Division of Student Affairs & Enrollment Management

Division of Student Affairs & Enrollment Management

The Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management provides a seamless and supportive pathway from prospective student to alumni focused on personal and academic success and ensure that students are career ready and positioned to be leaders and active citizens in the community. The Division is dedicated to delivering an innovative, comprehensive and integrated student life experience that promotes self-efficacy, personal and professional success, multicultural competence, leadership development, and civic engagement. Serving as a resource to the campus community and University stakeholders, the Division endeavors to promote and enrich student education through recruitment, admissions, and student services support by way of ongoing direct contact with students in their everyday lives.

Central to the Division, is the advancement of the recruitment and admissions activities of the institution while achieving a healthy overall mix of high achieving students, students with limited learning support need, adult learners, transfer students, out-of-state and international students. The office of Admissions and Recruitment is also charged with creating an enrollment profile that reflects the changing demographics of the State of Georgia and, in particular, the metropolitan areas of Savannah and the Coastal Georgia region. By developing and/or implementing highly functional information systems, and a robust reporting environment, the Division also provides ongoing analysis of the characteristics and student behaviors of current, prospective, and former students to help the University achieve its goals. It studies enrollment trends, forecasts enrollments, and develops strategies to improve recruitment and customer service efforts and endeavors.

Career Services & Leadership Development Center, Office of Disability Services, Office of Counseling Services

Center for Leadership and Character Development

The Center for Leadership & Character Development focuses on developing student leadership through seminars, institutes, retreats, and workshops. The Center houses dozens of books and audio tapes on leadership, personal development, career development, and service learning. Programs include the Freshman Academy during the fall semester, the Alternative Spring Break experience and a Leadership Lecture Series throughout the year. All students are encouraged to utilize the center. Students should be mindful that space is limited in major leadership programs.

Department of Student Development

The focus of the Department of Student Development is to incorporate student learning and student development into experiential and social opportunities that will enhance students’ overall educational experience. This department recognizes the importance of a comprehensive college health program, which supports our academic program, to include focus on professional personal and career counseling services, health promotion, education and prevention, medical/clinical/holistic services, intramural sports and wellness and other services.

Office of Counseling Services

The Office of Counseling Services provides developmental, remedial, preventive and consultative/training services which will assist students to grow and experience personal and academic success within the educational framework. Areas of counseling include but are not limited to: relationship issues, self-esteem, stress management, eating disorders, problem gambling, pregnancies, anger management, depression and suicide, home-sickness, self-injurious behaviors and substance abuse.

Contact: Office of Counseling Services; (912) 358-3080

Office of Disability Services

The Office of Disability Services provides resources and services aimed at improving the educational development of students with disabilities and the vocational access of employees with disabilities by providing appropriate accommodations; and to enhance understanding and support

within the campus community. Students are assisted with a variety of accommodations, academic services and/or adaptations that allow those with a disability to have full access to academic information and access to demonstrate they mastered the information or allow an employee to have access to meet the essential functions of their position.

Students with Special Needs

Students with documented learning disorders as defined in the USG Academic Affairs Handbook, Section 3.11.1., must fulfill all stated requirements, including placement testing (Accuplacer or system- approved alternate) and course requirements.

Appropriate course and testing accommodations should be made for students with sensory, mobility, or systemic disorders. Students must consult with Savannah State University’s Counseling and Disabilities Office for more information on documentation and approval process. Such students may be granted up to two additional semesters of LS upon review and approval. Documentation on such students will be maintained at the institution and summarized in the annual report on accommodations for students with disabilities.

Contact: Office of Disability Services; (912) 358-3115.

Student Health Services

Student Health Services is dedicated to the delivery of excellent health care, the facilitation of student learning and personal responsibility, and the continual improvement of medical services to foster the growth and attitudes for the future. All students enrolled at the University is eligible to receive services provided in the Harris-McDew Health Center. Services offered include: physician exams and care; prescription and over-the-counter medication; preventative medicine student health insurance information as well as health and wellness promotions programs.

Contact: Harris-McDew Health Center; (912) 358-4122.

University Recreation and Wellness

University Recreation and Wellness (URW) fosters both competitive and leisure sports and fitness activities for both men and women. URW aims to enhance students’ fitness and wellness, knowledge, personal skills, and enjoyment by providing opportunities for a variety of activities that may contribute to individual fitness and wellness; opportunities for cooperative and competitive play activity in the game form; and a medium through which students can learn and practice leadership, management, program planning and interpersonal skills. Activities usually include, but are not limited to, basketball, volleyball, softball, and flag football.

Contact: University Recreation and Wellness; (912) 358-3071.

Career Services & Leadership Development Center

The Career Services and Leadership Development Center provides students and alumni a platform for personal and leadership development, career explorations, and professional networking to help SSU Tigers transform their degree into the career of their dreams. University Career Services offers services and resources, which include, but are not limited to career focus checklist for freshmen through seniors, job fairs, computer career guidance, employment bulletins, internship guidance, interviewing and job searching programs, on campus recruiting and outreach programs, referral services and resume development.

Contact: Career Services and Leadership Development Center; (912) 358-3140.

Housing and Residence Life

University Housing and Residence Life provides comfortable, affordable, and secure residential communities located throughout campus. In particular, the university has traditional residence hall facilities and apartment-style facilities for upper-class- level students. Residence life programs promote student development, leadership and a variety of living and learning options that compliment classroom instruction. Students wishing to live on campus are required to apply for housing at the beginning of the academic year, summer school, and any semester that is preceded by a break in continued residence. Room assignments are made for the academic year. Students who live in residential facilities are required to purchase a meal plan.

Contact: University Housing and Residence Life; (912) 358-3132.

Department of Student Life

The Department of Student Life, is responsible for enhancing student life for all students, through co-curricular activities, which are an integral part of the physical, social, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual growth of students. Student activities at Savannah State University consist of:

Student organizations provide opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to interact with one another during cultural, recreational, spiritual and social activities either in formal or informal settings.

Organizations that are recognized at the university include:

Student Organizations

Office of Student Conduct

The Office of Student Conduct’s mission is to promote the development of character, citizenship, civility, individual and social responsibilities of students and student organizations at Savannah State University. The office provides programs that promote the obligations of citizenship in the University community. Students and student organizations are also provided with the tools necessary for success in pluralistic society by providing feedback about behaviors that both enhance and harm the academic community, as well as assistance and opportunities in modifying such behaviors.

Student Conduct

The University community is committed to fostering a campus environment that is conducive to academic inquiry, a productive campus life and thoughtful study and discourse. The student conduct program within the Office of Student Conduct is committed to an educational and developmental process that balances the interests of individual students with the interests of the entire University community. A community exists on the basis of shared values and principles.

At Savannah State University, student members of the community are expected to uphold and abide by certain standards of conduct that form the basis of the Code of Student Conduct. These standards are embodied within a set of core values that include integrity, community, social justice, respect, responsibility, and tradition. Each member of the University community bears responsibility for their conduct and assumes reasonable responsibility for the behavior of others. When members of the community fail to exemplify these six values by engaging in violation of the policies below, campus conduct proceedings are used to assert and uphold the Code of Student Conduct.

Violations of the Student Conduct Code

Consistent with its mission, Savannah State University takes seriously its commitment to fostering and maintaining an environment conducive to student learning and growth through curricular and co-curricular programs. At the same time, the University has high expectations that students govern their behavior, actions, and practices responsibly and with civility. Students are therefor, expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the objectives and standards of conduct established by the University. A violation of any section of the code will lead to disciplinary action regardless of class level, age, race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or physical ability level.

Savannah State University students are responsible for knowing the information, policies and procedures outlined in the Student Code of Conduct. It is also important to note that the Code of Student Conduct applies to students both on and off campus, distance learning students as well as students studying abroad while associated with the University.

Disciplinary Procedures

The University has established procedural standards for investigations and resolutions of alleged student conduct violations which is incorporated in the student conduct policies. These procedures ensure uniformity in the quality of investigations while providing for due process that affords fairness and equity in all student conduct investigations. It is not intended to infringe or restrict rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution including free speech under the First Amendment, or the due process clauses of Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments.

The University’s disciplinary procedures apply to matters relating to student misconduct, except matters relating to academic dishonesty, which may be covered under separate institutional policies. Students are informed of the procedures governing student misconduct complaints and investigations.

Student Conduct Review Board

The University Conduct Review Board (UCRB), which is comprised of faculty, staff, and students, has jurisdiction for hearing cases involving alleged violations of the Code of Student Conduct. Through the Coordinator of Student Conduct, the Board has authority to summon any member of the University community as a witness in a case of student misconduct. Faculty and Staff board members are volunteers and are vetted through the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and/or Human Resources. Student members are selected by Student Government or appointed by the Office of Student Conduct. All members are appointed to a one-year term.

Basis for Review (Appeals)

Student Conduct appeals are a review of the record only, and no new meeting with the Respondent or any Complainant is required. Appeals must be made in writing within five business days of the original decision. At each appeal level (Dean of Students, Vice President for Student Affairs, President), the reviewer may affirm the original finding and sanction, affirm the original finding but issue a new sanction of greater or lesser severity, remand the case back to any lower decision maker to correct a procedural or factual defect, or reverse or dismiss the case if there was a procedural or factual defect that cannot be remedied by remand. All decisions shall be simultaneously issued in writing to the parties within a reasonable time period. The President or their designee’s decision shall be the final decision of the institution.

Should student wish to appeal the final institutional decision, they may request review by the Board of Regents in accordance with the Board of Regents’ Policy on Discretionary Review. Appeals received after the designated deadlines above will not be considered unless the institution or Board of Regents has granted an extension prior to the deadline. If an appeal is not received by the deadline the last decision on the matter will become final (BOR Policy 4.6.5.6).

Article IX Appeal to Board of Regents

A student dissatisfied with the President’s decision has the right to appeal to the Board of Regents. The appeal to the Board shall be submitted in writing to the executive secretary of the Board through the Chancellor, within twenty calendar days after the President’s decision and shall cite all the reasons for dissatisfaction with the previous decision.

Drug possession or use (without valid medical or dental prescription), manufacture, transportation, storage, furnishing, or sale of any narcotic or dangerous drug controlled by federal or Georgia law is prohibited. Students convicted of violation Section II (Drugs and Alcohol) of the student conduct code may lose academic credit and/or federal financial aid and/or be suspended from the University.

Persons found in possession of weapons will be subject to disciplinary action by the University and/or local courts. Violators will be subject to arrest, adjudication by the University and/or prosecution by local, state, and federal courts. It is against University rules and regulations for students to possess, use, or store weapons such as guns, blackjacks, bow and arrows, Taser guns, BB guns, air guns, ammunition, hunting slingshots, martial arts weapons, chemical weapons, medieval weapons, darts, knives or mace. Carrying a weapon onto or within 1,000 feet of property owned, controlled, or leased by the University is strictly prohibited.

Contact: The Office of Student Conduct is conveniently located on the SSU campus in the King-Frazier Student Center, room 247, and can be contacted at (912) 358 - 3122.

Title IX: Compliance

Sexual Harassment, Discrimination, and Sexual Misconduct Policy

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination based on sex in education programs and activities that receive federal funding.

Title IX states: “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”

Title IX prohibits sex discrimination in any university program including, but not limited to health services, counseling, psychological services, athletics, admissions, academic programs, extracurricular activities, employment, and financial aid, housing, and student services. Title IX prohibits discrimination by and against both males and females, by students, faculty and staff, and visitors.

The policy of Savannah State University is to implement equal opportunity for employees, students and applicants for employment or admission without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, and physical or mental disability.

“Discrimination based on sex” contains a broad category of activities that prevent or limit the victim from participating in or benefiting from an education program or activity.

Examples of sex-based discrimination, include, but are not limited to:

Unequal admission, participation, or employment opportunities in education programs and activities based on a person’s sex;

Unequal opportunities to participate in intercollegiate athletics or to receive athletics-based financial assistance based on a person’s sex.

“Discrimination based on sex” also includes sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is unwelcomed sexual conduct, intimidation, or coercion that is severe and pervasive, and that prevents or limits the victim from participating in or benefiting from an education program or activity. Harassers and victims may be either male or female, and may be students, faculty, or staff.

Examples of sexual harassment include, but are not limited to:

Consensual Relationships

The existence of such a consensual relationship must be immediately disclosed to your supervisor. Consensual romantic or sexual relationships between supervisor and employee or between faculty and students are strongly discouraged. No person involved in a consensual relationship should have direct responsibility for evaluating the employment or academic performance or for making decisions regarding the promotion, tenure, or compensation of the other party to the relationship. The existence of such a consensual relationship must be immediately disclosed to your supervisor.

Retaliation is prohibited.

It is unlawful to retaliate against an individual for filing a complaint or for cooperating in an investigation of complaint regarding Title IX. SSU will take strong responsive action if retaliation occurs. Any person found to have retaliated against an individual reporting, filing, or cooperating in a Title IX matter is subject to SSU disciplinary procedures up to and including expulsion or termination.

Title IX-Sexual Misconduct

Savannah State University supports a safe learning environment for all students, faculty, staff and campus visitors. The university prohibits sex discrimination, including sexual misconduct of any kind, and enforces a Sexual Misconduct Policy. The policy applies to all students, employees and third parties, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Any form of sexual misconduct, including but not limited to sexual assault, sexual exploitation, sexual harassment and stalking, will not be tolerated on the Savannah State University campus. The university encourages members of the campus community to report sexual misconduct immediately and has several tools available to ensure the process is fair and prompt.

Undergraduate Admission

Persons who wish to enroll at Savannah State University must file an application, which can be obtained from the Office of Admissions or GA Futures (GAFutures.org). Applicants who are high school students should file an application as early as possible during their senior year. All applications must be filed and completed by the application deadline for the semester in which applicants plan to enroll.

All new students (freshmen, transfers, and others) attending regularly scheduled classes or receiving resident credit will be required to submit a University System of Georgia Certificate of Immunization prior to attending such classes. This certificate will be kept on file in the Office of Student Health Services and will be valid throughout enrollment. Students without this certification of immunization may be denied permission to enroll at the University. Exceptions may be made for students who have religious objections and students whose physicians have certified that the students cannot be immunized because of medical reasons.

Savannah State University reserves the right to employ appropriate assessment mechanisms to ascertain the suitability of applicants to enroll in the University and to deny enrollment or admission to individuals based upon the results of this assessment.

The University reserves the right to withdraw admission prior to or following enrollment if students become ineligible as determined by the standards of the University or Board of Regents. These standards may be revised and new policies initiated upon the discretion and consensus of the University and Board of Regents.

Admission Procedures

Applicants are responsible for requesting official documents required for admission be sent directly from their previous institutions to the Office of Admissions. Official documents must be issued by the records office of the previous institution(s) in either a sealed envelope sent or electronically to the Office of Admissions at Savannah State University. These documents become part of the applicants’ permanent records and will not be returned.

The following are specific items required for admission:

Freshman Applicant/Regular Admission

Acceptance to the University is determined on the basis of a Freshman Index, which is calculated by using a numerical formula. (See Freshmen Index below) The required Freshmen Index for admission is 1940. The required high school curriculum, ACT or SAT scores, and grade point average is used to determine admissions. Applicants must be a graduate of an accredited high school (regional accrediting association or a public school regulated by a school system and state department of education) with a diploma (a certificate of attendance is not acceptable). The University requires the students’ final high school transcripts before they are allowed to attend classes. Applicants graduating from high school less than 5 years or earlier, must complete requirements of the Required High School Curriculum (RHSC) of the Board of Regents (see Required High School Curriculum).

Regular Admissions Requirements:

Freshman Index

The Freshman Index is calculated by adding a weighted high school GPA (500 x HSGPA) to the sum of the verbal and mathematics scores on the SAT. If ACT scores are submitted, a comparable formula is used.

Formula for SAT

(Freshman Index = 500 x HSGPA+SAT I verbal + SAT I Math) Prior to test administered March 2016
(Freshmen Index= 500 x (HSGPA) + 1.06 x (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Section score + Math Section Score) -74) Test administered after March 2016
Formula for ACT
(Freshman Index = 500 x HSGPA + (ACT Composite score x 42) + 88

The required index score for regular admission to Savannah State University is subject to increase. Contact the Office of Admissions for current index scores for application term.

Test Scores

The highest scores submitted by the applicant will be used for admissions purposes. The minimum scores for regular admissions are as listed:

SAT I (New) 480 Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Section and 440 Math Section
SAT I (Old) 430 Critical Reading and 400 Math
ACT 17 English, 17 Math, and 17 Composite

High School Grade Point Average

A minimum of a 2.0 grade point average is required for Regular Admissions. The high school grade point average is calculated by using only college preparatory curriculum courses in the formula. All courses attempted will be calculated into the grade point average (upon receipt of final high school transcript the GPA is calculated on the 17 units used to satisfy Required High School Curriculum requirements). Courses will not be weighted unless designated by a grade legend printed on the applicant’s high school transcript indicating additional points should be added. A preliminary GPA is calculated for admissions and is re-calculated when the final high school transcript is received by the Office of Admissions.

Required High School Curriculum

Listed are the requirements for completion of the Required High School Curriculum (RHSC). A preliminary evaluation is processed using the current high school transcript to determine if the applicant is on track to complete the required number of units. A final evaluation is processed when the final high school transcript is received. The applicant must complete a minimum number or CPC units when the preliminary evaluation is processed for admissions.

Units Instructional Emphasis/Courses
English (4) Literature (American and World) integrated with grammar, usage and advanced composition skills.
Science (4) Science units should include two courses with a laboratory component. GA public high school students should have at least one unit of Biology; one unit of Physical Science or Physics; one unit of Chemistry, Earth Systems, Environmental Science, or an Advanced Placement course; and a 4th science (some computer science courses may count as a 4th science).
Mathematics (4) Two courses in Algebra, one course in Geometry, and one other Math.
Social Science (3) Courses must include one unit focusing on U.S. studies and one unit on world studies.
Foreign Language (2) Two courses in one language emphasizing speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Computer Science courses that have an emphasis on coding and programming can be used to satisfy this requirement.

Limited Admission

Freshmen applicants that do not meet the freshmen index for regular requirements may qualify for limited admissions if a minimum set of requirements are met. Only a small percentage of the total freshmen class may be admitted as Limited admits. Students will be evaluated and granted Limited admissions on a space availability basis if the minimum requirements are met.

Minimum Requirements for Limited Admissions:

Satisfying Required High School Curriculum Deficiencies

Students who have not completed the RHSC requirements in high school, students that graduate from high schools that are not accredited, home school students and applicants earning a GED must satisfy the minimum number of units to satisfy requirements for admissions. Students that are admitted via limited admissions must satisfy the requirements during the first term(s) of enrollment.

English

Students earning a home school diploma and/or graduating from a non-accredited high school may take SAT II subject tests to earn CPC units. A score of 520 on the English Writing SAT II subject test and a score of 530 on the Literature test are passing scores. Students with a passing score on only one test would have two deficiencies at admission and, therefore, must be tested for placement into a Student Academic Assistance or Learning Support English course (institutional credit only).

Satisfactory scores on either test will provide credit for two years of CPC English while satisfactory scores on both tests will provide credit for four years or CPC English.

Limited admit applicants graduating with fewer than the four required units of English are required to take the reading and writing section of the ACCUPLACER. Based upon the score earned, students will either be exempt from or required to enroll in the appropriate learning support course. Students who took the SAT I exam and their Critical Reading or Evidence-Based Reading and Writing scores met or exceeded the average score of the first-time, full-time freshmen class of the previous year may satisfy any English deficiency.

Mathematics

Students earning a GED, earning a home school diploma and/or graduating from a non-accredited high school may take SAT II subject tests to earn CPC units. To satisfy the math CPC course requirements a score of 500 on the Math IC and a score of 550 Math IIC must be earned on the test. Students not passing either test would have three deficiencies.

Limited admit applicants graduating with fewer than the four required units of mathematics are required to take the math section of the ACCUPLACER. Based upon the score earned, students will either be exempt from or required to enroll in the appropriate learning support course. Students who took the SAT I exam and their Math scores met or exceeded the average score of the first-time, full-time freshmen class of the previous year may satisfy any math deficiency.

Science

Students earning a GED, earning a home school diploma and/or graduating from a non-accredited high school may take SAT II subject tests to earn CPC units. To satisfy the science CPC course requirements an applicant must achieve a score of 520 on the Biology subject test and a 540 on the Chemistry subject test or 590 on the Physics subject test. Students passing only one of the two required tests would have two deficiencies at admission.

Limited admit students that are admitted with fewer than the four required units of science are required to take a laboratory science course and pass it with a grade of ―C or better. Students must enroll in a laboratory science course and pass the course with a ―C or better.

Social Science

Students earning a GED, earning a home school diploma and/or graduating from a non-accredited high school may take SAT II subject tests to earn CPC units. To satisfy the social science CPC requirements an applicant must achieve a 560 on the SAT II subject tests in American History and Social Science and achieve a 540 on the World History. Students passing only one of the two required tests would have two deficiencies at admission and, therefore, will be required to enroll in a social science course.

Limited admit students that are admitted with fewer than the three required units of social science are required to take a three semester hour course from approved social science courses and pass it with a grade of ―C or better.

Foreign Language

Students earning a GED, earning a home school diploma and/or graduating from a non-accredited high school may take SAT II subject tests to earn CPC units. To satisfy the foreign language CPC requirements an applicant must pass a SAT II test for language or qualify for exemption. Alternatively, the CLEP, AP, or a departmental exam may be taken, and, if the score earned is adequate, credit will be granted for meeting the foreign language requirements.

Limited admit students with fewer than the two required units of foreign language are required to take a three semester hour course from an approved social science courses and pass with a grade of C or better.

Policies Regarding RHSC Deficiencies

All course work required to overcome deficiencies must be completed prior to accumulating 30 semester hours of university level course work. In science, social science, and foreign language courses, it is necessary to complete the course with a grade of ―C or better.

Students should register for courses to satisfy deficiencies in science, social science, or foreign language during their first and each subsequent semester of enrollment until the deficiencies are satisfied.

Students transferring with fewer than 30 transferable credit hours of accepted transfer credits which do not include completion of the core curriculum credits, or from a program not requiring the College Preparatory Curriculum are required to submit a high school transcript and appropriate test scores for evaluation. Applicants not meeting regular freshman requirements (see ―Regular Admission) are required to test for placement and should register for any deficiencies immediately upon entering Savannah State University.

Students whose native language is not English may be considered to have met the CPC foreign language requirements if they are proficient in their native language. Documentation from the high school counselor is needed to verify that the student’s native language satisfies the foreign language requirement.

Exceptions to the RHSC Requirements

Applicants who have not attended high school within the previous five years are exempt from Required High School Curriculum Requirements. Qualified transfer applicants and International students are exempt also.

Non-traditional applicants who are admitted with RHSC exemptions in English and/or Math are required to sit for the Next-Generation ACCUPLACER.

Presidential Exceptions

In very special and rare circumstances, the President of Savannah State University may grant exceptions to the RHSC and FI requirements for limited admissions if students show exceptional promise for success. Only a few students can be admitted under this category. The total number of Presidential Exceptions must be included in the Limited Admit category and both categories must not exceed 20 percent of the previous Fall First Time-Full Time Freshman cohort. Applicants are required to submit two letters of recommendations and a letter demonstrating desire and competency to attend college.

Admission of Students with Disabilities

Applicants with disabilities are expected to have completed the RHSC requirement with the appropriate instructional accommodations. The Core Curriculum of Savannah State University requires students to complete university-level courses in English, mathematics, social science, and science. No exemptions or substitutions are permitted for these required college courses. Students who are not successful in the high school courses will not be provided with RHSC exceptions in the admissions process.

Foreign language fluency is not required for all majors at Savannah State University. Therefore, students with learning disabilities that preclude the acquisition of a foreign language may petition for admission without completing this RHSC requirement.

For admission to Savannah State University, students must receive approval from a Regents’ Center for Learning Disorders (RCLD) prior to acceptance. To ensure consideration under this provision, students should apply for admission and request a RCLD review no later than six months before the admissions decision is to be made. Students applying should also apply and request approval at least six months in advance, but may be admitted in the ―limited category if they meet other requirements. Those admitted without approval must request a RCLD review and submit all requested materials during their first semester of enrollment. Students who receive approval from the RCLD may then satisfy the CPC foreign language deficiency by substituting another type of course determined by the Institution.

Students are expected to achieve the University’s minimum SAT scores with the appropriate SAT accommodations from the College Board.

Students may apply and be admitted without regard to disability. However, students who do not meet the regular admissions requirements and who would like to be considered for accommodations in the admissions process must notify the Office of Counseling and provide documentation of their disability. In particular, students with learning disorders who are requesting an accommodation that requires approval from a RCLD review should apply at least six months in advance of the time the admissions decision is needed.

Students should be aware that certain programs and degrees require the ability to perform specific critical skills. Students should, prior to applying for or beginning a program of study, review all requirements that are necessary for completion of the program.

Transfer Students

Transfer students who have been out of high school fewer than five years are requested to submit high school transcripts and SAT/ACT test scores as part of their application package unless they have completed 30 transferable hours and earned a minimum GPA of a 2.0.

Transfer students completing high school less than 5 years ago and transferring from University System of Georgia institutions maintain their RHSC status as determined by the first University System institution making the original RHSC evaluation.

Transfer applicants are required to send official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities. Transcripts should be sent to the Office of the Registrar at Savannah State University, regardless of the transferability of the credits.

Transfer applicants are not considered for admission unless they are academically eligible to return to the colleges or universities they last attended.

Transfer applicants will be considered for admission to Savannah State University if their grade point average is equivalent to 2.0 on all work attempted at other institutions. Applicants with a GPA of less than 2.0 will be denied admission, but ma y appeal to the Office of Academic Affairs.

Credit allowed for extension, correspondence, CLEP examination, or military service schools shall not exceed a total of 30 semester hours.

Transfer credit may be accepted from degree granting institutions that are accredited at the collegiate level by their appropriate regional accrediting agencies. Students may be required to validate credit by examination. In computing cumulative grade point averages, only the work attempted at Savannah State University will be considered.

If the Core Curriculum requirements in Area A (Essential Skills), Area B (Institutional Options), Area C (Humanities/Fine Arts), Area D (Science, Math, and Technology), Area E (Social Sciences), Freshman Experience, and/or health and wellness have been completed at a University System of Georgia institution, each completed course will be accepted as having met the respective area requirement at Savannah State University. Freshmen Experience/Orientation classes will be allowable substitutions for SSU FYE courses. Transfer students who transfer in 30 or more hours are exempt from taking the First Year Experience course. Students must meet the overall hours to graduate but can make up the hours with elective credit.

An official evaluation of applicants’ previous college credit hours earned will be completed prior to their first semester of attendance, provided that all transcripts are on file. Transfer credit will be awarded from institutions listed in the American Association of College Admission Officers and Registrars Handbook as being regionally accredited.

Students who complete course work and exit any area of Student Learning Support at a University System institution shall not be required to re-enroll in that area of Student Learning Support upon transfer to Savannah State University.

All transfer students from within the system shall be subject to all provisions of this policy. During subsequent semesters, these students shall be subject to all provisions of this policy. Provisionally admitted transfer students must meet the same regular admission requirements as individuals admitted to the University for the first time. A complete record of past remedial course work and ACCUPLACER exam scores must be on file in the Savannah State University Office of the Registrar.

Dual Enrollment

Students who have completed the ninth grade in high school and who have demonstrated outstanding ability towards academic achievement will be considered for Dual Enrollment. The University will consider students for Dual Enrollment only upon recommendation from their high school counselor. To be admitted, students must satisfy all of the following criteria:

Courses pursued by students under this program must come from the approved course directory (found at www.gsfc.org) which is supplied to high school counselors in the state. Courses are available only in the areas of the core graduation requirements for college preparatory students: English; Mathematics; Social Studies; Science and Foreign Language.

At Savannah State University the Dual Enrollment program pays for tuition and some fees books, transportation and other expenses are the responsibility of the student, including fees and expenses if not covered under the Dual Enrollment program.

Application Process/Application Procedure

The student must complete an application for admissions. The high school counselor should send an official copy of the students’ transcript directly to the Admissions Office. Submit official test scores from either the College Board Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT I) or The American College Testing Program (ACT). We will accept scores posted on high school transcripts. Please submit recommendations from the high school guidance counselor our use a Parental Agreement form from your high school signed by the guidance counselor and parent.

International Students

Savannah State University subscribes to the principles of international education and to the basic concept that only through education and understanding can mutual respect, appreciation, and tolerance of others be accomplished.

Students from a country other than the United States who are interested in attending Savannah State University should write to the Office of Admissions, Savannah State University, Savannah, Georgia 31404, USA, and submit a completed application. Applications must be submitted at least ninety days prior to the beginning of the anticipated semester of enrollment.

Applicants must have the equivalent of a USA high school diploma and the equivalent of a 2.0 minimum grade point average on academic work only (on a 4.0 scale).

Savannah State University does not evaluate high school or college coursework completed outside of the United States. An official International Record evaluation must be completed by a university recognized agency.

Applicants must provide evidence of English language proficiency through the TOEFL. Language school records and scores from all tests must be sent to the Office of Admissions. The minimum acceptable TOEFL on the paper version is 530 the score on the computerized version is 225. A score of 69 is the minimum for the Internet based exam. Freshman applicants must also sit for the SAT.

Applicants may be required to take the Next-Generation ACCUPLACER test as well.

Applicants must submit evidence of financial ability to pursue a full-time education in this country since no financial aid is available for international students. All international students are required to pay out-of-state tuition except for those who are in a Direct Exchange Program.

After all of the above conditions have been met, the Immigration Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility) needed to obtain a student VISA will be issued to applicants. Applicants must pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee and make an appointment for an F-1 Visa and must be granted the student visa prior to enrollment.

International students with a student visa are required to carry a full course of study in every semester, except summer. A minimum course load at Savannah State University is twelve semester hours for undergraduate students and nine semester hours for graduate students.

Resident aliens must present their Alien Registration card as proof of their official status to the Office of International Education.

All international students must be prepared to obtain adequate health and accident insurance while they are attending Savanna h State University. Prior to registration, they must provide proof of insurance and a local street address. A mandatory health insurance program is required for undergraduate and graduate students.

International students must take a proficiency test in both reading and writing (Michigan Test of English Language and a writing test) during their sophomore year. Students who fail either or both tests will be required to enroll in remedial courses.

The University’s international student advisor assists international students on campus and in the community. There is an active International Students Association.

Admission to Engineering Degree Programs

The Regents’ Engineering Pathway Program (REPP) was established in 1986 to expand the availability of engineering education opportunities for Georgians. In its current structure, students complete two or more years of pre engineering courses at participating University System of Georgia (REPP Partner) institutions and then transfer to Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia Southern University, Kennesaw State University, Mercer University or the University of Georgia to complete a B.S. degree in Engineering (REPP Engineering Institutions).

The freshman admission criteria for direct admission in the Regents’ Engineering Pathway Program (REPP) at Savannah State University are the same as for all other freshmen. However, a minimum score of 500 SAT Math or 19 ACT Math along with a high school GPA of 3.0 or higher will allow the student to start with Pre-Calculus. Students are encouraged to complete the Associate of Science - Core Curriculum degree prior to transferring to any REPP participating institution to complete their bachelor degree. Admission and curriculum requirements vary by institution.

Nontraditional Students

Applicants who have not attended high school or college within the previous five years and who have earned fewer than 30 transferable semester hours of college credit are not required to take the SAT or ACT. However, these applicants will be required to take the Next-Generation ACCUPLACER for placement.

Post-Baccalaureate/Non-Degree Students

Applicants who possess a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university may enroll as post-baccalaureate students after submitting an official college transcript showing completion of a baccalaureate degree. There is no limitation on the number of hours of undergraduate credit these students can earn.

Transient Students Enrolling at Savannah State University

Students officially enrolled at another college may apply for the privilege of temporary registration at Savannah State University. These students will ordinarily be expected to return to their home institution.

Transient students are admitted for only a specified time, normally one term. These students must file a regular Application for Admission form, submit a Certificate of Immunization, submit a statement of good standing from their home institution, and have home institution’s permission to take specific courses at Savannah State University.

Since transient students are not admitted as regular students, transcripts of college work completed elsewhere are not required for admissions. A transcript of coursework verifying prerequisites have been met may be required by departments. The College of Business Administration and Department of Social Work require documentation of prerequisites completion.

Transient students who wish to enroll at Savannah State University for a subsequent term must submit (from their home institutions) another statement of good standing and another permission to take specific courses.

Transient students who later wish to apply as transfer students to Savannah State University must meet all requirements for transfer applicants and must submit transcripts from all institutions attended.

Georgia Resident Senior Citizens/Persons 62 or Older

Persons who are 62 or older may enroll as regular students in credit courses on a space available basis without payment of tuition and fees. Students must pay for their supplies and laboratory or special course fees. They must be residents of the State of Georgia and must present a birth certificate or comparable documentation of age to enable the Office of Admissions to determine eligibility. They must meet all admission and degree requirements.

Special Students

All students in classifications not otherwise covered in the University’s admissions categories shall be required to meet all requirements prescribed for admission to undergraduate or graduate programs and to meet any additional requirements prescribed by the University. Exceptions may be made only with written approval of the Chancellor of the University System of Georgia.

Auditors

Students who submit evidence of graduation from an accredited high school or a GED certificate which satisfies the minimum score requirement of the State of Georgia may register as auditors. Under extraordinary circumstances, the President may waive the requirement of a high school diploma or equivalent. Students registered as auditors shall be required to pay the regular tuition and fees for enrollment and shall be prohibited from receiving credit at any later time for course work that they completed as auditors. Prior to registration, students must complete a request for Audit of Course Form and indicate this category on the course schedule planning and registration form.

Faculty members of Savannah State University may attend classes offered by other faculty members if space is available without registering as auditors, but they may not receive credit.

Right of Appeal of Admissions Denial

In all matters concerning admissions, the applicant may appeal by writing to the Office of Admissions and state the basis for an appeal.

A written appeal must be received in the Office of Admissions at least 20 days before the first day of registration for classes for the semester for which the applicant is seeking admission.

Readmit applicants may appeal by submitting a letter to the Office of Academic Affairs prior to first day of registration. Individuals failing to satisfy the deadline may submit their appeal for the following semester.

Academic Renewal

A provision which allows USG degree-seeking students who earlier experienced academic difficulty to make a fresh start and have one final opportunity to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree. Students receiving academic renewal receive a new grade point average to be used for determining academic standing.

Students who qualify for academic renewal must:

Academic Renewal Procedures and Implementation Issues

Course work, grades and academic standing earned prior to a three-year (or longer) separation period will remain on the transcript. In consideration of any course work completed after the period of separation, only Savannah State University course work and subsequent transfer work will be used in the calculation of the overall GPA. The overall GPA will be used for admission to programs/majors requiring a minimum grade point average. Academic credit for previously completed course work, including transfer course work, will be retained only for all courses in which an A, B, C, or S grade has been earned. Grades of A, B, C or S are not calculated in the academic renewal GPA but may be used toward degree completion.

Former Academic Assistance or Learning Support students may apply for academic renewal only if they successfully complete all Student Academic Assistance or Learning Support requirements before the commencement of the three years of absence.

Students who transfer from Savannah State University should recognize that the receiving institution is under no obligation to acknowledge the adjusted GPA. The receiving institution is expected to recognize only the cumulative GPA.

The academic renewal GPA will be used for determining academic standing and eligibility for graduation. All courses will be considered in the implementation of the Board of Regents’ Examination and College Preparatory Curriculum policy requirements. Academic renewal can be approved only once. Once academic renewal is requested and approved, it cannot be reversed. All courses will be considered for the determination of financial aid and/or veteran’s benefits. To earn a degree, students must meet Savannah State University’s graduation requirements. Students who have been granted academic renewal are not eligible for Latin honors recognition at graduation.

Residency/Tuition Classification

Definition of Legal Residence

Regents’ Policies Governing the Classification of Students for Tuition Purposes

The Board of Regents has adopted the following policies for the purposes of determining the tuition status of students: 4.3.2 Classification of Students for Tuition Purposes