Welcome to Illinois Valley Community College

1
Welcome to
The New Student On-Line Orientation
Illinois Valley Community College815 North
Orlando Smith Avenue Oglesby, Illinois
61348(815) 224-2720
Click anywhere to begin!
2
Click Here to Beginthe Orientation
Main PageIntroduction Navigation Getting
Started Academic Program Options The Transfer
Option
The Career Option Planning Building Your Class
Schedule Financial Information Most Important
Policies Every Student Must Know Tips for
Success Frequently Asked Questions
Sections
main menu
3
IntroductionWhat You Need to Know to be
Successful in College!Illinois Valley Community
College (IVCC) faculty and staff want you to be
successful so we have developed this orientation
program to help you attain that goal! Please
read carefully and answer the questions
throughout the orientation.At the conclusion of
this on-line orientation, you will be prompted to
choose a date to come to the IVCC campus to meet
with a counselor and register for classes!  IT'S
THAT EASY!Lets get started so that you can be
on your way to a seamless transition to IVCC.
This orientation will likely take 30 - 45 minutes
home next
4
NavigationRead each page carefully! Some pages
will have questions to test your knowledge.
Responding correctly to the question will advance
you to the next page.When you click on a
hyperlink - it will minimize the power point
screen and then open up the selected Internet
page. To get back to the power point simply
click on the power point screen and it will
return to the screen that you were
viewing.Pages that do not contain knowledge
checks, simply click the next button in the
lower right-hand corner of the screen. If you
wish to go back click the back button. If you
wish to go to the home page, simply click the
home button. Its easy!
back home next
5
Getting Started First things first!How do you
become a student at Illinois Valley Community
College? 1. Submit an application for
admission. If you have not submitted an
application, you can begin the process on-line.
Go to http//www.ivcc.edu/apply/ for
more information. 2. Complete placement
testing. If your ACT English sub score is a 22
or higher, ACT Math sub score is a 24 or higher
and your ACT Reading sub score is a 23 or
higher you are exempt from placement testing. If
your scores are less than indicated above
you may be required to take all or portions of
the IVCC placement tests. For more information
go to http//www.ivcc.edu/assessment/placeme
nt_test.html. 3. Apply for Financial Aid.4.
Complete this orientation.5. Meet with a
Counselor to schedule your classes and register.
Now on with the orientation!
back home next
6
Academic Program OptionsWhat educational
options are available at IVCC? Okay, now that
you know how to get started here at IVCC, what
about academic program options?At IVCC, you can
choose from five different degrees and a variety
of certificate programs. If youwant to transfer
to a four-year college or university, you will
pursue either an Associate in Arts(A. A.)
degree, an Associate in Science (A. S.) degree,
or an Associate in Engineering Science(A. E. S.)
degree. These three degrees are called transfer
degrees.If you want to learn a professional
skill that will result in immediate employment
after IVCC,you will pursue either an Associate
of Applied Science (A. A. S.) degree or a
certificate program. Another degree option
available to you is the Associate in General
Studies (A. G. S.) degree.This degree is
individualized to meet the needs and interests of
the student. It allows for thecombination of
both transfer and career courses. While not
intended to be a transfer degree,the A. G. S.
degree recognizes completion of two years of
college.
back home next
7
Test Your Knowledge IVCC offers five associate
degree programs. If you wish tocomplete your
associate degree at IVCC and transfer to
auniversity, you are pursuing which degree from
IVCC? A. Certificate B. Associate in Science
(A. S.) C. Associate of Applied Science (A. A.
8
Please try again!
click here to go back to question
9
Academic Program OptionsHow do I choose which
degree or certificate is right for me?This
depends on your major and/or career
goal!Transfer Degree OptionsAssociate Degree
in Arts (A. A.) and ?Associate Degree in Science
(A. S.)?Designed for a student who plans to
transfer to a 4-year college or university to
complete a bachelor's degree. An associate degree
requires 2 years (full-time) of general education
courses. This would be 64 hours of credit in a
variety of general education courses, which
include English, Math, Science and
History. Associate Degree in Engineering Science
(A. E. S.)?Designed to prepare the student to
transfer directly into an engineering program at
the senior universities. Because each 4-year
university has its own unique set of requirements
students are urged to see a counselor to
determine the curriculum required for transfer.
back home next
10
Academic Program OptionsCareer Degree
OptionAssociate in Applied Science Degrees (A.
A. S.) This is a 2 year program (full-time)
designed to prepare the student for employment. A
fewer number of classes in English and Math are
required, depending on the program.Certificate
A certificate program requires 1 to 4 semesters
of course work which prepares the student for a
specific academic or vocational career. Classes
are taken only in the student's chosen career
area.Other Degree OptionsAssociate Degree in
General Studies (A. G. S.)Consists of 64
semester hours in any combination of either
transfer or career courses. This degree is not
normally considered to be a transfer
back home next
11
Test Your Knowledge If you have no interest in
completing a transfer degree but wish
todevelop/enhance a certain skill in a
particular field, you may wish to A. Complete a
certificate programB. Complete an associate in
applied science degreeC. Both of these are
effective options and would help you reach your
goal
12
Please try again!
click here to go back to question
13

• Academic Program OptionsWhat if I havent
  decided on a college major yet?
• Don't worry! It is perfectly normal if you can't
  decide on a major before your first year of
  college. Some students do not determine a major
  until their second year in college, and many
  change majors several times. In many cases,
  deciding students take no longer to finish
  college than students who knew their major and
  stayed with it. Here are four suggestions to help
  you determine the right major for you.
• Visit the Counseling Center (E-201) and make an
  appointment with a counselor to explore career
  options. IVCC Counselors can help you to
  explore and clarify your understanding of
  personal qualities that influence your career
  choice. Career assessments, also known as
  personality and interest inventories, are
  available to aid in the career decision-making
  process to select educational programs related to
  a chosen career decision.
• Take introductory courses in potential major
  areas. These courses generally provide an
  overview of the field and can give you an idea of
  the careers associated with that major.
• Use Career Cruising (a computerized career
  exploration system) to learn more about who you
  are in relation to career options. Access Career
  Cruising anywhere anytime by visiting
  www.careercruising.com. Use the following
  username and password to enter the site
• Username ivccPassword oglesby
• Visit Career Services (E-Link) and make an
  appointment to identify your personal interests,
  skills and abilities and match an educational
  plan with your career interests.

back home next
14

• Test Your Knowledge
• Listed below are some strategies you could take
  if you are unsure or undecided about your
• major. Select the most effective strategy from
  the list below
• Visit Career Services
• Visit the Counseling Center to make an
  appointment to see a Counselor
• Take an introductory course in a potential major
  area of interest
• Use Career Cruising, username ivcc, password
  oglesby
• All the above are effective strategies if you are
  still deciding

15
Please try again!
click here to go back to question
16
Academic Program Options Once I've determined a
major, how do I know which courses to take at
IVCC? All colleges and universities divide
courses into three categories General Education
Core Courses These courses provide you with
theknowledge to become a truly educated,
responsible, and productive personin a rapidly
changing world. Major courses These courses
provide you with the knowledge and expertiseof
your chosen field or career. Elective courses
You chose these courses, and we recommend that
youspeak with a counselor before choosing them.
back home next
17
The Transfer Option What if my plan is to
continue my education after IVCC and eventually
complete a bachelor's degree? We plan to support
and assist you with this process! Our hope is to
make the transition to a four-year college or
university as easy as possible. But we need your
help! Throughout your stay with us at IVCC, you
will need to meet with Counselor regularly. The
Counselor will work with you to determine the
courses you should select based on the
college/university you plan to transfer to and
your choice of major.
Also visitabout www.ivcc.edu/transferservices
for information transferring.
back home next
18
The Transfer OptionSo I need to take
generaleducation courses...What exactly does
that mean for transfer students? Most educational
plans begin with general education. If you want
to complete an A. A. or A. S. degree, you are
required to take a minimum of 42 credits of
general education. (The requirements for the A.
E. S. are slightly different and should be
discussed with a Counselor.) At IVCC, general
education is divided into seven areas -
Communications - Mathematics - Life and
Physical Sciences - Humanities and Fine Arts -
Social and Behavioral Sciences - Global
Appreciation - Health and Wellness
back home next
19

• Test Your Knowledge
• General Education is comprised of seven
  categories.
• Identify below the category
• that is not part of the General Education Core
• Mathematics
• Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Computer Skills
• Life and Physical Sciences
• Humanities and Fine Arts

20
Please try again!
click here to go back to question
21
The Transfer Option When I complete the general
education requirements, does this mean I will
complete my degree and graduate from IVCC? No,
but good question! Your goal is to accumulate
credits. A total of 64 credits consisting of
general education courses and electives, and a
cumulative grade point average of a 2.0/4.0 will
satisfy thegraduation requirement for an
Associate Degree. Understanding Credit
Hours Credit is a value assigned to each course.
Most courses are worth 3 credits.To acquire 64
credits, you will need to complete an average of
15-16 credithours per semester if you want to
graduate in four semesters(2 academic years).
back home next
22

• Test Your Knowledge
• In order to complete an Associate Degree from
• IVCC, you will need to complete at least
• 55 credit hours
• 38 credit hours
• 62 credit hours
• 64 credit hours

23
Please try again!
click here to go back to question
24
The Transfer OptionSo what's my first step as a
transfer student? Begin by selecting courses from
the general education core...especially ifyou do
not know your major or transfer school yet. The
general educationcore for both the Associate in
Arts (A. A.) and Associate in Science (A.
S.)degree consists of 42 credit hours. These 42
credit hours are only partof the 64 credit hours
needed to complete an A. A. or A. S. degreehere
at IVCC. This 42-hour general education core
satisfies therequirements for the Illinois
Articulation Initiative (IAI). This is an
official way of saying that our general education
corecourses will transfer to over 100 Illinois
colleges and universitiesthat also participate
in the Illinois Articulation Initiative. The
general education core includes coursesin the
following areas
back home next
25
A. S. Degree - 9 credit hours of Communications -
3 credit hours of Mathematics -10 credit hours of
Life and Physical Science - 9 credit hours of
Humanities and Fine Arts - 6 credit hours of
Global Appreciation (can be fulfilled by
completing appropriate courses in other general
education categories) - 9
credit hours of Social and Behavioral Sciences -
2 credit hours of Health and Wellness

• A.A. Degree
• - 9 credit hours of Communications
• - 3 credit hours of Mathematics
• - 7 credit hours of Life and Physical Science
• - 12 credit hours of Humanities and Fine Arts
• - 6 credit hours of Global Appreciation (can be
  fulfilled by completing
  
  
  appropriate courses in other
  general education categories)
• - 9 credit hours of Social and Behavioral
  Sciences
• - 2 credit hours of Health and Wellness

back home next
26
The Transfer Option What courses are available
within each generaleducation core area? In some
areas, there are very specific courses that every
studentwill take to complete the general
education core requirement. In otherareas, you
will have choices to make. Click the links below
to view anoutline of the degree requirements for
the Associate in Arts and theAssociate in
Science degrees. You will consult the college
catalogfor detailed course descriptions. PDF
files require Adobe Acrobat Reader to
view. Associate in Arts Degree (A. A.)
Associate in Science Degree (A. S.) When
clicking on the hyperlinks above, you are leaving
theorientation site and you will need to use the
browser's backbutton to return to this page.
back home next
27
The Career Option What if I don't want to
transfer to a four-year college or
university?In addition to offering transfer
degree programs, IVCC also offers a wide range of
Career Programs that will lead to an Associate of
Applied Science (A. A. S.) or a Certificate.
There are over 60 Career Programs to choose from,
some of which lead to an A. A. S. degree and some
which lead to a Certificate.
back home next
28

• Test Your Knowledge
• If you wish to major in a Career Program and have
  no plans to
• transfer to a four-year college or university,
  you are pursuing
• which degree from IVCC
• Associate in Arts (A. A.)
• Associate in Applied Science (A. A. S.)
• Associate in Science (A. S.)
• Associate in Engineering Sciences (A. E. S)

29
Please try again!
click here to go back to question
30
The Career Option If I choose a Career Program
(A. A. S.) whatcourses will I be taking? The
majority of the courses youll take will be
related to the Career Programyou are pursuing.
The A. A. S can be completed in two years of full
time study.About 75 percent of the course work
required for the A. A. S. is directly in
theparticular field major or field of study, or
very closely related to it. The remaining25
percent of the course work is in General
Education and/or elective courses. More detailed
information about the specifics of each Career
Program is availablein the college catalog and
our career guide sheets(available in the
Counseling Center).
back home next
31
The Career Option What exactly is a Certificate
programand how do I know if it's right for
me? Certificate programs are designed to teach
you skills to gainemployment in a new profession
or to improve your knowledgein your current
profession. They are short programs that can
becompleted fairly quickly. Some certificates
consist of as little asthree courses others
contain as many as 30 credit hours.
Mostcertificate programs contain many of the
same courses found inthe longer ?A. A. S. degree
programs. While all certificateprograms contain
career courses, some certificates also
containsome general education courses.
back home next
32
The Career Option What Career Programs (A. A. S.)
and Certificatesare available at IVCC? Click
the links below to view the A. A .S. and
Certificate programs offered at IVCC. Associate
of Applied Science Degrees Certificate Programs
back home next
33
Planning Building Your Class Schedule Now that
I know the difference between transfer and
career, do I get to pick my classes? Not quite
yet. Once you've completed this on-line
orientation, call the Counseling Center for an
appointment with a Counselor to schedule your
classes and register. In the mean time, here are
a few steps you can take to get started planning
your schedule, and a few things you'll need to
remember and do while at IVCC.
Call YourCounselor!
back home next
34
Planning Building Your Class Schedule Planning
and Building Your Program of Study Pull out your
trusty IVCC Catalog. (And if you dont have one,
get one Now!) Find your Program of Study
http//www.ivcc.edu/programsofstudy in the middle
of the catalog. Put a paper clip there because
this will guide your attendance at IVCC (the same
holds true for any college attended). Now the
good part, you can take any course listed on
your Program of Study page thats right any
course. Now isnt that cool compared to the
high school days? But theres one catch, you
cant take courses that have prerequisite
requirements. Well, you ask, how is one to know
if a course has prerequisite requirements? You
look in the back of the catalog under the course
listings. If a course has a prerequisite, it will
be listed directly below the course
description. Example You can't take ENG 1002
until youve completed ENG 1001. You can't take
MTH 1007 until youve completed MTH 1003. If
you are a transfer student pursuing a Bachelor?s
degree, you want to use the guide sheets listed
with your major and school choice to choose your
classes. See http//www.ivcc.edu/transferservices
for the majors and schools.When clicking on the
hyperlinks above, you are leaving the orientation
site and you will need to use the browser's back
button to return to this page.
back home next
35
Planning Building Your Class Schedule How do I
read the course descriptions in the college
catalog? The course descriptions provide you
with basic information about the topics covered
in each course. Pay close attention to the course
prefix, number, credit hours, course title,
prerequisites, co-requisites, content
description, and contact hours.Check out the
following course description
Prefix
Course Name
Hours
Anatomy Physiology I
4
BIO 1007
This course involves an introductory study of the
structure and function of the human body. A study
of cytology, histology and five organ systems
(integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and
endocrine) illustrates the relationships between
structures and their functions. Laboratory
exercises include cat dissection, cadaver
demonstration and other materials. Prerequisite
none, but BIO 1200 is recommended for students
with a limited science background. IAIL1 904L
back home next
36
Course Description Definitions
Prefix
Course Name
Hours
BIO 1007
Anatomy Physiology I
4
Course Description
Definitions
BIO
Course Prefix
1007
Course Number
4 hrs
Number of credit hours earned in this course
Anatomy Physiology
Course Title
Prerequisite None
Courses which must be taken before taking this
class
IAIL1 904L
This code means that this course is a part of
the Illinois Articulation Initiative and meets a
portion ofGeneral Education Core Curriculum
requirements.
back home next
37
Planning Building YourClass Schedule Develop
Your Program of StudyYou and your counselor
will work together to develop your
individualplan of study, discuss strategies for
success, and address any problems you may be
facing Continue to meet with your Counselor each
semester. Remember, thesooner you schedule your
appointment each semester, the better! Callor
stop by the Counseling Center during the month of
September toschedule an appointment with a
Counselor to plan your Spring SemesterClasses.
Call or stop by the Counseling Center after
January 15thto schedule an appointment with a
Counselor to plan your SummerSession and Fall
Semester.
back home next
38
Planning Building Your Class Schedule Whats
the best way to build your schedule? Most people
have jobs or personal responsibilities that they
have to build their schedules around. So, look at
the class schedule http//www.ivcc.edu/schedules/
for the times that are good for you. Some
students must register full-time for health
insurance purposes or to receive a full-time Pell
grant. Full-time is defined as 12 semester hours
or more. Other students are not able to take a
full-time course load with their other
responsibilities. Remember, a good rule of thumb
is to plan for 2 hours outside of class for
homework for every hour you spend in class. Build
your schedule based on the time you actually have
available to devote to school. Your Counselor can
help you take a realistic look at the best
schedule for you. If you plan to finish your
two-year degree program in two years and you
don't want to attend summer terms, you will need
to plan to be full-time each term to complete a
64-hour Associate in Arts or Science degree
within two years. Some A. A. S. programs may take
even longer.
back home next
39

• Test Your Knowledge
• In order to be considered a full-time student at
  IVCC, youneed to be enrolled in at least
• 9 credit hours
• 12 credit hours
• 11 credit hours
• 14 credit hours

40
Please try again!
click here to go back to question
41
Planning Building Your Class Schedule Check
Your Program of Study Now remember, your
counselor will help you - But you are ultimately
responsible for making sure you take the right
classes. You must double check your catalog for
your program of study (guide sheet) and check
off yes, literally making a big check mark...
after you complete each course on your guide
sheet. That way, you will be in charge and will
know exactly where you stand regarding how close
you are to completing your program and obtaining
that degree or certificate!!! It is also your
responsibility to apply for graduation when you
are within one semester of completing your degree
or certificate requirements.
back home next
42
Planning BuildingYour Class Schedule What if I
want to make changes before orafter classes
start? You may add a course or change sections,
on a space available basis before the start
ofclasses only. Keep in mind that you must
satisfy the course prerequisites and cannotgo
over 18 credit hours. Adding courses after the
class has met the first time is not allowed.
back home next
43
Financial Information Once I have picked my
classes and selectedthe days and times - how do
I know how much it will cost? Tuition Per Credit
Hour
In-District Tuition Fees
Per Credit Hours
65.75
back home next
44
Financial Information Now that I know about
costs, how do I pay for my classes? Payment
Options After the initial payment due date,
anyone registering must pay by the Wednesday
following registration. Wednesday registrations
would be due that day. Students with any type of
financial aid including tuition waivers,
scholarships, loans, grants, etc.... must contact
the cashier department to have their tuition
deferred. Failure to do so will result in classes
being dropped for non-payment.There are six
methods for payment of classes

• Payment Plan/Full payment payment plans are
  available online with eCashier. To learn more
  about payment plans visit the eCashier site or
  contact the Cashier at 815-224-0213.
• In person The Cashiers Office is located in the
  Main Lobby - C building.
• By mail (Please allow 3-5 business days)?IVCC -
  Attn. Cashier?815 N. Orlando Smith Ave.?Oglesby,
  IL 613484.
• Tuition Drop Box Drop off payments in the drop
  box located at the front entrance below the "IVCC
  welcomes you" sign.
• By phone credit card payments can be made by
  phone at 815- 224-0213. Visa, Discover, and
  MasterCard are accepted.
• By fax credit card information may be faxed to
  815-224-6091. Please include student account
  number (or social security number), credit card
  number, expiration date and name of card holder.

back home next
45

• Test Your Knowledge
• How can I pay for classes?
• Cash
• Check
• Credit Card
• Payment Plan
• All of the Above

46
Please try again!
click here to go back to question
47
Financial Information So what if I dont have the
money to pay for my classes? There are several
types of financial assistance that you may
qualify for to help you pay for classes.
Regardless of your financial situation, whether
great or bit of a challenge, you should always
apply for financial aid. There are several
sources of aid of which you can apply. Check
them out! Sources of Financial Aid Grants
Financial Aid awarded to students based on
financial need. They are typically funded by the
Federal or State Government, however many private
colleges and universities have institutional
grants which are awarded according to their own
criteria. Grants are "free." No repayment is
necessary. Scholarships Financial Aid awarded
to students based on merit, talent, financial
need, or other specialized criteria. Scholarships
given to IVCC students are funded by the State
Government, the Illinois Valley Community College
Foundation, and Private Agencies. Scholarships
are also "free." No repayment is necessary,
(except in a small number of cases which will be
specified on the application materials).
back home next
48
Sources of Financial Aid Continued. .
. Employment Employment (Federal Work-Study or
College Employment) enables students to earn
money while attending school. All student
employees are paid the State minimum wage and are
limited to 20 hours of work per week or
less. Loans Financial Aid awarded to students
or parents to help meet education-related
expenses. An educational loan is just that a loan
which must be repaid, with interest. Some
financial aid programs are subject to the
availability of funds (first-come, first-served)
therefore, aid applications should be completed
as soon as possible after January 1st for the
upcoming academic year.
back home next
49

• Test Your Knowledge
• Who should apply for financial aid?
• Only students who have no money for college
• Only students who are putting themselves through
  college
• Everyone

50
Please try again!
click here to go back to question
51
Financial Information How do I apply for
financial aid? To apply for Federal and State
financial aid you must first complete aFree
Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
There are a variety of ways you can complete the
FAFSA Traditional paper FAFSAs are available in
High School Guidance Offices,calling IVCC's
Financial Aid Office 1-815-224-0438, or by
calling 1-800-4-FEDAID. Go to www.fafsa.ed.gov
to file online. It's safe and it's fast!
back home next
52
Financial Information Financial Aid Frequently
Asked Questions Who should apply for financial
aid? Everyone should apply regardless of
household income. What happens if I don't attend
class? Attendance is verified before financial
aid is disbursed. If you do not start, financial
aid will be withheld. You will still be
responsible for the tuition and fees. What
happens if I stop attending? If you have zero
credits at the end of the semester you may have
to repay some of your financial aid. Contact the
Financial Aid Office prior to making this
decision. What happens if I apply late? You are
responsible for your tuition if your aid is not
finalized by the tuition due date. You may pay
your tuition or set up a payment plan. Can I
apply for aid even after I have paid my tuition?
Yes. If you apply and have eligibility you will
receive what you are eligible for.Do I have to be
full-time No. All award letters have full-time
amounts on them. Your award will be reduced if
you are not full-time but in many cases you can
still receive financial aid for just one class.
To receive a loan you must be at least half-time
(6 credit hours). I'm taking classes here and at
another school. Can I get aid at both schools?
No. You can only receive aid from one school at a
time. You should apply for financial aid where
you are seeking your degree.
back home next
53
Financial Information Financial Aid Things to
Know Did you know That you can lose your
federal financial aid if you do not meet
Standards of Progress-ie. You must pass 66.6 of
all college courses ever taken, and you cannot be
academically suspended. That you can appeal your
loss of financial aid provided you have
documentation of extenuating circumstances such
as severe illness or change of program. However,
you should make the Appeal immediately upon
receipt of your letter so you can be sure to get
an answer in a timely manner. Write your appeal
using the form provided by the Financial Aid
Office, have a Counselor review it (required) and
submit it to the IVCC Director of Financial
Aid. That you must re-apply for financial aid
Every Year - apply in the Spring for the upcoming
Fall through Summer terms. Be sure to visit
with the IVCC Financial Aid Counselors for more
help and information.
back home next
54
Financial Information Scholarships Reminder! Be
sure to investigate scholarships available for
Illinois Valley Students.Information is
available on line http//www.ivcc.edu/financialai
d/scholarship.html Questions? Call the
Financial Aid Office at 815-224-0438.
back home next
55
Financial Information What about dropping and
refunds? It is the student's responsibility to
drop a course by published deadlines. Courses
droppedwithin the refund period do not appear on
the student record. Refunds of tuition will
bemade on the following basis Traditional
courses (16 weeks) Students must drop on or
before the 10th day of thesemester or summer
term in order to receive a 100 refund of tuition
and fees, excluding a non-refundable 5.00
registration fee. Non-traditional courses (less
than 16 weeks) The drop/refund period varies
accordingto the length of class. You must drop
prior to the withdrawal date stated on
yourregistration statement in order to receive a
refund. This statement is provided to youat the
time of registration. Always remember that the
withdrawal date is listed on the student's
registration/billingstatement. In order to
receive a refund, you must drop your classes
Before the withdrawal date. Students must
contact the Records Office to drop classes.
back home next
56
OK, Once I've Paid...Then What? Get your picture
taken! Photo IDs are mandatory for currently
enrolled students. Your Photo ID will have many
useson campus, such as LRC/Library services and
use of the Assessment Center. Get your Photo ID
at the Information Desk located at the Colleges
Main Entrance. Two forms of identificationare
needed - your current class schedule and a
picture ID. Next, learn about important policies
every student should know!
back home next
57

• The Most Important Policies Every Student Must
  Know!
• The most important IVCC policies that sometimes
  get students in trouble are
• Your Grade Point Average
• The Drop/Withdrawal Policy
• The I (Incomplete) Grade Policy
• The 2.0 Graduation Policy
• You can find more information on college policies
  by visiting the college website at www.ivcc.edu,
  reviewing the college catalog and student
  handbook.

back home next
58

• Test Your Knowledge
• Where can you find information on College
  policies?
• College Website (www.ivcc.edu)
• College Catalog
• College Student Handbook
• All of the Above

59
Please try again!
click here to go back to question
60
The Most Important Policies Every Student Must
Know! Your GPA - Figure It Out Keeping up your
GPA is very important. A strong GPA will likely
get you into the major that you want to pursue
and into the college or university that you want
to attend. Furthermore, all students must have a
2.0 to graduate and a 3.5 to be an honor
graduate. Understanding how to calculate your GPA
will help you know exactly where you stand with
respect to GPA requirements for your major and
graduation. Heres how to calculate your
cumulative grade point average (lovingly known as
your CPGA) so listen up! Its easy! Most colleges
are on a 4.0 grading scale. What does this mean?
Each letter grade is assigned a value A 4
points B 3 points C 2 points D 1 point F
0 point W 0 points
back home next
61

• The Most Important Policies Every Student Must
  Know!
• To compute your GPA
• Multiply the credit hours for the class by the
  grade points you made for the class. For
  example a 3 hr course with an A grade would be 3
  X 4. Do this for each course.
• Add all of these up to get your total grade
  points.
• Divide by the total number of credit hours, and
  there you have it - your GPA.
• Lets try an example!

back home next
62
The Most Important Policies Every Student Must
Know!Your GPA - Figure It Out
Course Name
GPA Calculation
Calculus is 4 Hours
4 hrs x 1 grade point D4
Theater is 3 Hours
3 hrs x 4 grade points A12
Wellness is 2 Hours
2 hrs x 3 grade points B 6
Add them up
4 12 6 22
And divide by total hours of 9
22/9 2.44(You cant round off - drop any
number past 2decimal points)
back home next
63
The Most Important PoliciesEvery Student Must
Know!Dropping or Withdrawing from a
Class First, all students Must follow the
proper procedure to drop or withdraw from a class
otherwise they are consideredstill enrolled. If
you do not fill out the drop form or if your
instructor does not complete a withdrawal upon
your requestyou will receive a grade for the
class - and it may well be an F grade for the
course based on the course gradingrequirements.
Also, you will not be eligible for a refund. So,
do not assume that you are automatically dropped
orwithdrawn from a class for non-attendance or
non-payment.
back home next
64
The Most Important Policies Every Student Must
Know!Hardship Withdrawal
And, the second thing to remember is that the
mid-term date of the semester is the deadline for
withdrawing from a full semester (16 week) class.
If you get sick, have an accident, or have some
other special circumstance after the withdrawal
deadline, you can petition for a Hardship
Withdrawal to receive a W for extenuating
circumstances beyond your control.
You will be required to provide documentation
along with the Hardship Withdrawal Petition.
Contact the office of the Vice President for
Learning and Student Development for more
information.
back home next
65
The Most Important Policies Every Student Must
Know! What is the difference between dropping and
withdrawing a class? Dropping a Class A drop
removes the class from your academic record and
you are entitled to a full refund, minus a 5
registration fee. The drop period takes place
before the start of the withdrawal period. The
drop period runs from the moment that you
register for a class up to the 10th day of the
start of a 16-week class. The deadlines to drop
classes that run less than 16 weeks varies
according to the length of time the class runs
(i.e. 8 weeks, 14 weeks, etc.). Check the
Summer/Fall 2007 Schedule of credit classes for
more details on these deadlines. You do not need
the instructors or a counselors approval to
drop a class, however it is highly recommended
that you consult with a counselor prior to
dropping to ensure make adjustments to your
academic plan due to the drop.
back home next
66
What is the difference between dropping and
withdrawing a class? Continued Withdrawing From
a Class
No refunds are granted for withdrawals. The
withdrawal period takes place After the drop
period. Check the Summer/Fall 2007 Schedule of
Credit Classes for more details on the withdrawal
deadline
You must see your instructor to withdraw from a
class. A withdrawal is recorded on your academic
record, which means that a W will be placed on
your transcript. A W grade on your transcript
is not computed into your Grade Point Average.
back home next
67
The Most Important Policies Every Student Must
Know!When dropping or withdrawing from class,
you are Responsible for... You are responsible
for initiating an official drop or withdrawal
from class prior to the deadline listed in the
"Schedule of Credit Classes" and on your class
schedule. It is also your responsibility to
verify that the request was processed, which you
can do by reviewing your account information
online.
back home next
68
The Most Important Policies EveryStudent Must
Know!What will happen to my financial aid if I
drop or withdraw from a class? If you are
receiving financial aid and drop or withdraw from
a class after it has started,you may be required
to repay federal funds. Check with the Financial
Aid Office!
back home next
69
The Most Important Policies Every Student Must
Know!The I - Incomplete Grade policy It is
the week before finals and things have been going
well for you. Your health has been good, your
family supportive, your job not too demanding,
and your classes exciting and interesting. Then
the phone rings your grandmother has just died
and you have to plan the funeral and take care of
the estate or your boss is sending you to Denver
to meet with important clients for the next two
weeks or you are in an automobile accident. What
do you do? Fortunately, you have planned ahead
and the most of your assignments are finished.
Whew! You think you can be back in time for your
final exams. But there is one research paper you
just havent been able to finish. Obviously you
wont be able to turn in by the deadline
back home next
70
The Most Important Policies Every Student Must
Know!The I - Incomplete Grade Policy Talk
with your Instructor. Explain the situation and
ask if an I grade might be appropriate.An
Incomplete (I) is a temporary grade assigned
when illness, unavoidable absence, or other
reasons satisfactory to the instructor prevent
completion of the course requirements by the end
of the semester. A grade of I must be
satisfactorily removed, as designated by the
instructor, no later than the last class day of
the semester following the issuance of the
incomplete, or the I will be changed to an F
or fail grade. Important - students cannot
re-register for the course to satisfy an "I"
grade.
back home next
71
The Most Important Policies Every Student Must
Know! The 2.0 Graduation Policy Want to
graduate? First, You Must Apply For
Graduation. Pick up the Intent to Graduate form
in the Office of Admissions/Records and submit it
by the deadline below
Semester
Month of Graduation
Intent Form Due
Summer Graduation
August
July 1
Fall Graduation
December
October 1
Spring Graduation
May
February
There is no computer in the sky that
automatically knows you have completed all your
coursework since programs of study change from
year to year. Secondly, there are several
requirements for graduation. One that wed like
for you to especially be aware of is the 2.0
Graduation Policy. You must have successfully
completed all required courses for the Associate
and/or Certificate desired and have the required
minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0.
Further, you must have taken at least 16 hours of
academic coursework at IVCC to graduate with an
Associate Degree from IVCC, and/or you must have
completed at IVCC at least 25 of the coursework
required of your certificate program to graduate
from IVCC. In doubt about CGPA? See the Your
GPA section of this orientation!
back home next
72
Tips For Success Communicating With Your
Instructors Communicating with your Instructor
can be very important. For the successful college
student, it is vital!If an emergency prevents you
from attending class, you need to call your
instructors to tell them whats going on and to
get your assignments. If they are not in, leave a
message or contact the division office.
Always!!It is a must that you always leave a
message for the Instructor/Counselor to call you
back - or if you must, leave word with the
secretary of what you need to tell the
Instructor. Be prepared to have documentation for
your reasons of non-attendance.
back home next
73
Tips For Success The Course Syllabus Communication
from your Instructors side means
theydistribute a syllabus syllabi for plural)
for every course. If you cannot avoid missing the
first day of class, always askthe Instructor for
a copy of the course syllabus. This islike a
contract between you and the Instructor. It
stateswhat is expected of you for the course,
what the course willcover, and how you will be
graded. Some courses have very strict attendance
policies somecourses have very strict test
make-up procedures, etcTo know about your
course and what is expected of you,you must read
the course syllabus for each of your classes.
back home next
74
Tips For Success See Your Counselor Often Once
again, you will want to visit with your Counselor
often to discuss your educationalplan, your
progress, and any problems you encounter.
Planning for the next semestershould begin
midway through the current semester. That way you
will be able to takeadvantage of early
enrollment and get the best choice of classes and
schedules. Dont wait until you are in academic
high water to see your Counselor! Make
anappointment to see your Counselor often before
you start having problems. The moment you
recognize that the water is rising, call
815-224-0346 to ask about the Early Alert System
(EAS). EAS can help you get back on track before
falling intoacademic distress!Your Counselor can
help you plan your coursework, your career,and
even your academic life. Take advantage of
his/her wisdom and expertise!! Your Counselor
can prevent you from making unwise academic moves!
back home next
75

• Test Your Knowledge
• Which center provides information about
  programrequirements, assistance with course
  selection, and helpwith personal/mental health
  issues?
• Writing Center
• Counseling Center
• Career Services Office
• Office of Admission and Records

76
Please try again!
click here to go back to question
77
Tips For Success Study Habits You Smart
students take advantage of IVCC Learning Center
located in the Library. The Learning Center
offers free computer-based tutorials, academic
success workshops, and one-on-one peer
tutoring. Dont wait until mid-term to get help!
A tutor from our Peer Tutoring/Writing Center
(LRC-B, Room B325, 815-224-0479) can help you
stay on top of your classes from the first day.
Also check at our Reading, Writing, and Study
Skills Lab, LRC-B, 815-224-0277. The lab offers
individualized instruction in these areas.
Emphasis is placed on assisting students in
setting and achieving their personal and study
skill goals. The Counseling Center office is
located in the Main Building, E201. Call the
Reception Desk at 815-224-0360 and ask to speak
to a Counselor. The Counselors can help you
identify resources related to employment after
graduation, transfer to a four-year college or
university, improve your personal skills, or
obtaining counseling during a difficult
time. Not sure what you want to do after
college? Check with Career Services or the
Counseling Center about tests that can help you
determine what kinds of work fit your interests
and personality, and identify resources related
to employment after graduation. Here are some
more tips for college success
back home next
78
Tips For Success In the Classroom - Always show
up for class on time!! If you dont, your chances
of knowing whats going on are remarkably slim. -
Attend classes regularly and participate. - Try
to get a seat in the front where you have a good
view of the board and the professor. - Come to
class prepared! Read your material and complete
all assignments. - Ask questions if you dont
understand the professor. Someone else may be
wondering the same thing!? - Your professors are
required to keep office hours. Take advantage of
them!? - Classes are real obligations. Dont
schedule doctors appointments during class
hours.? - Be sure to examine returned tests. -
Bad things happen when you cheat ..Dont do
it! - Plagiarism is a form of cheating and is
defined as using the words or ideas of another as
ones own either on purpose or unintentionally.
back home next
79
Tips For Success Addressing Professors Know
your professors name. Know how to contact your
professor. Know where your professors office is
and what his or her office hours are. Ask
questions. Be an active participant in class. If
you need help outside of class, take advantage of
your professors office hours. If you cannot go
during the published office hours, contact your
professor to make an appointment. Read the
course syllabus. You can find out office
location, office hours, and the appropriate title
for your professor in the syllabus.
back home next
80
Tips For Success Common Class Courtesy - Listen
to lecture and instructions carefully. If you
missed something that was clearly explained, ask
after class. - Talk only when contributing
discussing in class, working in groups, or
responding to a teachers question. - Have your
books out and assignments ready when class
begins. The professor will have more time to
explain the material to you if class starts on
time. - Read your assignment before class. You
will be able to contribute more effectively to
class discussions. - Focus on the class. Deal
with outside assignments afterwards. - Take
notes! If you dont, you will have a hard time
remembering the material later. Visit the
Learning Center to learn how to take better
notes. - Consider taking SFC-1000 - the College
Success Seminar.
back home next
81
Tips For SuccessSuccess Begins with Personal
Goals - Make time for educational priorities.
College is hard work, and studying takes time. -
Start on papers and projects early! Librarians
can help you, but you must do the work. Allow
adequate time to do your research and obtain
library materials. - Do your best on the
Accuplacer (Placement) Test. - Keep your GPA up!
The Honors List, the Deans List, transfer
programs, many colleges and universities all rely
on your GPA to meet requirements. - Pass
developmental classes on the first try. - Get
involved! There are many exciting events
scheduled at IVCC. Find a club or organization to
participate in.
back home next
82
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat additional
questions might I have once I actually start
attending classes?Following is a list of the
most frequently asked questions. Most of the
answers provide an excellent directory of places
to go and faces to know. Q What are the
different social and academic organizations
available at Illinois Valley Community
College?A Visit http//www.ivcc.edu/clubs_and_o
rganizations/ for a complete listing. Q If I am
having a personal problem or concern, is there
someone available that I can speak with? A The
Counseling Center, E-201, has staff available to
help you with personal issues, career issues, or
academic issues. Also visit www.Ulifeline.com if
you or someone you know is in need of help.
back home next
83
Frequently Asked Questions Q Are there tutors
available if I have trouble with any of my
classes, especially math? A Yes, the Peer
Tutoring Center, located in CRC-D, offers free
tutoring to all IVCC students in almost all
subject areas. Call 815-224-0479 to arrange your
tutoring session. Q How can I be certain my
classes will transfer to a four-year college or
university? A Our Counselors can assist you
with selecting the right courses. The Counseling
Center, located in E-201, also has transfer guide
sheets?from most Illinois four-year
colleges.? Q Do I buy or rent my textbooks? A
You can buy textbooks from the IVCC bookstore
located in the Main Building C, to the right of
the Lobby. Some textbooks may be available for
rental. Q I have a disability. Where can I
receive reasonable accommodations? A The
Disability Services Office at IVCC assists
students in achieving success in their college
classes. At IVCC, professional staff and faculty,
along with many academic and adaptive support
services, are available to help students meet
their individual special needs. For more
information, contact Special Needs Coordinators
Tina Hardy 815-224-0284 or Judy Mika 815-224-0350.
back home next
84
Frequently Asked Questions Q I took a class in
high school and received college credit for it.
What do I do about that? A IVCC courses are
transferable to other colleges and universities,
but subject to the course acceptance policies of
the transfer college. You are encouraged to meet
with an IVCC Counselor to explore transfer
issues, particularly to the University of
Illinois and to private or out-of-state colleges.
Our courses that are offered at your high school
meet the IVCC General Education requirements, as
well as those requirements established by the
statewide Illinois Articulation Initiative
(IAI). Q Where can I go for help to improve my
test taking, writing and study skills? A Visit
our Writing Center located in CRC-D or call
815-224-0335 for free service to those who need
assistance with the writing process.Assistant to
improve academic skills is available through the
Reading, Writing and Study Skills Lab, located in
B-201. The lab offers a variety of courses in
Reading, English and Study Skills. Most courses
are one credit hour, are pass/fail, and can be
started at any time during the semester. For
further information, contact Jennifer Bubb at
815-224-0277.
back home next
85
Congratulations!You have successfully completed
theon-line orientation!
Remember, you can come back to the orientation
any time to review the information. What next? If
you haven't already completed the following, your
next steps are to submit an IVCC admissions
application, take placement tests, and apply for
financial aid. NOW ITS TIME TO SIGN UP FOR THE
CAMPUS ORIENTATION PROGRAM WHERE YOU WILL SEE A
COUNSELOR AND REGISTER FOR CLASSES! Just click
the Next icon. Its Easy!