One Shocker Family Handbook

FALL 2026	SPRING 2027
AUGUST 3- 14 Fall Pre-session	JANUARY 4 Pre-session classes begin
AUGUST 12 Excess financial aid deposited to students’ bank accounts if you have entered your account information into your Student Account Suite	JANUARY 13 Excess financial aid deposited to students’ bank accounts if you have entered your account information into your Student Account Suite
AUGUST 13 Checks for excess financial aid mailed if you did not submit a Direct Deposit form	JANUARY 14 Checks for excess financial aid mailed if you did not submit a Direct Deposit form
AUGUST 17 Weekday and evening full-semester classes begin	JANUARY 18 MLK DAY - no classes
AUGUST 21 Last day to add full-semester classes or change sections of the same course	JANUARY 19 Weekday and evening full-semester classes begin
AUGUST 28 Last day to drop 16 week classes with 100% refund	JANUARY 25 Last day to add full-semester classes or change sections
SEPTEMBER 7 Labor Day Holiday - offices closed	February 1 Last day to drop 16 week classes with 100% refund
SEPTEMBER 30 Tentative date for Spring 2026 Schedule of Courses to be available online	MARCH 1 Tentative date for summer/fall schedule
OCTOBER 7 Mid-semester point	MARCH 10 Mid-semester point
OCTOBER 10 at 2pm - 13 Fall break - NO CLASSES offices open Oct. 13-14	MARCH 15 - 21 Spring break - offices open
OCTOBER 27 Last day to officially withdraw from a full-semester course with a “W”	April 2 Last day to drop with a “W” from a full-semester course
NOVEMBER 9 Tentative date for Spring early registration to begin	APRIL 5 Tentative date for summer/fall registration
NOVEMBER 25 - 29 Thanksgiving Holiday - offices closed Nov. 27-28	MAY 6 Last day of classes
DECEMBER 3 Last day of classes.	MAY 7 Study Day
DECEMBER 4 Study Day	MAY 8 - 15 Final examinations
DECEMBER 5-10 Final examinations	MAY 15-16 Spring Commencement
DECEMBER 13 Fall Commencement	MAY 15-16 Spring Grades Available
DECEMBER 18 Fall Grades Available

 

Dear Parents and Families,

As we embark on this new academic year, it is with great pleasure that I extend a warm welcome to you and your student, as part of the Shocker family. As the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs at Wichita State University, I am delighted to have the opportunity to share in this exciting time of transition and new beginnings.

Starting college is a significant milestone, not just for your student but for you as well. It represents the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and we understand that this moment brings with it a mix of emotions – pride, excitement, and perhaps a bit of nervousness. Rest assured, your student is entering an environment that is supportive, engaging, and designed to help them thrive both academically and personally.

At Wichita State University, we are committed to fostering a vibrant and welcoming community where students are encouraged to explore their passions, challenge themselves, and grow. Our staff is dedicated to providing a range of services and resources that support student development and well-being. From academic advising and tutoring to counseling and extracurricular activities, we are here to ensure that your student has every opportunity to succeed.

Inside this handbook, you will find helpful information about the college transition process; academic requirements and support services; including opportunities and resources for student engagement beyond the classroom.

We believe that strong partnerships between students, families, and the university are essential to the college experience. As such, we encourage you to stay engaged and informed by joining our Shocker Family Newsletter online at WICHITA.EDU/FAMILY.

Your support and involvement play a crucial role in your student's journey, and we are here to work alongside you in supporting their growth and success. Should you have any questions or need assistance at any point, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our office is always available to help you navigate this new chapter.

Once again, welcome to the Shocker family. We are excited to have your student with us and look forward to seeing them flourish throughout their time at Wichita State University.

ALICIA NEWELL
Assistant Vice President
for Student Affairs

Dr. Rick Muma President		Dr. Monica Lounsbery Executive Vice President & Provost
Dr. Jamarco Clark Vice President of Student Affairs	Dr. Gabriel Fonseca Executive Director, Student Engagement & Belonging	Kevin Konda Associate Vice President, Auxiliary Services
Scott Jensen Assistant Vice President, Student Life	Alicia Newell Assistant Vice President, Student Services	Dr. Jessica Provines Assistant Vice President, Wellness & Chief Psychologist

 

Wichita State University, formerly Fairmount College, received its first mascot name about the time it received its first football coach. Tradition has it that in 1904, football manager and student R.J. Kirk needed a name for the team in order to advertise Fairmount’s upcoming engagement with the Chilocco Indians. He came up with Wheatshockers.

At the time, many Fairmount football players earned tuition and board harvesting, or “shocking,” wheat during the summer harvests, so the name seemed appropriate. Early football games were played on a stubbled wheat field. Pep club members were known as Wheaties.

Although the Wheatshockers name was never officially adopted by the university, it caught on and survived until it was later shortened to Shockers. Until 1948, the university used a nameless shock of wheat as its symbol.

WuShock came to life in 1948, when junior Wilbur Elsea won the Kappa Pi honorary society’s competition to design a mascot typifying the spirit of the school. Elsea, who had been a Marine during World War II, decided that “the school needed a mascot who gave a tough impression, with a serious, no-nonsense scowl.”

Once Elsea’s mascot was adopted by the university, which by that time was known as the Municipal University of Wichita, all that was needed was a name. The Oct. 7, 1948, issue of The Sunflower, the student newspaper, ran an advertisement urging students to submit names for the school’s new mascot. It was freshman Jack Kersting who suggested the winning name, “WuShock.”

 

If you’re a first-time Wichita State University parent or family member, it may
be hard to figure out many of the terms used here at the university. Use this
glossary to understand your student’s new vocabulary.

ACADEMIC ADVISOR Advising at WSU is an ongoing educational partnership between the student and faculty/professional advisors that promotes student success with the goal of helping students graduate.
ACADEMIC PROBATION Students are placed (or continued) on probation at the conclusion of every semester in which their institutional or overall grade point average falls below 2.000, except as noted below. If the college in which students are enrolled has a higher graduation requirement, students may be placed on probation whenever their institutional or overall grade point average falls below the college’s specified level.	GRADE POINT AVERAGE The grade point average is computed by dividing the total number of credit points by the total number of credit hours completed for which regular letter grades (A, B, C, D and F) are assigned.
ACADEMIC DISMISSAL Students will be dismissed at the end of a semester on probation if they fail to earn a semester grade point average at or above the minimum required. Students are not academically dismissed at the end of a semester unless they began that semester on academic probation.	HYBRID Replace a portion of traditional face-to-face instruction with web-based online learning (e.g., video lectures, online discussions, or activities).
ADD / DROP Students register through web registration in the myWSU portal. Classes can only be dropped during the add/drop period. After the 100% refund period has ended, all drop and add transactions must be submitted at the same time in the registration system to avoid financial penalty.	MAJOR (UNDERGRADUATE) The direction or focus that students study in their undergraduate program. Undergraduates typically complete 120 or more credits to earn a degree in their major field of study.
ASYNCHRONOUS Professors generate online content in advance and students engage with it on their own schedules. Examples include: recorded lectures, online discussion boards, and Wikis.	MINOR A secondary area of specialization beyond a college major. Undergraduates typically complete 16-30 credits to earn a minor. College students do not have to declare a minor to graduate. Undergraduates may use minors to complement their major or explore a different discipline.
ACADEMIC COLLEGE A subdivision of the university offering degree programs within a specific subject area. Wichita State University has seven colleges (College of Applied Studies, College of Engineering, College of Innovation and Design, Fairmount College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, College of Health Professions, College of Fine Arts, and the Dorothy and Bill Cohen Honors College).	PART-TIME STUDENT A student taking less than 12 credit hours is considered a part-time student
COMMENCEMENT Wichita State’s graduation ceremony held in December for summer/fall graduates and May for spring graduates.	PARENTAL NOTIFICATION  allow a college or university to notify parents if their student has experienced a medical emergency, or are a threat to self or others.
CREDIT HOURS The academic value assigned to a course based on the type and level of subject material, as well as the expected number of hours spent on class preparation. One credit hour is generally given for three hours of work per week, in and out of class.	PREREQUISITES Requirements that must be collected before enrollment in a course. The instructor may waive a prerequisite.
DEGREE WORKS AUDIT Degree Works is a web-based tool used to monitor a student’s academic progress toward degree completion. It combines WSU’s degree requirements with the courses a student is currently taking, has taken in the past, and plans to take. It produces a snapshot called a “degree audit” of the progress a student is making in fulfilling their degree requirements.	RESIDENT ASSISTANT (RA)  The resident assistant role is one of a community facilitator and role model, providing leadership and assisting residents in developing a positive community environment through the building of strong and intentional relationships with residents.
ELECTIVES Courses that are not required as part of a degree program, but are generally chosen and used by a student to supplement or enrich the required curriculum.	SYLLABUS A syllabus provides you with information specific to a course, and it also provides information about important university policies. This document should be viewed as a course overview; it is not a contract and is subject to change as the semester evolves. It often includes the schedule of assignments, exams, projects, etc. you are expected to complete over the course of the semester as well as outcomes of the course and the grading scale.
FAFSA Federal financial aid is awarded based on the results of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students may receive assistance through several federal programs: Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Pell Grants, TEACH Grants, subsidized and unsubsidized Direct Loans, and Direct PLUS parental loans for dependent undergraduate students.	SYNCHRONOUS Students and professor are engaged with the content at the same time, whether in-person or online. Examples include: zoom/streamed lecture, live chat features using social media, in-person lecture, and conference calls.
FERPA The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 is a federal law that sets forth requirements pertaining to the disclosure of, and access to, education records maintained by Wichita State University.	TRANSFER STUDENT student moving from one institution to another with some level of coursework completed.
FIRST GENERATION A student whose parents/guardians have not completed a four-year college degree.	WITHDRAW When you drop a class it does not appear on your permanent academic record. A “W” grade merely indicates that you were enrolled in the course and officially withdrew.
FULL-TIME STUDENT A student taking 12 credit hours is considered a full-time student.	Work Study Federal Work Study is additional money a student can earn through a part-time job on campus. Work Study jobs are based on financial need and are a part of the student’s financial aid package.

Student Classification

Freshmen A student with less than 30 credit hours earned toward their undergraduate degree.
Sophomore A student with 30 to 59 credit hours earned towards their undergraduate degree.
Junior A student with 60 to 89 credit hours earned toward their underdraduate degree.
Senior A student with 90 credit hours or more earned toward their undergraduate degree.

Your student is beginning and/or continuing one of life’s most rewarding journeys. You are also going to experience new feelings and face new challenges as your student establishes their independence at Wichita State University.

WILL OUR RELATIONSHIP BE THE SAME?

It may change; new college ways and old home rules can create tension. Don’t be too shocked or disappointed if your student refers to Wichita State as home. It’s a sure sign of adjustment.

• Be prepared for new behaviors, such as hair, dress and food preferences.
• Discuss your expectations for communication.
• Talk about what’s going on in their personal life, not just academic.

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TIPS TO SUPPORT YOUR STUDENT

	Encourage your student to ask for help when needed.
	Be supportive and interested in their college experiences.
	Listen openly, honestly and without judgement.
	Empower your student to solve their own problems.
	Be understanding when they feel overwhelmed and homesick.
	Encourage your student to stay on campus or in Wichita over most weekends.  This helps them build new friendships.
	Understand that stress and a certain amount of anxiety are normal for students to experience.

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TIPS FOR STAYING CONNECTED WITH YOUR STUDENT

Keep in touch by phone, text, facetime, and email.
Discuss which method is best for you and your student.

Visit your student during university-sponsored events such as family weekend.

Sign up for the Shocker Family Newsletter to stay in touch with everything Wichita State.
Sign up at wichita.edu/shockerfamily.

Send care packages, cards and letters.

Follow Wichita State Parent & Family on Facebook to stay informed about campus news, deadlines and resources.

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Tips to Remind Your Student

Encourage your student to always go to class.

Suggest using a day planner or calendar on their phone or computer to track assignments and events.

Recommend attending study groups or seeking tutoring services.

Remind your student that they can visit instructors during office hours or talk to them before or after class.

Discourage your student from cramming for exams or mid-terms.

Recommend your student visit with their success coach to learn about academic support. Wichita.edu/success

Blackboard-blackboard.wichita.edu
myWSU- mywsu.wichita.edu
ShockerSync-shockersync.wichita.edu
Shocker Alert-wichita.edu/shockeralert
Shocker Central-wichita.edu/shockercentral
myStop-wichita.edu/shuttle
Help Desk-wichita.edu/helpdesk
Report It-wichita.edu/reportit
Kurzweil 3000- wichita.edu/Kurzweil
Shocker Share-A-Meal- wichita.edu/shareameal

Dine on Campus
Go Shockers
Navigate Student
WSU Campus Recreation
Blackboard
Ride Wichita
Rave Guardian
Starship-Food Delivery
Microsoft Outlook
Mystop

Shutdown & Break Information
Residence halls remain open during the breaks, and residents are not required to move their belongings out. For winter break, students need to let Housing know they will be staying. There is no extra cost.

The dining hall will be closed when classes are not in session, and other dining facilities on campus will have limited hours. Meal options are available during breaks. Students will receive an email to their MyWSU email address and will need to respond to confirm their needs. 

Roommate Conflict
At the beginning of the semester, all residents are required to complete a roommate agreement, where they discuss their personal preferences and expectations of one another for the year. Students are expected to talk about topics like cleaning schedules, guest expectations, whether they are willing to share belongings, etc. At any point in the semester, the roommate agreement can be revisited, and changes can be requested by each roommate.

If students are having roommate conflict, they need to reach out to their Resident Assistant (RA) to set up a roommate mediation.

If the conflict persists, the residents will then meet with the building coordinator, and they will attempt to further resolve the conflict. If necessary, the building coordinator can opt to facilitate a room change at their discretion.

Families are asked to encourage their student to speak to their RA if there is any conflict in their suite.

Important Dates

October 1
Application for the following academic year opens.

December 1
Application submission deadline to be included in the first round of room selection

Complete break housing form if your student is staying over winter break.

February 1 (returning/transfer students) & March (new students) 1
Application submission deadline to be included in the second round of room selection

Mid-March though Mid-April
Room Selection for the upcoming academic year

 

Shocker Hall Mailing Address:
2020 N. Perimeter Road, Room #
Wichita, KS 67208

The Flats Mailing Address:
2011 N. Innovation Blvd, Room #
Wichita, KS 67208

The Suites Mailing Address:
2011 N. Innovation Blvd, Room #
Wichita, KS 67208

Office Contact Information:
316-978-3693 | housing@wichita.edu

All students who live on campus must purchase a meal plan.

Students living at Shocker Hall or The Suites pick from an unlimited meal plan with varying amounts of dining dollars – the unlimited swipes refers to entry into the Dining Hall.

Students living at the Flats can choose an unlimited meal plan or they can choose from a Dining Dollar only meal plan.

Dining Dollars are the pre-loaded monies included in meal plans for the contract period. They roll over between the Fall and Spring Semester, but they expire at the end of the contract period. Summer Dining dollars are only good for the summer months and expire at the end of the summer session.

Shocker Dollars are purchased directly through Dining Services and only expire when a student graduates or is no longer a WSU student.

Questions? visit dineoncampus.com/wsudining

Dine On Campus App
Dine On Campus™ provides helpful, dining-related information, places to eat, whether or not they're open, and how close they are to you.

In addition to menus, you can purchase meal plans, build a custom plan, or add money to your student’s card.

If you have questions or comments regarding dining service you can contact our dining staff directly through the app by tapping on the email or phone icon.

Please keep in mind the features and options of Dine On Campus™ may vary from school to school.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS

Students must obtain the following Semester GPA, WSU GPA and Cumulative GPA in order
to be able to continue their studies at Wichita State and graduate:

W. FRANK BARTON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS	2.00 GPA
APPLIED STUDIES	2.00 GPA
TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAMS	2.50 GPA
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING	2.00 GPA
COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS	2.00 GPA
COLLEGE OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS	2.00 GPA
COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS & SCIENCES	2.00 GPA

ACADEMIC STANDING
Students are placed on academic probation at the end of any semester in which they have obtained a GPA below what is required by their College. Probation is removed when a student’s GPA reaches the requirement for their College. If your student fails to meet the minimum Semester GPA during the semester they are on probation, they will be academically dismissed from the University.

GRADUATION HONORS are based upon both the WSU cumulative grade point average and the overall cumulative grade point average. Degrees are conferred with distinction upon students who have shown excellence in scholarship.

Summa Cum Laude: 3.900 and above
Magna Cum Laude: 3.550 and above
Cum Laude: 3.25 and above

Wichita State University has a plus/minus (+/-) grading system. Grades for courses are reported by the symbols indicated in the following grading table:

Letter Grade      Grade Points
A                          4.00
A-                         3.70
B+                         3.30
B                           3.00
B-                          2.70
C+                         2.30
C                           2.00
C-                         1.70
D                           1.00
D-                         0.70
F                           0.00

The A range denotes excellent performance.
The B range denotes good performance.
The C range denotes satisfactory performance.
The D range denotes unsatisfactory performance.
An F denotes failing performance.

As students transition to the university setting, they often experience a culture shift as the educational environment at Wichita State University may be different from their prior experiences. There are many things that students can do to navigate this transition and actions you can take to support your student.

Student Success Center

what can students do?

• Be proactive about a time management and organizational strategy.
• Visit faculty members at least once per month during office hours.
• Set aside 20 minutes each week to plan for the week ahead
• Reflect on how the classes are going, which study strategies are or are not working, what the priorities for the week are and what activities sound interesting.

what can parents and families do?

• Ask open-ended questions that prompt reflection about study skills, time management, mentorship, successes and failures.
• Ask about what is happening on campus this week and how your student plans to engage - encourage your student to build connections to campus and create a support network
• Acknowledge the transition to college can be challenging and amazing at the same time.

what does Wichita State University do?

• Faculty submit Early Alert notifications through WSU’s Student Early Alert System (SEAS) to connect students with resources and support when concerns arise related to attendance, class participation, assignments, quizzes, or exams.
• Academic advisors hold meetings with students each semester
• WSU offers multiple ways for students to receive peer education support - the Student Success Center (coaching, SI), through tutoring and wellness support, ect.
• For information, visit our website at wichita.edu/success

At Wichita State University, we believe that your academic journey should align with your natural talents and strengths. That’s why we connect your Gallup Strengths to Learning Communities—broad areas of study that help you explore majors.

What Are Learning Communities?

Groups of related academic programs that share common career pathways and foundational skills. Think of them as academic “neighborhoods” where students can explore their interests before committing to a specific major. At WSU, our Learning Communities include:

• Business, Entrepreneurship & Leadership
• Health & Wellness
• Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM)
• Arts, Humanities & Media
• Education, Training & Development
• Advocacy, Human Behavior & Public Service

What is ShockerStrengths?

ShockerStrengths is Wichita State University’s strengths-based development initiative grounded in the CliftonStrengths® assessment. Every student is invited to discover their Top 5 Talent Themes—natural patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving and learn how to apply them for success in college and beyond.

Why it matters: Research shows that students who know and use their strengths are more confident, more engaged, and more likely to persist to graduation.

How Families Can Support Strengths-Based Growth

• Encourage them to use their strengths in everyday decisions.

• Celebrate their unique talents and how they contribute to their success.

• Help them reframe challenges through a strengths lens.

Tip: Ask your student, ‘How did you use one of your strengths today?’

• Visit wichita.edu/ShockerStrengths to explore resources and upcoming events.

• Sign up for Momentum Mail to send personalized encouragement during key academic moments.

Touchpoints include:

Orientation and First-Year Seminars

Learning Communities

Leaderership Programs And Student Organizations

Career Readiness Workshops

Strengths- Based Advising and Coaching

Together, we can empower every Shocker to thrive academically, personally, and professionally.

Want to Learn More?

Visit wichita.edu/ShockerStrengths to explore resources, events, and ways to stay connected.

Your Shocker's Success Team

Success Coaching | wichita.edu/successcoach
Success Coaches provide students with academic support in areas such as time management, procrastination, test preparation, note talking, reading strategies, and accountability.  They work with students individually to assess strengths and needs, and help develop personalized action plans for success.

Office of Student Accommodations and Testing (OSAT) | wichita.edu/OSAT
Access Coaches work individually with students with disabilities to establish, implement, and coordinate appropriate classroom accommodations and guide students in developing self-advocacy skills so they can confidently communicate their needs.  They also collaborate directly with faculty to ensure accommodations are understood and effectively provided within the classroom environment.

Academic Advising | wichita.edu/advising
Academic advisors promote success by helping students create and follow a degree plan, set short-and long-term goals, inform them about university policies and procedures important to academic progress, and refer them to other campus resources as needed.

Financial Aid | wichita.edu/financialaid
Financial Aid can answer financial questions and guide students through the process of unlocking every dollar to fund their education.  After all, college can be one of the biggest and best investments of their life!

Care Team: Student Outreach and Support (SOS) | wichita.edu/care
The CARE Team (SOS) provides a proactive and supportive team approach to coordinate assistance for issues that include basic needs, food insecurity, problems with self-care, lack of connection, inability to get along with others, and much more.

Shocker career accelerator | wichita.edu/careers
Shockers have access to applied learning opportunities including job placements, Co-ops, and internships. SCA is the hub for career readiness and has Career Coaches to help students prepare for their next job!

Ablah library | wichita.edu/library
As the primary research resource, the library strives to support the academic needs of students.  They can work with a librarian to help with research, schedule a space to study, check out technology for academic work, attend workshops and events, and much more!

Academic advising is important to your student’s college experience and progress toward a degree. Advisors help students develop class plans as well as explore academic options, requirements and opportunities that can enhance and individualize their education. All students have at least one - if not several - academic advisors they can meet with throughout their time at Wichita State.

ADVISORS CAN BE FOUND AT WICHITA.EDU/ADVISING

FIRST-YEAR ADVISING

• Primary contact for first-year
(attending WSU straight from high school) students
• Assist students in their first and second semesters for academic advising and enrollment
• Discuss degree options and create Student Education Plan (SEP) for students to begin their path to graduation
• Explain and walk through requirements for financial aid
• Help students understand their bill and payment options
• Provide information to students regarding campus involvement opportunities

College Advisor

• Available to meet with students from the time they're thinking about college through graduation
• Primary contact for entering transfer and returning adult students
• Ensures students stay on track to graduate as well as meet and set goals
• Career and graduate school exploration
• Undecided and exploratory advising
• Pre-professional advising
• Help students to make meaning of their college education

Major/Faculty Advisor

• Available to meet with students from the time they're thinking about college through graduation
• Specific to student's major concentration
• Along with advising undergraduate students, most do research and teach
• Experts in the field of study and major course curriculum
• Connection to research, specializations in the major, field work, practicum, applied learning and much more

 

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At Wichita State, we know that every student’s journey to graduation involves making choices—tons of them. That’s why we’re committed to providing your student with knowledgeable, friendly advisors who can help them figure out where they are—and where they need to go—to help keep your student on track toward completing your degree.

 

HOW OFTEN SHOULD MY STUDENT MEET WITH THEIR ACADEMIC ADVISOR?

First-Year students will be required to meet with their advisor prior to enrollment in their second semester at WSU. After the first year, requirements look different depend­ing on the student’s college or program. However, it’s best that students meet with their advisors often to stay on track with their academic goals, find answers to their questions and learn about resources to help them succeed in their classes.

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Academic Advisors

Every student at WSU has an academic advisor. New freshmen are advised by a First-Year Advisor. Second year students and above are advised through their major’s college. Academic advisors will:

• Help choose courses each semester
• Authorize enrollment
• Discuss short- and long-term goals
• Complete a Student Education Plan (SEP)

Parent Checklist

Understand FERPA?
The federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), along with Kansas state law and administrative rules, gives students certain rights with respect to their educational records. When a student reaches 18 years of age or attends an institution of postsecondary education at any age, they become an "eligible student," and all rights under FERPA transfer from the parent to student. FERPA protects "education records," and requires the student to give consent to share information related to their educational record.

WILL MY STUDENT’S GRADES BE MAILED?
Wichita State University does not mail grade reports. Grades are available to students online via myWSU.

CAN I HAVE A COPY OF MY STUDENT’S GRADES OR ACADEMIC RECORDS?
According to both federal and state law, parents may have a copy of their student’s record only with the student’s written consent. Students have access to their grades online via myWSU a few days after the end of the term. While Wichita State staff may not be able to talk specifically about your student, we can share general information about academic policies and processes.

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STUDENT RECORD ACCESS

E-BILL AUTHORIZED USER
Your student can register you as an Authorized User on their E-Bill account to give you access to view records and pay bills. To add you as a user, your student should log into their WSU Access Account, click the MyFinances tab, select the eBill Icon, and select Authorized Users.
Please note this is a separate process from the Family Portal financial information request. The Family Portal will allow you to see when a bill is due, but will direct you to the E-Bill to pay.

PROXY
Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), parents do not have access to their student’s collegiate educational record unless the student provides consent. Students wanting to release nondirectory information to parents, employers, or other specified individuals, referred to as proxies, may do so online by logging into the secure myWSU portal.

THE RIGHTS OF THE STUDENT INCLUDE

1. The right to inspect and review their educational records within 45 days of request.
2. The right to request the amendment of portions of their educational record that they believe are inaccurate or misleading.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of the personally identifiable information contained in their educational record, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Wichita State University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

If you call a university office and ask for information about your student, you will receive only information that the university can legally provide. This information is listed at wichita.edu/FERPA

 

Your student’s new freedom will also require new responsibilities, including managing their finances. Talk with your student about these responsibilities. Having a bank account or credit card may be a completely new experience for your student, so it’s important to have a conversation about budgeting, managing expenses, spending habits and paying for their education.

Students can meet with peer financial coaches for budgeting help, along with attending Shocker Financial Wellness workshops throughout the year.

For more information visit: wichita.edu/shockerfinancialwellness

ENCOURAGE your student TO apply for scholarships!
ScholarshipUniverse connects Shockers to millions of dollars in external scholarships.
Institutional scholarships for 2027-28 will open on Nov. 1.
Visit wichita.edu/scholarshipuniverse for more information.

TIPS TO HELP YOUR STUDENT SAVE

To avoid scams, be wary of any offer that seems too good to be true and never give out your personal information unless you are sure of the company's legitimacy.	Complete the 2027-28 FAFSA, starting on Oct. 1	Follow all policies and deadlines set by the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships. More info at wichita.edu/finaidpolicy
Students receiving federal financial aid may also have academic requirements. More info at wichita.edu/sappolicy.	Help your student determine the best housing option for them based on costs and necessities.	Discourage your student from accepting credit card offers they may receive.

For more information visit: wichita.edu/financialaid

Where should students start?

• Students can view their bill by logging in to their myWSU account and click on the myFinances tab | View/Pay my bill (student account suite)
• Sign up direct deposit for secure refund payments via myWSU | myFinances | View/Pay my bill | Deposits

What are our payment options?

• eCheck – myWSU |myFinances| View/Pay my bill| Make a Payment
  + Free
• Credit Card - myWSU |myFinances| View/Pay my bill| Make a Payment
  + Visa, Mastercard, etc.
  + Processing fee may apply
• Check - Multiple ways to pay
  + By mail
  + In person at the Cashier’s Office, Jardine Hall 201.
• Cash - In person at the Cashier’s Office

Can someone else pay a Wichita State student’s bill?

Students may add an authorized user by logging into their myWSU account |myfinances | Authorize Users

• After the student adds the authorized user, an email will be sent prompting the new authorized user to create a login.
• As an authorized user, each time an eBill is processed for your student you will receive email notification that it is ready to view.
• Authorized users are able to log in and view, print or make payments.

Additional Questions?
Contact Accounts Receivable
For assistance, call (316) 978-3333 or email 
wsuaccountsreceivable@wichita.edu
Wichita.edu/ar

 

Wellness is a necessary part of student success, so encourage your student to find ways of relieving stress, keeping active and staying healthy. Suggest taking a fitness class, getting a massage at the Heskett Center or receiving a mental health services at Counseling and Psychological Services.

COUNSELING & PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), is committed to supporting students with individual and couples therapy at $10 a session, as well as a variety of free group therapy sessions. Students will never be turned away if not able to pay.
wichita.edu/CAPS

Student Accommodations & Testing

Wichita State’s Office of Student Accommodations & Testing provides students with learning, mental or physical disabilities an accommodations to attain their academic and personal goals to the fullest of their abilities. 
wichita.edu/OSAT

CARE TEAM

Campus Assessment Response Evaluation Team, CARE Team, is committed to help ensure students’ needs are met in order to promote wellness and academic success. In the event difficulties arise, CARE Team can connect students with the resources they need to overcome life’s challenges and thrive at Wichita State.
- physical, mental and emotional health concerns
- relationship and social challenges
- financial stressors
- housing and food insecurity (basic needs)
- transition issues
- and more

If you are worried about your student, we encourage you to submit a concern via WICHITA.EDU/CARE.

Shocker Career Accelerator

Your Student’s Career Journey

Now is the perfect time for your student to start building the skills needed for lifelong career success. Encourage them to explore wichita.edu/CRJourney and learn about our Career Ready Journey. 

We are proud to offer PathwayU, an online tool that helps students align their education and career choices with their interests and goals. Learn more at wichita.edu/PathwayU.

We also recommend scheduling a career-ready appointment with one of our certified career coaches. Call (316) 978-3688 to book an appointment today.

Career Closet & Professional Photos

The Shocker Career Accelerator provides free professional clothing and professional photos for Wichita State students. Students can visit the Shocker Locker in Shocker Success Center 001 for professional attire and stop by the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, for a professional headshot.

Applied Learning

At Wichita State, students don’t just learn—they do. WSU is nationally recognized for its commitment to applied learning, giving students hands-on experience that prepares them for real-world careers. Through paid opportunities with industry partners—many right on campus—students build skills, grow their networks, and gain a competitive edge.

Finding employment while in school and after graduation is a key concern for students and families. Wichita State’s Shocker Career Accelerator offers resources to help, including career events and a job database. Students can explore opportunities through Shocker Central, powered by 12twenty at Wichita.12twenty.com.

Shocker Central

To support academic success, we recommend full-time students (12+ credit hours) work no more than 20 hours per week while taking classes, especially as they transition to WSU.

Encourage your student to take advantage of these career resources and make the most of their Wichita State experience!

CONTACTS

SHOCKER CAREER ACCELERATOR
(316) 978 - 3688 | wichita.edu/career

ENCOURAGE YOUR STUDENT TO GET CONNECTED!

Becoming involved in campus activities tends to improve a student’s college experience. Not only do the activities provide opportunities to meet people with similar interests, they also help students apply what they have learned in the classroom to real life situations and improve time management. A healthy balance of study and co-curricular activities can add a rewarding dimension to the college experience.

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EXPERIENCE SHOCKER LIFE

ESPORTS
WSU Esports currently has five competitive varsity esports teams; League of Legends, Overwatch, Rocket League, Super Smash Bros, and Valorant.

INTRAMURALS
Stay active and meet new friends! Intramural sports are recreational leagues and tournaments available to Wichita State students.

NATIONAL STUDENT EXCHANGE

Students can live in a different area and experience an entirely new campus environment while continuing to pay WSU tuition and working toward a WSU degree.

PREVENTION AMBASSADOR
An opportunity for students to promote health, wellness, and mental health in the WSU community.

Promoting Academic Student Success

Promoting Academic Student Success (PASS) is a program that facilitates the retention, academic success, holistic development and timely graduation of all first year students at WSU, through academic support services, educational and cultural programming, interpersonal relationships and mentoring.

Free one-on-one tutoring and group study sessions Peer mentor Access to academic support and resources Study skills and personal development workshops
And much more!

Freshman Leadership Council (FLC)

A leadership program for first-year students that helps them build communication and leadership skills, represent the student voice, and become involved in campus leadership opportunities.

Student Government Association (SGA)

The Student Government Association serves as the official student governing body at Wichita State, representing student voices and enhancing the student experience through leadership, advocacy, and involvement opportunities.

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BENEFITS OF GETTING INVOLVED

Make new friends	Reduce stress.	Encourage self-discovery.
Discover new interests and find a new passion.		Develop skills for success.

Your student’s WSU experience may begin in the classroom, but their involvement outside of the classroom can be just as influential in creating a positive WSU experience.

SHOCKERSYNC.WICHITA.EDU is considered their go-to spot for involvement opportunities on campus. There are nearly 300 student organizations at Wichita State. Whether they want to serve their community, join a student organization, improve their well being or attend some fun events, they’re in the right place.

CAMPUS RECREATION offers many ways for you to get connected through intramural programs, club sports, and Shocker Rowing. Stay fit at one of our many facilities including the Heskett Center, Boats & Bikes or our outdoor playing fields.
To learn more visit wichita.edu/campusrec

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CONTACTS

CAMPUS RECREATION
(316) 978-3034 | WICHITA.EDU/campusrec

STUDENT ENGAGEMENT & BELONGING
(316) 978-3022 | WICHITA.EDU/SEB

Student Engagement & Belonging aims to connect every student with opportunities to enhance their Shocker experience.

Beloning begins here. Our programs and spaces are intentionally designed to foster connection, support, and a strong sense of value for every Shocker. Through meaningful engagement opportunities, cultural and community-building experiences, and inclusive pathways for involvement, we cultivate a campus environment where individuals are empowered to bring their full selves and build lasting community.

COMMUNITY SERVICE BOARD
A student organization that works to address issues of public concern through service and active citizenship in the community.

FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE
A community comprised of 26 social, Greek-lettered organizations that have a variety of backgrounds, values, and missions.

LEADERSHIP
Student Engagement & Belonging offers a wide variety of experiences for you to enhance your leadership skills and prepare you for whatever your future may bring. Apply your newfound knowledge to a student leader position, internship, or score that first post-graduation job.

Student Activities Council (SAC)
Serves as the university’s student programming board, creating meaningful experiences through social, cultural, and educational events for all Shockers. SAC hosts more than 50 events and activities each year designed to help students connect, engage, and build community on campus.

NATIONAL STUDENT EXCHANGE
Students can live in a different area and experience an entirely new campus environment while continuing to pay WSU tuition and working toward a WSU degree.

SHOCKER STRENGHS
Helps students discover and understand their natural talents through the CliftonStrengths® assessment. The program provides students with tools, coaching, and opportunities to leverage their strengths to build confidence, enhance leadership skills, strengthen relationships, and achieve success academically, personally, and professionally.

SERVICE & VOLUNTEERISM
Through our civic engagement events, Student Engagement & Belonging seeks to engage our community and in civic engagement through a series of events to connect students to volunteer work, alternative breaks programming, voter engagement initiatives, deliberate dialogue events and campus-wide events and celebrations to foster civic pride and engagement for our community.

AND MORE!

What is the Shocker Strenghts Initiative?

The ShockerStrengths Initiative at Wichita State University strives to empower students in higher education by connecting them with their unique CliftonStrengths®, fostering a deeper understanding of their innate talents, and guiding them towards academic, personal, and professional success. Through personalized support and resources, we aim to cultivate a thriving community where every student can leverage their strengths to achieve their fullest potential.

CliftonStrengths?

CliftonStrengths® is an inventory used globally that helps identify unique strengths and talents. Understanding these strengths can guide your student in making informed personal, academic, and career choices to excel in their Shocker experience.

Goals

Value-Driven Goals

Student Success

Enhance Self-Discovery & Awareness
Support & Improve Academic Performance
Cultivate Self-Esteem, Confidence, & Wellbeing
Develop Caree Readiness

Strengths-Based Culture

Build Positive Relationships & Connections
Cultivate Engaging & Supportived Learning Environments
Increase Engagement

World Ready Excellence

Develop & Strengthen Sense of Belonging in Communities
Promote Cultural Awareness & Appreciation
Identify Unique Contributions

Tips to Support / Strengthen Your Student

• Remind them to complete their FREE CliftonStrengths® inventory.
• Encourage your student to reflect on what makes exceptional and consider how they can leverage their talents towards success.
• Engage in conversations that highlight their strengths and how they can apply them academically, in their careers, and in their own personal development.
• Suggest they schedule an appointment with a Strengths Coach to learn more about their unique talents and how to leverage them.
• Embrace and Celebrate how awesome and uniquely gifted they are! Fill their bucket by filling out the below link to send your Shocker a Strength’s Shout Out! We’ll deliver it for you, or you can use one of our templates to create and send your own!

Comprehensive medical care at discounted costs with professional, licensed staff! We do not turn away students who have an inability to pay. We file health insurance and will accept credit cards, health savings account cards, and debit cards with patient names on them. Charges can also be put on student accounts.

Acute Illness and Injury Care

Physical Exams

Laboratory services – in-house diagnostic testing, blood tests,  sexually transmitted illnesses, etc.

Radiology services – x-ray 
and ultrasound

Medication services – both prescription and over-the-counter. 
  
Chiropractor

Immunizations 

Tuberculosis Testing

Nutrition Consultations with registered dietitian

Durable medical equipment and supplies – crutches, braces, personal hygiene supplies 

Health promotion and education
 
Gynecology services – including all contraception, pap smears, colposcopies, etc. 

Orthopedic Evaluations by physical therapists

My ShockerHealth

This secure patient portal provides convenience to students. Log on our website at wichita.edu/shs using student's myWSU ID and password. The portal allows online scheduling for appointments and text message reminders, secure messaging with health professionals, requesting prescription refills, uploading health documents and copies of insurance cards, plus viewing account balances and paying electronically.

Your student’s safety is our priority. We want to partner with students to take responsibility and recognize their own vulnerability to crime, reducing risks through preventative action and cooperation with Wichita State Police and the Department of Public Safety.

In accordance with the National Clery Act, a comprehensive annual campus crime report can be viewed at WICHITA.EDU/POLICE.

THE GUARDIAN APP
As part of Wichita State University’s ongoing commitment to campus safety, the university is proud to launch Rave Guardian, a free mobile app for Android and Apple smartphones that turns any smartphone into a personal safety device. When needed, the user can request one or more of their guardians to virtually walk with them on or off campus.

SIGN UP FOR SHOCKERALERT
ShockerAlert is a system that allows the university to send emergency alerts as text messages and emails.To sign up for text alerts through the emergency notification system, visit WICHITA.EDU/ALERT.

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PARKING SERVICES

All students who plan to commute or live on campus with a vehicle must register their vehicles online through Shocker Parking Management System in myWSU and purchase an ePermit (online or in person at Parking Services) to avoid receiving a citation during their time spent on campus at Wichita State.

ePermits are required from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday (with the exception of the RSC parking garage which requires ePermits or paid hourly parking 24/7). Student-accessible parking lots are marked with a prominent green “S” signage.

For additional information on how to properly register your personal vehicle, visit wichita.edu/Parking to view step-by-step instructions to complete the online registration process

Free Transportation

Through an expanded partnership with Wichita Transit, WSU students, faculty and staff will be able to move easily around the Wichita community and get regular service to WSU's campus, WSU South, WSU Tech campuses, WSU Old Town and downtown Wichita. 

Have your student download the Wichita Transit MyStop app on their smart phone or computer to track buses so they'll always know when the next bus will arrive.

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

Every semester, students need to update their emergency contacts in their myWSU portal. Wichita State will access their information in case an emergency. Your student can register you as an emergency contact by logging into their myWSU account and clicking on the Home Tab, Student Tools, myContact Info, Update Personal Info.

Wichita State Police Department

(316) 978-3450 | wichita.edu/police

Parking Services

(316) 978-5526 | wichita.edu/parking