prepared for initial expenses such as housing deposits, insurance, utilities, etc. The following estimates are based on one academic year (two semesters—fall and spring) and are for unmarried students with no dependents. Additional funds must be included for spouse and/or family ($5,000 for spouse and $3,000 for each child per year). Only a spouse and children may be classified as dependents. Biographical data must be provided for each family member accompanying the student to the United States. The data should include complete name, date of birth, gender, city of birth, country of birth, country of citizenship, country of permanent residence, and relationship to the student (wife/husband, son, or daughter).

Annual Estimate of Costs for Undergraduate International Students

The annual estimated costs listed below are for the 2007–2008 academic year. Costs for the 2008–2009 academic year were not available at date of publication.

Tuition/Fees1 $16,603.00
Books and Supplies 1,000.00
Room and Board2 7,466.00
Health Insurance 1,400.00
Total $26,469.00

 1 The tuition and fee estimate is based on fifteen (15) credit hours for an undergraduate international student attending two (2) terms per year, and represents the tuition increase that went into effect Spring Semester, 2008. (International students must register for a minimum of twelve hours each term.) It is estimated that an additional $6,641 will be necessary for tuition and fees if the student will be attending summer school. Contact the Office of Admissions or refer to http://admissions.fsu.edu/intl for the approved 2008–2009 fees.

 2 Average academic-year cost for an on-campus residence hall (does not include Alumni Village) and one of the most popular meal plans. An estimated additional $2,489 is needed for summer room and board. Contact the Housing Office or refer to http://www.housing.fsu.edu for the approved 2008–2009 rental costs. Contact Seminole Dining or refer to http://www.seminoledining.com for the 2008–2009 actual costs.

Passports and Visas

International applicants need a current passport from their own government and a visa from the United States Embassy/Consulate to enter the United States. Applicants should apply for a passport as soon as possible, although in some countries it will be necessary to provide proof of admission to a United States school before a passport is granted.

Students already in possession of a passport must make sure it will remain valid for six months from the date they plan to enter the United States. It would also be prudent for students to check with the Embassy or Consulate of their native country to find out how passports are renewed while in the U.S. In some cases, students may need to get an extension of validity from their home country.

Before applying for a visa, all new F-1 and J-1 applicants must pay a Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee of $100.00. Instructions and online payment are available at https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/. Detailed information is also available on the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Web site at http://www.ice.gov/sevis/index.htm, or the International Center Web site at http://www.ic.fsu.edu.

Federal policy requires that all applicants for U.S. visas have a personal interview with a consular officer and that certain categories of applicants undergo a security clearance. More information on travel to the U.S. can be found in the International Center Pre-Arrival brochure, which is mailed with the acceptance letter and I-20 or DS-2019. The brochure is also available on the International Center Web site.

If students are coming to the University specifically for the purpose of studying, they need to apply for a Student Visa (F-1 or J-1). It is granted upon presentation of a Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20 for the F-1 visa and Form DS-2019 for the J-1 visa that is typically granted to government-funded students) and proof that sufficient financial support is available. Undergraduate students holding F-1 or J-1 visas are required to carry at least twelve (12) semester hours each semester.

Health Insurance Requirement

The University's Thagard Student Health Center provides basic outpatient care. Because students are likely to incur costs for medical care beyond that provided through outpatient services, adequate health insurance coverage must be obtained before they will be permitted to register for classes or to continue enrollment. In addition, international students with "J" visa status who will be accompanied by dependents are required by federal regulations to purchase health insurance coverage for them. For more information regarding health insurance, contact the Thagard Student Health Center, (850) 644-4250, http://www.tshc.fsu.edu.

International applicants are required to complete and submit a health history form that describes previous illnesses and/or surgery. If students have ever had tuberculosis (or scars appearing on chest Xrays) or other serious infectious diseases, they must have a thorough medical examination made before coming to the University and must bring the reports to campus. International applicants must be immunized and show proof of such immunization prior to registration. Students will not be allowed to enroll until they have submitted the health history form and have purchased insurance or provided proof of health insurance that meets the minimum coverage required by the state of Florida.

Intensive English Program

English is the language of instruction and communication at the University. International applicants who lack sufficient English language preparation must correct this deficiency before being admitted to the University. Students may do this in their home country or in the United States at a school that offers an intensive English language program. Florida State University offers such a program through the Center for Intensive English Studies. Detailed information on the Center may be obtained at http://www.cies.fsu.edu.

Admission to the Center for Intensive English Studies does not in any way imply that admission to Florida State University will be granted.

Admission to Graduate Study

Admission to graduate study involves admission to the department or college in which the applicant expects to study; therefore, final admission to the University is subject to approval by the specific program. While there are minimum University admission requirements, the departments can, and frequently do, set admission standards higher than these minimums. The student should determine departmental requirements first and then determine the University admission requirements. Consult the Graduate Bulletin for complete details.

Admission to Panama City Campus

Transfer students who have sixty (60) or more semester hours of transferable credit and are interested in attending the Panama City campus may request an application from the following: Office of Admissions, Florida State University, 4750 Collegiate Drive, Panama City, FL 32405-1099, or apply online at http://www.pc.fsu.edu.

The same policies, procedures, and requirements that pertain to the Tallahassee campus apply to the Panama City campus.

Readmission

Returning undergraduate degree-seeking students who 1) have been absent from the University for two or more consecutive terms (including summer); 2) have been dismissed from the University and have been absent for two or more consecutive terms (including summer); 3) have withdrawn from the University and have been absent for two or more consecutive terms (including summer); 4) have earned a bachelor's degree from the University and wish to pursue a second bachelor's degree; or 5) have had their last term of enrollment at the University administratively cancelled and have been absent for two or more consecutive terms (including summer), must submit an application for readmission to the readmissions section of the Office of Admissions. Readmitted students are subject to retention requirements in effect at the time of reentrance. In addition, students claiming Florida residency must reestablish their eligibility for this classification when applying for readmission.

Students who have attempted college work (including correspondence work) at any college or university since their last enrollment at Florida State University must have official transcripts sent to the readmissions section of the Office of Admissions. Transcripts are considered official when they are sent directly from a college or university to the Office of Admissions and contain an official seal and/or signature. Transcripts bearing the statement "Issued to Student" or transcripts submitted by the applicant are not considered official.

The University reserves the right to refuse readmission to any student who has an unsatisfactory academic, conduct, or health record. Students who are denied readmission to the University may appeal that decision by filing a written petition with the appropriate academic dean's office. Students who are denied readmission for judicial reasons may appeal by filing a written petition to the Admissions Committee through the Director of Admissions.

The readmission application and all supporting documents should be submitted at least two months prior to the beginning of the term for which readmission is desired. (Consult the "University Calendar" chapter of this General Bulletin for specific deadlines.)

Readmission after Multiple Withdrawals

When a student has withdrawn from the University three (3) or more times, subsequent readmission will be considered by a committee whose charge is to assess the student's capability of making satisfactory progress toward degree. This committee, appointed by the Council of Associate and Assistant Deans, will make a recommendation to the dean of the student's college who will make the final decision.

Special (Non-Degree Seeking) Student Regulations

A special student is a classification assigned to a non-degree-seeking student for registration privileges. Admission as a special student is subject to approval and may be open to high school graduates and post-baccalaureate students provided the student has at least a 2.0 grade point average (GPA) from the last institution attended and at least a 2.0 GPA on all course work taken at this institution. Applicants who have been denied admission as a degree-seeking student or who missed the deadline for submitting a degree-seeking application will not be considered for admission as a special student. Students intending to register for graduate course work under the special student status should consult the Graduate Bulletin for details.

The completed special student application must be accompanied by a $30.00 nonrefundable application fee, payable to Florida State University, and all supporting documents. Special student applications should be submitted for consideration one semester prior to the desired term of enrollment. Deadline dates are two months prior to the beginning of each term. (Consult the "University Calendar" chapter of this General Bulletin for specific application deadlines.) The Special Student section in the Office of Admissions reserves the right to return all applications received after the published deadline for a particular term or after any enrollment limit is reached.

A special student at Florida State University who subsequently decides to pursue a degree must apply for admission through the Office of Admissions. The student may be reclassified as a regular undergraduate student upon meeting regular undergraduate admission requirements. Enrolling as a special (non-degree-seeking) student does not guarantee admission to an undergraduate program.

The University generally does not issue I-20 or DS-2019 visa documents for international special students. At the request of a department, the University will provide a visa document for special students who are accepted for full-time enrollment in a certificate program. The department must contact the International Center (http://www.ic.fsu.edu); and the student must provide evidence of financial support and other information required by the United States government. In addition, the student must purchase or provide proof of health insurance coverage prior to enrollment. Foreign nationals on a student visa may not use the special student status other than to fulfill prerequisite requirements or for summer enrollment if full-time status has been maintained during the academic year.

All registration by special students is on a space-available basis. For more complete details, see the "Academic Regulations and Procedures" chapter of this General Bulletin.

Tallahassee Community College/Florida State University Cooperative Program

A Tallahassee Community College student wishing to dual enroll at Florida State University must obtain specific approval from the designated representative in the Office of Enrollment Services at Tallahassee Community College and the Office of Admissions at Florida State University by the published deadline. (Consult the "University Calendar" chapter of this General Bulletin for specific application deadlines.) If the student is participating in a special program (music, band, dance, or ROTC), the student also must obtain approval from the appropriate departmental representative before submitting the form to the Office of Admissions. If approval for dual enrollment is granted, the student follows the prescribed registration procedures and adheres to the fee schedule established by this institution. The approval of one institution does not bind the other to comply. Florida State University students wishing to dual enroll at Tallahassee Community College should refer to the "Office of the University Registrar" chapter of this General Bulletin.

Note: Academic rules governing regular students (e.g., fees, drop/add, withdrawal, grading policies, etc.) apply to dual enrollment students.

Interinstitutional Transient Students

A student at another institution who wishes to take advantage of special resources and/or programs not available at the home institution should submit an interinstitutional transient student application that has been approved by the home institution to the Office of Admissions by the published deadline. (Consult the "University Calendar" chapter of this General Bulletin for specific application deadlines.) If approval for transient status is granted, the student follows the prescribed registration procedures and adheres to the fee schedule established by this institution. The approval of one institution does not bind the other to comply. A Florida State University student wishing to enroll as a transient at another institution should refer to the "Office of the University Registrar" chapter of this General Bulletin.

Note: Academic rules governing regular students (e.g., fees, drop/add, withdrawal, grading policies, etc.) apply to transient students.

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