The Justice

Dear Eleanor,

I seem to be having a problem registering for my classes. Sage tells me there is a hold, and I do not know how to check what is wrong! What can I do?

Thanks,

Confused



Dear Confused,

Don't panic! You can check for possible holds just by logging on to your Sage account. Click on the "personal portfolio" tab. To the right is a link to any holds you may have on your account. You can also call the registrar's office to check for holds. A common reason for a hold is an unfulfilled financial obligation. Make sure all outside scholarships are renewed, as a foundation's failure to pay will also result in a hold on your account. Also, every student is required to submit health insurance information at the beginning of the year. If you haven't completed this form, Brandeis will place a hold on your account. If you are an international student, you must check in at the International Students and Scholars Office at the start of every semester to update your information. Doing so removes the hold that is in place on your account before the semester starts. Keep in mind that you are required to declare a major by the end of your sophomore year; if you don't, a hold can be placed, preventing you from registering for classes junior year. I'm sure all appropriate departments will be more than willing to help you take care of your holds!

Love,

Eleanor



Dear Eleanor,

I am coming into Brandeis with six AP courses. What can I do with the credit?

Thanks,

Anxious Pupil



Dear AP,

The first thing you should do is to refer to your year's University Bulletin to check what scores you need to receive credit. The University accepts scores of four and five on most tests, and accepts a score of three on AP Calculus BC. You can use your AP credit toward graduation requirements, major/minor requirements or for purpose credit. This can allow you some flexibility with respect to your class choices, such as ability to take upper-level courses early in your Brandeis career. The University Bulletin lists the equivalent Brandeis courses that you can place out of should you choose to use your AP credit. Please keep in mind that you are not allowed to declare more than four APs, as the registrar will only accept a semester's equivalence of credit. To learn about declaring your APs, go to the registrar's office, and they'll provide you with the necessary forms and procedures. You should visit the registrar by the end of your sophomore year, especially if you are using the credit toward your major. Once the registrar approves your credit, it will appear on your transcript. However, do keep in mind that if you take an equivalent course at Brandeis before declaring your APs, you will not be able to receive the AP credit for that course. Finally, it is important to talk to your class advisor first to figure out the best method to apply your credit in a way that is beneficial to you.

Love,

Eleanor



Ask Eleanor is a service provided by the Roosevelt Fellows, a group of peer academic advisors named after the former first lady to honor her contributions to Brandeis during its foundation. To have your question answered, e-mail askeleanor@brandeis.edu or visit the Roosevelt Fellows office hours in the Office of Academic Services in Usdan, Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools