Mr. David VerMilyea, Director, Student Development
Ms. Betty Momayezi, Director, Enrollment Management
Ms. Angie Cantrell, Director, Student Health Services
Ms. Araceli Rangel, Director, Financial Aid
Ms. Maria Rosillo, Director, Admissions and Advisement
Mrs. Barbara Lunce, University Registrar
Ms. Virginia Garcia, Director, Career Planning and Placement
Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) is a four-year university offering baccalaureate degrees as well as master's degrees.
In compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Executive Order 11246, Texas A&M International University is open to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, disabled veteran or veteran of the Vietnam Era who are otherwise eligible for admission as students.
All U.S. high school graduates applying for admission to TAMIU are required to submit Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or American College Testing (ACT) examination scores. (See Admission Tests section for information.) All students having earned more than thirty (30) hours at the college or university from which they wish to transfer will not be required to submit SAT or ACT scores. Official college/university transcript(s) for all college/universities attended will be required for those students.
All international students applying for admission to TAMIU must submit an official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 550 or higher that is less than two years old. In addition, official transcripts, translated into English, of all academic work must be submitted. Undergraduate applicants will be evaluated on their total academic preparation as well as TOEFL. Graduate applicants must have successful and appropriate Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) scores.
TAMIU allows credit for work completed in other institutions which are approved by the appropriate regional accrediting agency. A student from another college seeking admission to TAMIU must present an official transcript of the college work with a minimum 2.0 grade point average (GPA) based on 4.0 GPA scale.
TAMIU's admission policy allows any student to enroll in any course for enrichment or other purpose as long as the prerequisites are met or exceptions to these requirements are approved. TAMIU will continue to accept these non-degree students as "transient" or "special" students.
Implementation of admissions policy is the responsibility of the Director of Admissions and Advisement. Correspondence regarding admissions should be addressed to the Director. Any exception to admissions policy must be approved by the University Undergraduate Committee on Admissions Standards and Exceptions.
DEPARTMENT OF ADMISSIONS AND ADVISEMENT
The following categories of applicants will be considered for admission to TAMIU:
Freshman. A person having earned a high school diploma or who is in the process of completing high school credits within two (2) semesters, but not having more than thirty (30) college semester hours of credit.
Sophomore. A person who has completed between thirty (30) and fifty-nine (59) semester credit hours.
Junior. A person who has completed between sixty (60) and eighty-nine (89) semester credit hours.
Senior. A person who has completed ninety (90) semester credit hours.
International Undergraduate. A person who is not a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S., or whose secondary education was not taught in English as part of the U.S. educational system. International undergraduate students will be expected to comply with additional requirements. (See Admission Requirements for International Students in this section for information.)
Post-Graduate. A person who has earned a baccalaureate degree and is earning university credit hours for enrichment, core requirements, or any preparatory program (example Teacher Education program).
Graduate. A person who is earning university credit hours in a master's degree program.
International Graduate. A person who is earning university credits in a master's degree program and who is not a citizen or permanent resident of the United States. International graduate students are required to submit proof of holding a bachelor's degree in addition to official TOEFL scores of 550 or higher and proof of financial support to attend TAMIU. (See Admission Requirements for International Students in this section for information.)
Transfer Student. A person who has earned college credit of "C" or higher for work completed at other institutions which are approved by an appropriate regional accrediting agency and who wishes to seek a degree at TAMIU.
Special Student Status. A person who is earning university credits at TAMIU which are applicable to a degree at another institution or someone enrolled in programs
designed to serve special purposes outside of established academic degree
requirements, such as specialized certification or in-service training.
Students classified under this category are not entitled to claim the prerogative of graduating under the provisions of the catalog in force at the time of initial enrollment. Students may, on their own initiative, request at any time to be reclassified as a regular degree-seeking student. A written request for reclassification should be submitted to the Director of the Department of Admissions and Advisement.
The student will then become responsible for satisfying the requirements of the catalog in force at the time of the request or any subsequent catalog within the established five-year period of limitation (six-years in the case of some master's programs). For additional information call the Department of Admissions and Advisement at (956) 326-2200.
The Department of Enrollment Management and School Relations handles student recruitment. To obtain application forms and/or information on degrees and student life at TAMIU, call or write to:
Department of Enrollment Management and School Relations
Texas A&M International University
5201 University Boulevard
Laredo, Texas 78041-1900, USA
(956) 326-2270
e-mail: enroll@tamiu.edu
World Wide Web home page: http://www.tamiu.edu
Submit all documents required for application to TAMIU to:
Department of Admissions and Advisement
Texas A&M International University
5201 University Boulevard
Laredo, Texas 78041-1900, USA
A student who is planning to enter Texas A&M International University is required to submit, according to classification, specific documents to the Department of Admissions and Advisement. Although Texas A&M International University has a rolling admissions policy, all credentials should be submitted as far in advance as possible. The deadlines below are applicable to the semester of entry:
U.S. Students
Fall Semester - July 1st Summer Session I - April 1st
Spring Semester - November 1st Summer Session II - May 1st
International Students
Fall Semester - June 1st Summer Session I - March 1st
Spring Semester - October 1st Summer Session II - April 1st
Freshman:
1. TAMIU Application for Undergraduate Admission form which requires a Social Security Number (SSN). If applicant does not already have a SSN, one must be obtained from the nearest Social Security Administration Office.
2. Official SAT or ACT scores. A U.S. high school graduate student with 30 hours or more will not be required to submit scores.
3. Official high school transcript(s) showing high school ranking mailed directly from high school(s) to the Department of Admissions and Advisement. Students may be accepted provisionally after the junior year is completed provided SAT or ACT scores are submitted and a ranking sufficient for admission is shown on the transcript. Final acceptance will be granted upon submission of official transcript showing the completion of high school credits.
GED: In addition to completing the official TAMIU application, GED holders must submit their official passing scores or diploma of the GED, any available high school transcripts (mailed directly from school), and standardized test scores with a combination of 700 or greater on the SAT or an 18 or greater composite score on the ACT.
Other: Students who have completed their academic preparation from a non-accredited high school or have had home study must submit all records, transcripts, and other documentation of their course of study and minimum test scores with a combination of 700 or greater on the SAT or an 18 or greater composite score on the ACT.
Transfer Undergraduate (30+ semester credit hours earned):
(Refer to College of Science and Technology for admission to the School of Nursing.)
1. TAMIU Application for Undergraduate Admission which requires a Social Security Number (SSN). If applicant does not already have a SSN, one must be obtained from the nearest Social Security Administration Office.
2. Official transcript of each college/university attended. Transcripts must be forwarded by each previous school to TAMIU.
3. Successful completion/passing score on the Texas Academic Skills Program (TASP) if student began college in fall 1989 or thereafter.
Graduate:
1. TAMIU Application for Graduate Admission which requires a Social Security Number (SSN). If applicant does not already have a SSN, one must be obtained from the nearest Social Security Administration Office.
2. Official transcript from each college/university attended. Transcripts must be forwarded by each previous school to TAMIU. Degree or Certificate of Graduation must be documented on transcript.
3. Official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) scores if needed. (See Graduate Admission in this section for additional information.)
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or American College Testing (ACT) exam scores will be required if applicant is applying for freshman admission or has completed less than 30 semester credit hours of transferable college credit (excluding credit by exam and advanced standing credit). TAMIU's code for the SAT is 0359 and for the ACT it is 4215. Information bulletins about taking both of these tests may be obtained at your high school counselor's office, at TAMIU Department of Admissions and Advisement, or by writing to the College Board or the American College Testing Corporation. It is the student's responsibility to ensure TAMIU receives an official TASP score.
Necessary SAT or ACT scores for admission to TAMIU are:
HIGH SCHOOL RANKING EXPECTED SCORES:
Top 50% of graduating class SAT or ACT official score
Bottom 50% of graduating class SAT combined 860 (recentered)*
or ACT Composite 18
*SAT combined score of 700 for tests taken before April 1995
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) scores are explained in the Graduate Admission section.
Vernon's Texas Codes Annotated - Education Code, Sec. 51.306 requires that all students who enter public colleges and universities in the fall of 1989 or thereafter be tested for reading, writing and mathematics skills. The Texas Academic Skills Program (TASP) is the official instrument used. Students who completed at least three hours of college credit prior to fall 1989 are TASP exempt.
A student may not enroll in any upper division course [the] completion of which would give the student 60 or more semester credit hours or the equivalent until the student's test results meet or exceed the minimum standards in all [TASP] test scores. The test fee is paid by the student. See TASP section on page 45 for further information.
High school credits required for admission to TAMIU are the following:
SUBJECT CREDITS
ENGLISH (I,II,III,IV) 4 UNITS
MATHEMATICS
(Algebra I and II, Geometry) 3 UNITS
SCIENCE - any two science courses 2 UNITS
SOCIAL STUDIES -
any three social studies courses 3 UNITS
The following units are recommended:
FOREIGN LANGUAGES 2 UNITS
COMPUTER SCIENCE 1 UNIT
FINE ARTS 1 UNIT
Any deviation from these requirements will be addressed by the University Undergraduate Committee on Admissions and Exceptions. Petitions may be submitted through the Department of Admissions and Advisement.
Concurrent Enrollment: Qualified high school students in the 12th grade may seek early admission to TAMIU for the purpose of gaining credits in university-level classes. To be concurrently enrolled, the high school senior must complete the application process, have at least a 90 out of 100 grade average for all course work completed in high school, and have written permission from an appropriate school official (senior counselor or principal). No student may enroll at TAMIU for more than six (6) credit hours each regular semester or three (3) credit hours each summer school session and must maintain normal university-level progress of 2.0 GPA based on a 4.0 GPA scale or better in order to continue in subsequent semesters. If student has taken the TASP, all sections of the test must be passed to be enrolled at TAMIU.
Any exceptions to the stated policy on concurrent enrollment will be granted only by the University Undergraduate Committee on Admissions and Exceptions. Petitions may be submitted through the Department of Admissions and Advisement, (956) 326-2200.
Provisional Admission: First-time freshmen students seeking admission to the University who do not meet the published minimum standards for admission may be admitted to a provisional program allowing them to enroll in six (6) semester credit hours (two courses) in Summer school prior to their initial Fall semester enrollment. Students seeking admission for a Spring semester through provisional admission must take nine (9) semester credit hours (three courses) in the Fall semester.
For Summer participants, the courses must include at least one English or math course from the Core Curriculum. Developmental courses may be used to meet the English or math requirement. For Fall participants, the requirements for summer apply plus three additional hours from the Core Curriculum. Provisional students must complete all courses with a grade of "C" or better in each course before being allowed to continue as a fully admitted student. Each provisional student will be reviewed by the University Committee on Undergraduate Admissions and Exceptions prior to admission as a full-standing student. For more information about provisional admission, contact the Department of Admissions and Advisement.
Credit by Examination: The University allows students to receive a maximum of thirty-three (33) semester credit hours of credit by examination for only specified freshman and sophomore level courses. The University awards credit for scores on certain tests listed in the Catalog and administered by external agencies such as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), the College Board (CB), SAT II Tests, Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Support (DANTES) Program, the Advanced Placement program (AP), the American College Testing (ACT), ACT Proficiency Examination Program (PEP), the International Baccalaureate (IB), and the National League of Nurses (NLN) Program.
TAMIU also offers eligible students opportunities to earn credits by taking departmental examinations listed in the Catalog as authorized by the appropriate faculty.
Regulations concerning credit by examination include:
1. Students may not receive credit by examination for courses that are prerequisites to courses for which they already have credit except with the approval of the department authorizing the examination and the Dean of the student's College.
2. Students may not receive credit by examination for courses in which they have been enrolled through the last day to drop courses without record.
3. Students will not be eligible for credit in a course for which they have received credit in a more advanced course unless otherwise designated by the Chair of the Department in which the subject is offered.
4. Students who are not successful on an examination may not retake it and must enroll in the course to receive credit.
5. Students must be officially enrolled at TAMIU to receive official credit with a grade of "CR". A fee for placing these credits on the transcript may be charged.
Advanced Placement (AP): Examinations offered by the AP are administered during late spring by high schools. Students usually take the examinations after completing Advanced Placement courses, although experience in an AP course is not required. Interested students should contact their high school counselors for information concerning registration and test sites. High school students and currently enrolled students should have the College Board forward their scores to the Office of the Registrar. Advanced Placement scores of entering freshmen are generally received in late July.
Art - History of Art 3+
Biology 3+
Chemistry 4+
Computer Science 3+
Economics - Micro/Macro 3+
English - Language and Composition 3+
French - Language and Literature 3+
Government and Comparative Politics 3+
History - European 3+
History - United States 3+
Mathematics - Calculus 3+
Physics - B=Mechanics 3+
C=Electrical and Magnetic 3+
Psychology 3+
Spanish - Language and Literature 3+
Satisfactory performance on the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) will allow students to receive up to six (6) hours credit in Spanish, specifically for SPAN 1301 and SPAN 1302. Students who intend to take the CLEP must sit for this examination before enrolling in any of the University's courses in Spanish.
Students may receive up to six (6) hours additional credit in Spanish after
satisfactory completion of another examination developed by the Department of
English,
Fine Arts, and Spanish. These additional credits would be for SPAN 1305 and
SPAN 1306. For further information the student should contact the Department Chair
at (956) 326-2608.
A student entering TAMIU at the sophomore level or transferring in at the undergraduate level must present official transcript(s) for all college work previously completed with a minimum 2.0 grade point average (GPA) based on a 4.0 GPA scale. Proof of successful completion of the Texas Academic Skills Program (TASP) test is required for all students who began college in fall 1989 or thereafter. Even though a grade of below a "C" will be calculated into the GPA, it will not be used to satisfy degree requirements.
Cross Enrollment: Any student enrolled at Texas A&M International University who wishes to cross enroll at another college or university must have the permission of the Dean of the College in which he/she is enrolled at TAMIU PRIOR to enrolling at the other college. The permission form may be secured from the Advisement office. The signed document must also be filed in the Advisement office. Failure to secure permission could result in the course(s) not being transferred to the University.
The Language Proficiency Program (LPP) is administered by the Academic Enrichment Center (AEC). The LPP serves two major functions: (1) it administers the Rising Junior Exam, and (2) it provides tutoring for university students.
All students will take the Rising Junior Exam at the end of the sophomore English sequence. This exam will include both the objective Test of Standard Written English (TSWE) and a written essay.
Students who pass the TSWE with a minimum score of 52 OR who pass the essay exam will be exempt from taking ENGL 3301. Those who do not pass the Rising Junior Exam, that can be taken only once for exemption, will be required to take ENGL 3301 the next semester of their enrollment.
Students required to take ENGL 3301 must pass the Rising Junior Exam in order to pass the course. These students must also satisfactorily complete all other requirements of the course in order to pass. Students who are not making a serious effort to fill these requirements will not be permitted to take the Rising Junior Exam. Anyone enrolled in ENGL 3301 who fails the course will receive a grade of "NC" and will be required to repeat the course.
Students should consult the academic calendar listed in the catalog for test dates or contact the Department of English, Spanish, and Fine Arts or the Academic Enrichment Center for further information.
Transfer Curricula and Resolution of Transfer Disputes for Lower-level Courses:
(a) The transfer curricula shall be as prescribed by the current issue of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board's guide to transfer curricula and transfer of credit.
(b) The following procedures shall be followed by public institutions of higher education in the resolution of transfer disputes involving lower-level courses:
(1) If an institution of higher education does not accept course credit earned by a student at another institution of higher education, that institution shall give written notice to the student and the other institution that the transfer of the course credit is denied.
(2) The two institutions and the student shall attempt to resolve the transfer of the course credit in accordance with Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board rules and/or guidelines.
(3) If the transfer dispute is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student or the institution at which the credit was earned within 45 days after the date the student received written notice of the denial, the institution that denies the transfer of the course credit shall notify the Commissioner of Higher Education of its denial and the reason for the denial.
(c) The Commissioner of Higher Education or the Commissioner's designee shall make the final determination about a dispute concerning the transfer of course credit and give written notice of the determination to the involved student and institutions.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
An international student planning to enter TAMIU is required to submit the following documents to the Department of Admissions and Advisement at (956) 326-2200.
1. Application for admission on the appropriate official application form (undergraduate or graduate).
2. Official high school or college/university transcript(s) if transfer student.
ALL TRANSCRIPTS MUST BE OFFICIAL (TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH) AND MAILED DIRECTLY FROM THE FORMER HIGH SCHOOL OR COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY TO THE DEPARTMENT OF ADMISSIONS AND ADVISEMENT.
3. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 550 or above, and less than two years old, mailed directly from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) (International students applying to graduate programs in the College of Business Administration, see item number seven (7) for exception and further information.) Transfer students who have completed at least one year of full-time academic study at another accredited U.S. institution or who come from English speaking countries may be exempt from this requirement.
4. Proof of ability to meet personal and academic expenses of $14,803.00 per academic year.
5. Proof of sufficient medical insurance coverage. The medical insurance coverage for F-1 students for the entire semester should include $5,000 basic medical coverage, $45,000 major medical coverage and $5,000 repatriation coverage.
6. Foreign high school graduates need not submit SAT or ACT scores; however, each element of the file will be reviewed for admission. Placement testing may be required.
7. International students applying for graduate admission must have original Graduate Records Exam (GRE) or Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) scores mailed directly from Educational Testing Service (ETS) if undergraduate grade point average on upper level course work was less than 3.0 GPA based on a 4.0 GPA scale.
Fresh Start: Senate Bill 1321, passed by the 73rd Texas Legislature, entitles State of Texas residents to seek admission to public institutions of higher education without consideration of courses undertaken ten or more years prior to enrollment. This bill has been called the "Right to an Academic Fresh Start" and it gives students the option of electing to have the course work taken ten years or more prior to the starting date of the semester in which the applicant seeks to enroll either counted as usual or ignored for admission purposes. Applicants who elect to apply for admission under this law and who are admitted as students may not receive ANY COURSE CREDIT FOR ANY COURSES taken ten years or more prior to enrollment.
Students with three or more semester credit hours awarded prior to fall semester, 1989, are exempt from the Texas Academic Skills Program regardless of any election of academic fresh start.
The intent of Fresh Start legislation is to provide students with an opportunity
to clear their academic records, if they choose to do so, of all college-level work
accumulated ten or more years ago. This opportunity is not automatic and must be
requested
from the Department of Admissions and Advisement through a petition available
from this Department. The petition must be filed before the semester that the student
is seeking admission, as Fresh Start will not be granted retroactively.
Admission to graduate studies is under the supervision of the Director of Admissions and Advisement, and all correspondence on this subject should be addressed to the Director.
Admission to graduate studies will be granted to an applicant who holds a bachelor degree from an accredited institution and who meets one of the following criteria (additional criteria for admission to the Counseling Psychology Graduate Program ):
1. A 3.0 GPA based on a 4.0 GPA scale on upper-level (junior and senior) coursework at time of degree; or
2. A minimum total score of 1300 using the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Aptitude Test score (Verbal + Quantitative) from a single test date or a minimum total score of 900 using the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) score using the following formula:
GRE + (200 X GPA for upper division courses) = 1300
GMAT + (200 X GPA for upper division courses) = 900
NOTE: When computing the GPA in criteria one or two, the GPA must include 30 graded semester credit hours and exclude any credits taken under conditional status.
3. Automatic admission to the College of Business Administration will be granted to students with an undergraduate upper-level GPA at degree of at least a 3.2. Consideration for conditional admission will not be given to students when the undergraduate upper-level GPA at degree is less than 2.5.
4. Conditional admission may be granted to a student who holds a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and who has not taken the GRE or the GMAT or presented a satisfactory score. All students requesting conditional admission must take the GRE or GMAT during their first semester. Conditional status may be cleared by achieving a satisfactory score on the GRE or the GMAT as outlined above. Graduate students in business with unsatisfactory GRE or GMAT scores may clear conditional status by completing 9-12 hours of coursework applicable to their degrees with at least a 3.3 GPA based on a 4.0 GPA scale.
NO STUDENT WILL BE PERMITTED TO REGISTER FOR MORE THAN TWELVE (12) HOURS OF APPLICABLE GRADUATE WORK (any work applying to a master's degree) IF HE/SHE HAS NOT REMOVED THE CONDITIONAL STATUS.
5. If, after having taken the GRE or the GMAT, the student cannot qualify for admission under the provisions outlined above, he/she may request that the Graduate Admissions Committee consider his/her qualifications for graduate study. Any student seeking admission to graduate status via Graduate Admissions Committee review should contact the Dean of the appropriate College upon completion of at least six (6) and no more than twelve (12) hours of applicable graduate work. (The College of Business Administration will not consider any credits transferred from an accredited university to the graduate program in granting admission to graduate status.)
6. Petitioning to register for graduate courses: an undergraduate student in his/her last term or semester of undergraduate study may complete a normal load (twelve semester credit hours) with graduate work provided he/she is eligible for graduate study. Eligibility is determined by a 3.0/4.0 grade point average on advanced coursework or acceptable GRE/GMAT formula previously outlined. Written approval from the appropriate Dean must be obtained in advance of registering for such work.
All students attending Texas A&M International University who are nonresidents of the State of Texas will be charged additional tuition in accordance with Texas State Law.
Pursuant to Vernon's Texas Codes Annotated - Education Code, Section 54.052(e), "An individual who is 18 years of age or over who has come from outside Texas and who is gainfully employed in Texas for a 12-month period immediately preceding registration in an educational institution shall be classified as a resident student as long as he continues to maintain a legal residence in Texas."
For students under 18 years old and for clarification of status, see Rules and Regulations for Determining Residence Status published by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. The Department of Admissions and Advisement has copies available for viewing.
Legal residence information forms are available at the Department of Admissions and Advisement to assist students in substantiating proper legal status, phone number is (956) 326-2200.
The responsibility of registering under the proper residence status is placed upon the student. An attempt on the part of a nonresident to evade the nonresident fees will be taken seriously and may lead to expulsion from the University.
Vernon's Texas Codes Annotated - Education Code, Sec. 54.061 states "The governing board of an institution of higher education may assess and collect from each nonresident student who fails to comply with the rules and regulations of the board concerning nonresident fees a penalty not to exceed $10 a semester."
If students have been erroneously classified as nonresident students and subsequently prove to the satisfaction of the appropriate administrative official of TAMIU that they should have been classified as resident students, they will be reclassified as residents of Texas and will be entitled to a refund of the difference between the resident and nonresident fees for the semester(s) in which they were so classified. (See Application for Reclassification below.)
A military person stationed in Texas who wishes to avail his/her dependents of the special provisions to pay as Texas residents must submit at each registration a statement from the Commanding Officer or Personnel Officer of his/her military unit certifying that (1) he/she is permanently assigned to a military unit in Texas, (2) his/her duty station is in Texas, if different from his/her unit of assignment, and (3) his/her assignment was in effect at the time of registration.
Students classified as nonresident students will retain that status until they file an official written application form for reclassification to the Department of Admissions and Advisement. Students can only be officially reclassified by the proper administrative officers of TAMIU.
Persons who have been classified as residents of Texas will be reclassified as nonresident students whenever they report, or there are found to exist, circumstances indicating a change in legal residence to another state. Students who have been erroneously classified as residents of Texas will be reclassified as nonresidents and will be required to pay the difference between resident and nonresident fees for the semester(s) in which they were classified as residents.
Auditor's Tuition: The cost for auditing a course is the same as that required for registration for credit.
Laboratory Fee: For each laboratory course, a fee of $2.00 to $75.00 is charged depending upon cost of materials used in the course. If a student is allowed to drop a laboratory course, the fee for the semester not begun will be refunded.
Additional Miscellaneous Fees:
Bachelor's graduation $15.00
Certificate/deficiency plan (non-refundable) 7.00
Drop/withdrawal (per transaction) 10.00
I.D. card (per semester) (issue and replacement) 5.00
Late registration (non-refundable) 20.00
Late emergency loan payment 10.00
Late short-term book loan payment 15.00
Loan application fee (emergency and book loans) 5.00
Master's graduation 15.00
Returned check charge 15.00
Transcript (Official - per copy) 3.00
Student Health Fee (long semester) 25.00
Student Health Fee (Summer session) 12.50
All tuition and fee costs are due upon registration. Students should make prior arrangements through the Department of Student Financial Aid should they need financial assistance. Official registration is not complete until the University Business Office has received payment or has been notified by the Department of Student Financial Aid that payment arrangements have been made.
Students are expected to pay all other financial obligations to the University when due. Failure to pay such obligations may result in the students not being allowed to take final examinations, receive official transcripts, or to enroll for subsequent semesters. Financial obligations include, but are not limited to: (1) tuition and fees; (2) financial aid loans; (3) returned checks; (4) returned check charges; (5) library fines or lost or damaged book charges; and (6) loss or breakage of instruction material or equipment.
Exemptions for Ex-Servicemen (Hazlewood
Act): Men and women who are citizens of Texas and who served in the Armed Forces and who were honorably
discharged may be eligible for benefits under the Hazlewood
Act after federal education
benefits have been exhausted and if no student loans are in default. Exemption
from fees also extends to children of members of the Armed Forces who were killed or
died while in service. Application and further information is available in the Office of
the University Registrar.
A. Withdrawal from University
A student who officially withdraws from the University may request a refund on tuition and fees according to the following schedule which is specified by Senate Bill 604 (passed by the 65th Legislature).
LONG SEMESTERS:
100% prior to the first University class day;
80% during the first five University class days;
70% during the second five University class days;
50% during the third five University class days;
25% during the fourth five University class days.
SUMMER SEMESTERS:
100% prior to the first University class day;
80% during the first, second or third University class day;
50% during the fourth, fifth, or sixth University class day;
No refund during the seventh class day or thereafter.
B. Reduced Course Load:
Students who reduce their semester credit hour load by officially dropping a course or courses and who remain enrolled in the institution will have applicable tuition and fees refunded according to the following schedule:
1. Fall and Spring Semesters
During the first twelve call days 100%
After the twelfth class day NONE
2. Summer Sessions
During the first four class days 100%
After the fourth class day NONE
C. Additional Refund Provisions:
1. Application for refunds should be made in writing to the University Registrar after the student has officially withdrawn through the Office of the University Registrar. The student must present receipt for payment of fees.
2. Fees will not be refunded earlier than two weeks after the date of payment indicated on the student's receipt for payment of fees. A check covering all refunds will be mailed to the address given on the written refund request.
3. A student who enters the spring semester without knowing the previous fall semester grades and who is required to withdraw because of failure in the work of the fall semester will receive a refund of fees according to the schedule.
4. No refunds will be made unless applied for within one year after official withdrawal.
5. No refunds will be made on auditor's tuition.
6. The first class day of each term is always the first official University day of classes, not the first day of the individual's class. A refund is based on the day of the drop/withdrawal, regardless of the date the class first meets. The drop/withdrawal fee applies.
All students, except for certain classes of war veterans, are required to furnish their own textbooks and supplies. Texas A&M International University students may purchase all textbooks and supplementary materials required for scheduled courses from the University Bookstore or other approved bookstores.
Disabled Veterans under Chapter 31 will have all regularly required textbooks, equipment and supplies furnished from the University Bookstore by the Department of Veterans Administration.
The University accumulates data and keeps records to enable staff and faculty to plan educational opportunities to meet the needs of individual students, to better understand students, to counsel them more effectively, and to assist in placement in graduate education or employment programs after graduation.
Areas in which student records are maintained:
A. Academic Records
1. Department of Admissions and Advisement
2. Office of the University Registrar
3. Faculty advisor
B. Student Affairs
1. Department of Student Development
2. Department of Career Planning & Placement
3. Dean's Office, Division of Student Affairs
C. Financial Records
1. University Business Office
2. Department of Student Financial Aid
Directory Information: This is information which may be released to the general public WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE STUDENT. A student MAY request that all or part of the Directory Information be withheld from the public by making a written request to the Registrar during the first twelve (12) class days of a fall or spring semester, or the first four (4) days of the summer term. The request will apply only to the current enrollment period and will need to be updated for EACH consecutive term.
The following may be included as Directory Information:
A. Name
B. Date and Place of Birth
C. Current and Permanent Address
D. Telephone Listing
E. Major Field of Study
F. Dates of Attendance
G. Degrees and Awards Received
H. All previous Educational Agencies or Institutions attended.
Registration: Registration is the process of enrolling for classes. Normally this procedure occurs before each semester and the summer term. Registration consists of enrolling for classes and paying the prescribed University tuition and fees. Official registration is not complete until the University Business Office has received payment or has been notified by the Department of Student Financial Aid that payment arrangements have been made. Students must complete the registration process before being allowed into classes. The registrar is responsible for registration.
Transcripts: The transcript is the official record of the student's academic performance at the University. Transcripts are maintained by the Registrar. Currently enrolled students are charged $3.00 per official copy. In order to obtain a copy of your transcript, a written request must be completed by the student, and a valid current University I.D. must be presented at the Office of the University Registrar. The request will be honored within twenty-four (24) hours of the submission.
Former students may request a transcript by submitting a written request which includes their Social Security Number, dates of attendance at the University, and a check or money order (no cash) for $3.00 for each transcript requested. The requests will be honored within five working days.
Veterans Records: Texas A&M International University has entered into the education and training programs administered by the Veterans Administration. Hence, the University has assumed as one of its chief responsibilities the adaptation of all facilities to meet the needs of returning veterans who desire to take advantage of their eligibility for education and training as provided by Public Laws 16 and 346, 78th Congress; 550 and 894, 82nd Congress; and Public Law 89-358 for veterans of military service after January 3, 1955. Further information can be obtained from the Registrar. Veterans should register with the Veterans coordinator in the Office of the University Registrar. The Veterans coordinator will assist the Veteran in processing all necessary related paperwork. For more information call (956)326-2250.
Student I.D.: All students will be issued student I.D. cards during the registration process by the Office of the University Registrar. Student I.D. cards must be updated each registration period. Students are assessed a fee of $5.00 for each semester for the I.D. card and service. An I.D. card is a positive means of identification and must be carried by the student at all times. This card is non-transferable and must be presented when it is requested by an official of the University. A lost card should be reported to the Registrar's office and the student should report to the University Business Office to pay the $5.00 replacement fee. The Registrar will then issue the new card.
The Student I.D. card will be required for the following purposes:
1. Requesting and receiving copies of academic records such as transcripts, degree plans, and so on
2. Withdrawing materials from the Library
3. Receiving proceeds from loans, grants, and paychecks from the Office of Student Financial Aid and/or paychecks from the University Business Office
4. Admission to any University event
5. Access and use of any of the University learning laboratories.
The I.D. card is the property of Texas A&M International University and must be returned to the Office of the University Registrar upon withdrawal from the University.
Commencement: This ceremony occurs several times during the year to honor those students who have successfully completed their degree programs. Only those students who have been certified by their respective colleges and verified by the University Registrar may participate in commencement. The fee for graduation is listed in the Additional Fees section of the catalog. For further information on this process, call the Office of the University Registrar, (956) 326-2250.
The financial aid program is designed for all students who have demonstrated financial need for assistance to meet college expenses and who are making satisfactory academic progress, as defined by the Department of Student Financial Aid. Copies of the Student Financial Aid Handbook are available at the Department of Student Financial Aid.
Those students who are not making satisfactory academic progress will be given the opportunity during the summer sessions "probation" period to regain satisfactory academic standing before being denied financial aid. Students who are on scholastic probation or enforced withdrawal are not eligible for financial aid.
In deciding the type and amount of financial aid necessary to meet a student's financial need, the University expects parents and spouses to make a maximum effort to help the student with college expenses. Financial resources of the University should be viewed only as supplementary to the financial resources of the applicant and family.
To apply for financial aid, a student must submit to the Federal Central Processor (address on application form) a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students who applied for federal student aid during an academic year and those students who apply in subsequent years will be mailed a renewal FAFSA to their permanent address by the Federal Central Processor. These students should use the Renewal FAFSA to apply for assistance. It is the student's responsibility to obtain the appropriate forms and file them by the required deadlines.
The priority deadline to complete financial aid folders for the various semesters are as follows:
Semester Priority Deadline
Fall or entire financial aid year March 15
Summer Session I & II May 1
Summer Session II June 3
Fall or Fall/Spring August 1
Spring December 15
Financial aid offer letters will be mailed only to those students who have been accepted for enrollment, and whose need analysis results, Student Aid Report (SAR), and other documents requested by the Department of Student Financial Aid are on file in the Department of Student Financial Aid. Offer letters will be mailed beginning April 15 for the following fall semester and/or academic year and in November for the spring semester.
Federal financial aid applications are available from high school counselors,
most college or university student financial aid offices or from the Department of
Student
Financial Aid, Texas A&M International University, 5201 University
Boulevard, Laredo, Texas 78041-1900, (956) 326-2225.
The Federal Pell Grant is available to undergraduates who have not received baccalaureate degrees and that demonstrate financial need. This grant provides a foundation of financial aid to which assistance from other sources may be added. Students may apply for the Pell by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. The student will then receive a Student Aid Report (SAR). The SAR should be mailed or brought to the Department of Student Financial Aid at Texas A&M International University immediately upon receipt.
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), State Student Incentive Grant (TPG-SSIG), and the Texas Public Education Grant (TPEG) are available to students whose federal financial aid application results show evidence of financial need, provided funds are available.
Both federal and state subsidized programs provide part-time employment, within fund limitations, for U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have an established financial need and desire campus employment.
To qualify for the College Work-Study Program, a student must submit a FAFSA to the Federal Central Processor, demonstrate financial need, and be enrolled or accepted for enrollment. Students who are enrolled must be making satisfactory academic progress. Students who attend the University only during the summer session are not eligible for college work-study.
College work-study students are paid minimum wage and may work up to fifteen (15) hours per week, and are not entitled to fringe benefits. Information on college work-study position vacancies is available from the Department of Student Financial Aid.
The Federal Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Programs and the Hinson-Hazelwood Loan Program are available to students who have submitted a FAFSA and whose needs have not been met with other resources.
The Federal Parent Plus Loan (FPLUS) is available for parents of enrolled dependent students. Applications for the FPLUS should be submitted at least four weeks before the end of the semester. Eligibility requirements, applications and additional information on these and other long-term loan programs are available upon request from the Department of Student Financial Aid, (956) 326-2225.
Emergency tuition and fee loans up to the amount of tuition and fees for the semester, provided funds are available, are for students who do not owe any monies to the University and who want to register for classes but do not have the money to pay. Emergency tuition and fee loans have a $5.00 application fee, and payment is due at the midsemester point listed on the academic calendar. A $10.00 late fee will apply if not paid in full by the due date. Funds are available on a first-come first-served basis.
Short-term loans for books in the amounts of $50.00 per three credit course per semester are available provided funds are available. A registration receipt must be presented. Short-term book loans have a $5.00 application fee, and payment is due at midsemester. A $10.00 late fee will apply if not paid in full by the due date. Funds are available on a first-come first-served basis.
Installment tuition loan plans are available to students who wish to pay their tuition and fees on an installment plan or who are not able to borrow under the emergency tuition and fees loan program due to lack of available funds. Students must pay half the total tuition and fees plus a $30.00 processing fee. The remaining balance is divided into two (2) equal installments. The first payment is due thirty (30) days after the note's inception date, and the second payment is due thirty (30) days after that. Any payment made after the due date will have a late payment fee of fifteen dollars ($15.00).
1. Entrance Counseling Sessions: all first-time TAMIU students who will be utilizing the federal student loan program must attend an entrance counseling session. After the session, students may apply for their federal student loan(s).
All undergraduate and graduate students must watch a loan counseling video prior to picking up their first loan check each financial aid year. The financial aid academic year begins in Summer Session I.
2. Exit Counseling Sessions: Prior to graduation, all graduating students
who have received any type of federal government loan through TAMIU will be required
to attend an exit counseling session, to be announced by the Department of Student
Financial Aid, prior to graduation day. Students not attending or returning
necessary documentation will not be allowed to receive their diplomas, or transcripts. The
stu
dent will have to wait until the following semester when the exit counseling session
for graduating students will once again be conducted.
GRANTS:
Federal Pell Grant
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
Texas Public Education Grant (TPEG)
Texas Public Grant-State Student Incentive Grant (TPG-SSIG)
SCHOLARSHIPS:
Scholarship applications for competitive one to four year awards for first-time freshmen, transfers, and graduate students are available from the Department of Financial Aid. Other scholarships are directly available through the Department of Financial Aid, (956) 326-2225.
COLLEGE WORK STUDY PROGRAMS:
Federal (need-based)
State (need-based)
Institutional (non-need-based)
LOANS:
Emergency tuition and fee loans (if funds are available)
Federal Parent Plus Loan (FPLUS) (for parents of enrolled dependent students)
Federal Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Programs
Hinson-Hazelwood Loan Program
Installment tuition loan plans
Short-term loans for books (when funds are available)
GRANTS:
Texas Public Education Grant (TPEG)
Texas Public Grant-State Student Incentive Grant (TPG-SSIG)
SCHOLARSHIPS:
Scholarship applications are directly available through the Department of Financial Aid.
COLLEGE WORK STUDY PROGRAMS:
Federal (need-based)
State (need-based)
Institutional (non-need-based)
Graduate Assistants (hired through the Office of Human Resources-not part of FA)
LOANS:
Emergency tuition and fee loans (when funds are available)
Federal Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Programs
Hinson-Hazelwood Loan Program
Installment tuition loan plans
Short-term loans for books (when funds are available)
For additional information, filing dates and application forms, contact:
The Department of Student Financial Aid
Texas A&M International University
5201 University Boulevard
Laredo, TX 78041-1900
(956) 326-2225
Career Planning and Placement (CP&P) provides a spectrum of services to students and graduates in the areas of career development and professional employment. Professional staff members advise students on all aspects of career preparation and the job search.
In order to have professionally-related work experience prior to earning degrees, TAMIU students are encouraged to pursue internship opportunities in their respective fields of study. CP&P assists students registered in internship programs in applying and interviewing for internship opportunities, both paid and unpaid, in numerous occupations.
CP&P hosts recruiters from various types of employment areas for campus interviews, as well as for the annual Career Fair (held in March) and the Teacher Fair (held in April).
Other services available through the Department of Career Planning and Placement include:
1) Career Resources Center, located inside CP&P, which houses a wide variety of information on careers, employer information, job search processes, and graduate school opportunities,
2) Current job vacancies for part-time pre-professional and full-time professional positions are posted in vacancy binders located CP&P's Career Resource Center,
3) Credential files for prospective teachers containing reference letters and forms, and other candidate information. CP&P refers copies of credential files to school district employers upon request from students or graduates applying for teaching positions,
4) Candidate referral service for students who have opened resume files with CP&P. Resumes of students, with the students' permission, are referred to employers making inquiries about qualified students for specific job vacancies, and
5) FREE Planning Job Choices and other printed materials containing employer information, interviewing and resume writing tips, etc., available at no charge to students.
ALL Texas A&M International University students, regardless of graduation date, are encouraged to access the services provided by Career Planning and Placement, (956) 326-2260.
Student Health Services is staffed with fully qualified nursing personnel. The purpose of Student Health Services is to enhance the educational processes of students by reducing or eliminating health-related barriers to learning. In addition, Student Health Services is directed at improving wellness, enabling students to make informed decisions about health related concerns, and empowering students to be self-directed consumers of health care services. Some of the services provided are:
Emergency first aid and referral to a medical facility
Assessment of health problems to physician referral or community agency
Blood pressure screening and monitoring
Vision screening
Weight control monitoring
Substance abuse prevention, assessment, and referral
Immunization information, compliance monitoring, and coordination with
the Laredo/Webb County Health Department
Health promotion and disease prevention for individuals and groups
Student health information and assistance
Assessment and coordination of services for students with disabilities
HIV/AIDS information and referral
Over the counter medical preparations
Texas A&M International University is committed to helping each student make responsible decisions regarding the use of alcohol and other drugs. The University encourages students to take advantage of the various educational programs on the subjects offered at the University. The goal of the alcohol and other drug education programs is to provide factual information about all aspects of drug use. With this information, students will become informed citizens who can address drug use issues and become appropriate role models for society and family. The University is committed to a positive approach to the prevention of alcohol abuse and illegal drug use within the campus community. Please refer to the Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Policy of the Student Handbook for applicable restrictions.
Texas A&M International University is aware and deeply concerned with the unique challenges that face students with disabilities. TAMIU is committed to reducing and eliminating a number of barriers that these students may encounter as they work towards their educational goals. The Office for Disabled Student Services will coordinate all support services: physical or academic, for any student who has a need due to a disability. These services will be coordinated between the University and government or private agencies.
Students with documented disabilities may request reasonable accommodations which will enable them to participate and benefit from all educational programs and activities that Texas A&M International University provides or sanctions. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504, and the American with disabilities Act of 1990 state and require that qualified students with disabilities have the right to request and obtain reasonable accommodations in all on and off campus academic services, as well as student services and student organizations in order to make their university education truly accessible and complete.
Students needing special equipment or needs are encouraged to meet with the Coordinator to request those services (3) three months before entering Texas A&M International University. Disabled students may request services at any time during the school year. To be eligible for services a student must be enrolled by Texas A&M International University, have documentation concerning the disability, and have made a special request concerning the disability.
Each request for services from the Office of Disabled Students Services will be taken into consideration on an individual basis. Students have the right to due process proceedings to challenge or correct an action the University or the Office of Disabled Student Services has taken, may take, or not take for an individual student's benefit, or if the Office for Disabled Student Services has failed to aid the student in a reasonable fashion. If the student feels that the needs requested are not being satisfactorily met by TAMIU and the Office for Disabled Student Services, the student has the right to obtain outside legal counseling or proceedings.
Texas A&M International University's Office for Disabled Student Services is currently offering the following services for disabled students: Liaison between student and university faculty and staff, note takers, loan of equipment for student/classroom use, extended time on tests, alternative test sites, counseling, special classroom accommodations, registration assistance, and advisement of disabled students. This office is part of the Department of Student Health Services, (956) 326-2230.
Counseling services are available to all Texas A&M International University students. Counseling services help students in adjusting to university life by providing counseling or referral services in dealing with conflict management, stress management, marriage and family counseling, time management, personal-social issues, depression and anxiety disorders, plus suicide prevention. There is no charge for these services and confidentiality is assured within the limits set by law. No record of visits is recorded on student's transcripts or on a student's job placement file.
To receive counseling assistance, contact the Student Health Center, (956) 326-2235.
In the Fall of 1997, Texas A&M International University will provide housing for approximately 200 students on the campus. Each student residing in campus housing is responsible for respecting the rights of others and for maintaining an atmosphere conducive to study and to harmonious community living.
In order to apply for on-campus housing, the student must have been admitted to the University. A housing application/information packet will be sent to each prospective student with his or her notice of admission. Because on-campus housing is granted on a first-come first-served basis, applications should be submitted as soon as the choice for on-campus housing is determined. Special housing related requests or concerns should be addressed by letter, and should be submitted with the application. Medical related considerations need to have a supporting statement from a physician submitted with the application.
Contracts for on-campus housing will be offered in early May for each fall semester and in October for each spring semester to as many prospective students as possible. Summer semesters may be handled separately. Fifteen days are given to respond to the contract offer. If on-campus housing is not available, students will be notified with ample time to make other housing arrangements. Questions can be directed to: Housing Office, Department of Student Development, Texas A&M International University, 5201 University Boulevard, Laredo, Texas 78041-1900, (956) 326-2280.
Off-campus housing location assistance is provided by the Department of Student Development, which keeps up-to-date information on apartment listings, rooms/houses for rent, maps, bus schedules, and other resources pertinent to off-campus students. A roommate information exchange service is available to assist students in locating potential roommates to share off-campus housing.
Students should begin their search for off-campus housing one semester in advance of the semester they will be needing hosing. Students interested in off-campus housing should contact the Department of Student Development, Division of Student Affairs, Texas A&M International University, 5201 University Boulevard, Laredo, Texas 78041-1900, (956) 326-2280.
Each student entering Texas A&M International University, whether as a freshman, a transfer student, or graduate student, has individual interests, goals, abilities, and needs. Hundreds of students enter the university each year. New student orientation has been developed to address the needs of students in a highly individualized manner. Activities which occur during new student orientation include: interaction with academic advisors who help select the first semester courses; assigning faculty advisors for transfer students; interaction with TAMIU student groups; and meeting with the college deans.
Freshmen, transfer, and graduate students participating in these orientation activities conducted by the Department of Student Development will be given information and assistance relating to housing and opportunities available for them in student life areas. International students will also have specific sessions addressing their particular needs, all of which are in addition to attending the standard new student orientation activities.
The representative governing body of all students at Texas A&M International University is the Student Government Association. This elected student member body is directly responsible for representing the interests of the student body to the administration and to the entire University community. Student Government interacts with the administration of the University on issues such as changes to rules and regulations, allocation of some student service fees, and student membership on university committees. It also conducts programs that are of service to the students including student elections, voter registration, and conferences on student government and student leadership activities. The Student Government is part of the appellate due process for student complaints and may be contacted at (956) 326-2265.
The Department of Student Development supports the assumption that the first priority of students is to study so that they may be academically successful. However, there is much more to university life than classes, homework, exams, and grades. There are student organizations, clubs, traditions, and much more which is best known as "The Other Education."
Involvement in one or more of the university's organizations can add an
important dimension to a student's university experience. Involvement is a way to balance
one's life, meet new people, and develop interpersonal and leadership skills. In
addition, prospective employers often look at what students have accomplished and
experienced
outside of their coursework. For all these reasons, the Department of Student
Development supports the belief that students can and should learn from experiences as
well as from textbooks.
The Department of Student Development provides direct advisement to the Student Government Association, Orientation of New Students, and the Club Officers' Council, among others. The staff of the Department of Student Development is committed to providing Texas A&M International University students with the best possible "Other Education" through programs and services that meet the needs of all students. The following services are provided to chartered student organizations: leadership retreats; e-mail addresses; bi-monthly officers meetings; mailboxes; workshops; information and approval concerning the use of university banking system and funds withdrawal; help with scheduling, planning, and preparing events for all chartered student organizations. For more information call (956) 326-2281.
Student organizations on campus at the time of printing include:
AIS, Association of International Students
Amnesty International
American Society of Transportation and Logistics
APICS, American Production & Inventory Control Society
Ballet Folklorico, TAMIU
Baptist Student Ministries, Compass Ministries
Barbell Club
Biology Club
B.E.S.O. Bilingual Education Students Organization
Choir Club
Criminal Justice Scholars' Club
Drama Club
Dusty Spikers Volleyball Club
History Club
International Business Association
Marketing Associates
Media and Communications Club
Physics/Astronomy Club
Pi Mu Epsilon (Math Club)
Political Science Association
Progressive Alliance
Rainbow Education Association of Laredo
SGA - College of Arts & Humanities
SGA - College of Business Administration
SGA - College of Education
SGA - College of Science and Technology
Sigma Tau Delta
Soccer Club
Sociology/Psychology Club
Student Accounting Society
Student Ambassadors
Student Government Association
Student Reading Council of TAMIU
Student Systems Group
Students in Free Enterprise
Track and Field Club
Western Hemispheric Trade Society
The University recognizes that international students on this campus bring with them both special resources and special needs. The increased international awareness which they create is important to the entire academic community. At the same time, the University wishes to ensure that each student has the best possible educational and personal experience while in the U.S. To achieve these objectives, the International Student Adviser is located in the Department of Student Development and offers a variety of services to international students. These include academic direction, vocational and education direction, assistance with immigration regulations and the community, and coordination of services provided by Admissions, Financial Aid, Business, Housing and Registrar's offices.