In college, you will likely hear many words you are not familiar with. This guide explains common college terms in simple language so you can better understand how college works and feel more confident asking questions and using campus resources.
College Terms
Academic Terms
Syllabus
A syllabus is a document your professor gives you at the start of the semester. It explains the assignments, due dates, grading system, and expectations for the class. Think of it as the roadmap for the course.
Office Hours
Office hours are times when professors are available outside of class to answer questions or help students.
Major/Minor
Your major is the main subject you choose to study in college. A minor is a second subject you study that requires fewer classes than a major.
Credit Hours
Credit hours tell you how much a class counts toward graduation. Most classes are worth three credits. Full-time students should take 15 credits each semester to graduate in four years.
Academic Advisor
An academic advisor is similar to your high school guidance counselor. They help you choose classes, understand graduation requirements, and stay on track to finish your degree.
Add/Drop
The add/drop deadline is the last day students can change their class schedule without academic consequences.
Academic Probation
If a student’s GPA falls below the minimum requirement, the college may place them on academic probation. This is a warning that academic performance needs to improve.
Withdraw
If you withdraw from a class after the drop period, the course will appear as a W on your transcript. This means you left the class, but it does not affect your GPA.
Financial Aid Terms
Registrar
The registrar’s office manages course registration, transcripts, and academic records.
FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is a form students complete to apply for financial aid. Colleges use the information from the FAFSA to determine how much financial aid you may qualify for, including grants, work-study, and student loans. Students MUST complete the FAFSA every year to continue receiving financial aid.
SAP
Satisfactory Academic Progress is a standard that colleges use to make sure students are making progress toward their degree. To keep financial aid, students usually need to maintain a minimum GPA and successfully complete a certain number of classes they take.
Financial Hold
A financial hold is placed on a student’s account when there is an unpaid balance. A hold may prevent you from registering for classes, receiving transcripts, or making schedule changes until the balance is paid.
Grant
A grant is money given to students to help pay for college that does not need to be repaid. Grants are based on financial need.
Loans
Student loans are money borrowed to help pay for college that must be repaid after leaving school. Federal student loans are common and may include subsidized loans (the government pays the interest while you are in school) and unsubsidized loans (interest begins accumulating right away).
Work-Study
Work-study is a financial aid program that allows students to earn money through part-time jobs while attending college. Students qualify based on financial need when they complete the FAFSA.
Refund
A refund may be issued if your financial aid is greater than your college charges. This money can be used for expenses like books, housing, or transportation. While refunds can help cover living costs, they may also include loan money, which means it will need to be repaid later.