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Eastern Illinois University

Academic Advising

What You Need to Know About Academic Advising at EIU

Eastern Illinois University’s Academic Advising Services is a component of the Student Success Center and is located in Room 1110 of McAfee. Beginning freshmen, undeclared majors, and students not yet accepted to professional programs are assigned a full-time academic advisor from the center. The assigned advisor’s purpose is to assist you with the development and achievement of your academic goals.

Although a student is required to meet with their advisor each term to plan their academic program, it becomes the student’s responsibility to identify and complete the requirements for their degree program. The university’s online catalog is the source of information for academic rules, regulations, procedures, and programs.


What Will Your Advisor Expect from You?


What Can You Expect from Your Advisor?


Frequently Asked Questions About Academic Advising

Can I choose my academic advisor?
You will be randomly assigned to an academic advisor prior to orientation. Once assigned, you can log in to PAWS to find out who your advisor is. These instructions will show you how to view your advisor in PAWS.
Where can I find my academic advisor?
Incoming First-Year Students: Your advisor is located in the lower level of McAfee, Suite 1110. Office hours are weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can contact Academic Advising Services at 217-581-2313.
Transfer Students: Transfer students are typically assigned an advisor in their major department, depending on several factors. The location of your advisor will vary.
When do I need to declare a major?
EIU does not have an official deadline. However, some programs require students to begin major coursework early to stay on track. Your advisor will discuss sequencing and major selection with you.
How do I get my college-level dual credit courses from high school to transfer?
Contact the records office of the community college or university that partnered with your high school. Request that your official sealed transcript be sent to the Office of the Registrar at EIU, Old Main, Room 1220, Charleston, IL 61920.
How can I determine if my AP/IB credit will count at EIU?
The Office of the Registrar evaluates all AP/IB test scores. For more information, see the Credit for Nationally Standardized Tests page.
Can I graduate in four years without summer school?
This is a realistic goal if your major fits a standard four-year plan. Ultimately, your pace is determined by your course load. Discuss this with your advisor.
How many times can I change my major?
There is no limit, but frequent changes may extend the time needed to complete degree requirements.
What is considered a full-time student?
Enrollment in 12 credit hours per semester is the minimum for full-time status. On average, students complete 15 credit hours per semester.
Is tutoring available at EIU?
Yes, most academic departments offer tutoring. See the Departmental Tutoring Schedule for details. The Gregg Technology Center also coordinates tutoring services.
How can I find my schedule?
Once registered, log in to PAWS, click Student, then Student Records, then Week at a Glance. For a detailed view, click Student Detail Schedule.
Can I make changes to my schedule after I meet with my academic advisor?
Yes, you are responsible for registration after meeting with your advisor. However, it is strongly recommended that you contact them before making changes.
Does the college algebra I took in high school satisfy my general education math requirement?
No, you must take a college-level general education math course. Placement will be discussed with your advisor.
Can I drop a class and still get my tuition refunded?
Yes, if you meet the deadlines. Check the academic calendar for specific dates.
Where can I pick up my textbooks?
You can pick up textbooks at EIU’s Textbook Rental Service.
How do I get credit for summer classes taken at a community college?
Contact the records office of the community college and request that your official sealed transcript be sent to the EIU Office of the Registrar.

 


Academic Advising Services (AAS) Advisors


 

CONTACT THE DEPARTMENT

Academic Advising

McAfee Gym - Room 1110
(217) 581-2313
advising@eiu.edu