Ivy Tech Community College, Central Indiana
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Academic Advising FAQs

What can Academic Advising provide me?

The Academic Advising Center provides answers to questions about college programs, career options, scheduling classes, college policies and procedures and other concerns.  Academic Advisors are concerned about your success.  Each student will receive guidance based on his/her individual need.


Do I need to see an advisor every semester to register?

All new students will meet with an Academic Advisor prior to registration, individually or in a group setting. New Students will be guided to the appropriate meeting during the entry process.

Returning students can register themselves for classes using Campus Connect.  Students who have begun courses in their major should consult with their Faculty Advisor regarding what classes to take.


Do I have to take a placement test?

All students entering Ivy Tech Community College go through an initial assessment. The COMPASS test is the most common assessment tool. There is no charge to take the COMPASS placement test. The COMPASS placement test is an un-timed computer based test. Practice questions can be found at www.act.org/compass

If you provide ACT scores of English 19, Math 19 or Reading 19, or SAT scores of Verbal 460, Math 460, or Critical Reading 460, all or a portion of the COMPASS test may be waived. Scores must be within the last four years.

Students who have taken upper-level math in high school (trigonometry, pre-calculus or calculus) should consider taking the advanced math portion of the COMPASS placement test.

Students who have earned a AC or higher in college-level English Composition and/or Math should provide their college transcripts to an Academic Advisor to receive a waiver of the placement test.


What do I do if I need to drop a class?

Academic Advisors can help students determine what they need to do if they are struggling in a class. It is always important to talk with someone who can help you explore all of your options before dropping a class. If you receive financial aid, you should also speak with your Financial Aid Advisor since dropping a class may impact your financial aid.


I want to transfer to another college. How do I do that?

The Transfer Center Staff can help you in identifying schools that offer the program(s) you want. They can also guide you in selecting Ivy Tech Community College courses that will transfer to your school of choice.


Are there tools that assist me in understanding my progress to a degree?

Degree Audit Reporting Systems, DARS, is a computerized program that allows students and advisors to evaluate all courses taken against any major requirement for a specific program. DARS reports can be accessed through CampusConnect.


How long will it take to finish a degree?

The amount of time required to complete a degree vary depending upon each students situation and specific program. Generally, a student can complete a degree in two years. It is crucial to consult with an academic advisor when planning classes to ensure you are heading in the correct direction.


How do I get credit for prior work experiences?

In certain degree programs work experiences can be substituted for credit decisions of this nature are granted by the Program Chair. For more information regarding Prior Learning Assessment, please contact Heather Morrison, Assistant Director of Assessment and PLA Coordinator at (317) 921-4207


How do I qualify for financial aid?

You may apply for Financial Aid online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Be sure to include Ivy Tech Community College's school code 009917 when you complete the FASFA. Financial Aid Representatives are available to assist with this process in the Financial Aid Offices located at the North Meridian Center or the Fairbanks Center (Lawrence Campus).


How many classes do I have to take in order to receive financial aid?

Actual financial aid award amounts are based on enrollment status. Check with your Financial Aid Advisor for specific information regarding your aid.

In order to receive Stafford Loan Funding you must be enrolled in and attending at least 6 credit hours each semester.


What can I do with a degree and how much money will I make?

The Career One/Work One Center is available to assist students in setting career and professional goals. Resources are available to help students in determining possible careers and specific majors. Career One/Work One can also help students in researching employment and income potential, and completing a job search.  Faculty can also help guide you in understanding job opportunities and salaries.


I have a disability and need assistance. What services are available?

Support for students with documented disabilities is available though the Disability Support Services Office. If you would like to receive academic adjustments and/or receive support for a disability, contact the office at (317) 921-4982.