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Student Checklist

(* indicates fall semester only; ** indicates freshmen only)

We have compiled a checklist to help you get off to a good start at WIU.

Student Orientation and Registration

___ Review materials in packet
___ Plan your class schedule with an academic advisor
___ Take and pick up your WIU photo ID card (Student Assistance and Parent Service Center or University Housing and Dining Services)
___ Complete and return the student evaluation

Before Semester Begins

___ Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on the web
___ Ensure housing requirements/payments have been met (University Housing and Dining Services)
___ Activate your (ECOM account); then use ECOM account to log into your (Zimbra) to communicate with students, faculty, staff, and offices on campus
___ Access the Student/Alumni Records System (STARS) to become familiar with the menu options (Stars)
___ Sign into STARS and select Financial Aid Information/2011-12 to:

  • Check the status of your FAFSA
  • View your financial aid award letter/awards
  • Choose a lender and complete the Stafford Entrance Loan Counseling, if applicable

___ 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)
___ Apply for scholarships prior to deadlines (Scholarships)
___ Consider opening a local bank account
___ Explore payment options, if applicable (Billing)
___ Complete additional e-mail address for billing notification prior to August 1 (Stars)*
___ Order your books online (Bookstore)
___ Review job postings for federal work study, regular student employment, and off-campus employment anytime after August 1, if interested (Financial Aid)
___ Look for the Fall Orientation Schedule via the mail in early August*
___ Read your First Year Experience book**
___ Take your required Alcohol-Wise course (Aod)

First Week on Campus

___ Attend the President’s New Student Convocation and the President’s Family Picnic with your family*
___ Attend all orientation events; freshmen MUST attend First Year Experience event (see Fall Orientation Schedule)
___ Pick up your books (University Union Bookstore)
___ Purchase your parking permit, if applicable

  • Charge to your WIU account (Parking Services or Student Assistance and Parent Service Center)
  • Pay with cash or check (Parking Services)

___ Familiarize yourself with the campus; take a campus tour (see Orientation Schedule)
___ Pick up Go West Transit schedule (residence hall mailbox for on-campus students and Go West for off-campus students)

Throughout the Semester

___ Attend all of your classes; study hard and have fun
___ Make an appointment to see your academic advisor
___ Get involved in different clubs and organizations
___ Attend all general athletic events FREE with your WIU ID card
___ Keep in contact with family and friends
___ Participate in Campus Recreation activities

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