Admission, Advising, Registration, and Records

Student Services

Student Services exists to serve and support the academic purpose of the College and its students through outstanding personalized services.

General Conditions for Admittance

Polk State College maintains an open-door policy for admission to the College. Prospective students with qualifying high school diplomas or equivalency are eligible to apply. Generally these are standard high school diplomas, General Education Development (GED) diplomas, and college placement test-eligible certificates of completion. For information on other completion codes on high school diplomas, students should contact the Registrar’s Office. Home-schooled students who have met the school attendance policy as defined in Florida Statute 1002.41 and have completed all curriculum requirements for graduation as defined by Florida Statute 1003.43 must submit a completed Home School Affidavit in lieu of a high school diploma.

Students can apply for admission at any time and may begin taking courses in the Fall, Spring, or Summer sessions. Correspondence concerning Admission, Student Records, or Registration may be addressed to:

Admission and Registrar’s Office
Polk State College
999 Avenue H NE
Winter Haven, FL 33881-4299

Prior to registering for courses, a student must have the following on file in the Admission and Registrar’s Office: a completed Admission Application (this can be submitted in person or online at www.polk.edu), an official high school transcript (or GED transcript or Home School Affidavit), all placement test results, official transcripts of all previous college work, and an affidavit of residency. Official transcripts must be sent directly to the Admission and Registrar’s Office. Transfer and baccalaureate students should submit all requirements six weeks before the start of the term in which they expect to attend classes.

Determination of placement in courses and the necessity of prerequisite classes are based on recent scores earned on the SAT and/or ACT, on a college placement test administered at Polk State College, and/or on previous college course work.

General Admission Procedures

General admission for the Bachelor of Applied Science, Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science, Advanced Technical Certificate, College Credit Certificate, Applied Technology diploma programs, and non-degree seeking students are as follows:

Applications for admission are processed year round; however, to complete all admission requirements and be well prepared for course registration, prospective students should apply at least six weeks before the start of the term in which they expect to attend classes.

Students may apply for admission online at www.polk.edu or www.facts.org. Students should read the information online under the Admission links and download the Registration Guide that gives step-by-step instructions of the admission process. Students may also apply in person at any campus. Non-degree seeking students should apply in person.

There is no application fee to apply for admission to Polk State College. Applicants are notified of their application status by mail. All forms may be submitted in person to one of the following campuses: Winter Haven, Lakeland, or JD Alexander/Lake Wales.

• Affidavits of residency must be completed with two valid proofs of Florida residency, according to Florida Residency for Tuition guidelines found at www.facts.org.
   
• The Home School Affidavit can be submitted in person or by mail.
   
• It is the student’s responsibility to request that official transcripts be sent directly to the Admission and Registrar’s Office from a high school or state GED office and from all colleges attended. Students may be admitted without official transcripts, but may not be placed into college-level courses until official transcripts have been received and evaluated.
   
• First-time-in-college and new PSC degree-seeking applicants will be registered for an Orientation class once the application is received.  Applicants will then receive an admission letter sent to their official PSC e-mail. The letter is used as a testing ticket for those required to take the college placement test. Testing is available on the following campuses: Winter Haven, Lakeland, or JD Alexander/Lake Wales. Based on test results, students are placed into appropriate level courses in English, reading, and mathematics. Testing must be done prior to the scheduled Orientation. Transfer students may be exempt from this requirement.
   
• Students whose first language is not English must provide documentation of English proficiency. The International and Visa Student section of the catalog provides more details regarding this requirement.
   
• It is highly recommended that all students complete academic advising prior to registration, which is done during Orientation for new students. No appointment is required to see an advisor. The Advising Services section of the catalog lists the hours of operation.

• Students should attend the Polk State College Orientation for an introduction to college resources, for interpretation of college placement test scores, for assistance in developing a personalized educational plan, and to learn how to search and register for classes online. Students will be registered for an orientation session after completing an application. There is no cost for the Orientation.

• Students should consult the College website for important registration dates.
   
• Students can hear helpful recorded messages by dialing these phone numbers: 

For additional information, please visit the Polk State College website at www.polk.edu.

First-Time-in-College Students

Admission may be granted to those who have completed the following:

• Graduated with a standard high school diploma or International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma from a secondary school, including Florida public and private schools and out-of-state schools, in accordance with Florida statutes.
   
• Earned a general education development (GED) diploma through any state Department of Education or the military, as long as the test was administered in the English language.
   
• Completed a Home Education Program pursuant to the requirement of Florida Statutes 1002.41 and 1003.43. The student must submit a Home School Affidavit signed by a parent or legal guardian.

Applicants who have received a Certificate of Completion but have not passed the FCAT are eligible for admission and should contact the Admission and Registrar’s Office for more information. Some additional high school diplomas qualify for college admission under the Florida state guidelines. For information on other high school diploma completion codes, contact the Admission and Registrar’s Office at 863-297-1016.

Transfer Students

Students who have previously attended a college or university accredited by one of the six regional accrediting associations, or whose non-regionally accredited transfer work has met the rigors of course-by-course evaluation, may be admitted as transfer students under the following conditions:

• The high school diploma requirement may be waived, provided a Polk State College transcript evaluation determines that the student has completed a minimum of 12 academic credits with an overall grade point average of 2.0.
   
• Students will enter Polk State College with the equivalent academic status they held at the transferring institution. Students with a warning or probationary status will hold this status at Polk State College. Students on academic suspension or dismissal will not be admitted during the term immediately following the imposition of the academic suspension or dismissal status.
   
• Degree-seeking students will receive an evaluation of transfer credits once all admission requirements have been met. These students can access the completed evaluation in their PASSPORT accounts. Details regarding this can be found in the Transfer of Credit to Polk State College section of the catalog.
   
• It is the student’s responsibility to assure that transcripts from other colleges are sent directly to PSC’s Admission and Registrar’s Office to complete admission requirements. If transcripts have not arrived by the registration date of the student’s second term, the student will be prohibited from registering.

Transient Students

Students attending other regionally accredited institutions who wish to earn credits at Polk State College to fulfill degree requirements at their home institutions must meet the following requirements for enrollment:

• Submit a Polk State College Admission application. There is no application fee.
   
• Submit an official Transient form or statement from the home institution, certifying good standing and indicating the particular courses to be taken. If the student is from a state or participating private institution, the transient request must be submitted through www.facts.org.
   
• Assume responsibility for selecting the appropriate courses that the home institution will accept toward the program of study.
   
• Request an official Polk State College transcript to be sent to the home institution at the end of the term.

Polk State College students wishing to attend other colleges as transient students must:

• Have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0.
   
• Have met any prerequisites for the desired courses.
   
• Be in good academic and financial standing with the College.
   
• Must have attended the term immediately preceding the transient request term.
   
• Take courses that meet requirements for the student’s degree program.
   
• Complete a Transient form 2 weeks prior to registration through www.facts.org or with a Polk State College Academic Advisor, if attending a private institution that does not participate in electronic transient submission though www.facts.org.
   
• Request that the college send an official transcript to the PSC Admission and Registrar’s Office immediately after grades are posted at the end of the term.

Readmission to Polk State College

A student will maintain an active application status, provided a break in enrollment does not exceed one year. Students returning after an absence of one or more academic years and those students who applied but did not attend within one or more academic years must complete the following:

• Complete an Application for Readmission at no cost.
   
• Submit transcripts from all colleges or universities attended since last attending or applying to Polk State College.
   
• Retake a college placement test if it has been more than two (2) years: for those who have not completed 12 transferable hours with an overall grade point average of 2.0.
   
• Submit high school transcripts and all previous college transcripts, including those previously submitted if returning after five (5) years.
   
• Meet the graduation requirements of the catalog in effect at the time of readmission.

Currently attending students changing from a non-degree to degree-seeking program status must submit an application for readmission and submit any required documents to the Admission and Registrar’s Office to become eligible.

Previously dual-enrolled students who attend Polk State College after high school graduation must submit an application for readmission as a degree-seeking student even though there is no break in attendance.

Early Admission and Dual Enrollment

Polk State College provides accelerated opportunities to academically talented students from all Polk County public secondary schools and most area private high schools. The application process begins with the high school counselor. Home-schooled students are also eligible to participate. Home-schooled students must complete the Home School Dual Enrollment Application packet.

For more information, contact the Dual Enrollment Coordinator on the Winter Haven campus at 863-292-3758 or the Dual Enrollment Coordinator on the Lakeland campus at 863-669-2822 or e-mail: dualenrollment@polk.edu. Application packets are available from high school guidance offices, the advising areas on each PSC campus, or may be downloaded from the website at www.polk.edu.

Acceleration is available to high school students through two dual enrollment programs: Full-time Early Admission and Dual Enrollment.

• Full-time Early Admission:
  Full-time early admission can be a suitable choice for high school seniors with the social maturity and academic motivation needed to succeed in a college environment. A student seeking full-time early admission must be a high school senior, have an unweighted grade point average of 3.2 or higher for all courses completed in grades 9 through 11, must have earned a grade of “B” or better in either Algebra II or a higher-level math course, and must have completed 18 high school credits to qualify for enrollment. Full-time early admission candidates are required to have completed all sections of the FCAT and complete and pass all sections of a college placement test (or equivalent sections of the SAT or ACT), register and successfully complete 12 or more credit hours per semester, and maintain a 2.0 or higher grade point average at Polk State College.

The Early Admissions Program will pay for one attempt at a course. Any subsequent attempts of the same course will be at the expense of the student.

• Dual Enrollment:
  Dual enrollment is available to high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors who meet the minimum qualifications. Requirements to qualify for dual enrollment are based on the number of credit hours in which the student wishes to enroll.
   

1 to 7 credits – minimum 3.0 unweighted high school grade point average for AA degree programs and 2.5 for AS, AAS, and certificate programs in all courses up through the end of the previous semester and a passing score on the sections of a college placement test (or equivalent sections of the SAT or ACT) that are relevant to the courses in which the student wishes to enroll.
 

8 to 11 credits – minimum 3.2 unweighted high school grade point average for AA degree programs and 2.75 for AS, AAS, and certificate programs in all courses up through the end of the previous semester, a grade of “B” or better in either Algebra II or a higher-level mathematics course, a passing score on all sections of the FCAT, and a passing score on all sections of a college placement test (or equivalent sections of the SAT or ACT).

Sophomores may qualify for one course per semester, and juniors may qualify for up to two courses per semester. Seniors may take up to 11 credit hours per semester, depending on college placement test results and their high school GPA.

Dual-enrollment courses may be taken in a variety of ways: on a Polk State College campus, at a high school in a class taught by a PSC-approved instructor, or via the Internet through Polk State College’s PAL distance learning website. Courses may be taken as part of students’ regular high school curriculum or in addition to their high school load. Students are required to maintain a 2.0 college GPA and a 3.0 unweighted high school GPA to remain eligible for dual enrollment.

If a student withdraws from a course after the add/drop period is over, he/she will receive a W grade on the college transcript and it will count as a first attempt. Students are advised that multiple attempts may adversely affect their future academic opportunities and cost of tuition.

The information above reflects the rules and regulations in effect at the time of publication. Polk State College reserves the right to make changes as necessary to address changes in legislation and/or to meet College needs.

Limited Admission Programs

Special standards and procedures are established for admission to certain Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science, and Certificate Programs. The Programs of Study section of this catalog provides details on these criteria.

Non-Degree Seeking

The non-degree seeking student is not intending to complete a degree at Polk State College. This student attends for a variety of reasons, such as to enhance a job skill, for teacher recertification, to meet several prerequisites for an advanced degree, or for personal enrichment.

Non-degree seeking students complete an application for admission in person. They are not required to submit official transcripts from previously attended institutions. They also are not required to take a college placement test. However, students must demonstrate that all prerequisites to a course have been met before registration is permitted. This may require copies of transcripts or passage of all or portions of a college placement test.

Non-degree seeking students must register in person each term.

Concurrent Admission Program (ConAP)

Polk State College participates in the United States Army Concurrent Admissions Program (ConAP). As a ConAP member, the College admits eligible new soldiers upon enlistment, and guarantees full admission during their enlistment and for two years after they complete their active military service.

ConAP also applies to soldiers enlisted in the Army Reserve. Admission for qualified Reserve soldiers is deferred until completion of the initial active duty training (about six months). Students are subject to the catalog in effect at the time of class registration.

International and Visa Students Admission

International students interested in attending PSC should request an International Student Application packet by calling the International Student Coordinator on the Winter Haven campus at 863-292-3758 or the International Student Coordinator on the Lakeland campus at 863-669-2822. International students may also request information to be sent via email at: internationalstudent@polk.edu. The International Student Admissions Guidebook is available at PSC’s International Student website. 

Polk State College is authorized to enroll nonimmigrant alien students. Nonimmigrant alien students are classified as either international students (F-1) or other nonimmigrant visa students. Anyone in the United States with a B1/B2 Tourist visa, an M-1 Vocational Student visa, or a J-1 Exchange Student visa is not eligible to attend the College until the following requirements have been met: 1) completion of the admission requirements for international students and 2) obtainment of an F-1 visa or a United States Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) approved change of status to F-1.

B1/B2 visa holders and J-1 Exchange Student visa holders may submit a new application for an F-1 visa at a U.S. embassy in their home country or other foreign country, or they may submit a Change of Status Application to the USCIS while in the United States to change their visa status to F-1.

M-1 visa holders must travel to their home country with their SEVIS I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for nonimmigrant F-1 student status) to apply for an F-1 visa at a U.S. embassy abroad. M-1 visa holders may not change their status while remaining in the United States.

International students enter the United States with F-1 visas specifically for the purpose of obtaining an education. All international students holding F-1 visas are required to attend Polk State College on a full-time basis (minimum of 12 credit hours per semester) and pay out-of-state tuition and fees during their entire enrollment. Anyone who enters the United States with a visa other than F-1 is here for purposes other than obtaining an education. Most visa holders are eligible to attend school while in the U.S. as long as attending school does not interfere with their original purpose for being here. Many visa students are required to pay out-of-state tuition and fees during their entire enrollment at Polk State College. Some visa students are eligible for Florida tuition rates after one year of residency in Florida. Students should check with the International Student Advisor to determine their eligibility to attend school and with questions regarding Florida tuition rates.

International and visa students must submit all required documents and meet all conditions of admission by the following deadlines:

• Fall Semester or Term I (Aug.-Dec.): May 15
• Spring Semester or Term II (Jan.-early May): Oct. 15
• Summer Semester or Term III (May-early Aug.): March 15
• In the event the deadline falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday, the deadline will be extended until the next open business day.

In addition to the regular admission procedures, international and visa students are required to complete additional admission requirements. International students should begin the admission process three to six months prior to the beginning of the semester in which they wish to enroll.

International students who complete the international student admission requirements by the semester deadline will be issued a SEVIS Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status.

For academic and language students, the SEVIS I-20 form is used to show acceptance to Polk State College and to apply for an F-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate office in foreign countries. It may also be used to apply for a change of status to F-1 for those already in the United States.

International Student Admission Requirements:

These admission requirements apply to international students seeking admission to degree-granting programs and to those seeking admission to the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Program. All requirements must be completed before the SEVIS Form I -20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status, will be issued.

Degree-seeking international students must show proficiency in English by meeting one of the requirements listed below. International students who do not demonstrate sufficient proficiency in English may enroll in PSC’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Program. These students will need to take the Levels of English Proficiency exam (LOEP) for placement in a reading, writing, and grammar course in the EAP Program. EAP Communications is also highly recommended to improve speaking and listening skills.

The following steps should be taken:

• Submit a written Application for Admission to Polk State College. International admission cannot be done via the online application.
   
• Submit an International Student Application.
   
• Submit an Affidavit of Financial Support, including the student’s or sponsor’s most recent bank statement, showing finances are available for the student’s entire education. A letter of employment may be requested from the sponsor’s employer to verify employment and income source.
   
• Submit a Health Certification form, certifying good physical and mental health, which is required before an I-20 form is issued.
   
• Demonstrate English Proficiency via any one of the following:
  
  
  1. Affidavit of English Language – Students from a country where English is the native language are required to complete the Affidavit of English Language. Check with the International Student Advisor for a list of countries exempt from English proficiency requirements.
      
  2. Official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) – Students should submit passing scores from Educational Testing Services. Information about TOEFL can be obtained at www.ets.org/toefl.
     
     • For admission to degree-seeking status: A paper-and-pencil exam score of at least 500 or an Internet-based exam score of at least 61 or higher is required.
     • For admission to the EAP Program: Proof of English proficiency is not required to be admitted into the program. EAP Communications is also highly recommended to improve speaking and listening skills.
        
  3. An Advanced Placement (AP) score – A score of 4 or higher on the International English Language exam will be accepted in lieu of a TOEFL score.
      
  4. Completion of the highest level of an accredited, intensive English language program. Documentation is required.
      
  5. Five or more years of successful study in an accredited institution where English is the only language of instruction, as demonstrated on a transcript.
     
      
• Provide Proof of Medical Insurance:
  Insurance must include basic medical coverage. Also highly recommended is coverage for medical evacuation and repatriation services. Polk State College recommends Student Secure Select for non-U.S. citizens, which is offered through International Student Insurance. Applications are available from the International Student Office on the Winter Haven and Lakeland campuses and from the website at: www.InternationalStudentInsurance.com. Students should apply for medical insurance after the F-1 visa has been approved.
   
• Possess a Valid Passport:
  A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended length of study in the United States is required.

International Student Transcript Requirements:

Students must provide official high school, upper secondary, and postsecondary transcripts from accredited high schools, colleges, and universities they have attended. If transcripts are in a language other than English, a certified English translation must also be provided. A certified translation service in the United States or the Ministry of Education in the home country may provide the translation. Students should request two official copies of their transcripts: one should be sent to Polk State College, and one should be sent directly from the foreign institution to an evaluation service, as explained below. All transcripts must be received by the College prior to attending classes.

Transcripts from international secondary institutions must be evaluated “document by document” for equivalency to U.S. high school graduation, and college/university transcripts must be evaluated “course by course” for consideration of college transfer credit. The student must pay the cost of the transcript evaluation. Specific instructions for obtaining this evaluation are included with the International Student Admission packet, or they can be obtained from the Admission and Registrar’s Office. The application for evaluation may be downloaded from an evaluator’s website. Go to www.naces.org to select an approved evaluator. Polk State College most commonly uses Josef Silny & Associates and World Education Services.

I-901 SEVIS Fee

Prior to visa application, and once an I-20 form is issued, the student must pay a $200 SEVIS fee to the Department of Homeland Security. Form I-901 information and an application are available at www.fmjfee.com. The fee should be paid at least two weeks prior to visa application. A receipt must be presented at the time of visa application. This I-901 fee is in addition to the visa application fee. For information on the visa application process, please visit www.state.gov.

Within the first three weeks of the semester, students must present a valid visa, SEVIS I-20, I-94 card, and valid passport to the International Student Advisor as proof of eligibility to attend school. Photocopies will be made for the student’s file.

International Students Holding Other Visas

Admission requirements for those holding nonimmigrant visas other than B1/B2 Tourist, M-1 Vocational Student, J-1 Exchange Student, and F-1 International Student visas must meet the following admission requirements:

• Students must submit an Application for Admission.

• Students must submit official high school, upper secondary, and postsecondary transcripts from accredited high schools, colleges, and universities. If transcripts are in a language other than English, a certified English translation must also be provided. A certified translation service in the United States or the Ministry of Education in the home country may provide the translation. Students should request two official transcripts: one should be sent to the PSC International Student Office of the campus where the student expects to attend, and one should be sent directly to an evaluation service, as explained below.
   
• Transcripts from international secondary institutions must be evaluated “document by document” for equivalency to U.S. high school graduation, and college/university transcripts must be evaluated “course by course” for consideration. Foreign transcripts from international institutions must be evaluated for either equivalency to U.S. high school graduation or for consideration of college transfer credit. Students must pay the cost of the transcript evaluation. Specific instructions for obtaining this evaluation are included with the International Student Admission packet, or they can be obtained from the Admission and Registrar’s Office.
   
• Students must present a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended length of study in the United States.
   
• Within the first three weeks of the semester, students must present a valid visa and I-94 card as proof of eligibility to attend school. Photocopies will be made for the student’s file.
   
• For admission to college-credit courses, students must demonstrate English Proficiency, using the criteria listed under the section titled International Student Admission Requirements. International students who do not demonstrate sufficient proficiency in English may enroll in PSC’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Program. EAP Communications is also highly recommended to improve speaking and listening skills.

Transfer of Credit to Polk State College

Polk State College will accept college credit earned at other institutions as transfer credit if the institution is regionally accredited or accredited by an accrediting body approved by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) in accordance with specific guidelines:

• Credits earned at regionally-accredited institutions within Florida’s State University System (SUS), Florida community and state colleges, and non-public accredited institutions participating in the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System (SCNS) for which there are comparable courses or requirements at Polk State College are posted to the student’s academic record. When appropriate, this credit is applied toward degree requirements or electives. In some cases, however, it is recorded as credit earned in excess of degree requirements.

  Award Policies

  • An award will be made, provided the credit earned is in an appropriate area, if the credit is at a level normally included within the first two years of college, and if a grade of “D” or higher has been achieved. However, some courses require a grade of “C” or better for degree purposes.
     
  • Failing grades are recorded and are included in the student’s grade point average if earned at a Florida state university or state or community college. Failing grades are not recorded from private institutions.
     
• Credits earned at regionally-accredited institutions that are not participants in the Florida Statewide Numbering System are evaluated, and those found to be equivalent are posted to the student’s record following the award policies listed above.
   
• PSC will accept transfer credit from other institutions if the institution’s accrediting body is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), and if the school and each course meets the evaluation rigors followed by PSC. Requests for evaluation must be initiated by the student 12 weeks prior to the beginning of the term but no later than the Drop/Add deadline of the graduating term. Students will play an active role in collecting required data for evaluation. Only courses with grades of “D” or higher are considered for evaluation according to the award policies listed above.
   
• Transcripts from international institutions, including those in the English language, require an official evaluation at the expense of the student from an external agency, as recommended by Polk State College. Students may find qualified agencies at: www.naces.org.  

• Credits earned at Polk State College are based on semester hours; therefore, all transfer work is converted to equivalent semester hours.
   
• Credits at the upper-division college level are not generally accepted for transfer for associate degrees. Upper-division courses are accepted for transfer toward baccalaureate degrees and associate degrees if the course meets a specific lower-division requirement.
   
• Polk State College recognizes that valid learning can take place in non-traditional and non-collegiate environments. The College generally follows the credit-granting recommendations of the American Council of Education (ACE) but reserves the right to exercise its own judgment. Polk State College maintains articulation for credit based on various credentialing, certifications, and licensure in addition to state-mandated agreements. For more information on non-traditional credit awards, contact the Admission and Registrar’s Office at 863-297-1016. For information on experiential learning opportunities, contact the District Dean of Academics and Student Services at 863-292-3645.

Credit for Armed Services Training

In recognition of the advanced academic and technical content of many military education experiences, Polk State College may grant appropriate credits for military education experiences that are evaluated by the American Council of Education (ACE) as suitable for postsecondary credit. It is at the discretion of Polk State College to award this credit; recommendations in the ACE Guide are advisory only and not binding on the College. Credit will be granted in those areas that are appropriate for a Polk State College degree or certification. The Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services will serve as the basis for acceptance of such training and the awarding of college credit.

• When applying for admission, degree-seeking students can initiate the request for credit by providing appropriate supporting documents.
   
• All required documents must be submitted with the DD214, if separating from the military, or with the DD295, if a current member of the armed services. One of these two documents is required.
   
• Documents should be mailed to:

Admission and Registrar’s Office
Polk State College
999 Avenue H NE
Winter Haven, FL 33881

• All requests for military credit awards must be made in the student’s first semester of attendance with Polk State College but no later than the Drop/Add deadline of the graduating term.
   
• Once evaluation is completed, students will be able to view results on the degree audit in the student’s account in PASSPORT.

The DD214 for veterans or DD295 for active duty military personnel should be submitted to obtain credit for the course HLP 1081, Wellness Concepts. All other credit requests require an official transcript from the registry associated with the student’s branch of service as follows:

• Active Duty military personnel should submit a certified copy of the Application for the Evaluation of Learning Experiences during Military Service, Form DD295, as well as certified copies of any course completion certificates. The Admission and Registrar’s Office will make a copy of the original document if presented in person.
   
• Army veterans should request that an Army/ACE Registry Transcript System (AARTS) transcript be mailed directly to Polk State College. Prospective students may request an AARTS transcript by writing directly to: Manager, AARTS Operations Center, Ft. Leavenworth, KS 66027-5073. Each request must include the veteran’s name, basic service dates, Social Security number, and current mailing address. The e-mail address is aarts@leavenworth.army.mil.
   
• Air Force veterans may request that a Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) transcript be mailed directly to PSC. Prospective students may request a transcript by writing directly to: CCAF, 130 W. Maxwell Blvd., Maxwell Air Force Base, AL 36112-6613. The telephone number is 334-953-7848.
   
• Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Navy veterans should request a transcript from: The Naval Education and Technical Center, 6490 Saufley Fld. Rd., Pensacola, FL 32509-5204, ATTN: Code N2A5. The e-mail address is ncc@cnet.navy.mil. Information can also be accessed through this toll free number 877-253-7122.

Veterans

Information and advising are available for those veterans eligible for educational benefits under the various laws aiding veterans and their dependents. Veterans eligible under Chapters 30, 106, 32, and 35 of Title 38, U.S. Code, and the Post 9/11 GI Bill are required to be degree seeking, but they may attend college part time. It is important for veterans to meet with an Academic Advisor prior to registration each term.

The Financial Aid Office completes the Veteran’s Certification for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Benefits are paid on a sliding scale:

• Full: 12 or more credit hours
   
• 3/4: 9 to 11 credit hours
   
• 1/2: 6 to 8 credit hours
   
• Tuition only: 1 to 5 credit hours

All veterans and dependents, except those on vocational rehabilitation, are responsible for paying all college fees within the appropriate deadlines. Registration fees may be deferred, when necessary, up to sixty days. If the term is less than sixty days long, the deferment is ten days less than the length of the term, whichever is earlier. Fees may be deferred only once per academic year.

VA regulations require veterans to progress at a regular rate toward graduation. Details regarding the current Polk State College policy for meeting this requirement are available in the Financial Aid Office on the Lakeland and Winter Haven campuses.

Veterans should contact the Financial Aid Office for assistance with completing the appropriate paperwork.

Advising Services

Academic Advising provides assistance to all prospective and enrolled students in making educational and career decisions. Polk State College recommends that all degree-seeking students, whether first-time-in-college, returning, or transfer, meet with an Academic Advisor to establish their program of study, plan the sequence of course work toward their degree, and determine what prerequisite courses are necessary. This is done through the mandatory Orientation. Students will be notified of their scheduled Orientation in an Admission letter. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor each semester PRIOR to registration to review their progress and select courses.

Academic Advisors are available in Student Services at both campuses and the JD Alexander/Lake Wales Center during regular operating hours. Advising hours are:

Advisors are available at the JD Alexander/Lake Wales Center during the Center’s normal operating hours.

Advising Tracks

Through the use of advising tracks, Polk State College offers preparation for over 130 majors in the State University System (SUS) of Florida. Advising tracks serve as a course guide for a student who plans to earn a Liberal Arts degree and then transfer to one of the state universities in Florida to complete a bachelor’s degree. Each advising track includes the courses to satisfy General Education requirements and the statewide common course prerequisites required for specific bachelor degree programs. Using an advising track, students can plan their AA degree program more effectively and minimize the potential for excess credit hours. Students are advised that excess hours toward a bachelor’s degree can cost them additional tuition at the university level. 

Registration

Registering for classes at Polk State College has never been easier. Students have access to a convenient, efficient online registration system available at www.polk.edu. Registering online helps students avoid long lines and closed classes. Students may also choose to register with the help of an Academic Advisor on campus. Important steps to follow in the registration process:

1. New students should complete the admission process, take placement tests, provide transcripts, and attend Orientation where they will meet with Academic Advisors.
    
2. All students should consult the  Academic Calendar on the College’s website for registration dates, fees, and payment deadlines.
    

3. Students should be prepared to pay for classes by the posted payment deadline, which is printed at the bottom of the student’s schedule. Otherwise, the registration reservation is canceled, and students may not be able to re-register for the classes they originally selected. Students may pay online with Visa or MasterCard through the PASSPORT registration system at www.polk.edu or in person at the Winter Haven and Lakeland campuses. PSC also has other payment options available for students, such as a tuition payment plan administered through a partnership with FACTS. After a small enrollment fee and down payment, students can spread tuition and fee payments over 4 monthly payments, depending on when students register. This allows students more flexibility in managing tuition and fees each semester.

   PSC also now offers a faster way for students to get refunds: the Viking One card. The Viking One card is designed to provide students with options for receiving financial aid or school refunds—including the preferred “Easy Refund” method. Easy Refund is the fastest, easiest way to gain access to refund money the same day Polk State College releases it. The Viking One card is not a credit card, and there is no cost to the student.
   For more information, contact the Financial Aid or Cashier’s offices on the Lakeland or Winter Haven campus.
    
4. Students with unmet obligations (overdue library books, financial obligations, or outstanding requirements, such as missing student-records documents) will be blocked from registration for future terms.
    
5. Students may be restricted from registering for courses for which they have not met the prerequisite requirements. Students who pre-register for the next term but fail a prerequisite course must drop the class requiring the prerequisite; however, they may add another appropriate course. Students who fail prerequisite courses but do not drop the next course in the sequence may be dropped from all classes that they have registered for in the next semester.
    
6. Once the Late Registration Drop/Add period has ended, Admission and Registrar staff and Academic Advisors are no longer permitted to handle student requests for changes to the student schedule. Schedule change requests after the Drop/Add period has ended must be submitted to a Dean of Student Services or an Academic Dean.

Continuous Enrollment

Degree-program students are considered to be continuously enrolled, provided a break in enrollment does not exceed a year. Students failing to maintain continuous enrollment must apply for readmission under the catalog in effect at the time of their next enrollment. This must be done before registration can take place.

Registration Tools

PASSPORT (Personal Access to Student Services Polk Online Registration Tool) is an online system that allows students to conduct various Student Services’ tasks. On PASSPORT students can:

• Review their records
• Make address changes
• View their grades
• Check financial aid
• Pay for classes and other charges
• Order official transcripts
• Print enrollment certifications
• Register for classes
• Apply for graduation

PASSPORT allows students to conduct these tasks day or night from any computer with Internet access. All students who have been admitted to the College and have a PIN can use PASSPORT.

To use the online system, go to the website at www.polk.edu and click on the PASSPORT link. Step-by-step instructions can be found on PASSPORT’s home screen by clicking “Student Help Using PASSPORT.” Student Services offers a registration guide that provides instructions on how to register for classes using PASSPORT on the Admission page of the College’s website.

Registration Fees

• Registration fees are due by the fee-payment deadline as published online at www.polk.edu. Payment may be made in person at the Polk State College Cashier’s Office on the Winter Haven or Lakeland campus or online through the PASSPORT student portal.
   
• Failure to pay fees by the published deadline results in cancellation of registration. The student may not be able to re-register for the original classes selected.
   
• Registration is not complete until the student has received (or printed from PASSPORT) a fee sheet or receipt showing that all fees have been paid in full.
   
• Financial aid recipients must be aware of their award coverage and pay any outstanding portion by the posted deadline to prevent cancellation of registration.

Defining a Florida Resident for Residency Fee Purposes

At Polk State College, Florida residents pay lower fees than out-of-state students. ”Residency Guidelines” have been developed by a state committee to assist colleges in the administration of Florida Statutes.

State law is found in Section 1009.21, Florida Statutes; Rules 6A-10.044 and 6A-20.003, Florida Administrative Code; and the Board of Governors (BOG) Residency Regulation. The guidelines, as maintained by the Statewide Residency Committee, are used to determine residency status for tuition purposes in public colleges and universities. Updated guidelines can be found at www.facts.org. Polk State College recommends that all new students review these guidelines as there are many ways to meet the residency requirement.

If you believe you qualify for a special classification after reviewing the “Residency Guidelines,” you may bring documentation to the Admission and Registrar’s Office in Winter Haven, Lakeland, or JD Alexander-Lake Wales. Persons unable to provide documentation according to the state guidelines indicating they have met the definition of a Florida resident are charged at the non-resident rate. A Residency Committee has been established to hear student appeals to the College’s initial residency evaluation. For information about how to appeal, contact the Registrar on the Winter Haven campus at 863-297-1010 ext. 5021.

Books and Supplies

The cost of books and supplies varies with the program and courses that students select. Books and other school supplies are sold in the college bookstores located at the Winter Haven and Lakeland campuses. Polk State College contracts with Follett, Inc. to provide bookstore services. Follett accepts most major credit cards, debit cards, and local checks with proper identification. Many students buy books online at Follett’s website www.efollett.com.

Fee Refunds

• To be eligible for a fee refund for a dropped course, a student must complete the drop action no later than the Last-Day-for-Refund deadline, also known as the Drop/Add deadline published in the Academic Calendar on the Polk State College website.
   
• Full refunds are made for courses cancelled by the College.
   
• Late registration fees are refunded only for cancelled classes.
   
• Information about withdrawals and fee refunds for non-credit courses are available at registration.

Student Records

Polk State College maintains a permanent record of academic information with supporting and relevant documents for each student. The Registrar is designated as the custodian of student records and is responsible for maintaining accurate and readily-available student academic records.

Students may order official transcripts by submitting a transcript request through the student’s PASSPORT account. The transcript request includes the student’s name while at Polk State College, Social Security number or Student ID number, dates of attendance, address of the transcript recipient, and the number of transcripts requested. The student’s signature is always required to order a transcript. The student provides electronic signatory when the request is made through the PASSPORT system. Polk State College charges a fee of $5.00 for transcript requests.

Other Changes and Requests

Degree Verifications and Enrollment Certifications

Polk State College uses the services of the National Student Clearinghouse to process requests for degree verifications and enrollment certifications. Students may access this information on PASSPORT free of charge. Employers, insurance providers, or others are directed to the website at www.studentclearinghouse.org. Polk State College does not charge a fee for these services, but a small transaction fee is charged by the National Student Clearinghouse for non-student requests. Students can order enrollment certifications through their PASSPORT accounts.

Student’s Personal Information

Changes to a student’s name, Social Security number, or other vital information require proof. To request the change, the student should complete a Vital Statistics Change form and bring the new Social Security card or other document to the Admission and Registrar’s Office, along with a driver’s license or other picture ID.

The Registrar is also responsible for the use and release of information contained in student records. The College is committed to the protection of student rights to privacy. It complies with the provisions of the Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), State of Florida law, and State Department of Education rules. Polk State College may release directory information to requesting parties.

Notification of Student Rights Under FERPA

Student Rights Under FERPA

Annually, Polk State College will inform currently attending students of their rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the regulations relating to FERPA Public Law 20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99 promulgated by the Department of Education and Florida Statute 1002.22. These rights are as follows:

1. Each student has a right to inspect and review his or her education records by contacting the Registrar. The inspection will be scheduled within 45 days of receipt of the student’s request. A written request must be submitted to the Registrar identifying the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The Registrar will notify the student of the time and place where records will be available for inspection.
    
2. Each student may request that such records be amended if he or she believes those records to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of his or her privacy rights. The student must follow Polk State College’s procedures to request a change in records. Procedures vary depending on the change requested. A request to amend record(s) should be submitted in writing to the Registrar clearly identifying the record and the requested change. If the request is denied, the student will be notified. Students have the right to appeal by completing a petition with an Academic Advisor. The Petition Committee will give the student its final decision in writing.
    
3. The College will obtain the student’s written consent prior to disclosing personally identifiable information about the student from his or her education records unless such consent is not required by FERPA.
    
4. Each student has the right to assurance that his or her records are protected from access by persons who do not have a legitimate educational interest.
    
5. Each student has a right to file a complaint with the Family Policy and Regulations Office of the Department of Education if he or she feels the College has failed to comply with the requirements of FERPA and the FERPA regulations. The address is:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
600 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605

6. Each student may obtain the College’s compliance information and FERPA rights information from the Admission and Registrar’s Office.

Students will be notified of their FERPA rights annually in one or more of the following Polk State College publications: the College Catalog, Student Handbook, handouts, and website.

Notice Designating Directory Information

Pursuant to FERPA regulations (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) and Florida Statute 1002.22, PSC hereby designates the following categories of student information as “directory information,” which for college purposes only may be made public unless the student is in an exempt category as defined by Florida Statute 119.071 (4(d)1).

• Student name
• Student’s primary address
• Dates and status of college enrollment
• Hometown
• Classification (Freshman, Sophomore, etc.)
• Previous institutions attended
• Photos
• Student’s current primary program objective
• Awards received
• Honors
• Degree(s) conferred (including dates and any graduation honors)
• Past and present participation in officially recognized sports and activities
• Physical factors of athletes

Such information may be disclosed at the discretion of the College for any legitimate purpose, except as provided in the opt-out option. Students may opt out of disclosure of this information.

To do so, a student must meet with the Registrar and complete, sign, and submit to the Registrar a FERPA Non-Disclosure Request form. Students who qualify as exempt from disclosure of directory information by Florida Statute 119.071 (4(d)1) are required to notify the Registrar by completing, signing, and submitting the FERPA Non-Disclosure Request form. The request may be made at any time and will remain in effect unless and until the student submits to the Registrar a request for it to be removed or the student becomes deceased.

If the student does not complete and submit the appropriate form requesting the withholding of directory information, the College will assume the student consents to the disclosure of such information.

The College disclaims any and all liability for inadvertent disclosure of directory information designated to be withheld.

Accelerated Credits From Testing

AP, CLEP, Excelsior College, and IB

Florida law and the State Board of Education rules provide for PSC to award credit for satisfactory scores on the nationally standardized College Level Examination Program (CLEP), College Board Advanced Placement Program (AP), the Excelsior College Examination Program (Excelsior College), and International Baccalaureate (IB) examinations. Credit is awarded in accordance with the State Board Rule 6A-10.024, allowing students to proceed toward their educational goals as rapidly as possible.

Minimum satisfactory scores for CLEP, AP, Excelsior College, and IB are set by the State Board of Education and are subject to change (see Appendices). Credit is not awarded in areas for which college credit has already been earned or in which the course has been attempted.

Examination scores must be submitted on an official score report from the organization administering the examination. CLEP, AP, Excelsior College, and IB credit is posted to the academic record along with the source of the credit. Students planning on transferring to schools outside of the Florida State University System (SUS) are responsible for determining the acceptability of this credit.

A maximum of 45 semester hours of combined CLEP, AP, Excelsior College, or IB credit may be applied toward an associate degree.

Test Administration

Advanced Placement (AP) examinations are taken prior to enrolling in college and are administered in high school following the completion of high school Advanced Placement classes (see Appendices for subjects and minimum satisfactory scores). CLEP exams are administered on the Winter Haven campus in the Teaching/Learning Computing Center. Exams are administered on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. Students may take CLEP exams while in high school or after admission to college. Once a college course is attempted, CLEP scores for that subject will no longer be accepted. Students may contact the TLCC at 863-297-1033 to register.

Excelsior College examinations are administered at Florida Southern College Testing Center, 142 Ordway Building, Lakeland. Students should contact the Testing Center at Florida Southern College by phone at 863-680-4299 for registration materials or more information. Students may refer to the Appendices for exam names, minimum scores required for credit, and equivalent PSC courses.

International Baccalaureate (IB) examinations are taken prior to enrolling in college and are administered in high school following the completion of high school IB classes. See the Appendices for additional information, exam names, minimum scores for credit, and equivalent PSC courses.

Credit By Examination

Special arrangements may be made for Credit by Examination in certain courses by consulting the Academic Dean’s Office on the Winter Haven or Lakeland campuses.

• Students may be eligible to take an exam provided they have never enrolled in a college-level course equivalent to the exam subject matter.
   
• A fee is assessed whether the student passes or fails the exam.
   
• Successful completion of the exam results in credit posted to the academic record.
   
• Students planning to transfer to other institutions are responsible for determining the acceptability of all transferred credit.