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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1) Can I start my program at any time?

A typical semester is 16 weeks in length. FHSU has two semesters, Fall and Spring. Some courses are less than 16 weeks in length. The Summer term provides four and eight week courses. Typically, FHSU spring semester begins the second week of January and runs through the second week of May; and the FHSU fall semester begins the third week of August and runs through mid December.

Some courses are offered with a more flexible "open entry/open exit" schedule that begins several times throughout the semester. Please seek advisor input for these courses.

2) Will I be assigned an advisor, and will I be able to communicate with that person on a regular basis?

All students enrolled at FHSU are assigned an individual advisor to assist with the development of their degree roadmap. You will be able to communicate with that person by telephone or e-mail.

3) How much of the degree has to be taken through FHSU to meet residency requirements?

Residence requirements are defined as courses taken from FHSU whether they are face-to-face or at a distance. A minimum of 30 credit hours must be taken from FHSU. These credits may all be taken through the convenience of distance learning.

4) Will courses from other colleges transfer into your partnership school degree plan?

Fort Hays State University recognizes most courses completed at other accredited colleges and universities. Transcript analysts review individual student transcripts from other colleges and universities. Commonly offered courses are routinely accepted. Courses of an unusual nature are sent to the academic departments for transfer determination.

5) How will FHSU classes be delivered?

FHSU distance learing degrees are offered through the following distance learning delivery methods:

6) Is there a placement test?

No.

7) Where do I get my books and course materials?

Our University Bookstore serves as the FHSU Virtual Bookstore. To order materials, call 1-800-325-3252.

8) Do I have to have access to a computer for distance learning?

Not all distance learning courses require a computer. However, most students will need access to a computer for communication with the instructor via e-mail. Courses delivered via the Internet and CD-ROM require the use of a computer. Videotape, audiotape and other media may not require access to a computer.

9) Does your school accept credits from foreign institutions?

Yes, the credits must come from an accredited institution and be evaluated by an international equivalency institution. Such as World Educational Services.

10) Can I take CLEP and other tests for credit towards a degree?

Fort Hays State University awards college credit through testing programs administered by FHSU and outside the university. These include:

11) Can I continue my degree while on active duty?

Yes, FHSU is a member of several military programs that offer courses to acitve duty students. However, certain courses towards the degree may be more difficult, such as Internet-based classes where access to a computer and the Internet are required.

12) How many courses can I take at one time?

The number of courses taken at one time depends on each student's available time. This decision should be made in consultation with an Education Service Officer and the FHSU Academic Advisor.

13) Will tuition assistance cover the costs for this type of study?

Yes. Contact the NAVY College Office for details.

14) How do I apply for grants/financial aid?

Begin by filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Follow the guidelines on the FHSU Financial Aid site found at http://www.fhsu.edu/finaid/.

FHSU participates in most all federally sponsored aid programs.

15) Does your school offer scholarships to military and family members?

Military personnel and family members are eligible for scholarships, as are on-campus students. For information, visit our scholarship Web site at http://www.fhsu.edu/finaid/scholarships.shtml.

16) How do I use my VA benefits?

Fort Hays State University works in conjunction with the Department of Veteran's Affairs in certifying appropriate documents for the following educational assistance programs.

For more information, refer to our Financial Aid Web site, http://www.fhsu.edu/finaid/veterans.shtml.

17) Does the student pay in-state or out-of-state fees?

Distance learning courses offered through FHSU Virtual College have one tuition rate which is the same for in-state, out-of-state, or international students.

FHSU will accept NAVY Tuition Assistance funds toward payment of tuition and fees for courses taken through the Virtual College and will accept other appropriate DANTES and NAVY Tuition Assistance forms required. FHSU also agrees to accept full payment for NAVY students who are either ineligible for, or do not wish to use, NAVY tuition assistance. Students are required to make provisions at the time of enrollment for payment of all costs associated with enrollment, including using appropriate NAVY Tuition Assistance forms.