Parents' Frequently Asked Questions

HOW CAN I CONTACT MY SON OR DAUGHTER IN AN EMERGENCY?

The University Police, who operate as an emergency response unit for the university, are the contact point for family members of university students for emergency notifications. In the event that a parent or a family member needs to make contact with a student, they may call (801) 422-2222, and the University Police Department will use its resources to deliver a message to the student. Emergency notifications are defined as follows: death of an immediate family member (father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, child, grandparent); emergency accident or illness requiring hospitalization or illness of an immediately family member requiring the legal authority (the student) to administer to the situation; spouse going into labor, and the imminent birth of a child.

WHAT IS A RECOMMENDED COURSE LOAD FOR A FRESHMAN?

To complete a degree within eight semesters, a student must average 15 credit hours per semester. Most entering students find the challenges associated with adjustment to college life a bit more than they expected. As a consequence, it is probably wise for the entering freshman to register for 14-16 hours the first semester (scholarship recipients must register for at least 14 hours each semester). This course load would require between 28 and 32 hours of work outside class each week. (Most courses require from two to three hours of work outside class for each hour in class.) This can mean almost a 50-hour "work" week!

IS THERE PARENTAL ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS?

BYU's policy concerning the confidentiality of student education records reflects a reasonable balance between the obligations of the institution for the instruction and welfare of its students and its responsibility to society.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) is an act of Congress that allows students access to their educational record as well as protects the privacy of the record in most circumstances. Brigham Young University will make every reasonable effort to extend to eligible students and their parents the rights granted by this act.

Generally, BYU must have written permission from the student before releasing any information from the student's record to a third party. A third party is considered to include parents, spouse, employers, government agencies, or any other individuals or organizations. FERPA allows BYU to disclose records, without consent, to parents when the student is still a "dependent" for income tax purposes.

No personally identifiable information contained in a student's education record, other than directory information, will be given to any third party, except as authorized by the Act, without the student's written consent, and then only those records that are accessible to the student.

Directory information includes information contained in the education record of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. This information will be released to news media and to others upon request. Directory information includes the following:

• students name
•home and local addresses and telephone numbers
•month, day, year, and place of birth
•major field of study
•information relative to participation in officially recognized activities—e.g., sports—including weight and height
•dates of attendance
•current class schedule
•degrees and awards received
•previous educational institutions attended
•names of parents or spouse

A student is entitled to an explanation of any recorded data and may request a review through the Exception to University Policy Committee to correct or delete information he or she considers inaccurate or misleading.

Students have the right, however, to refuse to permit the designation or disclosure of the above directory information. In that case, this information will not be disclosed except with the consent of the student or as otherwise allowed by FERPA. Any student who does not wish to have the designated directory information disclosed must file a written notification of his or her objection with the Registrars Office (B-150 ASB).

Any eligible student or parent who believes that BYU has violated FERPA may file a complaint with the Family Policy and Regulations Office, U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20202.

For information concerning the types and location of records subject to university policy on student record confidentiality, contact the Registrars Office (B-150 ASB).

For a complete statement of the university's Confidentiality of Records Policy, contact the Office of Policies and Procedures (B-345 ASB)

WHAT STUDY SKILL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE?

The Counseling and Career Center (1500 WSC) offers courses, workshops, handouts, and counseling on study skills. They help students with classroom skills, test achievement, and lifestyle management.

WHAT IS FRESHMAN ACADEMY?

Freshman Academy is designed to ease a student's transition from high school to college by breaking the university into smaller, more student-friendly units. It is both the shape of things to come and a re-creation of the way things used to be when universities were smaller and more intimate. Study groups form more easily, citizenship and good study habits are encouraged, and high academic standards are valued. The atmosphere is one where mutual support, close associations, and the gospel in action are ways of life.

Freshman Academy brings together a wide variety of students from all levels of academic interest and preparation. Space is limited, and applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no fees beyond regular tuition. There may, however, be small additional fees for event tickets, field trips, and other out-of-class activities that are scheduled by individual instructors. In addition, student living in Heritage Halls or off campus should purchase either the Heritage Gold or Freshman Academy Meal Plan, which allows for regular interaction with faculty and other students at mealtimes or special events.

Freshman Academy simplifies registration for the first semester. A selected registration “envelope” has a number that can be entered through AIM to add three classes simultaneously. Students may then round out the balance of their schedules with courses of their choice.

You can get more information about the Freshman Academy by contacting them in any of the following ways:

Address: BYU Freshman Academy
Brigham Young University
156 TMCB
Provo, UT 84602-6795

Phone: 801-422-8176
Toll-free: 877-890-5451
Fax: 801-422-0639
Email: frac@byu.edu
http://academy.byu.edu/

WHAT TUTORIAL ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE?

The Center for Service and Leaning provides free tutors for many classes offered at BYU. Students who feel that they require assistance can sign up to request a tutor. All volunteer tutors are current BYU students who have already demonstrated competence in the subject area. Tutors are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and students are encouraged to request a tutor as early as possible because tutors in math and sciences and general education classes are generally in high demand.

Many of the colleges have tutorial labs for students who are enrolled in certain classes (e.g., the Biology 100 Lab, the American Heritage 100 Lab, the Economics 110 Lab). Some colleges also support special-purpose tutorial labs open to all students (e.g., the Mathematics/Statistics Lab and the Reading/Writing Lab). If students are uncertain whom to contact, they can contact the Center for information on the many services offered. Students who need assistance should call (801) 422-8686 or visit the Center at 2330 WSC.

WHAT RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES?

The University Accessibility Center (UAC), 2170 WSC, (801) 422-2767 voice / (801) 422-0436 tty, welcomes all students to the BYU campus. We are committed to assist each qualified disabled student in accessing the campus and its resources. The office works with students with all forms of disabilities, including deafness, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, visual impairments, health impairments, mobility impairments, and emotional disabilities. Our focus is on the ability of each student. Each student with a disability is invited to participate in programs to help him or her access classroom information. The office is a source of consultation, advisement, referral, and support. We encourage students to contact UAC to apply for services as soon as they are accepted to BYU. We welcome all questions concerning our services.

ARE THERE OPPORTUNITIES FOR OFF-CAMPUS STUDY?

Yes. BYU sponsors Study Abroad as well as programs for individual internships both within the United States and abroad.

STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS

Jerusalem Center Programs. Not available at this time.

Study Abroad. Study Abroad programs are open to students in all university majors. Students need not be formally admitted to BYU to participate in Study Abroad, and BYU credit may be transferred to their home institution.

In these programs students are able to further their general education; pursue specialized courses in languages, the social sciences, humanities, fine arts, and other fields; gain valuable insights into their own country; and further international understanding.

Semester and/or term programs are offered in London, and Vienna. term programs are also scheduled regularly in Asia, Europe, Mexico, and Africa. These programs feature intensive studies in such disciplines as the arts, history, government, and language. Specialized study in other fields, such as genealogy or design, may also be offered.

CREDIT

Credit for Study Abroad programs is placed on the student's official transcript and calculated in the GPA. Students earn from 12 to 16 credit hours on a semester program and from six to nine credit hours on a term program.

Note: Some university departments accept Study Abroad course credits toward their major. Several Study Abroad courses fill GE requirements in arts and sciences or the foreign language or mathematics options. See the list of approved courses in the general education section of the current Class Schedule, and counsel with program directors regarding specific courses.

COOPERATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAMS (INTERNSHIPS)

BYU sponsors an internship program twice a year in Washington, D.C., and, for students in some disciplines, in New York once a year. Additional individual internships are sponsored at various locations throughout the U.S. Finally, internships are available for students in selected disciplines in Europe and Asia.

WHAT ARE THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR CHURCH AND OTHER KINDS OF SERVICE?

CHURCH

To give students maximum opportunity to participate, and thus grow spiritually, a number of stakes of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are organized on campus. Their wards are composed of approximately 150 members each. All single students living away from home who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints become members of a BYU ward. Married students not living in university housing may attend either the BYU ward or the residential ward in which they live. The experience that comes to students as they serve in their wards provides a rich source of leadership when students graduate and assume Church responsibilities around the world.

Additional opportunities for spiritual development are provided by monthly Church Educational System firesides and weekly university devotionals. The firesides, which feature LDS General Authorities as speakers, are usually scheduled for the first Sunday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Marriott Center. The devotionals, which feature General Authorities and university officials and faculty as speakers, are held at 11 a.m. on Tuesdays throughout the academic year.

Approximately 25 other religious denominations are represented in the BYU student body. These students are encouraged to attend the congregation of their faith located in the local area and are also welcome to participate in any of the LDS ward meetings and activities where they live. Inquiries may be directed to the Dean of Students at 801-422-4771.

SERVICE CLUBS

Some (but not all) campus clubs have a service orientation. Clubs formally associated with BYU have open membership, so anyone can join and get involved.

BYUSA

The BYU Student Service Association, organized and directed by students, has primary focus on service opportunities, including sponsorship of activities such as the Special Olympics, Y Day, and Sub for Santa. BYUSA provides opportunities for any student to get involved. A student need only drop by the BYUSA offices on the third floor of the Wilkinson Student Center (3400 WSC) to volunteer.

WHAT IF MY SON OR DAUGHTER PLANS TO GO ON A MISSION AFTER HIS OR HER FIRST OR SECOND SEMESTER?

Students who know they will miss an upcoming semester (i.e., for a mission) may complete a deferment form obtainable at the Admissions Office. Completing this form minimizes paperwork and reentry fees.

In addition, students are encouraged by their advisement centers to fill out a tentative schedule for the semester they will be returning and leave it with parents, along with a current ABC Report (a listing of completed and required courses for each student). This will help parents to facilitate the registration process.

WHAT IF MY SON OR DAUGHTER WANTS TO DISCONTINUE SCHOOL?

Once students register for classes, they are officially enrolled and committed to attend. If a student decides to not come to school for a semester, he or she must discontinue by dropping all classes before the day school begins to avoid tuition charges. If a student does not drop classes, registration will remain on record and tuition will be charged.

HOW TO DISCONTINUE AFTER CLASSES BEGIN

On the first day of classes and thereafter, students will need to contact the Discontinuance Office, B-150 ASB, or telephone (801) 422-7705. Tuition will be charged starting the first day of class to the date or discontinuance at the percentage rate listed in the Tuition and Fees section of the current Class Schedule.

WARNING: Discontinuance from fall or winter semester or from the term to which students are newly admitted will forfeit student eligibility to attend future semesters without reapplying through the Admissions Office.

SHOULD MY DAUGHTER OR SON LIVE ON CAMPUS OR OFF CAMPUS?

There are distinct advantages to on-campus housing, particularly for new students. These include convenient access to the campus and a ready integration into campus life; an academic support system (e.g., tutorial labs and computer labs within the housing complexes); board as well as room (except for Heritage Halls); LDS student wards; and honors floors and residence halls for those wishing a more supportive environment for studying. We strongly urge but do not require new students to live on campus. We do not, however, have sufficient housing for the entire student body.

DOES MY DAUGHTER OR SON NEED A CAR?

No. Indeed, we encourage students to not bring cars but to rely instead on bicycles and public transportation. The UTA (Utah Transit Authority, 375-4636) connects BYU with apartment complexes, shopping centers, and other locations in the Provo-Orem area and has a fast express connection with Salt Lake City. Students can ride UTA buses and the TRAX system; however they will need to purchase a bus pass. First they need to apply for a pass by logging on to Route Y and clicking the link to "UTA Bus Pass." After doing this, there should be a page that will direct them where to pick up their pass.

WHAT ABOUT TRAVEL HOME DURING BREAKS OR AT SEMESTER'S END?

This may not be a pressing question, but it is one of considerable concern for us for two reasons.

First, because there are three semesters in each calendar year (fall semester, winter semester, and spring and summer terms), final examination dates for fall semester frequently occur during the week before Christmas. Sometimes students (or parents) schedule airline flights or otherwise arrange for transportation home without consulting the final examination schedule. This invariably creates difficulties. For understandable reasons, it is contrary to university policy for faculty to give final examinations at times other than the date and time period scheduled. Thus, requests for early examinations or for incompletes (taking a final examination at a later date) cannot be honored. We expect that travel at the conclusion of each semester will be scheduled to accommodate the university's calendar and your son or daughter's particular final examination schedule (which is published before each semester's registration in the current Class Schedule).

Second, and of much greater importance, is our concern for students' safety when they travel following examinations. Frequently, in the push to complete exams and papers, students go without sleep for extended periods of time. If at the completion of exams they rush to drive home, they frequently find themselves increasingly tired along the way. It is a tragic fact that following virtually every fall and winter semester, a student or two is killed or seriously injured in automobile accidents associated with driving while extremely tired. We urge you to insist that your son or daughter get a good night's rest before traveling home.

WHAT KINDS OF FINANCIAL AID ARE AVAILABLE?

Federally sponsored Pell Grants and Stafford Loans based on financial need are available for students attending BYU. Applications for those programs can begin in consultation with high school counselors.

In addition, BYU and private donors sponsor scholarships based on academic performance (scholarships provide at most, however, money for tuition).

Finally, BYU has need-based loan and grant programs, although the funding is quite limited.

For specific questions regarding financial aid, please contact the Financial Aid Office, A-41 ASB, Provo, UT 84602-1009, telephone (801) 422-4104.

SHOULD I ENCOURAGE MY SON OR DAUGHTER TO TAKE A PART-TIME JOB?

Because there is a substantial adjustment in the early part of the first year, we discourage new students from seeking employment. Beyond the first year, however, studies show that students who have part-time jobs do as well in school as those who are not employed.

One caution: As noted above, much of a university education occurs outside the classroom (in concert halls and art galleries; in seminars, lectures, and workshops; in intramural play; in service; and in campus social life). It is important then that employment not displace these important non classroom activities.

A further caution: A student with a full academic schedule (from 14 to 17 credit hours per semester) will be expected to spend from 30 to 40 additional hours per week in his or her academic work. Part-time employment needs to be consistent with this requirement and with full participation in campus life and cocurricular programs. Having a part-time job that is inconsistent with these academic demands will generally mean that a student will enroll for fewer hours per semester, thereby extending the time needed to complete his or her degree.

DOES MY SON OR DAUGHTER NEED A PERSONAL COMPUTER?

Owning a personal computer is not a requirement for academic success at BYU. All students have access to campus computer labs and kiosks. Also, a computer rental program is available for those living on campus. You can find more information by visiting this website at http://it.byu.edu/index.cfm?child_id=44&v=s. The office is open Monday-Friday from 9:00-5:00 (with the exception of devotional time on Tuesday).

The university provides students with an e-mail account at no cost.  For more information, visit the Office of Information Technology's Web site at http://it.byu.edu or call (801) 422-4000.

• For more frequently asked questions go to http://alumni.byu.edu/sections/admin/FAQAdmin/display.cfm?id=1