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Frequently Asked Questions Current Students

Following you will find a list of topics that generate frequent questions by Online students. If these areas do not address your concerns, please contact your Enrollment Counselor.

FINANCIAL AID & THE 10% FINANCIAL AID DEPOSIT

  1. What do I need to do to apply for financial aid?
    1. Complete the FAFSA federal form application online
    2. Complete the Park Request for financial aid online
  2. What is the 10% Financial Aid Deposit?
    1. Park requires that all financial aid students, who will receive enough aid to cover the cost of tuition and fees, pay a 10% Financial Aid Registration Deposit. The total amount is 10% of all tuition and fees for the term..
    2. The 10% deposit is refunded to you when financial aid is disbursed. See chart for explanation on how the 10% is refunded.

  Fall 1
(Paid 10%)		 Fall 2
(No 10%)
Total tuition and fees due $945.00 $945.00
10% payment - 140.40 -0.00
Tuition and fees $804.60 $945.00
Financial Aid Awarded $1000.00 $1000.00
Refund Check $195.40 $55.00
  Total financial aid awarded is equal.

Amounts are based on 2009 - 2010 tuition and fees

  1. Can my financial aid cover the 10% deposit?
    • No. It must be paid upfront and out of pocket.
    • The 10% amount is refunded to you when financial aid is disbursed. See chart for explanation on how the 10% is refunded.
  2. Do all financial aid students pay the 10% deposit to be confirmed?
    • No. The 10% is paid by students who have enough aid to cover all tuition and fees. If the amount of aid you are awarded does not cover all tuition and fees, you will either pay the 10% or the difference between tuition and financial aid - whichever is greater.
Aid is greater than tuition/fees Aid is less than tuition/fees Aid is less than tuition/fees
Tuition = $945 Tuition = $945 Tuition = $945
Aid = $1,000 Aid = $500 Aid = $860
Aid > Tuition Difference = $445 Difference = $85
10% = $140.40 10% = $140.40 10% = $140.40
Pay 10% for confirmation if this term will be your first time using aid this year Difference > 10% 10% > Difference
Pay difference for confirmation Pay 10% for confirmation

Amounts are based on 2009 - 2010 tuition and fees

  1. How often do I have to pay the 10% Financial Aid deposit?
    • You will pay the financial aid deposit your first term of enrollment with Park University and then each Fall 1 term thereafter.
  2. When is the 10% Financial Aid deposit due?
    • It must be paid by the confirmation deadline.
  3. Why do I need to pay this deposit?
    • In the event that your financial aid is cancelled or rejected, this payment guarantees that your registration is confirmed and you will be offered the opportunity to make other payment arrangements prior to being dropped from your course(s).
  4. What expenses I should expect to pay out of pocket?
    • Textbooks
    • The Financial Aid deposit
  5. My financial aid covers all tuition and fees, do I still need to pay the Financial Aid fee?
    • Yes
  6. How often should I apply for financial aid?
    • The FAFSA application should be completed once a year usually around the time the Tax deadline - April 15th
    • The Park Request for financial aid should be completed when you complete the FAFSA form. A separate request is due for Summer aid.
  7. How do I apply for scholarships?
    • At this time Park does not have scholarships for online students with the exception of the Pioneer Services scholarship.
    • However, you can search for scholarships on your own. Contact your enrollment services counselor for more information.
  8. When are financial aid payments disbursed?
    • Usually about the 4th week of each term.

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GRADUATION/DIPLOMA

  1. How and when should I apply for graduation?
    • Fill out the application two terms prior to the term you expect to graduate.
  2. Are there any fees?
    • Yes. The cost is $75.00
    • This fee covers the cost of cap, gown and diploma.
  3. Does the diploma application expire?
    • If graduation requirements are not completed by the projected completion date, the application and fee will expire at the end of the following academic session. If you haven't completed graduation requirements after the extension deadline has passed you must complete another application and pay the $75 fee again.

  4. How can I participate in a graduation ceremony?

    • Contact your nearest Campus Center for approval to participate in the ceremony.  The Campus Center will advise you on cap and gown and graduation announcement orders.

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PROCTOR PROCESS

  1. What is a proctor?
    • A proctor is someone who monitors the examination process usually for academic purposes.
  2. Why do I need a proctor?
    • All undergraduate courses are required to administer a final exam and all undergraduate students must take a final exam in person. Online students meet this requirement by using a proctor.
  3. Where/How do I find a proctor?
  4. Where is the proctor form?
    • The proctor form is available to students starting Week 2 to Week 6 and can be found online at http://proctor.park.edu

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CONFIRMATION GUIDELINES

  1. What is confirmation?
    • Confirmation occurs after all tuition and fees have been paid for the term. The confirmation deadlines can be found Online.
  2. What do I need to do to be confirmed?
  3. When do I need to be confirmed?
  4. What is the purpose of confirmation?
    • Students who haven't been confirmed (have not paid for classes) are dropped to make space available in classes for other students.
  5. If I am dropped from classes due to non-confirmation, can I re-register?
      • Yes, but you must be confirmed (pay) at the same time you re-register. The confirmation deadline is always the Monday before classes start; all students not confirmed by the deadline will be dropped from classes. It is possible to re-register on/before the Friday before classes start to avoid a late fee. A $50 late fee will apply for anyone registering or re-registering on or after the first day of each term.

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WCT

  • What is the WCT?
    • The Writing Competency Test (WCT) is a short test designed to make sure students know how to structure, cite and write essays and research papers. The WCT is a graduation requirement for all students.
  1. When should I take the WCT?
    • You must have completed and passed EN105 & EN106 before you can take the WCT.
  2. How do I sign up to take the WCT?
  3. What classes require the WCT as a pre-requisite?
    • The WCT is the prerequisite for EN306, CJ450, CJ451, EDU300, PS406 and SO306. In addition, EN306 is the prerequisite for such courses as HR491, MG401, and MG495.
  4. Are there any fees?
    • Yes. There is a cost of $25 each time you order/apply for a WCT packet. The fee covers the cost of materials and postage.
  5. How will I know if I passed the WCT?
    • You will receive an email via your Park Google Apps account generally 2 - 4 weeks after your exam.
  6. Can I appeal if I fail the WCT?
    • No. The WCT is graded independently by two separate individuals (sometimes 3).   Therefore, there is no avenue for appeal and you must re-take the exam.

For more information about the WCT, go online to http://www.park.edu/support/testprepare.asp.

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PAYMENT INFORMATION AND COURSE/FEE STATEMENTS - GENERAL QUESTIONS

  • Where can I find my Course/Fee Statements Online?
  1. Where/how do I go to pay online?
  2. Can I mail in a payment or pay by phone?

The use of a student user ID# and password to access the computer system is the equivalent of a legal signature and creates the same obligations for the student. The student will be responsible for any and all future registrations by accessing the computer with the assigned student ID#. All transactions on the computer system constitute official records recognized by the institution. All appeal decisions related to policy or procedures will be based on the computer system's transaction records.

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OTHER WAYS TO EARN CREDIT FOR COURSES

  • VLE - Validated Learning Equivalency credits may be awarded based upon:
    1. Work experience
    2. Military or work training
    3. Taking classes at a non-accredited college/university
      • Students must apply for VLE credit within one year of initial enrollment
      • Cost: $30.00 application fee. $30/per credit hour for each credit hour awarded
      • Maximum number of hours awarded: 24
      • Contact the Park Student Success Center for more information and an application
  • Credit by Examination
    Course credit may be awarded for satisfactory completion of the CLEP, DANTES and Excelsior College Exam. A maximum of 30 credit hours from the subject examinations may be accepted. Exams may be taken for credit in the core, general education, upper division and electives requirements for a Bachelor's degree. A minimum score is required and an official copy of the scores must be submitted to the Registrar's office. The exams results will be applied as transfer hours (TR) on the degree audit and do not affect the GPA. Subject exams cannot be used to fulfill residency requirements.
    1. CLEP - click here for more info. CLEP credits show on transcripts as transfer courses and are not calculated in your GPA.
    2. Dantes - click here for more info. Dantes credits show on transcripts as transfer courses and are not calculated in your GPA.
    3. The Excelsior College Exam is only administered at military installations and may only be available to active duty military students and their spouses/dependents.
  • Transfer credit can be awarded for courses taken at other regionally accredited institutions.
    • A grade of "C" or better is required
    • Official transcripts must be evaluated from each institution attended

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FINANCIAL AID STUDENTS

  •  For the Fall 1 term each year, students receiving financial aid must pay a deposit equal to 10% of their total tuition and fees. If you are a new student, or a student returning after non-continuous enrollment, you will need to pay the financial aid deposit your initial term of enrollment -see Table 1. If the amount of aid awarded is less than your total tuition and fees, see Table 2 below.
  • All Summer Financial Aid students must complete a new Park Request for Financial Aid.

.

Table 1   Table 2
Aid is greater than tuition/fees   Aid is less than tuition/fees Aid is less than tuition/fees
*Tuition = $945 (one class)   *Tuition = $945 (one class) *Tuition = $945 (one class)
Aid = $1,000   Aid = $500 Aid = $860
Aid > Tuition   Difference = $445 Difference = $85
10% = $140.40   10% = $140.40 10% = $140.40
Pay 10% for confirmation if this term will be your first time using aid this year   Difference > 10% 10% > Difference
  Pay difference for confirmation Pay 10% for confirmation
     
*Amount based on 2009-2010 undergraduate catalog for one Online course

SELF PAY (PAY AT REGISTRATION)

Pay all tuition and fees before the term starts. To make payments, see Payment Information section.

TUITION ASSISTANCE (MILITARY STUDENTS)

  1. Make sure your TA:
    1. Is signed by you (if applicable) and your education officer
    2. Has the correct term/session codes and term dates (first day of classes - last day)
    3. Has the correct course code and title. This can be found on your Course and Fee Statement in MyPark
    4. Covers all tuition and fees. Some authorizations only cover the cost of tuition. The internet fee may not be paid under your TA agreement.
    5. Has contact information and a billing address listed on the TA.
  2. You must pay all tuition/fees not covered by the TA in order to be confirmed. To make payments, see Payment Information section.
  3. Keep a copy of the TA for your records.

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TUITION ASSISTANCE (NON MILITARY - EMPLOYER PAY)

Students whose employer will allow Park to bill the company for payment must have their tuition assistance authorization emailed or faxed to their enrollment counselor by the Confirmation Deadline.

  1.  
      Make sure your TA:
      1. Is signed by you (if applicable) and a employer representative
      2. Has the correct term/session codes and term dates (first day of classes - last day)
      3. Has the correct course code and title. This can be found on your Course and Fee Statement in MyPark
      4. Covers all tuition and fees. Some authorizations only cover the cost of tuition. The internet fee may not be paid under your TA agreement.
    • You must pay all tuition/fees not covered by the TA and financial aid in order to be confirmed. To make payments, see Payment Information section
    • Keep a copy of the TA for your records.

VA STUDENTS (GI BILL)

  • Your VA file must be complete.
  1. Make at least a 25% down payment of total tuition, plus total fees or make sure your financial aid has been packaged.

VOCATIONAL REHAB

  1. Make sure your authorization:
    • Is signed by you (if applicable) and your vocational rehab representative.
    • Has not expired.
    • Covers all tuition and fees. Some authorizations only cover the cost of tuition. The internet fee may not be paid under your TA agreement.
    • Has contact information and a billing address listed on the TA.
  2. You must pay all tuition/fees not covered by the TA and financial aid in order to be confirmed. To make payments, see Payment Information.
  3. Keep a copy of the authorization for your records.

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PAYMENT INFORMATION AND COURSE/FEE STATEMENTS

You can pay online, by phone or mail your payments. All payments must be received by the confirmation and/or registration deadlines. Telephone or mail your payments to the Park Student Success Center (PSSC).

To pay Online or to find the Course and Fee Statement

  1.  
      Go to https://my.park.edu
    • Enter your username (student ID#) and password. (If you don't have your password, contact the Help Desk at helpdesk@park.edu. Give them your name, student ID# and the last four digits of your SSN).
    • Click on the Student tab
    • Click Course and Fee Statement
    • Click "Set Options". For term codes go to www.park.edu/online/termdates.asp
    • Select the term from the drop down menu.
    • Click Submit
    • The Course and Fee Statement will appear

The use of a student user ID# and password to access the computer system is the equivalent of a legal signature and creates the same obligations for the student. The student will be responsible for any and all future registrations by accessing the computer with the assigned student ID#. All transactions on the computer system constitute official records recognized by the institution. All appeal decisions related to policy or procedures will be based on the computer system's transaction records.

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What Do I Do When the Classes I Need to Graduate Are Not Offered Online?

You can take the classes at your nearest campus center or take the classes by independent study. To request an independent study, please send an email to the PSSC.

How Many Online Classes Can I Take Each Term?

Two courses per term is considered full-time status in the Online program. After completing your first 6 hours, with a grade point average of 3.25 or better, you may request a student course overload to enroll in 9 credit hours for the next term. To request a student course overload, please contact the PSSC.

Withdrawal Information/Changes to Class Schedule

 

1. How do I drop or withdraw from a class OR change my course schedule or instructor?


Before the first day of class
a. You can change your schedule without any financial penalties. Use the OPEN system to make these changes or send an email from your Park Google Apps email account or fax your Enrollment Counselor. Be sure to include your full name, student ID#, course number and title, and current term/year and a brief explanation why you're requesting a course change.
b. Course/schedule changes cannot be taken over the phone.

On/after the first day of class
a. Last day to register/enroll is the Monday of week two; a late fee will apply.
You can only register for classes during the Enrollment Adjustment Period (first 8 calendar days of each term/semester). For more information, please see the current undergraduate catalog.
b. Last day to drop/withdraw is the Sunday of week 5. Withdrawal fees will apply.  Send written notification via  your Park Google Apps email account or fax to the PSSC requesting to be enrolled or withdrawn/dropped. Be sure to include your full name, student ID#, course number and title, current term/year and a brief explanation why you're requesting this adjustment.

2. What is the refund/fee for changing my schedule?
Before the first day of class - No fees apply.
On/after the first day of class:
a. You may register for classes during the Enrollment Adjustment Period (first 8 calendar days of each term/semester. Fees for late registration/enrollment can be found in the current catalog.
b. Even exchange (dropping and adding a course) - no fees apply.
c. As a result of a drop/withdrawal, only a percentage of tuition is refunded and financial aid may be affected. The Refund Calculation schedule can be found in the current catalog.
d. If you are receiving Financial Aid (loans and grants) contact the Student Financial Services Office to find out how this may affect your aid.
e. If you have a different funding source, contact the PSSC for more information.

3. What happens to my GPA if I drop/withdraw?
Before the first day of class - No mark/grade is recorded on your transcript and your GPA will not be affected.
On/after the first day of class:
a. During the Enrollment Adjustment Period (first 8 calendar days of each term/semester), no mark/grade is recorded on your transcript and your GPA is not affected.
b. After the Enrollment Adjustment Period, a "W" is recorded on your transcripts but is not calculated in your GPA.

4. What is an administrative withdrawal?
An administrative withdrawal occurs after two unexcused consecutive absences.
. Your Enrollment Counselor will notify you via your Park Google Apps account that an administrative withdrawal has occurred.
. A grade of "F" will be recorded on your transcript and will affect your GPA.
. An "F" may be changed to a "W", if you contact your Enrollment Counselor on/before the stated deadline in the administrative withdrawal notice.
. Refunds and withdrawal fees are based on the Refund Calculation Schedule in the current catalog.

You are always eligible to enroll in a withdrawn/dropped course in subsequent terms.

Important Catalog Information all Students Must Know

Every student is responsible for knowing and adhering to all policies, regulations and timelines outlined in the Park University Undergraduate Catalog as stipulated in the Enrollment Agreement & Conditions section of the Application for Admission.

All students should refer to the catalog for questions about any University policy, definition or timeline. The following list contains issues considered particularly relevant for Online students:

Admissions Policies - Park Distance Learning; pg 51-55
Advising, Academic; pg 85
Calendar, Academic - Park Distance Learning pg 26-27
Cancellation, Classes; pg 90
Charges; pg 58
Class Divisions; pg90
Park Distance Learning; pg11
Conduct Code, Student; pg 38-41
Confirmation of Classes for Pre-Enrolled Students; pg 95-96
Copyright, policy; pg 90
Cost; pg 58
Counseling; pg 80
Course Descriptions; pg 215-327
Dean's List; pg 91
Degree Audits; pg 53
Degree Requirements - Bachelor of Science Degrees; pg 102
Double Majors; pg 97
Dropping a course; pg 88/90
Enrollment Adjustment Period; pg 92
Fees; pg 58
FERPA (Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974); pg 34-36
Final Exams, Missed; pg 91
Financial Aid; pg 61
Grade Appeal/Changes; pg 92-93
Graduation Application; pg 88
Graduation Honors; pg 93
Major Requirements - Bachelor of Science Degrees; pg 102
OPEN (Online Park Enrollment Network); pg 30-31
Park Google Apps; pg 29
Pre-Enrollment for returning students; pg 95-96
Records, Students; pg 34-36
Refund Policy; pg 60-61
Requirements for Degrees - Bachelor of Science; pg 102-103
Second Degrees; pg 97
Transfer Credit Policy; pg 96
Tuition; pg 58
Validated Learning Experience (VLE); pg 52
Withdrawal Policy; pg 88

Transfer Credit Policy

Park University will accept transfer credit from regionally accredited institutions. A minimum of 60 hours will be accepted for an Associates degree (excluding AAS). A maximum of 75 hours from all two-year school sources will be applied.

The block method is used in evaluating the general education component of transferring credit for students with a 2.0 cumulative GPA and with a "C" or better in each course used to meet the 27-hour General Education requirement at Park University. No transfer course with a grade less than "C" will be used to meet any Park University course requirement. This applies only to students transferring into Park University with a transferable and non-terminal associate degree, including a minimum of six hours in each of the following areas: humanities, natural and applied sciences and social sciences.

Students who do not have a transferable and non-terminal degree will have their courses accepted on a course-by-course basis. No course with less than a "C" will be accepted.

Credit from formal military service schools is awarded based on the recommendations of the American Council on Educations' Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services. Credit will be awarded where it is applicable to the student's degree program and in keeping with the basic educational philosophy of Park University.

Grade points and the letter grades are not transferred nor included in the cumulative grade point average.

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