EIU Academic Advising

Frequently Asked Questions About Academic Advising at EIU

Can I choose my academic advisor?

You will be randomly assigned to an academic advisor prior to orientation. Once you are assigned to your advisor, you can log in to PAWS to find out who you have been assigned to. These instructions will show you how to view who your advisor is through PAWS. 

Where can I find my academic advisor?

Incoming First-Years: Your advisor is located in the lower level of McAfee, Suite 1110. Office hours are weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can contact Academic Advising Services at 217-581-2313.

Transfer Students: Transfer students are typically assigned to an advisor in their major department, depending on several factors. Thus, the location of your advisor will vary. 

When do I need to declare a major?

EIU does not have an official deadline; however, some programs require students to begin taking coursework in the major early stay on track. Your advisor will discuss important sequencing and the major selection process with you. 

How do I get my college-level dual credit course(s) that I took in high school to transfer?

The student will need to contact the records office of the community college or university that partnered with your high school and request to have the official sealed transcript sent to the Office of the Registrar at EIU, Old Main, Room 1220, Charleston, IL, 61920.

How can I determine if my AP/IB credit will count at EIU?

The Office of the Registrar at EIU will evaluate all AP/IB test scores. You can view the Credit for Nationally Standardized Tests page for more information.

Can I graduate in four years without summer school?

This is certainly a realistic goal if your choice of major is designed to fit within the general four-year plan. Ultimately, the student determines their pace. This can be discussed with your advisor.

How many times can I change my major?

There is no limit, however, the more you change your academic course of study, the more likely it is you will need longer to complete all the necessary requirements.

What is considered a full-time student?

Enrollment in 12 credit hours is the minimum to be considered a full-time student at EIU. On average, students complete 15 credit hours per semester.

Is tutoring available at EIU?

Yes, most academic departments at EIU offer tutoring. Please see the Departmental Tutoring Schedule for more information. Additionally, the Gregg Technology Center coordinates tutoring services. 

How can I find my schedule?

Once you have registered for classes, you can view your schedule by logging in to PAWS, then clicking Student, then Student Records, then Week at a Glance. You can also access a more detailed version of your schedule by clicking Student Detail Schedule instead of Week at a Glance. 

Can I make changes to my schedule after I meet with my academic advisor?

Yes, you are ultimately responsible for class registration once you have met with your advisor. However, the advisors strongly recommend you contact them with any class changes.

Does the college algebra I took in high school satisfy my general education math requirement?

No, you must take a college level math course that is a general education math course. Placement will be discussed between you and your advisor.

Can I drop a class and still get back my tuition dollars?

Yes, but there are deadlines! Check out the academic calendar for specific dates.

Where can I pick up my textbooks?

You will pick your textbooks up at EIU's Textbook Rental Service. 

How do I get credit for summer class(es) taken at a community college?

You will need to contact the records office of the community college and request to have the official sealed transcript sent to the EIU Office of the Registrar, Old Main, Room 1220, Charleston, IL, 61920.

Entering First-Year Students

Additional questions specifically about Orientation, Advisement, and Registration for incoming freshmen can be found here!

Transfer Students

Additional questions specifically about Orientation, Advisement, and Registration for transfer students can be found here!