Q. What is the difference between a 10-week and a nine-month Independent Learning Program class?
A. Ten-week classes, also known as fast-track classes, are more structured than the traditional nine-month classes. While you can work at your own pace for both, the syllabus for the 10-week class will outline what you need to accomplish for each week. Some classes are available only as a 10-week and some are available only as a 9-month class. Check the distance education schedule of classes to see which enrollment time is offered for each class.
Q. When do independent learning classes start?
A. You can sign up and start a class anytime during the year and your time begins when you register. Although you may enroll in a course anytime during the year, your enrollment is tied to a specific semester for tracking purposes. Below are the enrollment periods for each semester:
Spring semester enrollment: December 1 - February 28
Summer semester enrollment: March 1 - June 30
Fall semester enrollment: July 1 - November 30
Q. Can I use financial aid to pay for independent learning classes?
A. Everyone's situation and aid eligibility is different. You are encouraged to speak to a financial aid representative before you enroll in these classes. Contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid by e-mail or phone at 765-285-5600 or 800-227-4017.
Q. Can I use military tuition assistance to pay for independent learning classes?
A. Yes. Make sure to contact the Veteran's Affairs office at Ball State regarding your benefits prior to enrolling.
Q. What are the technology requirements?
A. You need reliable access to the Internet and a computer in order to take a 10-week or nine-month class. Online classes work best when using Microsoft Internet Explorer. Learn more by viewing the Technology Assistance Web site.
Q. How do I find out what books are required?
A. Required textbooks are listed on the schedule page where the course is listed. You may order books through Ball State Bookstore, MBS Direct, or the vendor of your choice. Just make sure that the textbook you order matches the edition of the book required for the course.
Q. How much does an independent learning class cost?
A. Currently the cost is $226 per credit hour, regardless if you are an in-state or out-of-state student. Visit our costs and financial aid page for more information. Effective Summer 2009, the cost per credit hour will be $235.
Q. When do I pay for the class?
A. You may pay for your class during the registration process using a credit card or e-check. If you choose not to pay for the class during the registration process, the bursar's office will send an electronic bill to your Ball State e-mail account. Either way, your course begins when we process your registration.
Q. Will Ball State fee remission apply toward Independent Learning Program fees?
A. Yes. Eligible Ball State employees and their dependents may use fee remission for Independent Learning Program classes. Questions about employee fee remission may be directed to Susan Naylor at 765-285-1032. Questions about employee dependent fee remission may be directed to the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid at 765-285-5600.
Q. Do independent learning classes count toward my degree requirements?
A. Yes. Independent learning classes earn residence credit just like your on-campus courses do. There is no differentiation made on your transcript between on-campus and independent learning classes. However, some departments limit the number of independent learning classes that you can take toward your major or minor, unless you are pursuing a bachelor of general studies through the Independent Learning Program. Also, there is no restriction to the number of general studies classes that you can take through the program.
Q. Do independent learning classes require examinations?
Examinations for the 10-week courses are done electronically without a proctor. Often instructors will use online programs such as InQsit or Blackboard to administer the tests. When you are ready to take an examination, you will need to e-mail your instructor. He/She will give you instructions on when the test will be available, how to log onto the test site, and how much time you will have to complete the course. Some 9-month traditional classes still require that your examinations be supervised by a proctor. Visit the exam Web site for additional information.
Q. Which term will my final grade appear on?
A. Although independent learning courses can start and end at various times throughout the year, your enrollment is tied to a specific term. If you are currently enrolled in an independent learning course at the end of a semester, you will receive an incomplete grade (I) for the course. Once you complete the course, the instructor will replace the I with your final grade. Please note that you only have nine months or 10 weeks, depending on the enrollment period you selected, to complete each independent learning course, regardless of when you receive the I grade.
Q. What is the withdrawal policy?
A. Students may withdraw from an independent learning course at any time before taking the final examination and before the course expiration. Students who do not complete the course or withdraw from it before the deadline, will receive a failing grade on their transcript for the course. Learn more about the withdrawal policy and procedures.
Q. May I switch sections of a course?
A. Students are given seven days from the date their confirmation letter is sent to them to switch sections of a course. A formal drop/withdrawal form must be submitted to our office to initiate this process. Students will then need to complete a course registration form online for the desired section.
Q. May I get an extension?
A. We understand that extenuating circumstances may occur and those particular instances are handled on an individual basis. Please contact our office to discuss your options. Please be prepared to provide official medical documentation and/or other pertinent documentation that may assist our staff with our review. After a decision has been reached, we will e-mail you regarding our decision. Please note that courses may be granted an extension of no longer than two weeks from the expiration date.
Q. How will Ball State University offices communicate with me?
A. You will be communicated with via your Ball State e-mail account. It is important to check this account often. You will need your username and password to access your mailbox.