Top Navigation

Family Checklist

(* indicates fall semester only)

Below is a checklist to assist you with your student’s preparation and transition to Western Illinois University.

Student Orientation and Registration

___ Review materials in your packet
___ Take a campus tour
___ Complete and return the family evaluation at the Student Services Fair (Student Development and Orientation table)

Before Semester Begins

___ Encourage your student to activate his/her (ECOM account); then your student can use ECOM account to log into (Zimbra) to communicate with the university
___ Ensure your student has completed and returned his/her housing application packet (University Housing and Dining Services)
___ Make certain your student has completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online
___ Have your student return the medical history form and provide written documentation of current immunizations by August 1 for fall semester or January 1 for spring semester (Beu Health Center)
___ Explore payment options (Billing)
___ Have your student complete the additional e-mail address for billing notification prior to August 1 (STARS)*
___ Apply for a Federal Parent PLUS loan, if interested (Financial Aid; select Loans)
___ Encourage your student to apply for scholarships prior to the deadline (Scholarships)
___ Remind your student to review job postings for federal work study, regular student employment, and off-campus employment anytime after August 1, if interested (Financial Aid)
___ Ensure your student has ordered books online (Bookstore)
___ Remind your student to complete the required Alcohol-Wise course (AOD)

Move-in Day

___ Attend the President’s New Student Convocation and the President’s Family Picnic with your student*
___ Encourage your student to attend all Orientation events
___ Make sure all forms are completed before leaving campus

Things to Consider

___ Join the WIU Parent and Family Association; membership fee required (SAPSC)
___ Keep in contact with your student (see “The Family Guide To College Transition” pamphlet in your packet)
___ Plan a scheduled visit; Family Weekend, Homecoming, and Moms’ and Dads’ Weekends are special events to consider (Lodging)

Have a question or concern?
Contact Student Development and Orientation, Seal Hall 301, (309) 298-1884 or sdo@wiu.edu.