Help/FAQ
How long does it take to complete a distance learning course?
Governors State University offers courses three times per year:
Trimester starting dates are subject to change. Most distance learning courses meet during Block 1 (15 weeks). Some courses will meet during Block 2 (the first 7 1/2 weeks) or Block 3 (the last 7 1/2 weeks). Please consult the current academic calendar for trimester dates.
What is the cost per credit hour?
Current tuition and fees are available on the tuition and fees page.
Is the cost per credit hour the same for in-state and out-of-state students?
Yes, if you are registered for an Extended Learning course.
How do I register for a class?
If you have never been admitted to GSU, and you want to take an Extended Learning course and receive college credit for that course, fill out the For Credit Registration form. Extended Learning courses are correspondence, online, telecourses, Special Topics Short Courses and Extended Campus courses.
Do not use this form to register for other courses. Please note that full payment is required at the time of registration. If you have a tuition waiver, you can attach the waiver directly to the form. You may mail the form to the Registrar's Office (the mailing address is found at the bottom of the form), or register in person.
If you are already a GSU student, you can register for online classes in one of two ways:
Web: Log on to the
Student Web Information System and follow the instructions for login and for registration. When registering online, you must enter the course and section number. Online registration is accessible 24 hours a day.
Mail or in-Person Registration: If the student cannot register online during or after the registration deadlines, you may use the
Extension Registration form. Payment must accompany registration.
Is financial aid available?
Financial assistance in the form of scholarships, loans, federal and state aid, and student employment is available. Financial aid is available even to part-time students (a minimum of six credit hours is required). For more information on financial aid, see Financial Aid.
How do I get the materials needed for a class?
Follett's GSU Bookstore is your resource for required course materials. You may purchase your materials online, by fax (708-534-8048) or by phone (877.525.6578). Some telecourse videos are available for rental from RMI Media (www.rmimedia.com or 800-745-5480).
How do I get my examinations?
Students residing within 50 miles of GSU will take examinations with their instructor at the days and times printed in the Governors State University Schedule of Classes or your course material. The Office of Student Development offers alternative examination sessions for midterm and final exams for students with extenuating circumstances who have obtained prior permission from the instructor.
Please note that some classes DO NOT offer the option of making up exams. Some course instructors may penalize students for taking examinations at alternate times without prior permission, or for an unexcused absence on lab or examination days. Please refer to the Extended Learning Schedule of Classes, your instructor, and course materials for course specific policies and details.
Students residing more than 50 miles away may opt to have examinations proctored subject to the discretion of Governors State University faculty and staff. Students wishing to have exams proctored should send in the Request for Examination Form as soon as possible, (at least 14 days prior to the published examination date if applicable).
You may complete the request online or download the form and mail to the Division of Extended Learning. To view and print the form, you must have the free Adobe Acrobat Reader version 4 or above installed on the computer that you are using.
How do I submit written assignments?
Read the course syllabus and orientation (if available) for your class. These will provide you with good information on deadlines, expected format, and assignment submission instructions.
If you would like materials returned to you, you must include a self-addressed stamped envelope (appropriate envelope size and postage is required). Most instructors will not accept materials submitted all at one time or at the end of the term. It is recommended you keep copies of all the work you submit.
Where can I get syllabi and other course information for my class?
You may obtain syllabi, orientations, assignment due dates and more by visiting our Class Support Page.
Why can't I view the syllabus and audio orientation transcript for my course?
Why can't I listen to the audio orientation?
You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer to view syllabi and audio orientation transcripts, and Real Player installed for audio orientations.
How do I withdraw from a class?
Occasionally it becomes necessary for a student to withdraw from a class. It is critical you review the Academic Calendar for each term for withdrawal deadlines. Withdrawals can be done online.
Can I get a refund?
You can get a refund for early withdrawal or from dropping a course within the approved timeline. The refund period of each term is listed in the paper schedule of classes and in the academic calendar.
How can I get additional help?
For questions about your course, contact the instructor directly. If you have questions about the process of taking the course, or any other questions, contact the School of Extended Learning by phone (708.534.4099, 800.GSU.8GSU, Ext. 4099), by fax (708.534.8458), or by e-mail at: gsudxl@govst.edu.
