Assistance and FAQs for Parents

We are happy that your student has chosen MTSU. This site is a clearinghouse of information that will help you to support your student as well as answer any questions that you might have.

This page features helpful links, reminders and frequently asked questions and answers. It will help you find some of the resources that are available to you as a new student and also offer information that will answer questions that you might have.

If you need additional assistance or can't find what you are looking for, use the online contact form to email your question, request or comment.

If you have questions relating to a specific department, office or center in the Division of Student Affairs, Enrollment and Academic Services, you may find helpful information on their web site.

HELPFUL LINKS FOR PARENTS

Academics	links to colleges, departments,schools and programs
Blue Raider Athletics	the official site for Blue Raider Athletics
Bursar's Office	contains information about the Bursar's Office such as: office hours, tuition and fees, frequently asked questions, and other useful information
Financial Aid	MTSU's financial aid and scholarship site
Parent's Association	A volunteer organization that provides opportunities for parents to become involved in their students' education.
Phillips Bookstore	MTSU's bookstore allows the online purchase of textbooks and other items
Records & Scheduling	includes transcripts, name changes, enrollment certifications, degree verifications, undergraduate academic appeals, undergraduate degree audits/graduation checks, undergraduate degree posting, and veterans' services

REMINDERS FOR PARENTS

• Attend CUSTOMS, the new student orientation program with your student and learn more about the many opportunties at MTSU.
• Support the Blue Raiders. See upcoming game schedules at GoBlueRaiders.com.
• If you need to find out when your student will be on a break, refer to the academic calendar.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR PARENTS

How does my student register for classes?
Most students will register for classes during the CUSTOMS in June and July.

How safe is the MTSU Campus?
The Middle Tennessee State University Department of Public Safety maintains 24-hour coverage with police patrol and communications operators. Phone boxes allow students to summon emergency assistance no matter where they are on the campus. "Raider Escort" is provided by the department's Student Patrol support staff. Students desiring an escort across campus, to their car, or from class to class are encouraged to phone 2424 and ask for an escort. While the escort service is available 24 hours a day, Student Patrol is available generally from 5:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. daily. For more information on safety programs and crime statistics, visit MTSU Public Safety website.

Can I find out how my student is doing in classes?
Unless the student qualifies for dependent status under IRS regulations, only directory information for a non-restricted student may be released to a parent. Non-custodial parents have the same rights as custodial parents in the case of a separation or divorce. Even with evidence of dependency, the release of educational records to a parent is only permissible, not required. We encourage parents to ask their student for the information, or obtain a signed release from the student to disclose the particular record(s).

What classes are offered?
Class schedule books are available online for your review. Keep in mind, though, that some classes offered are restricted to students in specific majors or schools. Also, not all classes offered can be applied to every degree program at MTSU. Students should work with their academic advisors to ensure that the classes they want to take are applicable toward their degree at MTSU.

How does a student "test out" of classes?
MTSU Testing Services offers CLEP test on various subjects throughout the semester. See their web site for schedules and costs. Students should check with their advisor before taking a CLEP test to be certain it will "test them out" of a required course.

What if a student has trouble choosing a major?
The Academic Support Center provides academic advising services for MTSU students with undeclared majors. The center is in room 324 of the Keathley University Center. For more information, call 615-898-2339.