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Advising Handbook - Advising Special Populations


Athletes

Eligibility Basics

  • Student-athletes must be enrolled for at least 12 credits while they continue to practice or compete. If the student-athlete drops below 12 credits they are immediately ineligible, but last semester seniors may be enrolled for less if they have met or are meeting all of the requirements for graduation.
  • To remain eligible, first-term student-athletes (freshmen) must pass a minimum of nine credits.
  • To be eligible for the 2nd season, student-athletes must have completed 24 credits with a 2.00 cumulative GPA. Incompletes do not count in completed credits. The grade must be posted.
  • To be eligible for the 3rd season, student-athletes must have completed 48 credits and have a 2.00 GPA.
  • To be eligible for the 4th season, student-athletes must have completed 72 credits and have a 2.00 GPA.

Special Considerations

  • Athletic eligibility (credits per semester and total credits per year)
  • Credits for conditioning course and credits while in-season
  • Scheduling classes with practices – what happens when there are conflicts?
  • Excused absences - what is required from the student and instructor

International Students

Cultural Differences

Various cultures may have different ways of expressing themselves. For example, a female student who practices Islam may feel more comfortable with a right hand to heart gesture instead of shaking hands. Another example would be how some international students treat formalities between faculty and staff. They may stick to titles such as Doctor, Professor, Mr. Mrs., etc. as a sign of respect even if the individual they are talking to prefers using their own first name. One more example has to deal with those who speak English as a second language. If the student does not understand what you are saying the first time, it is worth trying to explain in a different way instead of repeating the first phrase. Try using different words and avoid idioms that may be confusing to someone hearing it for the first time. 

Minimum Credits Required for Visa

International students must maintain at least 12 credits on-campus in fall and spring terms. They can take 3 online credits per semester provided the first 12 are on-campus. This is especially important when a student is considering dropping a class. Even a short period of time under 12 credits threatens visa eligibility and could result in termination.

If the student believes they are in a unique circumstance like not being able to complete required coursework as intended they should be directed to the Intercultural Student Success Office in Old Main, Room 230 to discuss the matter.

In the event that the student needs to fulfill their 12 credit on-campus minimum credits, and major, minor, and university studies options are not available it is worth considering Continuing Education courses such as IDS 195 Collegiate Relationships or IDS 297 Exploring Majors and Careers. Those two classes are also good to help learn more about themselves and how they interact with others, exploring majors or careers, or to boost credits towards graduation. Please note that these are designated as arranged classes that are taught online at on-campus tuition rates.

Online Classes

International students can take 3 online credits per semester provided the first 12 are on-campus. Please note that on-campus tuition and online class tuition are separate and may be more expensive for the student. 

A-Levels or Equivalent International Post Secondary Credits

Previously earned credits will be evaluated upon UW-Superior receiving official transcripts from the international student’s home country or place of study. These credits can be different than domestic transfer credits and require additional review by the Transfer Credit Specialist and department chair of the major the student declares. 

International Student Employment (Student Assist Jobs Only) 

International students are not available for work study positions. Students must work on-campus with a max of 20 hours per week except during breaks. During breaks, students can work 40 hours per week. Students can hold two jobs on campus for the aforementioned 20 hours per week during normal semesters. Any questions should be directed to Intercultural Student Services (ISS).

If a student feel they are in unique circumstances that warrant off campus employment, that must be approved by staff in the Intercultural Student Services office.

Nonresident Tuition Waiver

In order to be eligible for the NTW, students must meet conditions based on their situation.

More information can be found here: Tuition Award Programs


Veterans

Definitions

Veteran: a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable.

Service Member: a person with an active military obligation.

Dependent: a family member who relies on an active duty service member or Veteran financially and meets certain criteria. Dependents can be: a spouse, unmarried children, and parents in the Veteran’s direct care whose net worth and income are below the limit by law.

Who Can Receive Veteran Benefits?

A Veteran or Service member could be pursuing a certificate, an Associate degree, or a Bachelor’s degree or beyond. 

Who to Contact with VA Questions?

Lynn Karna is the best point of contact at UW Superior for GI Bill related questions. She splits time between the Veteran and Nontraditional Student Center (VNSC in Old Main, Room 118) during weekday mornings and the Registrar Office (Old Main, Room 139) in the afternoons.

What Happens If a Student Is Deployed or Receives Training Orders? 

If a Service Member comes under training or deployment orders that will affect academics, clear communication with their primary advisor, Instructors, and Lynn Karna is very important. It is also important to be aware of and to follow the academic policies stated within AP1126



Keywords:
Advising UWS Advising, 
Doc ID:
153867
Owned by:
Kasey S. in UW Superior
Created:
2025-07-30
Updated:
2025-10-16
Sites:
UW Superior