As the semester unfolds, it’s crucial for Arizona State University (ASU) students to stay on top of various deadlines to ensure academic success. Meeting these deadlines can significantly impact a student’s ability to achieve their academic goals, from securing financial aid to graduating on time. Here’s an overview of 10+ key ASU deadlines that students should mark on their calendars:
1. Financial Aid Deadlines
- Priority Deadline: Typically early February for the upcoming academic year. Submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by this deadline ensures consideration for the maximum amount of aid.
- Final Deadline: Varies, but it’s essential to check the ASU financial aid website for the most current information, as missing this deadline could result in reduced financial aid opportunities.
2. Tuition Payment Deadlines
- Due Dates: Tuition payment deadlines vary by semester but generally fall in late December for the spring semester and late July for the fall semester. Late payments can incur fees, so it’s vital to pay by these dates.
- Payment Plans: ASU offers payment plans for students who cannot pay their tuition in full by the deadline. Signing up for these plans by the specified deadline can help avoid late fees.
3. Course Registration Deadlines
- Priority Registration: Begins in late October for spring semester and late March for fall semester, allowing students to register for classes before they fill up.
- Open Registration: Continues until the start of classes, but popular classes may fill quickly. It’s crucial to register as soon as possible to secure spots in desired courses.
- Late Registration: A short window after classes begin, usually with an additional fee. Students should aim to register before this period to avoid extra costs.
4. Degree Completion and Graduation Deadlines
- Application for Graduation: Typically due by the end of the 7th week of the semester in which the student intends to graduate. Missing this deadline could delay graduation.
- Thesis/Dissertation Deadlines: Vary by program but generally include multiple deadlines for proposal approval, draft submission, and final defense. Students should work closely with their advisors to meet these critical milestones.
5. Housing and Meal Plan Deadlines
- Housing Applications: Usually become available in late fall for the upcoming academic year, with priority given to early applicants. Students seeking on-campus housing should apply as soon as possible.
- Meal Plan Changes: Can often be made until the end of the second week of classes, but any changes after the deadline may incur additional fees.
6. Scholarship Application Deadlines
- ASU Scholarship Portal: Opens in early fall for the upcoming academic year, with a priority deadline typically in early February. Submitting applications by this deadline maximizes scholarship eligibility.
- External Scholarships: Varying deadlines throughout the year. Students should regularly check the ASU scholarship website and external scholarship databases for opportunities.
7. Internship and Career Services Deadlines
- Internship Applications: Deadlines vary depending on the program and employer, but generally, students should apply early in the semester preceding the internship.
- Career Fairs and Events: Throughout the semester, with specific deadlines for registration or submission of materials. Participation can be crucial for networking and job placement.
8. Study Abroad Deadlines
- Program Application Deadlines: Range from 2 to 6 months before the program starts, depending on the destination and type of program. Early application is recommended due to limited spots.
- Scholarship Applications for Study Abroad: Separate deadlines, often earlier than program application deadlines, to allow for processing time.
9. Transfer Credit Evaluation Deadlines
- Submission of Transcripts: Should be done as soon as possible after applying to ASU, and no later than the start of classes, to ensure timely evaluation and application of transfer credits.
10. Health and Wellness Deadlines
- Health Insurance Waiver: Typically due by the tuition payment deadline. Students who already have health insurance must waive the ASU student health insurance by this deadline to avoid being charged.
- Immunization Requirements: Must be completed before the start of classes. Students should submit their immunization records as soon as possible to comply with ASU health requirements.
Additional Deadlines
- Drop/Add Classes: The deadline to drop or add classes without penalty is usually by the end of the second week of classes. After this, drops may result in a “W” on transcripts, and additions may incur late fees.
- Withdrawal Deadlines: Students can withdraw from classes with a partial tuition refund until about the midpoint of the semester. Complete withdrawal from the university also has specific deadlines.
Staying aware of these deadlines and planning accordingly can help ASU students navigate the academic landscape effectively, avoid unnecessary penalties or fees, and focus on achieving their academic and professional goals. Regularly checking the official ASU website and communicating with advisors and relevant departments can provide the most current and detailed information on deadlines and requirements.
