1110 Office of Undergraduate Admissions

200 Sparks Hall
admissions.gsu.edu
Email: admissions@gsu.edu

1115 General Admission Policy

Georgia State University welcomes applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, sex, religion, creed, age, sexual orientation, gender, disability, national origin or immigration status. Admission is based on a number of factors, depending upon level of entry and previous educational experience. Admission and placement decisions are made by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions using criteria approved by the University Senate and developed in accordance with policies of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. Admission decisions are based on factors such as, but not limited to, an applicant’s academic record, test scores, optional essay and letter of recommendation, circumstances, good conduct and character. Georgia State guarantees admission to all qualified applicants by Board of Regents standards.

Applications received after the deadline for the term of application or received without a designated term will be processed for the next available term. The application fee is non-refundable. Completed applications submitted to the university are valid for 3 terms (the next available term plus the 2 consecutive terms that follow). To be considered during the second or third consecutive term after submitting an application, applicants need only submit a reactivation form, together with any required credentials, by the application deadline date for that particular term. An offer of admission by the university is valid only for the term specified by the university at the time of acceptance and does not constitute approval for any term not so specified.

Applicants with a criminal and/or disciplinary history who are determined to be otherwise admissible for a respective term based on their academic record and other credentials are required to complete a disciplinary/criminal review process before an admission decision is made by the university.* Instructions for completing that review process are communicated to the applicant after the university has determined that the applicant is otherwise admissible for that term.

Absent extenuating circumstances, good disciplinary standing at previously attended high schools, colleges and universities is a condition of admission for all applicants. For purposes of admission, good disciplinary standing means that the applicant has no pending disciplinary charges, outstanding disciplinary sanctions or disciplinary issues that would prevent the applicant from re-enrolling at the previously attended institution.

Omissions or misrepresentations on an application for admission are grounds for automatically invalidating consideration by, acceptance to and continuation at Georgia State. Applicants have a duty to update their application with Georgia State when information changes after application submission.

All materials submitted as part of an application for admission become and remain the property of the university and will not be returned to the applicant, duplicated, or transferred to another institution.

*Applicants are required to answer the following background questions on the Georgia State University admissions application:

1. Are you ineligible to enroll at any previously attended institution?
2. Are you currently on or have you even been placed on academic probation, suspension, exclusion or any other type of academic warning at any previously attended institution?
3. Are you currently charged with, or have been found guilty of, any violation of academic honesty, honor code, or conduct regulations of a previously attended institution?
4. Have you left a previous institution while there were pending charges of any violation of academic honest, honor code, or conduct regulation?
5. Have you been found guilty of any violation of a federal, state, or municipal law, regulation or ordinance (other than for minor traffic violations, or convictions subsequently discharged, expunged, or otherwise ordered by the court to be removed from the applicant’s criminal record, including offenses for which any type of first offender status was offered but subsequently revoked for failure to successfully complete program requirements)?
6. Have you ever entered a plea of guilty, no contest, nolo contendere, an Alford plea, or otherwise accepted responsibility for the commission of a crime?
7. Have you received any type of discharge from military service other than an honorable discharge?

Any changes in a student’s record prior to enrollment will necessitate a new review of the application. Any omissions or misrepresentations on a student’s application for admission will automatically invalidate consideration by, acceptance to and continuation at Georgia State.

All credentials submitted with the application for admission become and remain the property of the university and will not be returned to the student, duplicated, or transferred to another institution.

Admission to Georgia State University or re-entry approval does not imply admission to a specific major or professional program.

• Students who wish to take 3000 or 4000 level teacher education courses (designated by a “TE” in the course description) or who wish to enter one of the teacher education programs must be approved by the College of Education or the College of Arts and Sciences, depending on the student’s teaching field major (see Section 1605).
• Prospective applicants who are interested in the Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing and Health Professions and have completed preparation to enter the professional or clinical program of their major should contact that school for information on additional departmental application procedures, requirements, and deadlines.
• Students who wish to apply for admission to the School of Music should contact the School of Music office to request separate application materials and to make an appointment for an audition.
• Students who declare a major or pre-major, but fail to meet program requirements of the major (including GPA, minimum course grades or admittance through an application process) and who have no opportunity to progress in that academic program, will have their major administratively changed to exploratory.  Students must declare another major after one semester in an exploratory major.

1115.05 Lawful Presence for In-State Tuition

Georgia State University admits all academically qualified undergraduate students, regardless of immigration status.

The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia requires all students applying to Georgia State University to provide verification of their lawful presence in the United States to be granted the in-state tuition rate.

This requirement is detailed in the following Board of Regents policies:

• Policy 4.3.4 Verification of Lawful Presence

Students may be verified through one of the following options below:

1. Verification through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
   If you are either a U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident or eligible non-citizen (does not apply to international students on a visa) that has completed and submitted a FAFSA, the U.S. Department of Education will verify your lawful presence. If you are not able to be confirmed as lawfully present the Office of Financial Aid will follow-up with you for additional documentation.
2. Submission of one of the following documents:
   Current Georgia Driver’s License issued by the State of Georgia after January 1, 2008*
   Current Georgia ID Card issued by the State of Georgia after January 1, 2008*
   Current U.S. Passport *
   Certified U.S. Birth certificate (must be submitted in person)
   Permanent Resident Card (front and back copy)*
   U.S. Certificate of Naturalization *
   U.S. Certificate of Citizenship *
   U.S. Certificate of Birth Abroad*
   Military ID (must be verified in person)
   *Copies of these documents are acceptable.
   Submit documents directly to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions in person or to lawfulpresenceua@gsu.edu.
3. Verification through SEVIS (Student and Exchange Information System)
   If you have or are applying for an F, or J visa we will verify your lawful presence through SEVIS. As this is already part of the immigration process there are no additional steps required to have your Citizenship Verification Hold removed. Simply comply with the requirements outlined by our Office of International Student and Scholar Services as you prepare to arrive at Georgia State University.
4. Verification through SAVE (Systematic Alien verification for Entitlements)
   All nonresident alien students on some sort of visa will need to submit immigration documents verifying their lawful status to the office of International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS). Such documents may include an I-94 card, U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) approval notice or receipt notice, or other documentation that the student is in lawful visa status.

This includes students who have been previously enrolled at Georgia State but are either returning (re-entry) to a degree program or applying for a new degree program. Transient students must also be verified.

1115.10 Special Talent Admission Policy

Students with special talents who do not meet the university admission standards are considered through a special admissions review process. Applications for students in this category are reviewed by a subcommittee of the University Senate on Admissions and Standards which makes a recommendation to the Provost. In their determinations, the committee will review grade point average, test scores, grades and other relevant factors.

The committee members will recommend to the Provost those students whom they determine have a reasonable chance of academic success at Georgia State University. Recommendations include the committee’s rationale for each student.

Special Talent Admission Appeals

Decisions to deny admission to special talent applicants by the Office of Admissions may be appealed by the chair of an academic department or the Athletic Director to the Provost for Academic Affairs.

1120 Freshman Applicants

Definition

Those applicants who have never enrolled in a regionally-accredited college or university (unless jointly enrolled while completing high school) are freshman applicants.

Freshman Deadlines

An application for admission and the nonrefundable application fee must be submitted or postmarked by the established deadlines. Applicants are encouraged to apply online at admissions.gsu.edu/how-do-i-apply/. Complete credentials must be received before a decision can be made. All required credentials should be submitted to the Office of Admissions no later than fifteen business days following the submission date of the application for admission.

Fall Semester Applicants Only

The Office of Undergraduate Admissions offers three deadlines for Fall application to the University: Honors and Scholarship Consideration and Priority Application. The deadlines are as follows:

First-time freshmen applying for fall semester entry will be considered for admission beginning in September and decisions will be released on a rolling basis throughout the academic year until enrollment goals have been met. It is recommended that applicants apply as early as possible to be considered for admission, university housing, scholarship funding and need-based financial aid.

Honors and Scholarship Consideration Deadline

If you wish to be considered for the Georgia State Honors College and/or for a Georgia State University scholarship based on competitive test scores and academic achievement, be sure to submit your completed application by November 15 and related documents by December 1. Only applicants with completed admission files, including submission of all required admission documents and fee will be considered for possible scholarships.

Final Application Deadline

Freshmen applicants choosing this plan must submit their application no later than April 1 of their senior year. Those applicants with completed admission files, including test scores, essay, letter of recommendation, transcript(s), fee, and any requested additional documentation will be notified no later than April 1. Primary consideration under the Regular Decision plan will also be focused on demonstrated academic achievement (grades in Required High School Curriculum courses, rigor of curriculum, and performance on the SAT or ACT with writing assessment), with secondary consideration given to a combination of the following factors: intellectual pursuits, creative endeavors, and intercultural experiences; public service, co-curricular activities, community involvement, leadership, and family commitments; and integrity and personal maturity.

Spring and Summer Deadlines

An application for admission and the nonrefundable application fee must be submitted or postmarked by the established deadlines. Complete credentials must be received before a decision can be made. All required credentials should be submitted to the Office of Admissions no later than fifteen business days following the submission date of the application for admission. Applications are processed in the order in which they are complete and ready for a decision.

Note: All deadlines are subject to change.

Minimum Freshman Admission Requirements

Admission to Georgia State University is a selective process and meeting minimum admission requirements does not guarantee acceptance. All of the following minimum requirements must be met in order for an applicant to receive consideration as a freshman:

• Be a graduate of and have completed the Required High School Curriculum requirements for the University System of Georgia from a high school accredited by a regional accrediting association (such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools), a high school accredited by the Georgia Accrediting Commission, or a public high school regulated by a school system and state Department of Education. A Certificate of Attendance does not qualify an applicant for admission consideration.
• Have completed the University System of Georgia Board of Regents’ Required High School Curriculum. Seventeen curriculum course units required as follows:
  1. English (4 units): emphasis in grammar and usage; literature (American, English, and World); and advanced composition skills.
  2. Mathematics (4 units): algebra I, algebra II, geometry, and one additional mathematics course with these units as prerequisites.
  3. Science (4 units): at least one laboratory course from the life sciences and one laboratory course from the physical sciences. (Applicants graduating in 2012 or later must have 4 units.)
  4. Social Science (3 units): at least one course focusing on United States studies and one course focusing on world studies.
  5. Foreign language (2 units in the same language): emphasis in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
• Have a minimum 2.75 high school grade point average calculated on the 17 courses listed above.
• Submit electronic SAT scores (including the writing section) with a minimum combined score of 980 (evidence-based reading and writing + mathematics) with at least 480 evidence-based reading and writing and 440 mathematics or electronic ACT scores (including the Writing Test) with a minimum composite score of 19 with at least 17 English or 17 reading and 17 mathematics.
• Permanent residents, educated in the United States, whose native language is not English are encouraged to take the TOEFL. If the TOEFL is not taken, applicants from local areas will be required to take the Georgia State Test of English Proficiency (GSTEP) to determine appropriate admission.
• Have a freshman index (FI) of 2500 or higher. The FI is based on a combination of SAT/ACT scores and high school grade point average (HSGPA) in college preparatory courses only. The SAT FI formula is: SAT FI= (500x HSGPA) + 1.06 x (SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing + SAT Math) – 74. The ACT FI formula is: ACT FI= (500 x HSGPA) + (ACT composite x 42) + 88. In calculating the HSGPA for FI purposes, the applicant’s transcript is calculated upon only 17 of the required high school curriculum taken such as English, mathematics, science, social studies, and foreign language.

RHSC-Deficient Freshman

Applicants admitted with RHSC deficiencies must complete the RHSC requirements by taking the Georgia State courses in the sciences, social sciences or foreign languages (depending on the area of their RHSC deficiencies). These courses will be selected by the University Advisement Center. Credits earned in courses taken to meet RHSC deficiencies do count towards graduation requirements. Students must earn a grade of C or better in those courses they take to meet RHSC deficiencies. Students must complete all RHSC-required courses either prior to enrollment or before they earn 30 hours at the University. Otherwise, they may not register for any courses except RHSC courses until all RHSC requirements are complete.

Home-Schooled Students

Applicants for freshman admission who have been home-schooled or graduated from non-accredited high schools may be considered for admission by meeting one of the following two criteria:

Option One: Portfolio Admission

Applicants who wish to apply for admission under the portfolio review option must:

1. Demonstrate a combined SAT test score (or an ACT equivalent) that is at or exceeds the average SAT for those enrolled as first time freshmen for the previous fall term. The current score is 1230 (SAT) or 23 (ACT).
2. Submit electronic SAT scores of at least 480 evidence-based reading and writing and 440 mathematics or electronic ACT scores (including the Writing Test) of at least 17 English and 17 mathematics.
3. Submit a portfolio that demonstrates satisfactory completion of the 16 Required High School Curriculum (RHSC) required for admission to a University System of Georgia research institution. This portfolio must include information about the course of study leading to satisfactory completion of each RHSC unit, including a list of all educational resources (books and other materials), course outline and appropriate outcomes assessment. Georgia State University reserves the right to request any further information that it feels necessary to evaluate the completion of the RHSC requirements.

Option Two: SAT Subject Test Admission

Applicants who wish to apply for admission under the SAT Subject Test option must:

1. Submit electronic SAT scores (including the writing section) with a minimum combined score of 980 with at least 480 evidence-based reading and writing and 440 mathematics or electronic ACT scores (including the Writing Test) with a minimum composite score of 19 with at least 17 English and 17 mathematics.
2. Submit acceptable scores on six SAT Subject Tests and demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language at the level of two years of high school study. Minimum acceptable scores on the prescribed SAT Subject Tests are:
   • 520 on the English Writing test (now a required part of the SAT or ACT)
   • 530 on the Literature test
   • 500 on the Mathematics Level 1 test or a score of 570 on the Mathematics Level 2 test
   • 520 on the Biology test
   • 540 on the Chemistry test or 590 on the Physics test
   • 560 on the U.S. History test, and
   • 540 on the World History test

The appropriate level of competency in a foreign language will be evaluated by the Georgia State University Department of World Languages and Cultures, using methods including both oral and written components.

1125 Transfer Applicants

Definition

Those applicants who have previously attended a regionally-accredited college or university (except for students jointly enrolled while completing high school) are transfer applicants.

Transfer Deadlines

An application for admission and the nonrefundable application fee must be submitted or postmarked by the established deadlines. Applicants are encouraged to apply online at admissions.gsu.edu/how-do-i-apply/transfer-students/. Complete credentials must be received before a decision can be made. All required credentials should be submitted to the Office of Admissions no later than fifteen business days following the submission date of the application for admission. Applications are processed in the order in which they are complete and ready for a decision. Students wishing to be considered for a subsequent term must submit a reactivation form at the following website (admissions.gsu.edu/how-do-i-apply/other-enrollment-types/reactivation/), and any additional credentials that may be necessary by the appropriate deadline. Applicants interested in early registration dates and orientation, university housing, and/or financial aid are urged to apply and complete their applications by the Deadline Dates listed below.

Note: All deadlines are subject to change.

For international student application deadline dates, please see Section 1165.

The professional and clinical programs in the Byrdine F Lewis School of Nursing and Health Professions may have earlier deadlines. Please contact the Office of Academic Assistance, Byrdine F Lewis School of Nursing and Health Professions, 404-413-1000, for information on procedures and deadline dates.

Admission Requirements

All of the following minimum requirements must be met in order for an applicant to receive consideration as a transfer, but meeting them does not guarantee admission. An applicant must:

• have a minimum cumulative 2.5 grade point average in college-level courses (excluding developmental/remedial courses) from all accredited institutions attended.
• be eligible to re-enroll at the last institution attended.
• have completed all college preparatory curriculum and learning support coursework required by any unit of the University System of Georgia (USG).
• in addition, those students who have completed fewer than 30 semester hours or 45 quarter hours of college-level academic coursework attempted at one or more regionally accredited institutions must meet all freshman admission requirements (see Section 1120).
• arrange for all transcripts to be received directly by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions or provide them in sealed envelopes directly from the institution. Student copies of transcripts, official transcripts opened by the student, and fax copies are not acceptable.
• must have satisfied Learning Support requirements at their previous institutions.
• must have satisfied Required High School Curriculum requirements

Transfer students should be aware of the Board of Regents’ requirements in reading, writing, history, and constitution (see sections 1420 and 1425).

Transfer Credit Policy

When an applicant is accepted for undergraduate transfer admission, courses that parallel the curriculum of Georgia State University will be accepted for transfer credit. Credit must have been earned at institutions of higher education with full accreditation by one of the following accreditors:

• Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
• New England Association of Schools and Colleges
• North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools

Courses completed at a two-year college will be granted lower-division credit.

The total number of hours that may be earned toward a degree by extension or correspondence courses may not exceed 30 semester hours.

Joint Services Transcript (JST) credits earned while serving in the Armed Services may also be evaluated for transfer credit on a case by case basis by the student’s academic advisor in conjunction with the academic department offering the course.

In general, transfer credit will not be awarded for a course that a student has previously attempted at Georgia State (including attempts which resulted in a withdrawal). However, individual departments may waive this rule for their courses.

Because the university has a minimum academic residence requirement, the amount of transfer credit applicable to a degree program may be limited. (See Section 1440.) In addition, Colleges and Departments have their own transfer credit policies and this may also limit the amount of transfer credit applicable to a degree program. All such policies are stated in the Undergraduate Bachelor-Level Catalog in the following sections:

• 2000 Andrew Young School of Policy Studies
• 3020 College of Arts and Sciences
• 4050 College of Education
• 5020.10 Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing and Health Professions
• 7020.10 Robinson College of Business
• 10200 College of the Arts

Georgia State maintains a web resource, advisement.gsu.edu/transfer-students/equivalency-charts/, which indicates courses at other institutions that will be accepted as transfer credit (subject to the restrictions noted in this section).If a course at another  institution is not on this list, students should consult with the University Advisement Center.

The D Credit Grade Restriction applies to both resident and transfer credit. (See Section 1450.)

A student who takes a course at another institution will not receive transfer credit for that course until the end of the semester following the semester in which the course was taken. Therefore, students may not take courses for degree credit at another institution during the semester they plan to graduate from Georgia State.

Transfer Credit for Core Courses

1. Students will be granted credit for all of Areas A-E of the core if they hold one of the following:
   1. a baccalaureate degree from U.S. institution of higher education accredited by one of the six accreditors listed above
   2. for those who have graduated from a non-U.S. institution, the equivalent of a baccalaureate degree from a U.S. institution of higher education accredited by one of the six accreditors listed above as certified by Georgia State or a Georgia State-approved agency.
   3. an associate’s degree designed to transfer to a baccalaureate program from a University System of Georgia (USG) institution
2. However, there are two exceptions to the policy stated in 1 above.
   1. Students seeking a baccalaureate degree in biology, chemistry, computer science, geology, mathematics, physics, science education, or math education who do not hold a baccalaureate degree in one of these fields will only be granted credit for all of Areas B, C, and E. They will be granted credit in Areas A and D on a course-by-course basis.
   2. Students seeking a baccalaureate degree in nursing, nutrition or respiratory therapy will only be granted credit for all of Areas A, B, C, and E. They will be granted credit in Area D on a course-by-course basis.
3. Students who hold any other associate’s degree, such as an associate’s degree from a non-USG institution or an associate’s degree not designed to transfer to a baccalaureate program, will be granted transfer credit for core courses on a course-by-course basis.

1127 Transition Students

A transition student is a student who wishes to move to the Atlanta campus for bachelor study after beginning on an associate’s degree track at one of our Perimeter College campuses.

Requirements

Students who transition from Georgia State’s Perimeter College to the Atlanta campus must have achieved at least a 2.0 GPA and completed at least 30 hours of credit. Proof of lawful presence must be provided to receive in-state tuition at the Atlanta campus.

Students who wish to transition must complete out the Transition application to have their records transferred from the associate degree to the bachelor degree track.

All learning support and required high school curriculum courses must be completed to matriculate at Georgia State University’s Atlanta Campus. Students should complete Area A of the Board of Regents’ core curriculum prior to transition.

Note: once you have been accepted to the Atlanta campus, you will no longer be able to take classes at the Perimeter campuses.

1130 Postbaccalaureate Applicants

Definition

Those applicants who have received a bachelor’s degree and who wish to take undergraduate courses without being admitted to a second undergraduate degree program are postbaccalaureate applicants. An applicant wishing to seek a second baccalaureate degree should refer to Section 1125. Georgia State University graduates should refer to Section 1170.

Deadlines

Note: All deadlines are subject to change.

For international student application deadline dates, please see Section 1165.

After the Regular Deadline Dates, only postbaccalaureate applications that are complete at the time of submission (application, nonrefundable application fee, and all required documents) will be processed and only if space is available and time permits.

An applicant wishing to seek a second bachelor’s degree in a professional or clinical program in the Byrdine F Lewis School of Nursing and Health Professions should apply to the university as a transfer student. Once a student has been admitted to the university, there is a second application process for those interested in majors in the Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing and Health Professions. Please contact the Office of Academic Assistance, Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing and Health Professions, for information on procedures and deadline dates.

Admission Requirements

Postbaccalaureate applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree or the equivalent from an institution of postsecondary education with full accreditation by a regional association of colleges and schools and, where appropriate, the Commission on Colleges.

The postbaccalaureate status is not available for applicants seeking teacher certification in any area other than music education and art education (see Section 1605).

In order to be considered for admission as a postbaccalaureate student, an applicant must complete an application for undergraduate admission (including the nonrefundable fee) and submit an official transcript from the degree-granting institution by the appropriate deadline. If a student wishes to change to a degree-seeking status after enrolling at Georgia State University as a postbaccalaureate student, conditions for acceptance as a transfer student must be met. An application for admission, the nonrefundable application fee and required transcripts must be filed with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions located in 200 Sparks Hall by the established application deadline for the intended semester of entry.

All scholastic discipline policies and all course prerequisite policies are applicable to Postbaccalaureate students. Postbaccalaureates may not attend another institution as transient students from Georgia State. Transient status is only for degree-seeking students. Postbaccalaureate students wishing to attend another institution must apply directly to the other school.

1135 Transient Applicants

Definition

Students who are currently enrolled in a transferable degree program at another accredited college or university in the United States who wish to register at Georgia State University for the purpose of completing work to transfer back to the home institution are transient applicants. Transient students may attend for only one fall or one spring semester. However, attendance as a transient student in summer semesters is unlimited.

Deadlines

Note: All deadlines are subject to change.

For international student application deadline dates, please see Section 1165.

After the Regular Deadline Dates, only transient applications that are complete at the time of submission (application, nonrefundable application fee, and all required documents) will be processed and only if space is available and time permits.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for admission as a transient, a student must submit an application for undergraduate admission (including the nonrefundable fee) and request an official statement granting permission to enroll as a transient student from the home institution. The appropriate academic official at the home institution must send this statement directly to Georgia State University. The application will be valid for 3 terms (the initial term plus 2 additional terms). Students who do not enroll the semester for which they were accepted and wish to register later must either reactivate their application or submit a new application by the application deadline and arrange for a current official statement updated for the new semester to be sent.

International students who are attending school on another institution’s immigration document (F-1/I-20, J-1/IAP-66) will not be issued any additional documents, but must also submit a statement of permission from the International/Foreign Student Advisor at the home institution.

The following regulations are applicable to transient students:

• They should seek academic advisement at their home institution to determine if courses taken at Georgia State are acceptable to their degree program.
• All scholastic discipline policies and all course prerequisite policies are applicable to transient students.
• Transcripts for courses completed at Georgia State as a visiting student must be requested from the Office of the Registrar at registrar.gsu.edu/academic-records/transcripts/ to be sent to the home institution.
• Transient students are admitted to and register through the college or school selected on their application. If the applicant does not indicate a college, and if a transient approval letter has been received, placement will be determined from the courses indicated in the letter.
• To continue for an additional summer semester as a transient, a student must file a re-entry application and arrange for all necessary supporting documentation to be received in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions by the established deadlines (see Section 1170). With the exception of summer semesters, registration as a transient student is limited to one semester. Students seeking exception to this policy must contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. If a student wishes to become a transfer student, the student must file a new application for undergraduate admission (including the nonrefundable application fee) and arrange for all transcripts to be received by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions by the appropriate deadline. Student copies of transcripts or official transcripts opened by the student are not acceptable (see Section 1125).

1145 Non-traditional Applicants

Definition

Non-traditional applicants are defined as individuals who meet all of the following criteria:

• Have been out of high school at least five years or whose high school class graduated at least five years ago.
• Hold a high school diploma from an accredited high school as specified under Section 1120 or have satisfactorily completed the GED.
• Have earned fewer than 30 transferable semester hours or 45 transferable quarter credit hours.

Deadlines

A non-traditional applicant must follow the freshman deadlines (see Section 1120) for submitting an application, nonrefundable application fee and transcripts. Applicants are encouraged to apply online at admissions.gsu.edu.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must take the ACCUPLACER assessment to be admitted to the university. The Office of Undergraduate Admissions notifies applicants of test date, time, and location. Applicants must earn the following scores on the ACCUPLACER to be eligible for admission: Nex-Gen Reading = 237, ACCUPLACER Writing = 4, and Nex-Gen QAS (math) = 258. If the file is not completed in time for testing to be scheduled prior to registration, it may become necessary to update the application to a future semester.

1150 Dual Enrollment

At Georgia State, we have three programs that give academically outstanding high school students an opportunity to enroll in undergraduate courses. Students have a choice to enroll in Dual Enrollment (previously known as Move On When Ready) to earn both high school and college credits. We also offer Joint Enrollment, but in this program, students only earn college credit.

Dual Enrollment

Definition

Dual Enrollment is an opportunity for academically outstanding high school students to enroll as special non-degree seeking undergraduate students at Georgia State before graduation from high school. Students must be enrolled full-time (12-17 semester hours) and will earn both high school and college credits. Participation is only permitted during the normal fall and spring semesters of the high school and college year.

Student Eligibility

To be eligible for Dual Enrollment, a student must:

• Must be entering junior or senior year of high school at the time of enrollment.
• Must be enrolled in an eligible public or private high school, including unaccredited home study or home school program. Students in unaccredited home school programs must also meet admissions home school requirements.
• Be track towards the completion of the Required High School Curriculum as established by the USG and high school graduation.
• Be a legal resident of Georgia for 12 consecutive months before the first day of classes and meet U.S. citizenship requirements.
• Obtain approval of the high school guidance counselor and parent(s)/legal guardian(s).
• Achieve a grade of C- or higher in their Georgia State courses to remain eligible for the program.

Admission Requirements

Because of the demanding nature of college-level course work at a research institution, Dual Enrollment students must demonstrate a high degree of academic potential and maturity. To be considered for admission, a student must meet all three requirements for admission:

1. GPA Requirement: 3.0
2. Test scores: Students may take either the ACT or SAT. The following minimum scores are required:
   ACT: 23 English and 23 Math
   SAT: 580 Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and 560 Math
3. Freshman Index (FI): 2600 or higher
   The FI is based on a combination of SAT/ACT scores and high school grade point average (HSGPA) in college preparatory classes only.
   The FI formula using SAT scores is SAT FI= (500x HSGPA) + 1.06 x (SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing + SAT Math) – 74.
   The FI formula using ACT scores is ACT FI = (500 x HSGPA) + (ACT composite x 42) + 88. In calculating HSGPA for FI purposes, the applicant’s transcript is calculated upon only the academic (college preparatory) courses taken – English, Math, Science, Social Science and Foreign Language.

Deadlines

Applicants must submit the application, nonrefundable application fee and required documents by the appropriate deadline.

Coursework

Talk to your high school guidance counselor about the classes you want to take. All schedules are subject to the approval of the appropriate high school official and Georgia State University. Students will take all coursework at Georgia State University’s main campus. Dual Enrollment courses must be selected from the approved Dual Enrollment course list. Coursework taken through Dual Enrollment does not count against HOPE Scholarship or HOPE Grant hours.

Cost

The cost for full-time coursework up to 17 semester hours from the approved course listing will be funded by the high school Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) program. Eligible participating institutions will accept the determined Dual Enrollment amount as full payment for the student’s tuition and mandatory fees. Other cost of attendance expenses including lab fees, books, meals, transportation and personal expenses are the responsibility of the parent/guardian. Any additional credit hours and/or courses not covered under the approved course list must be paid for out of pocket. Students must be aware that grades of C- or better apply to all classes, whether covered out of pocket or through FTE funding.

Policies & Regulations

Dual Enrollment students must follow the following academic regulations in addition to all the other academic regulations of Georgia State University. 

• Georgia State University Dual Enrollment students are not permitted to live on campus in University Housing and must have a form of transportation to campus.
• Admission to Georgia State under Dual Enrollment does not imply admission to any other status. Dual Enrollment students who later wish to enroll at Georgia State outside the Dual Enrollment program must reapply.
• Students may not attend classes during the summer semester
• Students may attend for a maximum of two years (four semesters)
• Students must take courses that meet their high school graduation requirements.
• Students must pass any placement exams required for the courses they wish to take.
• Students may not take any courses at any high school or at any other institution of higher education while enrolled in the program.
• Students may participate in student clubs and other student life activities
• Students who earn a C- or lower in any class will not be allowed to continue in the Dual Enrollment program at Georgia State.
• College credits earned while in the Dual Enrollment program are transferable to other institutions based on post-secondary agreements between institutions. Students are advised to consider the post-secondary institutional agreements when planning Dual Enrollment coursework.
• Georgia State University Bookstore will loan required textbooks to each student enrolled in the Dual Enrollment program each semester, with the agreement that the textbooks will be returned to Georgia State University at the end of each semester.

Dual Enrollment students should be aware that they must meet all state high school graduation testing requirements, including End of Course Tests and the Georgia High School Graduation Tests. Georgia State courses are not designed to prepare students for these tests. 

Joint Enrollment

Definition

High school students may supplement and enhance their high school curriculum by enrolling in college courses as a joint enrollment student. Courses taken through joint enrollment result in college credit, not high school credit, and students are responsible for their tuition and fees. Students wishing to attend as a joint enrollment student must meet the Joint Enrollment Program admission requirements of Georgia State University.

Student Eligibility

To be eligible for Joint Enrollment, a student must:

• Be a high school student seeking a high school diploma from a public or private school, including home study, or home school programs
• Be on track to graduate
• Be a legal resident of Georgia and meet U.S. Citizenship Requirements
• Obtain approval of the high school guidance counselor and parent(s)/legal guardian(s)

Admission Requirements

Students must demonstrate a high degree of academic potential and maturity to be considered for Joint Enrollment (Program for Excellence/PFE). Joint enrollment is open to high school juniors and seniors meeting our application requirements. To be considered for admission, a student must meet all three requirements for admission:

1. GPA Requirement: 3.0 in the Required High School Curriculum (RHSC) course units
2. Test scores: Students may take either the ACT or SAT. The following minimum scores are required:
   ACT Requirement: 23 English and 23 Math
   SAT Requirement: 580 Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and 560 Math
3. Freshman Index (FI): 2600 or higher
   The FI is based on a combination of SAT/ACT scores and high school grade point average (HSGPA) in college preparatory classes only.
   The FI formula using SAT scores is SAT FI = (500 x HSGPA) + SAT Verbal + SAT Math.
   The FI formula using ACT scores is ACT FI = (500 x HSGPA) + (ACT composite x 42) + 88.In calculating HSGPA for FI purposes, the applicant’s transcript is calculated upon only the academic (college preparatory) courses taken – English, Math, Science, Social Science and Foreign Language.

Deadlines

Applicants must submit the application, nonrefundable application fee and required documents by the appropriate deadline.

Note: All deadlines are subject to change.

Coursework

Students will take all coursework at Georgia State University’s main campus

Cost

Participation in Joint Enrollment is funded entirely by the student. To view current tuition costs for Georgia State University, please visit Student Financial Services at sfs.gsu.edu.

Policies & Regulations

• Georgia State University Joint Enrollment students are not permitted to live on campus in University Housing and must have a form of transportation to campus.
• Students admitted to the program are subject to the same fees, rules, and regulations as other Georgia State University students.
• A student enrolled simultaneously at the university and the high school is also subject to any rules and regulations imposed by that high school.
•  All students are required to earn a high school college preparatory diploma on or before their original graduation date using the college-level coursework, as appropriate.

1154 Early College

Definition

Early College is a program that allows students from selected high schools to enroll at Georgia State. Early College students enrolled in a participating high school may earn a high school diploma with the potential to earn an Associate’s degree or two years of college credit towards a Bachelor’s degree. Unlike Dual Enrollment and Joint Enrollment, Early College enrollment is open only to students enrolled at an Early College high school that has partnered with Georgia State University.

Deadlines

Applicants must submit the application and required documents by the appropriate deadline. Early College deadlines are set by joint agreement of the Georgia State University Office of Admissions and the Early College high school. Students should consult their Early College liaison for applicable deadlines. Early College students do not pay an application fee.

Admission Requirements

Because of the demanding nature of college-level course work at a research institution, Early College students must have a high degree of academic potential and maturity. To be considered for admission, a student must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Have spent the entire year prior to enrollment at an Early College high school in Georgia.
• Be currently enrolled at an Early College high school that has partnered with Georgia State University.
• Be high school sophomore (to apply to be an Early College student as a second semester sophomore or as a junior) or a high school junior (to apply to be an Early College student as a senior).
• Obtain the recommendation of the student’s high school guidance counselor.
• Obtain the approval of the student’s parents or legal guardians.
• Be on track to complete all Required High School Curriculum (RHSC) requirements.
• Achieve a minimum high school GPA of 2.75 in college prep (RHSC) courses.

In addition, the admission decision will also consider:

• A personal essay to be reviewed by the high school guidance counselor making the recommendation.
• The student’s attendance record in high school. Normally, a minimum attendance rate of 90% is required to be permitted to take classes at Georgia State.

Students must also provide a copy of their most recent high school transcript showing all grades completed to date.

Admission to Georgia State under Early College does not imply admission to any other status. Early College students who later wish to enroll at Georgia State outside the Early College program must reapply.

Academic Regulations

Early College students must follow the following academic regulations in addition to all the other academic regulations of Georgia State University.

• They may not attend classes during the summer semester except by special permission of the Georgia State University Advisement Center.
• They may attend for a maximum of five semesters. (However, students should be aware that the Accel program will only pay for four semesters.)
• The courses in which they are enrolled must be part of Georgia State’s core curriculum and must count towards their high school graduation requirements.
• They must pass any placement exams required for the courses they wish to take.
• They may not take any courses at any other institution of higher education while enrolled in the program.
• They may not live on campus but may participate in some student clubs and other student life activities with the advance permission of the Office of the Dean of Education.
• Early College students may only enroll in Georgia State courses approved by their high school guidance counselor and Georgia State University Advisement Center.
• If they earn a Georgia State cumulative GPA below 2.0, in next semester students must either attend a USG 2-year institution (that is a Georgia State Early College partner) or attend only high school. They may return to Georgia State only after taking at least six hours at the 2-year institution and earning a GPA of 3.0 (or better) or earning a high school semester GPA of 3.25 (or better).
• Students must participate in the Early Alert program. Faculty who have Early College students in their courses must participate in the Early Alert program.
• College credits earned while in the Early College program are transferable to other USG institutions.

Early College students should be aware that they must meet all state high school graduation testing requirements, including End of Course Tests and the Georgia High School Graduation Tests. Georgia State courses are not designed to prepare students for these tests.

1155 GSU-62 Program

Definition

Applicants who meet the criteria listed below may apply for GSU-62 waivers of tuition and fees. The regulations listed also apply to the GSU-62 student who wishes to audit classes instead of taking courses for credit. Audit registration is completed by the Enrollment Services Center and requires permission from the instructor prior to registration.

Deadlines

Applicants must submit the application and required documents by the appropriate deadline.

Note: All deadlines are subject to change.

The following minimum requirements must be met in order for a student to receive a GSU-62 waiver.

• Must meet all applicable admission requirements for their program of study.
• Must be 62 years of age or older at the time of registration. (Submit a birth certificate or other comparable written documentation, such as a current U.S. passport, verifying proof of your age.)
• Must be classified as a Georgia resident in accordance with the Regents’ Requirements for Resident Status.
• Must not register before the first day of late registration.

GSU-62 students will register on a space available basis during late registration. No tuition and fees will be assessed except for certain classes which require supplies or laboratory fees. All usual student and institutional records will be maintained.

This status can include graduate studies with the exception of the College of Law. Contact the appropriate graduate office in the university for application information. GSU-62 students must be admitted to graduate study to be eligible to enroll for graduate courses (those numbered 5000 and higher). Although you will be applying to graduate school, please contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions as all waivers are entered through that office.

1165 International Students, Students with Non-U.S. Credentials, and Non-native Speakers of English

Applicants to Georgia State University are classified as international applicants if they meet any of the following criteria:

• Students who will require an F-1 or J-1 visa to study in the United States
• Students who have been educated outside of the U.S.

Admission Requirements

1. Georgia State Application for Admission accompanied by a $60 non-refundable fee
2. Minimum test scores on the ACT or SAT exam
   • Official scores should be submitted electronically to Georgia State University (ACT code 0826, SAT code 5251).
   • Georgia State offers a limited number of SAT/ACT waivers to F-1 visa international students who demonstrate exceptional academic credentials. Please contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions for details.
3. Official high school transcript(s)
   • Students overseas should send an original transcript directly from their high school, if possible, or a copy that is verified by their high school, the local Education USA advising center, U.S. Consulate, local Ministry of Education or a credential evaluation service.
   • A certified original translation must accompany all documents not printed in English.
   • International applicants must demonstrate academic preparation equivalent to graduation with a U.S. Required High School Curriculum (RHSC).
   • Please do not submit your only original copy – bring it to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and we will make a copy from the original.
4. Official transcript from each college, university or technical college attended (if appropriate)
   • Transfer applicants must be in good standing and be eligible to return to the institution they last attended.
   • Applicants with fewer than 30 hours of transferable college credit must meet freshman requirements.
   • Official transcripts from overseas colleges or universities require an external foreign credential evaluation (course-by-course).
   • A certified original translation must accompany all documents not printed in English.
5. Proof of English proficiency must be met by one of the following:
   • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 530 (paper-based) or 69 (internet-based)
   • International Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6
   • Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE) score of 58
   • For freshmen applicants: SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 480 or ACT English score of 17
   • For transfer applicants: Completion of a college-level English composition course with a grade of “C-“ or better at a regionally accredited U.S. college or university
   • Documentation that English was the official language of academic instruction in home country
   • Completion of a University System of Georgia approved ESL program
6. Verification of Lawful Presence in the United States. 
   • Applicants must provide evidence of lawful presence in the United States to qualify for in-state tuition classification or out-of-state tuition waivers.
   • Students on any type of visa will be asked by International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) to upload immigration information into iStart for this purpose AFTER admission and prior to enrollment.

Non-native speakers of English who meet all admission requirements except the English language proficiency requirement may be granted conditional admission. To be eligible for conditional admission, applicants must have a TOEFL score of 480 (paper test) or 54(internet-based test) or an IELTS score of 5.5. Students granted conditional admission will be required to take certain full-time courses in the Intensive English Program (IEP) before being fully admitted into Georgia State’s undergraduate study. A student may remain on conditional admission status for no more than three semesters. For more information about the IEP, see iep.gsu.edu/.

Georgia State University encourages the enrollment of students from other countries. After reading this section, if you need additional information or have questions, please contact: Georgia State University, Office of Undergraduate Admissions, P.O. Box 4009, Atlanta, GA 30302-4009 or in person at 200 Sparks Hall, phone: 404-413-2500, fax: 404-413-2002, admissions@gsu.edu, or admissions.gsu.edu/international.

1170 Re-entry Applicants

Definition

An undergraduate re-entry applicant is a student who previously enrolled at Georgia State University and who wishes to re-enroll at Georgia State in one of the following ways:

• Previously enrolled as an undergraduate degree-seeking student wishing to return as an undergraduate degree-seeking student after an absence of three or more semesters.
• Previously enrolled as an undergraduate degree-seeking student wishing to return as an undergraduate postbaccalaureate student after an absence of three or more semesters.
• Previously enrolled as an undergraduate postbaccalaureate student wishing to return as an undergraduate postbaccalaureate student after an absence of three or more semesters.
• Previously enrolled as an undergraduate degree-seeking student wishing to return as an undergraduate transient student after an absence of three or more semesters.
• Previously enrolled as an undergraduate transient student wishing to return as an undergraduate transient student for any term. Note: Students are only permitted to attend one spring or one fall semester as an undergraduate transient student, but may apply for unlimited summer semesters. Students seeking exception to this policy must contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

The re-entry application cannot be used in the following situations:

• Transient and postbaccalaureate students cannot apply for re-entry to update to degree-seeking (transfer) status. Transients and postbaccalaureate students wishing to become transfer students should complete a new application for admission, submit the appropriate application fee and all transcripts to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Students should refer to Section 1125 for deadlines, admission requirements and other policies related to transfer admission.
• Students that have only attended Georgia State University at the graduate level cannot apply for re-entry to enroll at the undergraduate level. Graduate students wishing to enroll at the undergraduate level should complete a new application for undergraduate admission, submit the appropriate application fee and all transcripts to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Students should refer to the appropriate area of Section 1100 for deadlines, admission requirements and other policies related to transfer, transient, and postbaccalaureate admission.
• Students who have only attended Georgia State University as dual enrollment cannot apply for re-entry at the undergraduate level. Dual enrollment students wishing to enroll at the undergraduate level should complete a new application for undergraduate admission, submit the appropriate application fee and all transcripts to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

Deadlines

Applications for re-entry admission and the nonrefundable re-entry application fee must be submitted or postmarked by the established deadlines. Applicants are encouraged to apply online at http://admissions.gsu.edu/how-do-i-apply/other-enrollment-types/re-entry-students/. Complete credentials must be received before a decision can be made. All required credentials should be submitted to the Office of Admissions no later than fifteen business days following the submission date of the re-entry application. Re-entry applications are processed in the order that they are complete and ready for a decision. Students wishing to be considered for a subsequent term must submit a reactivation form at the following website (http://admissions.gsu.edu/how-do-i-apply/other-enrollment-types/reactivation/), and any additional credentials that may be necessary by the appropriate deadline. The re-entry application is valid for 3 terms (the initial term plus 2 additional terms).

Applicants interested in early registration dates, university housing and financial aid are urged to apply and complete their applications by the early deadline dates listed below. Any re-entry application received after the regular deadline for the term indicated on the re-entry application will be processed for the next available term and the application fee will not be refunded.

Note: All deadlines are subject to change.

Admission Requirements

Degree-seeking Re-entries. Applicants who previously attended Georgia State as degree-seeking and wish to return as degree-seeking must meet the following requirements:

• Students that have attended other institution(s) since their last enrollment at Georgia State University must submit official transcripts from the institution(s). Student copies of transcripts, official transcripts opened by the student, and fax copies are not acceptable. Re-entry applicants must be eligible to return to their last institution of attendance for the term of desired re-enrollment at Georgia State in order to be granted admission as a re-entry student.
• Students that last attended Georgia State University in the Learning Support Program (formerly the Department of Academic Foundations and Developmental Studies), have ACCUPLACER scores below those currently required to exit LSP, and have not fulfilled their LSP requirements must either:
  1. Retake the appropriate ACCUPLACER tests and earn the minimum reading score currently required to exit LSP (74), the minimum writing score currently required to exit LSP (60), and the minimum math score currently required to exit LSP (37) or
  2. LSP courses may be taken at our Perimeter College campuses or at another USG institution.
     Learning Support students are encouraged to apply by the early deadline.
• Undergraduate students re-entering on supervision or probation are required to participate in the Academic Improvement Program (see Section 1360.20).
• Students that were placed on exclusion at the conclusion of their last term at Georgia State University must submit an application for academic renewal to the University Advisement Center. Approval for academic renewal must be granted before students previously excluded can be approved to reenter the University. Students should refer to section 1360.30 for policies and procedures related to academic renewal prior to submitting an application for re-entry.

Transient Re-entries. Students wishing to apply for re-entry as a transient student must submit an official transient letter from their home institution. Unofficial transient letters, transient letters opened by the student, and fax copies are not acceptable. The transient letter must indicate that the student has permission to attend Georgia State University for the desired term of enrollment. Transient students must be eligible to return to their home institution for the desired term of enrollment. A new re-entry application and a new transient letter are required for each subsequent term of enrollment at Georgia State. Note: Students are only permitted to attend one spring or one fall semester as an undergraduate transient student, but unlimited summer semesters. Students seeking exception to this policy must contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

Degree-seeking to Postbaccalaureate Re-entries. Previous degree-seeking students wishing to re-enroll as a postbaccalaureate student must submit a transcript from the institution awarding the baccalaureate degree. Student copies of transcripts, official transcripts opened by the student, and fax copies are not acceptable. For those students that were previously awarded their undergraduate degree by Georgia State University, a Georgia State University transcript is not needed.

Postbaccalaureate to Postbaccalaureate Re-entries. Previous postbaccalaureate students wishing to return to Georgia State University as a postbaccalaureate are not required to submit any additional transcripts.

1175 Academic Regulations that Apply to Various Admission Categories

1175.10 Transient Students

Transient students may attend for only one fall or one spring semester. However, attendance as a transient student in summer semesters is unlimited. In order to continue for an additional summer semester(s) as a transient, a student must file a re-entry form and arrange for all necessary supporting documentation to be received in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions by the established deadlines. To continue attending, transient students must be in good academic standing at Georgia State University. Transient students who wish to become transfer students must apply to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions to be admitted as a transfer student. All scholastic discipline policies and all course prerequisites are applicable to a transient student. Transcripts for courses completed at Georgia State as a transient must be requested from the Office of the Registrar to be sent to the home institution. Transient students are admitted to and register through the college or school selected on their application. If the applicant does not indicate a college, and if a transient approval has been received, placement will be determined from the courses indicated in the letter. Transient students who seek re-entry must complete a new re-entry form for the semester that they wish to attend.

1175.20 Postbaccalaureate Students

The postbaccalaureate status is not available for students seeking teacher certification in any area other than music education and art education. Postbaccalaureates may not attend another institution as a transient student while the postbaccalaureate is a student at Georgia State University.

1175.30 International Students

International students with student visas are required to carry a full course load (12 semester hours). International students with student visas who wish to re-enter must complete a new re-entry form for the semester that they wish to attend.

1180 Undergraduate Admissions Appeals

The Associate Vice President for Undergraduate Admissions and the Senior Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success and Vice Provost are the President’s designees for purposes of hearing Undergraduate Admissions Appeals.

Applicants for undergraduate admission who are denied due to academic ineligibility may appeal the denial to the Associate Vice President for Undergraduate Admissions within twenty (20) calendar days of the date of the denial letter. The decision of the Associate Vice President for Undergraduate Admissions is final.

Applicants for undergraduate admission who are denied for reasons related to disciplinary/criminal history or falsification of application may appeal the denial to the Senior Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success and Vice Provost within twenty (20) calendar days of the date of the denial letter. The decision of the Senior Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success and Vice Provost is final.