An undergraduate student at Michigan State University may choose from more than 200 majors. To earn a bachelor's degree, students must complete requirements prescribed by the university, their colleges, and their departments. A broad choice of electives allows the student to design a program of study that encompasses their interests and abilities to meet future career aspirations. In recent years, many students entering the university as first-year students are encouraged to take 15 or more credits per term to complete the requirements for the bachelor's degree, in four years.Lists of the colleges, schools, and departments, programs and areas of study, degrees offered, and the corresponding course designations are shown in The Academic Program section of this catalog. Some instructional units do not have programs that lead to degrees for undergraduates, but offer courses, e.g., Aerospace Studies, Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Military Science, and Pharmacology and Toxicology, that may be of interest. Information relating to enrollment, payment of fees, credits, changes in enrollment, the grading system, facilities, and other general information is given in the General Information, Policies, Procedures and Regulations section of this catalog.
All undergraduate students at Michigan State University are required to have a laptop computer that can connect to the internet using a high-speed connection. Many course sections are taught with the expectation that students use laptop computers in class. For each section where it is required, this is noted in the Schedule of Courses. Therefore, a laptop computer provides expanded instructional opportunities for students.All students should check with their prospective major, college and department to determine if their program has specific computer requirements for their academic programs. Some programs strongly recommend using particular computer operating systems. If there are no specific computer or operating system requirements for the student’s program of study, then the student’s computer may be any brand running most recent Microsoft Windows or MacOS. Students will want to be sure the computer will run the applications software, e.g., office applications, they will use for their courses. The computer must be able to connect directly to Michigan State University's campus network and the internet using a high-speed Ethernet connection. The Michigan State University wireless network supports all current wireless communication protocols (i.e., 802.11a, g, and n. The 802.11n standard operates in both the 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies.) MSU does not recommend students rely on tablet devices, mobile phones, or netbook computers (e.g., Chromebooks) as their primary computer due to software limitations. It is crucially important that all computers be equipped with virus protection and firewall software, and that the software be installed and running prior to connecting a computer to the Michigan State University network. All students that utilize MSU resources such as network, campus labs, etc., are expected to abide by the MSU Acceptable Use Policy, found at https://tech.msu.edu/about/guidelines-policies/aup/.The average costs related to this requirement will be included in the calculation of financial aid eligibility for need-based aid or federal or private loans. For the latest information on Michigan State University computing services, hardware, and software, visit www.tech.msu.edu.
The application deadline for undergraduate applications varies by start term (Fall – May 1st / Spring – December 15th / Summer – April 15th) (early action, non-binding – November 1; regular admission – April 1; see admissions.msu.edu for term deadlines. In recent years, the number of qualified first-year student applicants has exceeded available spaces. Those persons who qualify for admission after having completed the eleventh grade fill the first-year students’ class initially. For fullest consideration, apply as early as possible during senior year of high school.
Admission to Michigan State University is open to all candidates based on academic performance and the availability of space in the desired academic program, and without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, political persuasion, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, height, weight, veteran status, age, or (in the case of U.S. citizens) financial need.If you are a high school senior applying for entrance as a first-year student, you should:
If you have had some college-level education after high school graduation and are applying as a transfer student, you should:
A high school student planning to apply as a first-year student should submit an application as soon as possible at the beginning of their senior year. There are many advantages to applying early. For example, some programs are filled on a first-admitted basis. Students interested in being considered for merit scholarships should apply by November 1, for maximum consideration, and the regular admission deadline is April 1. Students should apply using the online application.
The university requires students to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Students must submit official transcripts from all high schools attended, proof of GED (if applicable), an essay, and official ACT or SAT scores (if applicable, as MSU is currently test optional).Admission to Michigan State University is competitive, but there are no minimum requirements. Freshman admission is based on your academic performance in high school; the strength and quality of your curriculum; recent trends in your academic performance; your class rank; your ACT or SAT results (if applicable, since MSU is test optional); and your leadership, talents, conduct and diversity of experience. Typically, the most important element in the admissions process is high school academic achievement. Applicants who are admissible will be granted admission pending confirmation of satisfactory status regarding final grades and other admission criteria.Applicants may receive an offer of admission to the subsequent term if space is not available for the term in which they have applied. The chief academic officer of the university has authority to grant waivers of the usual entrance requirements. Admission to the university is conditional upon the applicant providing accurate admissions information and upon the applicant updating such data if circumstances arise that make the previously provided information inaccurate, misleading, or incomplete in an any way. Submission of an application authorizes the university to investigate the accuracy of statements made and data provided by the applicant and those who submit materials or information on behalf of the applicant. Falsifications, misrepresentations, or omissions in application answers or supporting data may constitute grounds to deny or revoke admission to the university. Admission to the university may be denied or revoked if the university learns that an individual has engaged in conduct that indicates to the university that the individual is not ready to be a responsible member of the university community. The university encourages all applicants to visit campus. Admissions presentations and campus tours are available Monday-Friday throughout the year and on select Saturdays during fall and spring. There is no charge, but pre-registration is required.
MSU is test optional, which means that prospective freshman students can apply for admission without submitting an ACT or SAT score. Students will indicate on the application whether they would like SAT or ACT exam scores included in their evaluation. Freshman applicants who would like to have test scores considered will have the ability to self-report scores on the application. Admitted students who chose to apply with self-reported test scores will be required to provide official test results to the university before they attend New Student Orientation. First-year student applicants have an option to take the writing portion of either the ACT or the SAT. SAT II exams are not required by Michigan State University. Michigan State University does not superscore for either test.Scores must be sent to MSU directly from the testing agency. MSU's ACT code is 2032. MSU's SAT code is 1465. Information on the ACT is available at www.act.org. SAT information can be found at www.collegeboard.com.
Michigan State University recognizes that adequate preparation for collegiate-level programs demands comprehensive work in academic subject matter areas and substantial training in writing. These high school course work requirements provide the foundation on which university work is built by providing basic competencies in the following core areas noted in the sections that follow. MSU recognizes that there will be students who have potential for academic success at Michigan State University, but who have not precisely met the high school course requirements, e.g., students whose high schools do not offer all the courses, non–traditional students, and international students. The absence of any particular component of high school course work should not be an insurmountable barrier to admission. Michigan State University urges all interested individuals to apply for admission.
English: Four (4) years of college preparatory composition and literature courses. The ability to comprehend what is being read and to read critically is fundamental for success in college. A student must come to college with the basic ability to recognize assumptions, to identify intentions, to acknowledge the various forms of literary expressions, and to understand and react to the author's message. It is expected that a high school student is familiar with a wide range of literature representing various literary forms and drawn from a variety of cultures.
Clarity of expression is also important. College programs typically require the ability to organize, present and evaluate information and concepts in written form. A student must be able to use the conventions of written English to convey ideas in an effective and efficient manner. Successful students will be able to write analytically and critically, to construct arguments, and to see relationships between content and form, while reorganizing, revising, and refining to achieve a logical sequence of ideas leading to a conclusion.
Mathematics: Three (3) years of college preparatory mathematics, including two (2) years of algebra and one (1) year of geometry. College-bound students must understand the language, notation, and deductive nature of mathematics and be able to express quantitative ideas with precision. They must have skills in such basic areas as the solution of equations and inequalities, and the simplification of algebraic expressions. To be best prepared, students are strongly advised to pursue mathematics courses beyond the three–year minimum required for admission. It is recommended that a calculus preparatory course be included.
Biological and Physical Sciences: Two (2) years of college preparatory science courses from the areas of biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science. College-bound students need an understanding of fundamental scientific concepts. They must know enough about laboratory methods and fieldwork to ask appropriate scientific questions and to recognize experimental approaches to the solution of such questions. They should understand in some depth scientific concepts and should have a year of experience in laboratory methods. Additional science courses are highly recommended, particularly if a student is considering a scientific or technical field of study.
History and the Social Sciences: Three (3) years of college preparatory work in history and the social sciences with at least one (1) year of history and one (1) year of social sciences (from such areas as anthropology, economics, geography, government, political science, psychology or sociology). Through their study of history, college-bound high school students should be able to recognize historical trends and relationships. Students should understand the interactions among peoples of different civilizations, races, and cultures, and know the chronology of major historical events or periods and social movements. It is equally important to understand the underlying political, economic, social, or psychological forces that shape those events. Students should have basic factual knowledge of major social, political, and economic institutions within their historical context, as well as introductory knowledge of the content and concepts of the social sciences. A course which shows how the scientific method can be utilized in the social sciences to examine major issues and to address problems would be particularly useful.
Foreign Languages: Two (2) years of college preparatory work in a single foreign language. Students intending to major in areas that require foreign language are encouraged to complete additional work.
Additional Recommended Course Work: The courses noted above constitute minimum preparation for degree programs in the university. To enhance your application for admission and further prepare for academic success at Michigan State University, a minimum of three additional academic college preparatory courses is recommended.
Refer to Costs section of this catalog for information.
The Office of Supportive Services (OSS) is a multifaceted holistic initiative designed to address the needs of TRIO students; first generation, income eligible, students with disabilities and students who meet other priority participant criteria. Through the collaborative efforts of MSU faculty and staff, the Supportive Services personnel implement intensive and comprehensive services. Students have access to program services from the time they enter the University, through graduation and placement into graduate school. The primary goal of OSS is to assist in the retention and graduation rates of program participants. This is accomplished by offering a variety of services which foster student academic achievement, self-confidence and leadership.For more information about OSS and TRIO, please call 1-517-884-6670 or visit us at 434 Farm Lane, Room 209 Bessey Hall or online at http://trio.oss.msu.edu/.
Credit or advanced standing may be granted to students who have earned specific scores on College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Examinations.
Visit the admissions Web site for Michigan State University's AP Equivalencies for waivers or course credit. Students must have their AP scores sent directly to the Office of Admissions.Students who wish to request removal of Advanced Placement credits from their academic record need to submit their request to their advisor before the end of the first term of enrollment. After the first term of enrollment, the associate dean of the student’s college will review each case, including its accordance with federal financial aid policy, and may recommend the addition or the removal of Advanced Placement credits by submitting a request to the Office of the Registrar.
College–Level Examination Program: The College Board has examinations designed to assess competence usually attained by taking beginning college-level courses. Individuals desiring recognition of CLEP examinations for credit at Michigan State University must present official CLEP Examination reports for all exams taken.Visit the admissions Web site for Michigan State University's CLEP equivalencies.
Prometric has examinations designed to assess competencies usually attained by taking college-level courses. Individuals desiring recognition of DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) examinations for credit at Michigan State University must present an official DSST Transcript for all exams taken.
Visit the admissions Web site for Michigan State University's DANTES equivalencies.
Michigan State University accepts the results of the International Baccalaureate Examinations for placement and course credit.
Visit the admissions Web site for Michigan State University's International Baccalaureate (IB) equivalencies.
Michigan State University offers programs for high-achieving high school students to take courses at Michigan State University and earn college credit while pursuing their high school programs. Credits earned in the High Achieving High School status may be applied to a Michigan State University undergraduate degree. For additional information on course applicability, see the Dual Enrollment by High School Students section of this catalog. Details and admissions requirements for High Achieving High School programs are available at www.gifted.msu.edu. Information about dual enrollment can be found at admissions.msu.edu/apply/freshman/advanced-credits.
A student must complete the Application for Admission for High Achieving High School Students, submit their high school transcript, and be recommended by the high school counselor or principal. Permission to enroll under the High-Achieving High School Students enrollment status is determined by the following criteria: (a) courses in which enrollment is desired represent advanced study for that student at a level not offered by the high school and are approved by the high school counselor/principal and representative of Michigan State University's Honors College as compatible with that student's academic program and qualifications. Performance in these courses will be monitored as a condition of continued high-achiever status; and (b) enrollment of a student as a high achiever does not assure regular admission to Michigan State University upon completion of high school graduation requirements.
Students who enroll in a course are charged lifelong education course fees and receive Michigan State University credit for each course successfully completed. Students who enroll in courses in the semester immediately preceding matriculation as a degree candidate will be charged regular undergraduate tuition and fees for those courses. Students are subject to all university rules and regulations that apply to regularly enrolled students. Coordination of high school class schedules with enrollment at Michigan State University, transportation arrangements to and from the university, and parental approval for participation are the responsibility of the student and the high school.Students enrolled under the High-Achieving High School Students enrollment status who wish to be admitted as undergraduate candidates must complete an application with the Office of Admissions in accordance with established application deadlines. Application information may be found at admissions.msu.edu/apply.
A transfer student is a student who has attended any post-secondary institution after high school graduation, except for the summer immediately following high school graduation. A student is considered to be a transfer student if they previously attended another college, university or proprietary school following graduation from high school, secondary school, or earned an equivalent credential (e.g. GED, A-Levels, etc.).
Submission of an application authorizes the university to investigate the accuracy of statements made and data provided by the applicant and those who submit materials or information on behalf of the applicant. Admission to the university is conditional upon the applicant providing accurate and current admissions information. All changes to the admissions information prior to matriculation to the university must be reported to the Office of Admissions. If circumstances develop that make previously provided information inaccurate, misleading or incomplete, the consequence of the discrepancy may lead to revocation of an offer of admission and up to dismissal from the university if not corrected. Additionally, admission to the university may be denied or revoked if the university learns that an individual has engaged in conduct that indicates to the university that the individual is not ready to be a responsible member of the university community.Prior to application review, transfer applicants are required to provide official copies of all academic records – including courses currently in progress and future course work:
Courses at Michigan State University are given on a "semester" basis, and credits earned are semester credits. To convert semester credits to the “quarter” systems, multiply by 3/2. To convert quarter credits to semester credits, multiply by 2/3.
Transfer students are expected to meet Michigan State University’s Integrative Studies, Mathematics, and Tier I Writing requirements, which are similar but not identical to general education requirements at other institutions. The requirements can be met either by completing the appropriate Michigan State University courses or by transferring courses and credits as acceptable equivalents for Michigan State University courses. Michigan State University is a member institution of the Michigan Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (MACRAO) and a participant in the Michigan Transfer Agreement (MTA).
During the early stage of their academic work, students who anticipate transferring to Michigan State University should consult the Office of Admissions Web site.
Information on courses that will fulfill Michigan State University General Education requirements can be found on the Transfer MSU - General Education Requirements page.
Courses from postsecondary accredited institutions of comparable academic quality considered as acceptable equivalents that may be used by transfer students for MSU Integrative Studies, Mathematics, and Tier I Writing courses include:
Michigan State University is authorized under immigration regulations to enroll nonimmigrant students and welcomes applications from such persons. An international student is defined as a person holding a nonimmigrant visa.
Prospective students are encouraged to begin the application process one year prior to the anticipated semester of enrollment.
Students outside of the U.S. who are educated in academic systems whose requirements are comparable to 12 years in an elementary and secondary college preparatory education program in the United States, may apply for admission. Official copies of all mark sheets, transcripts, diplomas and certificates from high schools, and ALL other academic institutions must accompany the application. These records must show courses taken and grades earned, and must be translated into English if the original records are in another language. If a translation is supplied, it should be certified as accurate and correct by an appropriate public or school official, or sponsoring agency or government. The official record in the original language should also be included.
For information on international student admission, see international student admission.
When admitted, a digital letter of admission will be available on the student's online portal. All international applicants seeking an F-1 or J-1 visa are also required to submit adequate evidence of financial support to cover the cost of attendance for at least one full year of study at Michigan State University. However, students must also consider that financial resources will be needed for the entire four- to five-year period required to complete an undergraduate program. PLEASE NOTE: No need-based financial aid is available for international undergraduate students.
Evidence of adequate financial support and payment of the Advanced Enrollment Deposit must be received before the I-20 or DS-2019 forms will be mailed. All international students studying on an F-1 visa are required to present the Form I-20 when applying for an F-1 Student Visa and again at the port-of-entry into the United States. Students applying for a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa will need to present a DS-2019 Form. This form is available from the organization/program sponsoring the student, or from the Office of International Students and Scholars at Michigan State University. Applicants enrolled at another U.S. institution with an F-1 Student Visa must be released from SEVIS by their current institution before MSU can issue a new Form I-20.
Details are available at obtaining your I-20 or DS-2019.Students who enter the United States with a Form I–20 from another institution should be aware that they must enroll at that school before they are eligible to transfer to Michigan State University. Such transfers require both formal admission to Michigan State University and notification to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Only students intending to enroll at MSU should enter the United States with the Form I-20 issued by MSU. Additional up-to-date information concerning immigration guidelines can be found at www.oiss.msu.edu.
Michigan State University recognizes the educational value of certain pre-matriculation programs by granting academic credit, waiving requirements, and/or placing students in advanced courses. Such programs include the Form VI (A-level work) and those described in the Freshman Admission section of this catalog.
Visit the Office of Admissions Web site for information on A-level equivalencies.
All international undergraduate applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency. Michigan State University offers provisional admission to applicants who meet the academic and financial requirements, but whose English language proficiency does not meet the levels for regular admission. Provisionally admitted students must take an English Language Center placement test upon arrival at MSU to assess their need for additional language instruction at the English Language Center, and to reach English language proficiency within three consecutive semesters of enrollment. English Language courses taught through the English Language Center will likely delay the start of a student’s academic program.
For information regarding the number of credits that may count towards a bachelor's degree, refer to the Graduation Requirements for a Bachelor's Degree section of this catalog.
All international applicants are required to be proficient in English as a condition for regular admission to MSU. Applicants will be required to demonstrate their proficiency by meeting certain minimum standards on any one of the following tests:
International applicants who have acceptable academic credentials may be admitted to Michigan State University on a provisional basis with scores between 60 and 78 on the TOEFL; 6.0 on the IELTS; between 65 and 79 on the MSUELT; or at least 46 on the PTE Academic.Provisionally admitted students must take English as a Second Language (ESL) courses at the English Language Center, and restrictions are placed on the number of academic courses that they may take, if any. In order to remain enrolled, any international student admitted provisionally must reach English language proficiency within three (3) consecutive semesters of enrollment in appropriate English as a Second Language (ESL) courses (summer semester may be excluded) or demonstrate consistent progress in English language proficiency as determined by the Director of the English Language Center.
Students enrolled in English as a Second Language (ESL) courses who wish to test out of additional English language courses may submit official evidence of English language proficiency as noted in the Minimum Requirement for Regular Admission. In order to have the official score accepted as evidence of English language proficiency, students must also complete their current ESL enrollment successfully. Official scores of English language proficiency received after the first day of classes in any semester will not be reviewed until the student’s current ESL enrollment is completed successfully.
As the language requirement is a university policy, a decision by the English Language Center (ELC) for a student to enroll in its program is binding and is not negotiable by the student. Students who are required to attend ELC classes are obligated to show good class attendance and make an earnest effort to improve English language proficiency as soon as possible. The ELC program must be satisfactorily completed before regular admission status may be granted.
See Costs in the General Information, Policies, Procedures and Regulations section and the English Language Center in the College of Arts and Letters section of Academic Programs for additional information.
International students are automatically enrolled in the MSU student health insurance plan administered by the Blue Care Network. The cost of the student health insurance plan will be assessed to the student account at the time of enrollment in courses for each semester. International students are not allowed to waive this requirement. Learn more about the student health insurance plan on the MSU Human Resources Web site.
New undergraduate international students may also participate in an orientation experience through the Office of International Students and Scholars. Admitted international students should access their "Next Steps" by logging onto their online account. The mandatory orientation program will introduce new international students to the services available to undergraduate students and provide academic advising. For regularly admitted students, academic advising includes the selection of courses, preparation of a class schedule, and registration in classes. Information on orientation, instructions for arrival on campus and a tentative orientation schedule is available on the orientation Web site.
Any undergraduate student whose enrollment at this university is interrupted for any reason so that the student has not been enrolled for three consecutive semesters, including the summer sessions, who was recessed or dismissed from the university, who was not allowed to continue in their major, or who has completed prior courses of study, should submit a readmission application to the Office of the Registrar via the web at www.reg.msu.edu at least one month prior to the beginning of the semester in which the student intends to resume studies. International students should submit their application at least four months prior to the beginning of the semester in which the student intends to resume studies. Readmission is only available for spring and fall semesters for international students.
Students applying for readmission after academic recess or dismissal should refer to the section on Readmission After Academic Recess or Dismissal.
Students may transfer a maximum of 60 credits from two-year institutions. Those credits may be earned and transferred into MSU at any time in the student’s degree. No more than 10 of the last 30 total credits toward a degree may be transferred without approval by the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education and Dean of Undergraduate Studies. Only grades of 2.0 and above are eligible for transfer credit.
Each entering undergraduate student will take one or more placement assessments depending on the nature of the students’ previous academic program and intended academic program at Michigan State University. The results of these assessments will be used by the student and the academic advisor to develop an academic learning plan. Following is a brief explanation of the use of the various placement assessments:
There are two possibilities for placement in first-year writing courses: general (WRA 101) or honors (WRA 195H). Most incoming students should take WRA 101: Writing as Inquiry. Students in the Honors College should take WRA 195H (the honors version of WRA 101). The Directed Self-Placement Exam and WRA 1004/0102 will not be offered in 2024-2025.Students that have AP English exam credits can waive and receive credit for WRA 101 in some circumstances (see details regarding writing AP credits at https://wrac.msu.edu/placement/).
All students entering MSU are required to complete the un-proctored Math Placement Services (MPS) Assessment online before participating in New Student Orientation (NSO) Program. Students are urged to take the assessment online, preferably by May 1. The assessment, in addition to practice assessments, can be accessed at www.math.msu.edu/mps. However, a student choosing the option of fulfilling the university math requirement via waiver must complete the assessment in a proctored setting at one of MSU’s Testing Centers to be eligible for the waiver. Questions regarding the math placement assessment can be emailed to mps@math.msu.edu.
The policy governing remedial–developmental–preparatory types of courses was established to protect the academic standards of Michigan State University undergraduate degrees while at the same time reinforcing the university's commitment to assist students in remedying their academic deficiencies in fundamental skill areas. The policy serves to motivate students to overcome their deficiencies while ensuring that all students complete a minimum of 120 credits of college level work as a condition of graduation.
Remedial-developmental-preparatory course numbers are four digits, rather than the three digits used for all other courses. The fourth or last digit identifies the type of remedial-developmental-preparatory course.
There are five types of remedial-developmental-preparatory courses.
Type 1:Single courses designed to remedy deficiencies identified by Michigan State University placement test scores. The removal of any such deficiencies, either by one retest or by passing the course, is required as a condition for graduation.
Credits earned are included in all university computations except the total number required for graduation.
Type 2:Course sequences designed to remedy deficiencies identified by Michigan State University placement test scores. The removal of any such deficiencies, either by one retest or by passing the courses, is required as a condition for graduation. More than the usual number of contact hours may be required.
Type 3:Courses designed to remedy deficiencies identified by Michigan State University placement test scores. The removal of such deficiencies, either by one retest or by passing the course, is required only as a condition for entry into some degree programs and is required as a condition for graduation only for students in those programs. More than the usual number of contact hours may be required.
Credits earned are included in all university computations and are included in the total number required for graduation.
Type 4:Courses that students place into because of inadequate scores on Michigan State University placement tests that identify relevant skill deficiencies, although they do not measure knowledge in the course material. The removal of skill deficiencies is not part of the course objectives. It is expected that students will be enrolled concurrently in Type I and/or Type II and/or Type III courses for purposes of remedying those deficiencies. More than the usual number of contact hours may be required.
Type 5:Courses that may be required by departments or colleges for some students. The course may be designed either to prepare the student to handle the subject matter of a required entry level college course, or to improve his or her study skills or ability to make productive use of university offerings in general. More than the usual number of contact hours may be required.
Credits earned are included in all University computations except the total required for graduation.
Remedial–developmental–preparatory courses may not carry numbers above the 100 level and may not be offered under variable content numbers.
The removal of academic deficiencies, which would preclude graduation from Michigan State University, should have the highest priority in student program planning. Drops from Type I and Type II courses should not normally be processed except to facilitate transfer between sections. If a course overload requires that a student drop one or more courses in a specific semester, courses in the regular program of studies shall be dropped in preference to those designed to remove deficiencies.
The University Committee on Curriculum controls the number of remedial-developmental–preparatory courses and assures conformity of such courses with existing policy. Upon recommendation by the University Committee on Curriculum, the Faculty Senate approves remedial–developmental–preparatory courses by type.
MSU has a two-year live-on requirement. Information regarding university housing is sent to each first-year student entering fall semester with the letter of admission. Information regarding university housing is sent to each first-year student entering spring semester or summer session after the letter of admission has been issued. Former students may apply for housing after their applications for readmission have been accepted. Returning students and transfer students will be accommodated in on-campus housing as space is available, regardless of their class standing. See University Housing Policy in the General Information, Policies, Procedures and Regulations section of this catalog, and visit the Residence Education and Housing Services Web site at liveon.msu.edu.
Refer to the statement on Student Rights and Responsibilities in the General Information, Policies, Procedures and Regulations section of this catalog.
Office of Undergraduate Education
Genyne Royal, Assistant Dean and DirectorAriel J. Arnold, Senior Director of Engagement Centers
Each student is responsible for knowing university, college, and department or school requirements as stated in the catalog and in the materials printed by their college and department or school.To assist the student in interpreting policies and requirements, academic advisement is provided through the colleges and University Advising. Advisors will provide students with information about the broad range of advising services. Students may also check their progress toward a degree by visiting the Academic Progress tile, available at student.msu.edu. The advising programs vary in specific details. Each student is assigned an individual or team of advisors to consider personal goals, explore interests, consider educational options, and focus on courses and co-curricular opportunities that will enhance their undergraduate learning experience. Exploratory Preference and Exploring Business Preference students have advisors across campus directly in or located near our Neighborhood Engagement Centers and the MSU Union. Academic advising is a continuous process in which a student and advisor discuss possible educational options, in the student's total educational program; in specific fields of study; and in potential careers, in order that the student may make informed choices. Academic advising also includes interpretation of the Michigan State University catalog and guidance materials provided by the student's college and department or school and referral to other university resources for academic, career, and personal assistance as needed.Exploratory Preference Major and Exploring Business Preference MajorsMany students come to the university uncertain about a preferred area of academic interest. Other students find their academic interests shift or expand as they are introduced to the many and varied academic experiences associated with attendance at the university. The Exploratory Preference and Exploring Business Preference major options allows students to investigate the wide variety of majors available at Michigan State University. University advisors assist students with major and career advice, as well as course selection. University AdvisingUniversity Advising Advisors are housed in each Engagement Center across campus and the MSU Union. They assist students with adjusting to university life, guide students in the selection of a major, facilitate and support academic skill building, and make appropriate referrals to enable students to take advantage of other resources and services the university offers. University Advising Advisors' efforts promote self- sufficiency, self- responsibility and self-development that will enable students to achieve academic, career and life goals long after their days on the MSU campus have passed.Students who declare major preferences are assigned to academic advisors in the colleges of their major preferences. University Advising also enrolls and is administratively responsible for Exploratory Preference and Exploring Business Preference Majors. University Advising is responsible for coordinating administrative actions (e.g., withdrawals, late drops, readmissions, etc.) and making decisions concerning retention and academic status.
Students may be admitted as first-year students to James Madison College, Lyman Briggs College, and the Residential College in the Arts and Humanities. Students may be admitted to certain colleges following completion of a designated combination or sequence of courses. (see Admission to the College in the appropriate college section of this catalog). Students who have completed the prerequisite courses for admission to the College of Nursing may apply during the freshman year for subsequent admission. Any student who has reached junior standing by earning 56 credits must be admitted to a degree-granting college to continue as a student at Michigan State University.
ACCEPTANCE BY A DEGREE-GRANTING COLLEGE. A student seeking admission to a degree-granting college will be accepted by a degree-granting college provided he or she:
TEACHER CERTIFICATION. For information about teacher certification opportunities, options, and requirements, refer to the statement on Teacher Certification in the Department of Teacher Education section of this catalog.
REFUSAL OF ACCEPTANCE BY A DEGREE-GRANTING COLLEGE. By the fifth day of the next semester, students who fail to meet the requirements for admission to the degree-granting college of their choice but have earned a minimum of 56 credits and are in good standing must:
Enrollment is the selection of courses for a fall, spring, or summer schedule.
For purposes of enrollment and determining eligibility for certain student activities, a division of students by class is made by the Office of the Registrar at the end of each semester on the basis of the number of credits earned and according to the following schedule:
All undergraduate baccalaureate programs require a minimum of 120 credits. Most programs are designed so a student starting a program as a first-year student may finish in 8 semesters by satisfactorily completing an average of 15 credits a semester. In practice, students usually carry 12 to 18 credits a semester depending on personal circumstances and the chosen program of study. Students with less than a 2.50 grade–point average (GPA) the preceding semester should not enroll for more than 16 credits except when required by the specific program. Only under extraordinary circumstances will a student be permitted to carry more than 20 credits.
A student with less than satisfactory academic performance may be required to take a reduced credit load as a condition of continued registration in the university.
Undergraduate students must carry at least 12 credits a semester or summer session to:
Students participating in authorized 40 hour/week internships or cooperative work programs are considered full time for all the purposes listed above.
Federal agencies such as the Department of Education, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Department of Homeland Security may have separate and distinct full-time status requirements.
A major, also known as a plan, is a primary field of study. Selection of a field of study as a major preference may be made at the time the application for admission is submitted. Any student entering the university with fewer than 56 credits may choose to enter without a major preference by selecting "exploratory." "Exploratory" students may defer declaring a major preference or major until there has been an opportunity to explore a variety of fields under special academic advising directed by an advisor in the Neighborhood Student Success Collaborative. Students meeting college admission requirements have the option of declaring a major at 28 credits. A major must be selected before junior standing (56 credits) is reached.
Certain academic programs which specify particular courses or sequences of courses during the first two years may require more than eight semesters for completion of the degree program.
FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS AND SOPHOMORES. Students initiate changes of major preference either in the office of the associate dean of the college major or in their Neighborhood Engagement Center. For students who have not declared a major and have fewer than 56 credit hours, the associate dean’s function is served by the Neighborhood Student Success Collaborative (NSSC). Exceptions are James Madison College, Lyman Briggs College, and the Residential College in Arts and Humanities.
JUNIORS AND SENIORS. A student wishing to change a major in one degree college to a major in another degree college (or within the same college) must initiate the change in the office of the associate dean of the college to which the student wishes to transfer.
The student must meet the requirements for graduation given in the catalog current at the time the change is effective. 20 credits must be completed while enrolled in the major in the college which the degree is to be earned.
A minor is a secondary field of study at the undergraduate level. It is a coherent set of courses that provides a student with an introduction to a field of study. Minors are supplementary to the student’s major. Minors are not open to students who are in majors in a field of study with the same name represented by the minor, and minors may be limited to students in particular majors or colleges. The minimum number of credits for a minor is 15. The Academic Programs catalog must clearly state if some of these credits for the minor are required to be “unique.” “Unique” credits for a minor are defined as credits that do not count for a course taken to satisfy another university, college, or major requirement.
MSU students may attend other institutions as Guest Students or Non–matriculated Students for short periods of time with the purpose of earning credit for transfer to Michigan State University.
Students planning to attend institutions within the State of Michigan should use the Michigan Uniform Undergraduate Guest Application form available at www.reg.msu.edu. Students who wish to attend non-Michigan institutions should apply to the host institution. The completed application should be submitted to the host school.
A student wishing to take courses at another institution should consult an academic advisor or the Transfer MSU course equivalency table at www.transfer.msu.edu to assure transferability.
A minimum grade of 2.0 must be earned in each course in order for the credit to be transferred to Michigan State University.Students may transfer a maximum of 60 credits from two-year institutions. Those credits may be earned and transferred into MSU at any time in the student’s degree. No more than 10 of the last 30 total credits toward a degree may be transferred without approval by the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education and Dean of Undergraduate Studies. Only grades of 2.0 and above are eligible for transfer credit.
The Army and Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs prepare students to commission as officers in the United States Army, Air Force and Space Force. These 4-year programs include academic courses, leadership training, and physical fitness regimens designed to develop students into military officers ready to lead in the Armed Forces. In order to receive a commission, ROTC cadets must complete all requirements for a degree in accordance with university requirements, as well as complete certain courses specified by the Department of Military Science or the Department of Aerospace Studies. Depending on the student's program of study, such courses may supplement or serve as electives with the approval of the appropriate academic unit.
For details on the Air Force or Army ROTC program, refer to Department of Aerospace Studies or Department of Military Science in the Other Departments and Offices for Research and Services section of this catalog.
Michigan State University is a national leader in education abroad, offering more than 275 programs, on all continents and in over 60 countries. Programs are offered every session, including winter and spring break, and range from one week to two semesters.An increasingly common component of excellence in higher education today, education abroad is an integral part of the undergraduate experience at Michigan State University.Programs are offered in many academic disciplines in all colleges. Education abroad program models include faculty-directed programs, exchanges, direct enrollment, affiliated partner programs, research abroad, global community-engaged learning, and international internships. Participating in education abroad helps students develop the academic/intellectual, personal, professional, and intercultural skills and attitudes required to become effective and competitive in the global environments they will encounter after graduation.Students are encouraged to explore opportunities abroad early. They may start by visiting the Education Abroad Web site at educationabroad.msu.edu, by calling 1-517-353-8920, or by visiting the Education Abroad Advising Center in the International Center, 427 N. Shaw, Room 108, or email abroad@msu.edu.For additional information, see the Guest Status at Another Institution section of this catalog.
The Prelaw Handbook, the official law school guide published by the Association of American Law Schools, emphasizes that there is not a prescribed course of study which can be recommended to all students seeking to enter law school. The two most important law school admission criteria, according to the Prelaw Handbook, are the student's undergraduate grade–point average and their score on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). The admission policies of various law schools, and the degree to which they utilize other criteria as well as the above, are described in the Prelaw Handbook which may be examined in the University Library or purchased in most bookstores. The prelaw student is urged to study this handbook carefully and to discuss it with an advisor in the college of their choice.
Although the Prelaw Handbook does not single out specific courses or majors as being especially suitable for prelaw studies, it does call attention to certain skills and insights which the student should seek to develop, and which the LSAT attempts to measure. These are the ability to think carefully and critically, to comprehend the thoughts of others and express one's own with accuracy and clarity, and to understand critically the human values and institutions with which the law deals.
The development of these abilities is not the monopoly of any one subject area, department, or school. While the Prelaw Handbook does discuss specific areas of study and the potential contribution each can make to prelaw education, it prefaces its discussion by insisting on the importance of a prelegal education of the broadest scope. Thus, a prelaw student may major in virtually any discipline, provided that the major is made part of a rigorous and broad education.
The following colleges at Michigan State University have defined prelaw programs and advisors: Arts and Letters, Business, James Madison, and Social Science. Additional information may be obtained from the office of the associate dean of these and other colleges.
UNDERGRADUATE LEARNING ASSISTANTS
Undergraduate Learning Assistant (ULA) is a term referring to any undergraduate student who assists the faculty-of-record in that instructor's assigned, for-credit course(s) at Michigan State University. A ULA can, under the mentorship and supervision of the faculty-of-record, assist in class preparation; objective grading; and active and collaborative learning exercises within lecture, laboratory, and discussion sections. No undergraduate student may perform activities requiring professional judgment such as determining course content; conducting lectures, recitations, or seminars; performing subjective evaluations of student performance; or assigning grades for any for-credit course at Michigan State University.
Tutors, who are not part of the instructional team of a specific course, are not subject to this policy.
Selection Process
Individuals serving as a ULA must have demonstrated knowledge of subject content by either completing the course or its equivalent in which they assist or through a high-level of performance in more advanced courses that depend upon knowledge of relevant course content.
Training
Each faculty-of-record using ULAs must 1) provide ULAs with appropriate guidelines and information necessary to carry out their assignments and responsibilities; 2) connect students to required MSU trainings. These may take the form of a written guide or handbook or internet resource, which must reference relevant university policies.
Undergraduate Learning Assistant Responsibilities
Expectations and specific tasks necessary for the execution of ULA assignments and responsibilities must be provided in writing or electronic document to the ULA. If ULAs are assigned to grade student work, it is the faculty-of-record’s responsibility to provide a framework for objective evaluation of student work, to train the ULA on the appropriate use of this framework, and to ensure that the ULA is using this framework correctly and reliably. The faculty-of-record also must inform ULAs about the importance of maintaining student confidentiality regarding student work.
Evaluation of Undergraduate Learning Assistant Performance
The faculty-of-record has the responsibility for the performance and evaluation of ULAs serving in that course. ULAs must be systematically evaluated during and at the end of each semester. Feedback must be shared with the ULA with the goal of improving the learning experience, developing better ULA performance in the future, and ultimately in developing skill sets and attitudes needed in the workplace.
Stipends
The position of a ULA is typically a paid position. However, in some instances, following consultation with the course’s faculty-of-record, the ULA may exercise an option to enroll in course credit rather than receive pay. A ULA may not receive both course credit and pay for a single course to which they have been assigned. In no case may a student be enrolled in a course for which they serve as a ULA.
Administration and Oversight
Any questions concerning the administration of this policy should be referred to the Office of the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education.
The statement on ACADEMIC STANDING OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS (ASUS) was designed to create an early warning system to prevent students from getting too deeply into academic difficulty. The university requires a cumulative grade–point average (GPA) of 2.00 or above for graduation. The statement on ASUS establishes a system whereby at the end of any semester that a student's cumulative GPA falls below 2.00, the student is assigned to a warning status designated as probation.
Under the statement on ASUS, the term "probation" is the functional equivalent of an academic warning. Students placed on probation retain the right to participate in all university activities and retain all of the rights and privileges available to any student who is not currently subject to academic recess or dismissal.
In addition to the criteria contained in this statement on Academic Standing of Undergraduate Students (ASUS), undergraduate students who wish to be considered for federal financial aid must be making satisfactory progress toward the bachelor’s degree as defined in the Financial Aid for Undergraduates section of this publication.
A student is in good standing if the student is a new student, or the student's cumulative grade–point average is at least 2.00.
A student is on probation if during the most recent previous semester in attendance, the student had been in good standing, but at the end of that semester the cumulative grade–point average was below 2.00. Grades of I and ET are not considered in computing this grade–point average. The period of probation is one semester. If in the special case that there are grade changes during that semester which result in the student's cumulative grade–point average increasing to at least a 2.00, the student is returned to good standing.
Students on probation may be required to see an academic advisor. If they do not, a hold may be placed on their registration. If at the end of that semester, the cumulative grade–point average is at least 2.00, the student is returned to good standing. If not, the student will be put on final probation or recessed.
A student is on final probation if during the most recent previous semester in attendance, the student was on probation and at the end of the semester the cumulative grade–point average was still below 2.00 and the semester grade–point average was at least 2.00. Students with fewer than 30 credits earned at Michigan State University must have a semester grade–point average of 1.5 or higher. Grades of I and ET are not considered in computing the cumulative or semester grade–point average. The period of final probation is one semester. If in the special case there are grade changes during that semester which result in the student's grade–point average increasing to at least a 2.00, the student is returned to good standing.
Students on final probation may be required to see an academic advisor. If they do not, a hold may be placed on their registration. At the end of the semester on final probation, the cumulative grade–point average must be at least 2.00 or the student will be recessed. An exception to this can be made for students with 30 or fewer credits earned at Michigan State University. If such a student has shown substantial progress during the semester and the evidence suggests that the student would attain good standing in one more semester, the student may be granted one additional semester on (extended) final probation at the discretion of the associate dean of the student's college.
At the discretion of the associate dean of the student's college a student is normally put on warning for repeats after repeating between 10 and 14 credits . Students on warning for repeats may be required to see an academic advisor before enrolling for any subsequent semester. If they do not, a hold may be placed on their registration.
If at the end of a semester an upper-division student is not making satisfactory progress toward the degree requirements stated in the catalog (e.g., a student is not taking courses in the student's major or the student's grade–point average in courses in the major is below the required major grade–point average), or the student's semester grade–point average is below 2.00, the student may be put on warning for lack of satisfactory progress in the major at the discretion of the associate dean of the student's college. Such students must be given a written statement of the criteria they must satisfy to progress satisfactorily. Students on warning for lack of satisfactory progress in the major may be required to see an academic advisor before enrolling. If they do not, a hold may be placed on their registration. If a student has been on warning for lack of satisfactory progress and is not making satisfactory progress in any subsequent semester, the student will normally be recessed. However, if lack of satisfactory progress is due to poor grades in the major courses and the student is otherwise in good standing, the student would be permitted, even encouraged, to remain at Michigan State University if the student changed to a more appropriate major.
After a recessed student has been out of Michigan State University for the prescribed period, the student may be readmitted to Michigan State University at the discretion of the appropriate associate dean. If readmitted, the student will be put on probation, final probation, or warning for lack of progress in the major, and the associate dean may impose specific conditions in writing that must be met. A second recess is dismissal.
Students who have been dismissed must remain out of school for at least two years. After that period, they may be readmitted only if a convincing case can be made to the associate dean of the admitting college that circumstances have changed so that there is a reasonable probability of success. Students will be readmitted on probation, final probation, warning for repeats, or warning for lack of progress in the major as appropriate, and specific conditions in writing will be imposed.
The recessed student is normally allowed a second chance to demonstrate satisfactory academic performance. Therefore, the student may apply for readmission to be effective at the conclusion of the specified period of recess. The student may be required to submit a report of activities during the period of recess. The report may be used as one kind of evidence regarding readiness to return. If the student has attended another institution while on recess, they must submit an official transcript and have earned at least a 2.00 grade–point average (GPA), or its equivalent, to be considered for readmission.
Academic dismissal does not imply future readmission nor does it mean the person is forever barred from enrollment at Michigan State University. After a period of at least two years, a student dismissed for academic reasons may apply for readmission. The applicant must be prepared to submit evidence of growth in maturity and responsibility indicative of capacity to perform university-level work. Declarations of good intentions are not sufficient. Each application will be considered on its merits. If the student has attended another institution while on dismissal, the student must submit an official transcript to be considered for readmission.
For additional information, see Readmission Procedure in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog.
To be recommended for a bachelor's degree, a student must:
Note: A maximum of 6 credits in Advanced Academic English (AAE) 220, 221, 222 or 223 may count towards the 120-credit minimum.
Note: Fulfillment of Requirement 1. (above) by active-duty service members of the U.S. Armed Forces may occur any time they are enrolled. At least 30 credits or no more than twenty-five percent of the degree requirements for the undergraduate degree must be earned in courses given by Michigan State University. Reservist and National Guardsmen on active-duty are covered in the same manner.
Each student must complete the university's writing program requirements as follows:
Integrative Studies is an important component of Michigan State University’s approach to general education, offering a curriculum that complements specialized work by students in their majors. Integrative Studies courses integrate multiple ways of knowing and modes of inquiry and introduce students to important ways of thinking in the three core knowledge areas: the Arts and Humanities, the Biological and Physical Sciences, and the Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences. They assist students during their study to develop as more critical thinkers. They also encourage appreciation of our humanity and creativity, human cultural diversity, the power of knowledge, and our responsibilities for ourselves and for our world.
Courses in Michigan State University’s Integrative Studies Program are aimed at developing intellectual abilities, including critical thinking and interpretive skills. They help increase knowledge about other times, places, and cultures, key ideas and issues in human experience, and the scientific method and its usefulness in understanding the natural and social worlds. They are expected to enhance appreciation of the role of knowledge, and of values and ethics, in understanding human behavior and solving social problems. Finally, they help students recognize responsibilities and opportunities associated with democratic citizenship and with living in an increasingly interconnected, interdependent world.
The Center for Integrative Studies in the Arts and Humanities in the College of Arts and Letters has primary responsibility for the Arts and Humanities area of Integrative Studies at Michigan State University.
The Center for Integrative Studies in General Sciences in the College of Natural Sciences has primary responsibility for Integrative Studies courses in the Biological and Physical Sciences at Michigan State University.
The Center for Integrative Studies in the Social Sciences in the College of Social Science has primary responsibility for Integrative Studies courses in the Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences at Michigan State University.
The completion of a minimum of 24 credits in Integrative Studies is required for each student.
Each student must earn at least the specified number of Integrative Studies credits in each of the following three areas: Arts and Humanities (8 credits); Biological and Physical Sciences (8 credits); and Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences (8 credits).
Many of the courses in the Arts and Humanities area and in the Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences area, emphasize national diversity (designated "N" at the end of the course title), or international and multicultural diversity (designated "I" at the end of the course title). Some courses emphasize both national diversity, and international and multicultural diversity (designated "D" at the end of the course title). Students must include at least one "N" course and one "I" course in their Integrative Studies programs. A "D" course may meet either an "N" or an "I" requirement, but not both.
For information, refer to the Dual Enrollment by Undergraduates statement in the Graduate Education section of this catalog.
With the permission of the relevant department and college, a student who is enrolled in or has completed a Michigan State University bachelor's degree program may elect to complete the requirements for an additional major. An additional major may be completed within the number of credits required for the student's bachelor's degree program or with only such additional credits necessary to satisfy the requirements for the additional major. The additional major consists of the specified requirements of the major and, where required, of the college.
A student interested in completing an additional major should contact the department that administers the intended additional major.
The completion of the additional major will be noted on the student's final transcript. Only the primary major of the student's bachelor's degree program will be designated on the student's diploma.
There is no time limit for the completion of the bachelor's degree. For students who have been admitted to a major, progress toward the degree shall be evaluated on an individual basis after an assessment of the student's academic record and degree requirements. The student shall be informed of the remaining requirements for graduation at the time of admission or readmission to the major and encouraged to complete their degree.
Requirements for a major or degree program may be updated through the appropriate university processes. Changes in a major or degree program shall be implemented in a manner which will not delay the graduation date or significantly alter the program of a currently enrolled student who is making normal progress toward the degree. Michigan State University must reserve the right to modify or eliminate programs that are described in this publication. In the event such an action is taken, students affected will be advised by their units of the options available to them to complete their degrees. Every reasonable effort will be made to permit students to complete these programs or similar programs.
To pursue a second bachelor's degree, a student must be admitted to the second bachelor's degree program. To be granted a second bachelor's degree, a student must earn at least 30 credits in residence in addition to the credits required for the first degree and meet the specified requirements of the second college and major. A student who completes the requirements for a second bachelor's degree will receive two diplomas, one for each major.
Information on scholarships for students is available through the Michigan State University Web site https://admissions.msu.edu/cost-aid/scholarships.
The Dean's List honors all undergraduates in the university who earn a 3.50 or better grade–point average (GPA) for the courses in their undergraduate program totaling 12 or more credits for a given semester. The courses must be taken as part of the undergraduate program to be recognized as part of the semester total GPA, and not taken to fulfill the requirements of a graduate or professional degree program. The credits for a given semester must have been recorded under the numerical grading system. The Dean's List designation appears on the student's official transcript. The list prepared each semester is also available at www.reg.msu.edu/ROInfo/GradHonor/DeansList.aspx.
Honors College students, students who complete the Academic Scholars program within the Honors College, students who graduate with honor or high honor, and Board of Trustees Award recipients are recognized in the commencement program and at the commencement exercise.
The policy for granting graduation with honor as established by the University Academic Council provides for honoring the top 20 percent of the graduating undergraduate students based upon their grade-point averages. Approximately six percent receive the degree With High Honor and approximately 14 percent receive the degree With Honor.
The current minimum grade–point averages to receive graduation honors can be found on the Office of the Registrar Web site at https://reg.msu.edu/ROInfo/GradHonor/GraduationHonors.aspx. Student grade-point averages are calculated and truncated at two decimal places.
The specific minimum grade–point averages required for honors are determined by the Office of the Provost following a review of the standards by the University Committee on Undergraduate Education. The grade–point distributions of each year's Spring graduates are used for establishing new grade–point average standards for the following consecutive Spring, Summer, and Fall graduating classes.
Graduation with honor is based on the entire academic performance at Michigan State University. However, recognition of graduation with honor in the commencement program is based on the grade–point average and credits of all work at Michigan State University completed prior to the opening of the semester in which the commencement ceremony is held. Transfer students must earn a minimum of 50 semester credits at Michigan State University to be eligible for graduation with honor or recognition in the commencement program. Graduation with honor is indicated on the student's permanent academic record and on the diploma. Lists are also released to the press with appropriate designations.
Awards are made at Fall and Spring commencements to the six or more graduating seniors who achieved the highest cumulative scholarly records by the close of the preceding semester. A total of 60 or more credits for the degree must be earned at Michigan State University with numerical grades by the close of the preceding semester. Fall, Spring, and Summer graduating seniors are eligible. The President of the University acts on behalf of the Board in determining the recipients of the awards.
Summer Board of Trustees Award recipients, please contact the commencement office at acadevnt@msu.edu if you plan to participate in the December commencement ceremony.
At the commencement exercises, candidates graduating from the Honors College wear a white stole with the initials, HC. Candidates graduating With Honor or With High Honor wear a gold braid.
A comprehensive and coordinated program of financial aid to assist qualified students is available to Michigan State University undergraduates in the form of scholarships, educational grants, loans, and work-study.
Applications for financial aid are available on the web at www.fafsa.gov. Results of the application, known as the FAFSA, are sent electronically to the MSU Office of Financial Aid for processing. MSU's school code is 002290. The FAFSA will ask you for this code.
When a FAFSA is received and the extent of the financial need is determined, the student is considered for any of the aid for which they are eligible. The financial aid package is prepared to assist in meeting the financial need of the student. This package may include any combination of scholarship, grant, loan, or work-study. Career Services, 113 Student Services Building, www.careernetwork.msu.edu, assists students in procuring jobs.
Most of the educational grants require that financial need be demonstrated. Many of the scholarships and grants are limited to Michigan residents.
Students may obtain information about applying for aid at the Office of Financial Aid, 252 Student Services Building, or finaid.msu.edu.
Federal aid regulations limit the amount of time federal financial aid recipients can work toward a bachelor's degree and require measured progress toward that degree.
Undergraduate students seeking their first bachelor's degree are allowed to earn 150% of the number of credits required for the degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. In this case, students enrolling in a semester after earning their 180th credit are no longer considered to be making Satisfactory Academic Progress toward the degree.
Many Certificates in Agriculture Technology and Certificates in Veterinary Technology require 60 credits. For these programs, the 150% limit would be 90 credits.
Credits completed at all post-secondary institutions that are acceptable for transfer at Michigan State University are counted in the total, whether the credits apply to a student's current program or not and whether or not the student received aid for them.
Students are expected to successfully complete 67% of the credits taken during their time of attendance. Successful completion of these credits means the student receives passing grades for them, even if the grades do not meet degree requirements specific to their program. If a course is repeated, each instance of the course is counted as an attempt, but the student can only earn credit for the course once.
Students who fail to meet any of the above requirements are notified by the Office of Financial Aid regarding their federal aid eligibility status. The notification will outline the appeal process for students with extenuating circumstances.
There are four kinds of federal aid eligibility status:
Students who are unable to complete a bachelor's degree within 150% of the required credits for the degree are ineligible for federal financial aid and are placed on federal aid denial beginning with the semester following the one in which they enrolled in their last credit. A student granted an extension will be placed on federal aid probation.
The Short–Term Loan Program at Michigan State University is designed to help students meet emergency situations and should not be regarded as a means of financing a college education.
The Federal Direct Subsidized Loan is based on demonstrated need. While the student is enrolled at least half time, payment on the principle is deferred and the federal government pays interest. Interest will begin to accrue when a borrower enters repayment. Interest rates vary annually, but the rate for the year the funds are borrowed are in effect for the life of that loan. The rate for 2024-25 is 6.53%.
Completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required for participation in the Federal Direct Subsidized Loan Program.
Annual maximums for Federal Direct Subsidized Loans are:
The lifetime loan limit for all Direct Subsidized Loans is $23,000.
The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is not based on need. Payment on the principal is deferred while the student borrower is enrolled at least half time. Interest is paid by the student borrower through quarterly payments, or if a student desires it can be capitalized i.e. added to the principal at the time the loan enters repayment. Interest rates vary annually, but the rate for the year the funds are borrowed are in effect for the life of that loan. The rate for 2024-25 is 6.53%.
Completion of the FAFSA is required for participation in the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan program.
Annual maximums for the Direct Unsubsidized Loans are:
Lifetime loan limits for all Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans are:
The Federal Direct PLUS Loan Program is for parents of dependent undergraduate students. A credit check is required and will be conducted by the loan servicer. The maximum amount that can be borrowed is the cost of education less any outside resources and/or financial aid received. Interest rates vary annually, but the rate for the year the funds are borrowed is in effect for the life of that loan. The rate for 2024-25 is 9.08%. Repayment begins 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed unless the parent requests that repayment be delayed until the student ceases to be enrolled half-time. Completion of the FAFSA is required for participation in the Direct PLUS Program.
The Student Employment Office provides resources for students seeking part–time and summer employment opportunities throughout their careers at Michigan State University. Various types of positions are available, both on–campus and off–campus. Students interested in employment after graduation will find assistance through Career Services and Placement.
Students who qualify for financial aid through the Federal Work–Study program will find job opportunities listed on the Career Services Web site, Handshake, for jobs located both on–campus and off–campus.
A student who plans to work will need to provide identification and an original Social Security card in order to complete the W–4 and I–9 forms to comply with federal laws. A complete list of acceptable documents and more specific information is available at the Career Services, 113 Student Services Building, 1-517-355-9510.
Besides listing job opportunities, Career Services offers many other services and resources to students during their careers at Michigan State University. Services include workshops offered throughout the year to aid students in their job searches, resume critiquing, advising about specific aspects of job searches and employment, a career–related referral service for paid internships, on–campus interviewing for summer positions, and a summer Job and Internship Fair, held every February.
These programs are not administered directly by Michigan State University. However, the university will, on request, certify students receiving awards under these programs with the appropriate agency.
Brief descriptions of the programs are given below and additional information can be obtained from the agency indicated or from the Veteran Certification Team, Office of the Registrar, 150 Administration Building.
State of Michigan
Michigan Indian Tuition Waiver
To qualify, a student must be certified by the Michigan Department of Civil Rights as a member of a federally recognized tribe and be a legal resident of the State of Michigan for not less than 12 consecutive months. This program covers only resident tuition for any postsecondary–level course work, part–time or full–time. Further information concerning qualifications and application procedures is available by contacting the Office of Financial Aid.
Children of Veterans Tuition Grant (CVTG)
A person not under 16 and not over 22 years of age who has been a resident of Michigan for 12 months and who is the child of a Michigan veteran of the armed forces of the United States who was killed in action or died from other causes during a war or war condition in which the United States has been, is, or may hereafter be a participant, or who as a result of wartime service has since died or is totally disabled, or who as a result of war time service was totally disabled before death from any cause or who is officially listed by the United States government as missing in action in a foreign country, may be eligible for educational assistance under this act. Inquiries and application should be made with the Michigan Department of Treasury at https://www.michigan.gov/mistudentaid or 1-888-447-2687.
Police Officer's and Fire Fighter's Survivor Tuition GrantPublic Act 195 of 1996
The Survivor Tuition Grant provides for the waiver of tuition at public universities for the surviving spouse and children of Michigan police officers and fire fighters killed in the line of duty. Tuition will be covered for eligible survivors enrolled in an undergraduate degree program. Inquiries and application should be made with the Michigan Department of Treasury at https://www.michigan.gov/mistudentaid or 1-888-447-2687.
Michigan Veterans Trust Fund
Temporary assistance granted by the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund (MVTF) for emergencies or hardships is available to eligible wartime veterans, and their families, residing in the state. Additional information is available at Michigan Veterans Trust Fund at https://www.michigan.gov/dmva or 1-800-642-4938.
Michigan Rehabilitation Services
Financial assistance to persons who have a disability that has interfered with or may interfere with the individual's job performance should contact the Michigan Rehabilitation Services, Human Services, Box 30010, Lansing, Michigan 48909 or 1-800-605-6722.
United States Government
Veterans Education Benefits
The Veterans Administration (VA) offers a number of programs to those who have served, as well as to eligible survivors and dependents of veterans. Contact the Veterans Certification Team, Office of the Registrar, 150 Administration Building. A brief summary of each program is listed below.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill®The Post-9/11 GI Bill® provides up to 36 months of education benefits to those who have served on active duty after September 10, 2001. These benefits can be used only at institutions of higher learning within 15 years from the date of last discharge from active duty.GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/.
Montgomery GI Bill® - Active Duty (Chapter 30)The MGIB-Active Duty program provides up to 36 months of education benefits to those who have served on active duty.
Montgomery GI Bill® - Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)The MGIB-Selected Reserve program may be available to eligible members of the Selected Reserve. The Selected Reserve includes the Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve and Coast Guard Reserve, and the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard.
Reserve Educational Assistance Program (Chapter 1607)The Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP) is a Department of Defense education benefit program designed to provide educational assistance to members of the Reserve components called or ordered to active duty in response to a war or national emergency (contingency operation) as declared by the President or Congress. This program makes certain reservists who were activated for at least 90 days after September 11, 2001 either eligible for education benefits or eligible for increased benefits.
Survivors and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (Chapter 35)The Dependents' Educational Assistance Program (DEA) provides education and training opportunities to eligible survivors and dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition, or who died while on active duty or as a result of a service related condition. The program offers up to 45 months of education benefits.
Veterans’ Educational Assistance Program (Chapter 32)The Veterans’ Educational Assistance Program (VEAP) is available if those who first entered active duty between January 1, 1977 and June 30, 1985 and elected to make contributions from military pay to participate in this education benefit program. Contributions are matched on a $2 for $1 basis by the U.S. Government.
Department of Veterans Affairs Work–Study AllowanceEligible veterans may apply directly with the Department of Veterans Affairs for the VA Work–Study Program.Students approved for educational assistance allowances should contact a VA Certifying Official, Office of the Registrar, 150 Administration Building.