Office of the Registrar - Michigan State University
Frequently Asked Questions
If you do not find the information you need below, try visiting the Computing Service Centers Help site, the Financial Aid FAQs or the Office of Admissions FAQs for Freshmen, Transfer, or International students.
The following calendars are available on the web:
Students may enroll for classes Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on weekends from 8:00 a.m. Saturday until 8:00 p.m. Sunday (subject to availability). You must have MSU NetID and password or your PID and PAN to enroll. Students cannot access the enrollment system until their assigned appointment time. All holds must be cleared before enrolling. For more information, read about Enrollment Information.
How do I drop a course?
You can drop any course on the enrollment system through the middle of the term of instruction. Click on the section number in the Schedule of Courses to see important drop dates.
To drop a course after the middle of the term you must follow the regulations as enumerated in the General Procedures and Regulations section of Academic Programs.
If you wish to drop a course but have a hold, call the Registrar's Office, 355-3300, to have us drop the course for you.
Why can't I enroll?
You may be attempting to enroll before your scheduled time. Check your enrollment appointment in STUINFO.
You may not have an appointment time. Contact the Registrar's Office, 355-3300.
You may have a hold. All current holds can be viewed on STUINFO. Choose Holds on the menu.
You may need to apply for readmission. Read about the Readmission Procedure.
You may need an override – contact the department offering the course. Review the course restrictions and prerequisites in the Course Descriptions.
How can I find my appointment time to enroll for classes?
All appointment times are available on STUINFO. Choose Enrollment Appointment under the Academic category on the Menu.
How can I change my address with the University?
Address changes may be done:
Freshmen and sophomores with 55 or fewer credits must initiate the change of major preference either in the office of the associate dean of the new college major or in the appropriate Undergraduate University Division Student Affairs Office. Juniors and seniors wishing to change their major must initiate the change in the office of the associate dean of the college to which the student wishes to transfer. Go to the MSU Academics web page for a list of college web sites.
How do I know if I am a full-time undergraduate student?
If you have 12 or more credits, you are full time.
How many credits do I need to be a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior?
I would like a copy of my grade report. How can I get one?
Grade Reports are mailed only to students affected by the Academic Standing of Undergraduate Students (ASUS) early-warning system.
All grades are available in STUINFO. You can print your up-to-date Grade Report from STUINFO 24 hours a day. Select "Print a Grade Report" from the Main Menu.
I have an NGR grade. What does it mean?
An NGR (No Grade Reported) marker has been inserted in your records because your instructor failed to submit grades by the standard deadline. As soon as these grades are submitted your real grade will replace the NGR.
How can I learn whether a course I plan to take at another school will transfer back to Michigan State?
Go to Transfer MSU, the online transfer credit equivalency system.
How can I find Degree Navigator?
Degree Navigator is available on the web at degnav.msu.edu.
Where can I get a listing of tuition and fees?
A complete tuition and fees schedule is available on the Controller's Office Student Accounts site.
Where can I find what holds are on my account?
You will not be allowed to enroll or receive a diploma or transcript until all holds are cleared. All holds not cleared will appear in STUINFO. Choose Holds on the Menu.
Can I request a waiver of late enrollment fees?
In extraordinary circumstances, the Registrar's Office may waive late enrollment fees. Submit your request in writing to the Registrar's Office, Room 150, Administration. The late registration fee is administered by Student Accounts, (517) 355-5050.
What are the enrollment requirements for graduate students and teaching assistants or research assistants?
Read the rules governing enrollment requirements in the Graduate Education section of Academic Programs.
How do I withdraw from the University?
A student may voluntarily withdraw from the University prior to the end of the twelfth week of a semester or within the first 6/7 of the duration of the student's enrollment in a summer or special session (calculated in weekdays). Withdrawal is not permitted after these deadlines. Fees are subject to refund according to the refund policy.
The withdrawal procedure begins in the office of the associate dean of the student's major college or in the Registrar's Office, 150 Administration Building. For further information, read the Withdrawal Policy.
How do I change my name on my records? You should bring a legal document, driver's license, voter registration, social security card, passport, or marriage license to 150 Administration. You may also submit your request by mail or fax, (517) 432-3347, including legible copies of your documentation.
Where can I get an I-20?
You can get an I-20 from the Office for International Students and Scholars, 103 International Center, 353-1720.
How does an employer or lender find out my enrollment and/or graduation status?
Michigan State reports semester enrollment status and completed degree information to the National Student Clearinghouse. The Clearinghouse provides data on a regular basis to governmental and private lenders. Prospective employers may call the Clearinghouse at (703)742-4200 or visit their web site at www.studentclearinghouse.org to confirm degree information.
How can I obtain verification of my current enrollment at MSU?
You can print your own enrollment certification.
You can search for people and for departments and organizations. The University telephone operators can be reached at (517) 355-1855.
How can I find a campus building?
Go to the campus map.
How can I learn what a building code means?
View the list of buildings and their campus codes.
Where can I get Immunization information?
Visit Olin Health Center's Immunization information page.
What is a CEU?
For information on Continuing Education Units (CEUs), go to the General Procedures and Regulations section of Academic Programs.
What are my rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)?
For information on Privacy Guidelines, read about Student Rights Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
It is against University policy to provide student names and addresses for commercial purposes.
Where can I find information on summer session on MSU's Pre-college Programs and courses, Preschool – K 12 programs and activities, MSU camps, and places to visit on campus?
Visit the Spartan Youth website.
Where can I get answers to other general questions I might have?
The MSU HELPLINE is staffed by personnel in the Registrar's Office during normal business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The phone number is (517) 353-4678 (353-4MSU) or 1-800-496-4678 (1-800-496-4MSU). Information is also available on the Office of the Registrar site. You may also make after hours and weekend inquiries with the university operators at (517) 355-1855.
For technology questions, contact the Libraries, Computing and Technology Help-Line at (517 ) 355-2345 or 1-800-500-1554.
Consult with your academic adviser regarding requirements for your degree and use Degree Navigator. Guests can also use Degree Navigator to search for degree requirements and navigate through “What if…” scenarios.
I am graduating this year. What should I do to receive my diploma?
Students expecting to graduate must fill out an graduation application before the start of their final semester.
Commencement information will be sent to each degree candidate midway through their final semester. Commencements are held Fall and Spring semesters. Summer degree candidates may participate during the Fall or Spring ceremonies.
For further information, visit the Commencement and Ceremonial Events site.
When will my degree be awarded?
As soon as all remaining requirements are satisfied.
If I did not graduate as planned, do I need to fill out another application?
Yes. Fill out a new graduation application.
Where is the Dean’s Honor List posted?
The list is posted in the MSU Union. The Dean's Honor List may also be viewed on the web.
What are the requirements to make the Dean's Honors List?
The Dean's Honors List honors all full-time undergraduates in the University who earn a 3.50 or better grade-point average for the courses totaling 12 or more numerically graded credits for a given semester.
How do I get my diploma?
Your diploma will be sent to the mailing address you provided on your Application for Graduation, and will be mailed to you approximately four weeks after the end of the semester that you graduate.
What is the size of my diploma?
Diploma sizes are as follows:
How can I change the name on my diploma?
If your name has changed, you may have your diploma and records adjusted. Visit the Registrar's Office with documentation or mail your request. The replacement diploma will cost $50. Payment by cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express is accepted. The original diploma needs to be returned to the Registrar's Office.
What are the requirements to graduate with honors?
Go to the Graduation Honors page.
For lost possessions, check the Post Office in the MSU Union at 355-3497.
I can’t find my ID card.
First, call the Library 355-2333 to report the loss. Next, call the ID office in 50 Administration, 432-3952, to see whether your card has been turned in.
New ID Cards cost $20 and can be obtained in 50 Administration, Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm.
How do I find my PAN number?
Call the Registrar's Office at 517-355-3300.
I need my MSUNet ID and Password.
Go to help.msu.edu.
I can’t find my diploma.
Visit or write to the Registrar's Office for replacement or additional diplomas. The charge is $50 and can be paid for by cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express.
Go to the Office of Admissions site.
I am not an MSU student but I would like to take some courses. How may I enroll?
You may enroll in courses at Michigan State as a Lifelong Education student. The Michigan Uniform Guest Application is not required. Read the rules governing Lifelong Education status.
Do I have to readmit?
If you haven’t been registered at the University for three consecutive semesters (counting Summer), were recessed or dismissed from the University, or have graduated but wish to pursue another degree at the same level, you need to submit a readmission application. There is no charge. The application should be submitted to the Registrar's Office at least one month prior to the beginning of the semester in which you expect to resume studies.
Where can I get information about MSU's computer requirement?
MSU Wired is your source of information about computer facilities, support and training at MSU.
Read about:
How do I activate my MSUNet ID and email
Go to help.msu.edu for instructions on setting up your MSU (MSUNet) account as well as information on email, dial-up networking and for general academic computing on campus.
How do I apply for Lifelong Education?
Fill out the Lifelong Education application. View general information on Lifelong Education.
How can I qualify for In-State tuition?
Read the Out-of-State Tuition Regulations.
Where can I buy textbooks?
Go to Bookstores Serving the MSU Campus.
Transcripts may be ordered over the web, in person, by telephone, fax or mail. Advanced payment of $5.00 each is required. Payments by cash, check, money order, Visa or MasterCard are all acceptable. You must provide a complete mailing address for all transcripts ordered.
Fill out a Transcript Request on the web. Transcript requests submitted via the web by 1pm EST are processed the same business day.
You may request that your transcript be sent electronically. With Electronic Transcripts, an email with a secure access code will be sent to the email address you provide. The recipient, using the secure access code, will be able to view your transcript in a PDF format securely on the Registrar’s Office website. In addition to the email address, you will still need to provide the name and address of the recipient. It is your responsibility to notify the recipient that you requested electronic delivery and he/she should expect an email from rotran@msu.edu. If you order the Electronic Transcript on the Registrar’s Office web site, you will also receive an email notice when the transcript notice has been sent to the recipient and again when the transcript has been viewed.
Transcripts may be ordered in person in the Registrar's Office, 150 Administration Building, Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Phone orders may be called in to (517) 355-3456 or 1-800-496-4678 with payment by Visa or MasterCard. Name, date-of-birth and either MSU student number or social security number need to be provided if the transcript is being sent to anyone other than the student or to another educational institution for admission purposes.
Fax orders must include a Visa or MasterCard number, expiration date, daytime telephone number, signature, date-of-birth and either MSU student number or social security number. The fax number is (517) 432-1649.
Mail orders must include name, student number, social security number and date of birth with the $5.00 payment. If using Visa or MasterCard, please include the expiration date and a daytime telephone number. The address is MSU Transcripts, East Lansing, MI 48824-0210.
How can I obtain the description of a course I took?
Go to the Archived Course Descriptions.
Virtual University is a name used at Michigan State University to refer to courses and instructional programs offered through the Internet and other technologically enhanced media (online courses). Learn about the Virtual University on the web at www.vu.msu.edu.
How do I enroll for an online course?
If you are a current MSU student go to the enrollment system. If you are not an MSU student you should complete a Lifelong Education application.
How will I know if my Lifelong Education Application has been approved?
You will receive an email or hardcopy confirmation from the Registrar's Office.
What do I need to know in case I want to drop my course and/or add another course?
Michigan State University regulations govern enrollment changes. Go to the Late Drops, Adds and Section Changes page for more information.
Who can I talk to about my course or program?
Email the course instructor or program coordinator.
Who is my contact as a Lifelong Education student at MSU?
Dr. Sandra Buike-Phillips, 517-432-0740, sbuike@msu.edu.
What online courses or programs can I take for credit and/or non-credit?
Visit the Online Learning and Continuing Education Site for information on online courses and programs.
Where can I find out about online courses for high school students?
Go to the Virtual University web site. Courses recommended for high school students are annotated. You must have approval from a high school counselor or principal, if you want your school to pay for the course. For enrollment assistance, please call Karen Rutherford (432-0711), Libraries, Computing & Technology office.
What does "credit" and "non-credit" mean for high school students?
Students taking MSU courses under the Lifelong Education status will receive college credit. Students taking courses for non-credit will receive high school credit or documentation that they have completed a particular course.
How do I access my online class?
You should first activate your MSUNet ID. Then go to the VU web site and find your course and follow the instructions.
Who should I contact if I can't access my non-credit online course?
Students should call Libraries, Computing & Technology help and information line at 800-500-1554 or local 355-2345.
How do I know what is being offered for non-credit online?
Refer to the Virtual University web site. Click on "list of courses" to view the list of credit and non-credit courses on a semester by semester basis.
If you do not find the information you need below, try visiting the Computing Service Centers Help site, the Financial Aid FAQs or the Office of Admissions FAQs for Freshmen, Transfer, or International students.
Calendars
Current Students
- How do I enroll for classes?
- How do I drop a course?
- Why can't I enroll?
- How can I find my appointment time to enroll for classes?
- How can I change my address with the University?
- How do I change my major?
- How do I know if I am a full-time undergraduate student?
- How many credits do I need to be a sophomore, junior, or senior?
- I would like a copy of my grade report. How can I get one?
- I have an NGR grade. What does it mean?
- How can I learn whether a course I plan to take at another school will transfer back to Michigan State?
- How can I find Degree Navigator?
- Where can I get a listing of tuition and fees?
- Where can I find what holds are on my account?
- Can I request a waiver of late enrollment fees?
- What are the enrollment requirements for graduate students and teaching assistants or research assistants?
- How do I withdraw from the University?
- How do I change my name on my records?
- Where can I get information about MSU's computer requirement?
- How can I qualify for in-state tuition?
- Where can I get an I-20?
- How does an employer or lender find out my enrollment and/or graduation status?
- How can I obtain verification of my current enrollment at MSU?
General
- Where can I obtain campus telephone numbers?
- How can I find a campus building?
- How can I learn what a building code means?
- Where can I get immunization information?
- What is a CEU?
- What are my rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)?
- Where can I find information on summer session on MSU's Pre-college Programs and courses, Preschool – K 12 programs and activities, MSU camps, and places to visit on campus?
- Where can I get answers to other questions I might have?
Graduation/Honors
- Where can I find the degree requirements for my major?
- I am graduating this year. What should I do to receive my diploma?
- When will my degree be awarded?
- If I do not graduate as planned, do I need to fill out another application?
- Where is the Deans’ Honor List posted?
- What are the requirements to make the Dean's Honors List?
- How do I get my diploma?
- What is the size of my diploma?
- How can I change the name on my diploma?
- What are the requirements to graduate with honors?
Lost and Found
- I lost my coat, gloves, . . .
- I can’t find my ID card.
- How do I find my PAN number?
- I need my MSUNet ID and Password.
- I can’t find my diploma.
New/Reentering Students
- How do I apply for admission to Michigan State?
- I am not an MSU student but I would like to take some courses. How may I enroll?
- Do I need to readmit?
- Where can I get information about MSU's computer requirement?
- How do I activate my MSUNet ID and email?
- How do I apply for Lifelong Education?
- How can I qualify for in-state tuition?
- Where can I buy textbooks?
Transcripts
Virtual University
- What is the virtual university?
- How do I enroll for an online course?
- How will I know if my Lifelong Education Application has been approved?
- What do I need to know in case I want to drop my course and/or add another course?
- Who can I talk to about my course or program?
- Who is my contact as a Lifelong Education student at MSU?
- What online courses or programs can I take for credit and/or non-credit?
- Where can I find out about online courses for high school students?
- What does "credit" and "non-credit" mean for high school students?
- How do I activate my MSUNet ID and email
- How do I access my online class?
- Who should I contact if I can't access my non-credit online course?
- How do I know what is being offered for non-credit online?
Calendars
Where would I obtain a university calendar of important dates?The following calendars are available on the web:
Current Students
How do I enroll for classes?Students may enroll for classes Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on weekends from 8:00 a.m. Saturday until 8:00 p.m. Sunday (subject to availability). You must have MSU NetID and password or your PID and PAN to enroll. Students cannot access the enrollment system until their assigned appointment time. All holds must be cleared before enrolling. For more information, read about Enrollment Information.
How do I drop a course?
You can drop any course on the enrollment system through the middle of the term of instruction. Click on the section number in the Schedule of Courses to see important drop dates.
To drop a course after the middle of the term you must follow the regulations as enumerated in the General Procedures and Regulations section of Academic Programs.
If you wish to drop a course but have a hold, call the Registrar's Office, 355-3300, to have us drop the course for you.
Why can't I enroll?
You may be attempting to enroll before your scheduled time. Check your enrollment appointment in STUINFO.
You may not have an appointment time. Contact the Registrar's Office, 355-3300.
You may have a hold. All current holds can be viewed on STUINFO. Choose Holds on the menu.
You may need to apply for readmission. Read about the Readmission Procedure.
You may need an override – contact the department offering the course. Review the course restrictions and prerequisites in the Course Descriptions.
How can I find my appointment time to enroll for classes?
All appointment times are available on STUINFO. Choose Enrollment Appointment under the Academic category on the Menu.
How can I change my address with the University?
Address changes may be done:
- Over the web - Change Address Form.
- In person in the Registrar's Office, 150 Administration Building.
- Over the phone at (517) 355-3300 or 1-800-496-4678 during normal business hours.
Freshmen and sophomores with 55 or fewer credits must initiate the change of major preference either in the office of the associate dean of the new college major or in the appropriate Undergraduate University Division Student Affairs Office. Juniors and seniors wishing to change their major must initiate the change in the office of the associate dean of the college to which the student wishes to transfer. Go to the MSU Academics web page for a list of college web sites.
How do I know if I am a full-time undergraduate student?
If you have 12 or more credits, you are full time.
How many credits do I need to be a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior?
| Class | Credits |
| Freshman | 0-27 |
| Sophomore | 28-55 |
| Junior | 56-87 |
| Senior | 88+ |
I would like a copy of my grade report. How can I get one?
Grade Reports are mailed only to students affected by the Academic Standing of Undergraduate Students (ASUS) early-warning system.
All grades are available in STUINFO. You can print your up-to-date Grade Report from STUINFO 24 hours a day. Select "Print a Grade Report" from the Main Menu.
I have an NGR grade. What does it mean?
An NGR (No Grade Reported) marker has been inserted in your records because your instructor failed to submit grades by the standard deadline. As soon as these grades are submitted your real grade will replace the NGR.
How can I learn whether a course I plan to take at another school will transfer back to Michigan State?
Go to Transfer MSU, the online transfer credit equivalency system.
How can I find Degree Navigator?
Degree Navigator is available on the web at degnav.msu.edu.
Where can I get a listing of tuition and fees?
A complete tuition and fees schedule is available on the Controller's Office Student Accounts site.
Where can I find what holds are on my account?
You will not be allowed to enroll or receive a diploma or transcript until all holds are cleared. All holds not cleared will appear in STUINFO. Choose Holds on the Menu.
Can I request a waiver of late enrollment fees?
In extraordinary circumstances, the Registrar's Office may waive late enrollment fees. Submit your request in writing to the Registrar's Office, Room 150, Administration. The late registration fee is administered by Student Accounts, (517) 355-5050.
What are the enrollment requirements for graduate students and teaching assistants or research assistants?
Read the rules governing enrollment requirements in the Graduate Education section of Academic Programs.
How do I withdraw from the University?
A student may voluntarily withdraw from the University prior to the end of the twelfth week of a semester or within the first 6/7 of the duration of the student's enrollment in a summer or special session (calculated in weekdays). Withdrawal is not permitted after these deadlines. Fees are subject to refund according to the refund policy.
The withdrawal procedure begins in the office of the associate dean of the student's major college or in the Registrar's Office, 150 Administration Building. For further information, read the Withdrawal Policy.
How do I change my name on my records? You should bring a legal document, driver's license, voter registration, social security card, passport, or marriage license to 150 Administration. You may also submit your request by mail or fax, (517) 432-3347, including legible copies of your documentation.
Where can I get an I-20?
You can get an I-20 from the Office for International Students and Scholars, 103 International Center, 353-1720.
How does an employer or lender find out my enrollment and/or graduation status?
Michigan State reports semester enrollment status and completed degree information to the National Student Clearinghouse. The Clearinghouse provides data on a regular basis to governmental and private lenders. Prospective employers may call the Clearinghouse at (703)742-4200 or visit their web site at www.studentclearinghouse.org to confirm degree information.
How can I obtain verification of my current enrollment at MSU?
You can print your own enrollment certification.
General
Where can I obtain campus telephone numbers?You can search for people and for departments and organizations. The University telephone operators can be reached at (517) 355-1855.
How can I find a campus building?
Go to the campus map.
How can I learn what a building code means?
View the list of buildings and their campus codes.
Where can I get Immunization information?
Visit Olin Health Center's Immunization information page.
What is a CEU?
For information on Continuing Education Units (CEUs), go to the General Procedures and Regulations section of Academic Programs.
What are my rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)?
For information on Privacy Guidelines, read about Student Rights Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
It is against University policy to provide student names and addresses for commercial purposes.
Where can I find information on summer session on MSU's Pre-college Programs and courses, Preschool – K 12 programs and activities, MSU camps, and places to visit on campus?
Visit the Spartan Youth website.
Where can I get answers to other general questions I might have?
The MSU HELPLINE is staffed by personnel in the Registrar's Office during normal business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The phone number is (517) 353-4678 (353-4MSU) or 1-800-496-4678 (1-800-496-4MSU). Information is also available on the Office of the Registrar site. You may also make after hours and weekend inquiries with the university operators at (517) 355-1855.
For technology questions, contact the Libraries, Computing and Technology Help-Line at (517 ) 355-2345 or 1-800-500-1554.
Graduation/Honors
Where can I find the degree requirements for my major?Consult with your academic adviser regarding requirements for your degree and use Degree Navigator. Guests can also use Degree Navigator to search for degree requirements and navigate through “What if…” scenarios.
I am graduating this year. What should I do to receive my diploma?
Students expecting to graduate must fill out an graduation application before the start of their final semester.
Commencement information will be sent to each degree candidate midway through their final semester. Commencements are held Fall and Spring semesters. Summer degree candidates may participate during the Fall or Spring ceremonies.
For further information, visit the Commencement and Ceremonial Events site.
When will my degree be awarded?
As soon as all remaining requirements are satisfied.
If I did not graduate as planned, do I need to fill out another application?
Yes. Fill out a new graduation application.
Where is the Dean’s Honor List posted?
The list is posted in the MSU Union. The Dean's Honor List may also be viewed on the web.
What are the requirements to make the Dean's Honors List?
The Dean's Honors List honors all full-time undergraduates in the University who earn a 3.50 or better grade-point average for the courses totaling 12 or more numerically graded credits for a given semester.
How do I get my diploma?
Your diploma will be sent to the mailing address you provided on your Application for Graduation, and will be mailed to you approximately four weeks after the end of the semester that you graduate.
What is the size of my diploma?
Diploma sizes are as follows:
- Bachelor, Masters, EDS: 8½” x 11”
- PhD, DMA, Medical: 12” x 15”
How can I change the name on my diploma?
If your name has changed, you may have your diploma and records adjusted. Visit the Registrar's Office with documentation or mail your request. The replacement diploma will cost $50. Payment by cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express is accepted. The original diploma needs to be returned to the Registrar's Office.
What are the requirements to graduate with honors?
Go to the Graduation Honors page.
Lost and Found
I lost my coat, gloves, . . .For lost possessions, check the Post Office in the MSU Union at 355-3497.
I can’t find my ID card.
First, call the Library 355-2333 to report the loss. Next, call the ID office in 50 Administration, 432-3952, to see whether your card has been turned in.
New ID Cards cost $20 and can be obtained in 50 Administration, Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm.
How do I find my PAN number?
Call the Registrar's Office at 517-355-3300.
I need my MSUNet ID and Password.
Go to help.msu.edu.
I can’t find my diploma.
Visit or write to the Registrar's Office for replacement or additional diplomas. The charge is $50 and can be paid for by cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express.
New/Entering Students
How do I apply for admission to Michigan State?Go to the Office of Admissions site.
I am not an MSU student but I would like to take some courses. How may I enroll?
You may enroll in courses at Michigan State as a Lifelong Education student. The Michigan Uniform Guest Application is not required. Read the rules governing Lifelong Education status.
Do I have to readmit?
If you haven’t been registered at the University for three consecutive semesters (counting Summer), were recessed or dismissed from the University, or have graduated but wish to pursue another degree at the same level, you need to submit a readmission application. There is no charge. The application should be submitted to the Registrar's Office at least one month prior to the beginning of the semester in which you expect to resume studies.
Where can I get information about MSU's computer requirement?
MSU Wired is your source of information about computer facilities, support and training at MSU.
Read about:
- MSU Computer Requirement information
- Instructions for configuring your computer for use with MSU's Campus Ethernet
How do I activate my MSUNet ID and email
Go to help.msu.edu for instructions on setting up your MSU (MSUNet) account as well as information on email, dial-up networking and for general academic computing on campus.
How do I apply for Lifelong Education?
Fill out the Lifelong Education application. View general information on Lifelong Education.
How can I qualify for In-State tuition?
Read the Out-of-State Tuition Regulations.
Where can I buy textbooks?
Go to Bookstores Serving the MSU Campus.
Transcripts
How do I order a transcript?Transcripts may be ordered over the web, in person, by telephone, fax or mail. Advanced payment of $5.00 each is required. Payments by cash, check, money order, Visa or MasterCard are all acceptable. You must provide a complete mailing address for all transcripts ordered.
Fill out a Transcript Request on the web. Transcript requests submitted via the web by 1pm EST are processed the same business day.
You may request that your transcript be sent electronically. With Electronic Transcripts, an email with a secure access code will be sent to the email address you provide. The recipient, using the secure access code, will be able to view your transcript in a PDF format securely on the Registrar’s Office website. In addition to the email address, you will still need to provide the name and address of the recipient. It is your responsibility to notify the recipient that you requested electronic delivery and he/she should expect an email from rotran@msu.edu. If you order the Electronic Transcript on the Registrar’s Office web site, you will also receive an email notice when the transcript notice has been sent to the recipient and again when the transcript has been viewed.
Transcripts may be ordered in person in the Registrar's Office, 150 Administration Building, Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Phone orders may be called in to (517) 355-3456 or 1-800-496-4678 with payment by Visa or MasterCard. Name, date-of-birth and either MSU student number or social security number need to be provided if the transcript is being sent to anyone other than the student or to another educational institution for admission purposes.
Fax orders must include a Visa or MasterCard number, expiration date, daytime telephone number, signature, date-of-birth and either MSU student number or social security number. The fax number is (517) 432-1649.
Mail orders must include name, student number, social security number and date of birth with the $5.00 payment. If using Visa or MasterCard, please include the expiration date and a daytime telephone number. The address is MSU Transcripts, East Lansing, MI 48824-0210.
How can I obtain the description of a course I took?
Go to the Archived Course Descriptions.
Virtual University
What is the virtual university?Virtual University is a name used at Michigan State University to refer to courses and instructional programs offered through the Internet and other technologically enhanced media (online courses). Learn about the Virtual University on the web at www.vu.msu.edu.
How do I enroll for an online course?
If you are a current MSU student go to the enrollment system. If you are not an MSU student you should complete a Lifelong Education application.
How will I know if my Lifelong Education Application has been approved?
You will receive an email or hardcopy confirmation from the Registrar's Office.
What do I need to know in case I want to drop my course and/or add another course?
Michigan State University regulations govern enrollment changes. Go to the Late Drops, Adds and Section Changes page for more information.
Who can I talk to about my course or program?
Email the course instructor or program coordinator.
Who is my contact as a Lifelong Education student at MSU?
Dr. Sandra Buike-Phillips, 517-432-0740, sbuike@msu.edu.
What online courses or programs can I take for credit and/or non-credit?
Visit the Online Learning and Continuing Education Site for information on online courses and programs.
Where can I find out about online courses for high school students?
Go to the Virtual University web site. Courses recommended for high school students are annotated. You must have approval from a high school counselor or principal, if you want your school to pay for the course. For enrollment assistance, please call Karen Rutherford (432-0711), Libraries, Computing & Technology office.
What does "credit" and "non-credit" mean for high school students?
Students taking MSU courses under the Lifelong Education status will receive college credit. Students taking courses for non-credit will receive high school credit or documentation that they have completed a particular course.
How do I access my online class?
You should first activate your MSUNet ID. Then go to the VU web site and find your course and follow the instructions.
Who should I contact if I can't access my non-credit online course?
Students should call Libraries, Computing & Technology help and information line at 800-500-1554 or local 355-2345.
How do I know what is being offered for non-credit online?
Refer to the Virtual University web site. Click on "list of courses" to view the list of credit and non-credit courses on a semester by semester basis.