Admission to the University

Definitions of Entry Status

1. First-time Freshman: Applicant who has not attended any college or university after high school graduation. Also includes those who have only attended a college or university during the summer term after high school graduation.
2. Transfer Student: Applicant who has attended one or more college, university, or professional training program after high school graduation.
3. Re-entry/Re-admission Student: Applicant who has previously attended McNeese State University as a regular student.
4. Visiting Student: Applicant who is pursuing a degree at another institution and intends to transfer credit earned at McNeese back to his/her home institution.
5. International Student: Applicant who is not a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident.
6. Early Admission/Dual Enrollment Student: Applicant who enrolls prior to high school graduation.

Application Materials

1. All submitted records become the property of the University and cannot be returned to the applicant.
2. Students must furnish official transcripts for admissions processing.
3. Applications and records should be on file at least 30 days prior to registration.
4. Falsification of any information when applying for admission may result in the refusal of the applicant or dismissal from the University.
   1. An applicant or student who is charged with falsifying academic information; forging or altering academic documents; or withholding information related to his or her admission, transfer credits, academic status, records, etc., will be notified to report to the Office of University Services where the student will be informed of the situation.
   2. The Office of University Services will then consult with the Director of Admissions and Recruiting or Registrar to determine the appropriate corrective action. The student will be notified accordingly and within reasonable time.
5. A student may be granted conditional admission pending receipt of all required admission documents. Enrolled students whose admission records are still incomplete 30 days after the first day of classes will have transcript and registration holds placed on their records. The registration of students who are granted conditional admission and are found to be ineligible for admission may be canceled.
6. When applying admission standards, the age of the applicant will be calculated by subtracting the applicant’s birth year from the calendar year of the term for which the applicant has applied.
7. Applicants who meet the educational requirements listed in this catalog will be considered for admission. Admission is not automatically granted when these requirements are met; it may be denied if other factors, in the judgment of University officials, merit denial. Timeliness of application and other relevant factors may be considered. The University may deny admission, readmission, or continued enrollment to persons whose behavior is disruptive, dangerous, or abusive and in instances which would be detrimental to the applicant or which would interfere with the capacity of other students to benefit from the educational experience.
8. Additional admission requirements for students enrolling in certain academic programs may be stipulated. Admission to the University does not guarantee admission to specific degree programs.
9. All policies are subject to change without prior notification.

Admission Exceptions

In accordance with Board of Regents policy, McNeese State University may admit, by exception, a limited number of students who do not meet minimum admission standards. The University Admissions Panel automatically reviews the files of applicants who do not meet minimum admission standards and may request additional information as part of the review. Admission decisions are based on an evaluation of the applicant’s likelihood of success at McNeese, life achievement, and the enhancement of the University’s demographically diverse student population.

1. A student admitted conditionally into the Developmental Education Co-Requisite Program must enroll in courses required for the program.
2. Failure to enroll in and successfully complete appropriate courses may result in the revocation of admission.

Graduates of State-Approved Public and Private Louisiana High Schools

First-time freshman applicants who are graduates of state-approved Louisiana high schools must meet the following minimum admission standards:

1. Regents’ High School Core 4 Curriculum (listed below); and
2. Minimum high school cumulative GPA of 2.35; and
3. Readiness for college-level English* (ACT English 18, SAT critical reading 450, or Compass writing 68); and
4. Readiness for college-level math* (ACT math 19, SAT math 460, or Compass algebra 40); and
5. ONE of the following:
   1. Minimum high school core GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale as reported by the Department of Education or
   2. Minimum ACT composite score of 20 (SAT combined mathematics and critical reading score of 940).

*Note:  Applicants demonstrating readiness for either college-level English or math may be admitted if they are eligible to enroll in the co-requisite English course (ACT English 16-17, SAT critical reading 410-440, Compass writing 61-67) or the co-requisite math course (ACT math 17-18, SAT math 400-450, Compass algebra 31-39).

Graduates of State-Approved Home-School Programs or State Approved Out-of-State High Schools

First-time freshman applicants who are graduates of state-approved home-school programs or state-approved out-of-state high schools must meet all admission standards in one of the following groups:

Group 1

1. Regents’ High School Core 4 Curriculum (listed below);
2. Minimum high school cumulative GPA of 2.35; and
3. Readiness for college-level English* (ACT English 18, SAT critical reading 450, or Compass writing 68); and
4. Readiness for college-level math* (ACT math 19, SAT math 460, or Compass algebra 40); and
5. ONE of the following:
   1. Minimum high school core GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale as reported by the Department of Education or
   2. Minimum ACT composite score of 20 (SAT combined mathematics and critical reading score of 940).

*Note:  Applicants demonstrating readiness for either college-level English or math may be admitted if they are eligible to enroll in the co-requisite English course (ACT English 16-17, SAT critical reading 410-440, Compass writing 61-67) or the co-requisite math course (ACT math 17-18, SAT math 400-450, Compass algebra 31-39).

Group 2

1. 17 of the 19 units of the Regents’ High School Core 4 Curriculum; and
2. Minimum high school cumulative GPA of 2.35; and
3. Minimum high school core GPA of 2.0; and
4. Minimum ACT composite of 20 (SAT combined mathematics and critical reading score of 940); and
5. Readiness for college-level English* (ACT English 18, SAT critical reading 450, or Compass writing 68); and
6. Readiness for college-level math* (ACT math 19, SAT math 460, or Compass algebra 40)

*Note:  Applicants demonstrating readiness for either college-level English or math may be admitted if they are eligible to enroll in the co-requisite English course (ACT English 16-17, SAT critical reading 410-440, Compass writing 61-67) or the co-requisite math course (ACT math 17-18, SAT math 400-450, Compass algebra 31-39).

Group 3

1. Minimum ACT composite score of 23 (SAT combined mathematics and critical reading score of 1050); and
2. Minimum high school cumulative GPA of 2.35; and
3. Readiness for college-level English* (ACT English 18, SAT critical reading 450, or Compass writing 68); and
4. Readiness for college-level math* (ACT math 19, SAT math 460, or Compass algebra 40)

*Note:  Applicants demonstrating readiness for either college-level English or math may be admitted if they are eligible to enroll in the co-requisite English course (ACT English 16-17, SAT critical reading 410-440, Compass writing 61-67) or the co-requisite math course (ACT math 17-18, SAT math 400-450, Compass algebra 31-39).

Adult Students, Aged 25 or Older

First-time freshman applicants, aged 25 or older, must meet the following admission standards:

1. Readiness for college-level English* (ACT English 18, SAT critical reading 450, or Compass writing 68); and
2. Readiness for college-level math* (ACT math 19, SAT math 460, or Compass algebra 40); and
3. One of the following:
   1. State-approved high school diploma with minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0; or
   2. Passing scores on a state-approved high school equivalency exam, such as HiSET or GED.

*Note:  Applicants demonstrating readiness for either college-level English or math may be admitted if they are eligible to enroll in the co-requisite English course (ACT English 16-17, SAT critical reading 410-440, Compass writing 61-67) or the co-requisite math course (ACT math 17-18, SAT math 400-450, Compass algebra 31-39).

1. Complete the online application for admission which may be accessed by clicking the following link: Online Application.
2. Have high school or home school transcript and official college transcripts sent directly from the institution to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting.
   1. If applicable, have official report of high school equivalency exam (HiSET or GED) test results sent directly from the State Department of Education to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting.
   2. For applicants who graduated from public Louisiana high schools May 2003 or later and signed disclosure consent forms, high school records will be accessed through the electronic Student Transcript System (STS), negating the need for submission of high school transcripts.
3. Have official ACT or SAT scores sent directly from the testing agency to McNeese (ACT College Code 1594/SAT College Code 6403). ACT score reports may be requested online by clicking the following link: ACT score report request. SAT score reports may be requested online by clicking the following link: SAT score report request.
4. Submit the Proof of Immunization Compliance form to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting. Louisiana law requires all first-time McNeese students born after 1956 to be immunized against measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus-diphtheria. Additionally, state law requires all first-time freshmen to be vaccinated against meningitis. The form may be obtained from the Office of Admissions and Recruiting, the Student Health Center, or the University’s website by clicking the following link: Proof of Immunization Compliance Form.
5. Pay the non-refundable application fee of $20.00 in person, by mail, or through the online payment gateway. The University’s payment policy can be viewed at www.mcneese.edu/payment.
6. Males 18-25:  Submit Proof of Selective Service registration to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting.

Transfer Students, Under the Age of 25

1. Transfer students under the age of 25, who have earned 18 or more college-level academic credit hours, must meet the following minimum admission standards:
   1. A transferable associate degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution or
   2. All of the following:
      1. Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on all college-level academic courses; and
      2. Eligible to return to the institution from which they are transferring; and
      3. Grades of C or higher in a college-level English and a college-level math/analytical reasoning course.
2. Transfer students who have earned a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 on fewer than 18 college-level academic hours must meet first-time freshman admission standards for their age group and high school graduation year.

Transfer Students, Aged 25 or Older

1. Transfer students aged 25 or older, who have earned 18 or more college-level academic credit hours, must meet the following minimum admission standards:
   1. A transferable associate degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution or
   2. All of the following:
      1. Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on all college-level academic courses; and
      2. Eligible to return to the institution from which they are transferring; and
      3. Readiness for college-level English* (ACT English 18, SAT critical reading 450, or Compass writing 68); and
      4. Readiness for college-level math* (ACT math 19, SAT math 460, or Compass algebra 40)
2. Transfer students who have earned a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 on fewer than 18 college-level academic hours must meet first-time freshman admission standards for their age group and high school graduation year.

*Note:  Applicants demonstrating readiness for either college-level English or math may be admitted if they are eligible to enroll in the co-requisite English course (ACT English 16-17, SAT critical reading 410-440, Compass writing 61-67) or the co-requisite math course (ACT math 17-18, SAT math 400-450, Compass algebra 31-39).

1. Complete the online application for admission which may be accessed by clicking the following link: Online Application.
2. Have high school or home school transcript sent directly from the high school to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting. For applicants who graduated from public Louisiana high schools May 2003 or later and signed disclosure consent forms, high school records will be accessed through the electronic Student Transcript System (STS), negating the need for submission of high school transcripts.
   1. If applicable, have official report of high school equivalency exam (HiSET or GED) test results sent directly from the State Department of Education to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting.
3. Have official college and university transcripts sent directly from all institutions attended to the Office of of Admissions and Recruiting.
4. Submit the Proof of Immunization Compliance form to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting. Louisiana law requires all first-time McNeese students born after 1956 to be immunized against measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus-diphtheria. Additionally, state law requires all first-time freshmen to be vaccinated against meningitis. The form may be obtained from the Office of Admissions and Recruiting, the Student Health Center, or the University’s website by clicking the following link: Proof of Immunization Compliance Form.
5. Pay the non-refundable application fee of $20.00 in person, by mail, or through the online payment gateway. The University’s payment policy can be viewed at www.mcneese.edu/payment.
6. Males 18-25:  Submit Proof of Selective Service registration to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting.

1. Visiting students must submit the online application for admission, non-refundable application fee of $20, and Proof of Immunization Compliance form. Males aged 18-25 must submit proof of Selective Service registration.
2. Transcripts from other institutions are not required for admission; however, transcripts and ACT/SAT scores may be required for placement into certain courses.
3. Visiting students are not eligible for financial aid and not approved to pursue a degree program.
4. Enrollment as a visiting student is limited to the term for which the application is received.
5. If a visiting student wishes to transfer to McNeese, the transfer admission process must be followed, and all transfer admission requirements must be met.

1. A McNeese student who does not enroll in the next regular semester must submit the online application for re-admission and non-refundable application fee of $20.00.
2. An official transcript from each institution attended since last attending McNeese must be sent directly from the institution to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting.
3. Former students must be eligible to return to McNeese as well as the last institution attended.

An international first time freshman is a student who has not enrolled in a college or university either in the U.S. or abroad after completion of secondary school (high school). International first-time freshman applicants must meet the following minimum admission standards:

1. Graduation from a recognized secondary school comparable to a U.S. high school; and
2. Readiness for college-level English* (ACT English 18, SAT critical reading 450, or Compass writing 68); and
3. Readiness for college-level math* (ACT math 19, SAT math 460, or Compass algebra 40); and
4. Minimum high school cumulative GPA of 2.35 or minimum high school cumulative GPA of 2.0 with a minimum ACT composite score of 20 (SAT combined mathematics and critical reading score of 940); and
5. English language proficiency demonstrated by one of the following:
   1. Minimum TOEFL score of 500 on the paper-based exam, 173 on the computer-based exam, or 61 on the Internet-based exam;
   2. Minimum IELTS band score of 5.0;
   3. Completion of the advanced level of the on-campus ESLI University Language Center program;
   4. Completion of advanced level English with Kaplan International;
   5. Completion of level 112 with ELS Language Centers;
   6. Diploma from a state-approved U.S. high school (earned upon successful completion of required state curricula); or
   7. Satisfactory rating in a documented personal interview, granted on a discretionary basis, with the Director of International Programs.

*Note:  Applicants demonstrating readiness for either college-level English or math may be admitted if they are eligible to enroll in the co-requisite English course (ACT English 16-17, SAT critical reading 410-440, Compass writing 61-67) or the co-requisite math course (ACT math 17-18, SAT math 400-450, Compass algebra 31-39).

An international student who graduated from a state-approved U.S. high school must meet the first-time freshman admission criteria outlined in First-Time Freshman Admission Standards.

1. Complete the online application for admission, which may be accessed by clicking the following link: Online Application.
2. Pay the non-refundable application fee of $30 paid by by mail (check or money order drawn on a U.S. bank) or through the online payment gateway. The University’s payment policy can be viewed at www.mcneese.edu/payment.
3. Complete the affidavit of financial support form, which may be obtained from the Office of International Programs or accessed by clicking the following link: Affidavit of Financial Support. A bank statement or official bank letter must accompany the affidavit of financial support and must reflect the minimum balance required as determined by the Office of International Programs. (The affidavit of financial support requirement only applies to applicants seeking to enroll while in F-1 visa status.)
4. Submt English language proficiency documentation. Official TOEFL or IELTS scores must be sent directly from the testing agency to McNeese.
5. Have official ACT or SAT scores sent directly from the testing agency to McNeese (ACT College Code 1594/SAT College Code 6403). ACT score reports may be requested online by clicking the following link: ACT score report request. SAT score reports may be requested online by clicking the following link: SAT score report request.
6. Submit the Proof of Immunization Compliance form to the Office of International Programs. The form may be obtained from the Office of International Programs or by clicking the following link: Proof of Immunization Compliance Form.
7. Have complete, official secondary school and college transcripts and diplomas sent directly from the institution to the Office of International Programs. All documents must be properly attested by either the registrar, attestation officer, controller of examinations, or high school principal. Transcripts must be in English or accompanied by official line-by-line English translations.
8. If applicable, submit an official course-by-course evaluation of credentials for all college or university academic credit earned from foreign institutions. Transcripts must be evaluated by World Education Services, Inc. (www.wes.org) or Global Credential Evaluators, Inc. (www.gceus.com). Detailed instructions for ordering a credential evaluation can be found on each evaluator’s website. The credential evaluation must be sent directly from the evaluation service to the institution.
9. Priority will be given to applicants who have provided all application materials by the following dates:
   1. March 15 for the summer semester;
   2. May 15 for the fall semester; and
   3. October 15 for the spring semester.
10. Once all required documents are received by the Office of International Programs, the records will be carefully evaluated and an admission decision will be made. If the applicant is accepted, a letter of acceptance and a SEVIS Form I-20 will be issued. (The SEVIS Form I-20 is only issued to those applicants seeking to enroll while in F-1 visa status.) If the applicant is not accepted, notification will be sent so that alternate plans can be made.

An international transfer student is a student who has enrolled in a college or university either in the U.S. or abroad after completion of secondary school (high school). A student who attended a language program at a college or university and did not enroll in other coursework is not a transfer student.

International Transfer Students from a non-U.S. College or University

1. International transfer students under the age of 25, who have earned 18 or more college-level academic credit hours from a non-U.S college or university, must meet the following minimum admission standards:
   1. A transferable associate degree or higher or
   2. All of the following:
      1. Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on all college-level academic courses; and
      2. Eligible to return to the institution from which they are transferring; and
      3. Grade of C or higher in a college-level math/analytical reasoning course; and
      4. Readiness for college-level English (ACT English 18, SAT critical reading 450, or Compass writing 68); and
      5. English language proficiency demonstrated by one of the following:
         1. Minimum TOEFL score of 500 on the paper-based exam, 173 on the computer-based exam, or 61 on the Internet-based exam;
         2. Minimum IELTS band score of 5.0;
         3. Completion of the advanced level of the on-campus ESLI University Language Center program;
         4. Completion of advanced level English with Kaplan International;
         5. Completion of level 112 with ELS Language Centers;
         6. Diploma from a state-approved U.S. high school (earned upon successful completion of required state curricula); or
         7. Satisfactory rating in a documented personal interview, granted on a discretionary basis, with the Director of International Programs.
2. Transfer students who have earned a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 on fewer than 18 college-level academic hours must meet international first-time freshman admission standards.

International Transfer Students from a U.S. College or University

1. International transfer students under the age of 25, who have earned 18 or more college-level academic credit hours from a U.S college or university, must meet the following minimum admission standards:
   1. A transferable associate degree or higher or
   2. All of the following:
      1. Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on all college-level academic courses; and
      2. Eligible to return to the institution from which they are transferring; and
      3. Grades of C or higher in a college-level English and a college-level math course; and
      4. English language proficiency demonstrated by one of the following:
         1. Minimum TOEFL score of 500 on the paper-based exam, 173 on the computer-based exam, or 61 on the Internet-based exam;
         2. Minimum IELTS band score of 5.0;
         3. Completion of the advanced level of the on-campus ESLI University Language Center program;
         4. Completion of advanced level English with Kaplan International;
         5. Completion of level 112 with ELS Language Centers;
         6. Successful completion of one full academic year at a recognized U.S. college or university;
         7. Diploma from a state-approved U.S. high school (earned upon successful completion of required state curricula); or
         8. Satisfactory rating in a documented personal interview, granted on a discretionary basis, with the Director of International Programs.
2. Transfer students who have earned a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 on fewer than 18 college-level academic hours must meet international first-time freshman admission standards.

1. Complete the online application for admission, which may be accessed by clicking the following link: Online Application.
2. Pay the non-refundable application fee of $30 paid by by mail (check or money order drawn on a U.S. bank) or through the online payment gateway. The University’s payment policy can be viewed at www.mcneese.edu/payment.
3. Complete the affidavit of financial support form, which may be obtained from the Office of International Programs or accessed by clicking the following link: Affidavit of Financial Support. A bank statement or official bank letter must accompany the affidavit of financial support and must reflect the minimum balance required as determined by the Office of International Programs. (The affidavit of financial support requirement only applies to applicants seeking to enroll while in F-1 visa status.)
4. Submt English language proficiency documentation. Official TOEFL or IELTS scores must be sent directly from the testing agency to McNeese.
5. Submit the Proof of Immunization Compliance form to the Office of International Programs. The form may be obtained from the Office of International Programs or by clicking the following link: Proof of Immunization Compliance Form.
6. Have complete, official college transcripts and diplomas sent directly from the institution to the Office of International Programs. All documents must be properly attested by either the registrar, attestation officer, or controller of examinations. Transcripts must be in English or accompanied by official line-by-line English translations.
7. If applicable, submit an official course-by-course evaluation of credentials for all college or university academic credit earned from foreign institutions. Transcripts must be evaluated by World Education Services, Inc. (www.wes.org) or Global Credential Evaluators, Inc. (www.gceus.com). Detailed instructions for ordering a credential evaluation can be found on each evaluator’s website. The credential evaluation must be sent directly from the evaluation service to the institution.
8. If required, have complete, official secondary school transcripts and diplomas sent directly from the institution to the Office of International Programs. All documents must be properly attested by either the registrar, attestation officer, controller of examinations, or high school principal. Transcripts must be in English or accompanied by official line-by-line English translations.
9. If required, have official ACT or SAT scores sent directly from the testing agency to McNeese (ACT College Code 1594/SAT College Code 6403). ACT score reports may be requested online by clicking the following link: ACT score report request. SAT score reports may be requested online by clicking the following link: SAT score report request.
10. Priority will be given to applicants who have provided all application materials by the following dates:
    1. March 15 for the summer semester;
    2. May 15 for the fall semester; and
    3. October 15 for the spring semester.
11. Once all required documents are received by the Office of International Programs, the records will be carefully evaluated and an admission decision will be made. If the applicant is accepted, a letter of acceptance and a SEVIS Form I-20 will be issued. (The SEVIS Form I-20 is only issued to those applicants seeking to enroll while in F-1 visa status.) If the applicant is not accepted, notification will be sent so that alternate plans can be made.

ELS Language Centers, a privately owned and operated English as a Second Language program located on the McNeese campus, offers intensive development of the listening, speaking, writing, pronunciation, vocabulary and grammar skills needed to communicate accurately and effectively in English.  The program has 30 lessons per week, with 12 proficiency levels from Beginner to Masters. There are 13 start dates annually divided into 4-week sessions, with each session the equivalent of one ELS proficiency level. Upon successful completion of ELS Level 112, students may be admitted to the University without submission of TOEFL or IELTS scores, provided all other requirements for admission are met. For further information about the program, prospective students should contact the ELS Language Centers or visit LCH@els.edu.

McNeese offers early admissions programs for students who have not yet graduated from high school:  High School Dual Enrollment Program; Early College Admissions Program; and Exceptional Scholars Admission Program. Under these programs, students are enrolled in regular McNeese courses, and all credits attempted and earned become part of the University’s permanent record. College credits earned may be used to satisfy degree requirements at McNeese. Transfer of credit earned under an early admission program is dependent upon the policies of the receiving institution. Early admission students are subject to the rules, regulations, and policies for all students at McNeese. Students wishing to enroll must meet admission standards of one of the programs outlined below. Additional information may be obtained from the Office of Community Services and Outreach.

High School Dual Enrollment Program

1. Students who wish to enroll at McNeese while continuing their enrollment in high school may do so under the High School Dual Enrollment Program. To enroll through this program, a student must meet the following general participation requirements:
   1. Must be at least 15 years of age;
   2. Must be currently enrolled in the 11th or 12th grade at a public or private Louisiana high school or in a state-approved home school program;
   3. Must have taken either the PLAN, ACT, or Compass assessment;
   4. Must be on track for completing the Louisiana Core 4 Curriculum;
   5. Must be in good standing as defined by the high school;
   6. Must have written permission from the high school and his/her parent to participate;
   7. Must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale, as calculated by the high school;
   8. Must have a PLAN or ACT English score of at least 18, a Compass writing score of 68, or have successfully completed the developmental course required for placement into English 101, the initial college-level mathematics course; and
   9. Must have a PLAN or ACT mathematics score of at least 19, a Compass algebra score of 40, or have successfully completed the developmental course required for placement into MATH 113, the initial college-level mathematics course.
2. Applicants for the Dual Enrollment Program should:
   1. Complete the online application for admission which may be accessed by clicking the following link: Online Application;
   2. Submit the Course Enrollment Request Form to the Office of Community Services and Outreach;
   3. Have high school or home school transcript sent directly from the high school to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting; and
   4. Have ACT, SAT, and PLAN scores sent from the high school or testing agency to McNeese.
3. To continue enrollment in subsequent semesters/terms through the High School Dual Enrollment Program, a student must have successfully completed prior Dual Enrollment Program courses. If the student resigns or withdraws from a course, the student must receive permission from both the high school and college to continue enrollment in subsequent semesters/terms.
4. Students admitted under this program may receive high school credit for University courses as outlined in dual credit agreements between McNeese and local school boards. Questions regarding this option should be directed to the high school principal or counselor.
5. For students enrolled in summer courses through this program, dormitory facilities may be available for those who are eligible to live on campus.

Early College Admissions Program

1. The early college admissions program was established by the Legislature and the Louisiana State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education; therefore, the program is open only to students enrolled in state-approved high schools.
2. High school students who wish to complete their senior year requirements by attending McNeese full-time may enroll by meeting the following requirements:
   1. Completion of six semesters of high school;
   2. Recommendation of the high school principal;
   3. Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; and
   4. Minimum ACT composite score of 25.
3. Applicants for the Early College Admissions Program should:
   1. Complete the online application for admission which may be accessed by clicking the following link: Online Application;
   2. Submit the Early College Admissions Program Form to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting;
   3. Have high school or home school transcript sent directly from the high school to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting; and
   4. Have official ACT or SAT scores sent directly from the testing agency to McNeese.
4. Upon successful completion of 24 semester hours of college work, students admitted under this program may be granted a state of Louisiana high school diploma by the appropriate school board.

Exceptional Scholars Admission Program

1. The Exceptional Scholars Admission Program (ESAP) is open to students enrolled in state-approved high schools who have documented evidence of exceptional intellectual or creative abilities. The program allows students who are not of the traditional classification required for the High School Dual Enrollment or Early College Admission programs to enroll in college-level courses.
2. Program guidelines require that an applicant meet the following criteria:
   1. Minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale;
   2. Minimum ACT composite score of 25 (SAT of 1130);
   3. Written recommendation from his/her high school principal or counselor; and
   4. Written permission from a parent or legal guardian.
3. Applicants for the Exceptional Scholars Admission Program should:
   1. Complete the online application for admission which may be accessed by clicking the following link: Online Application;
   2. Submit the Exceptional Scholars Admission Program Form to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting;
   3. Have high school or home school transcript sent directly from the high school to the Office of Admissions and Recruiting; and
   4. Have official ACT or SAT scores sent directly from the testing agency to McNeese.

Academic Bankruptcy provides students a fresh start academically by allowing them to enter or re-enter the University with the status of an entering freshman with no earned hours, no GPA hours, no quality points, no GPA, and no prior suspensions. A minimum of three years must have passed between the end of the semester in which the student was last registered for credit at any college or university and the beginning of their enrollment under Academic Bankruptcy at McNeese. At the time of application for first-time admission or re-admission to the University and up to the final exam period for the first term of enrollment or re-enrollment, undergraduate students may file a Petition for Academic Bankruptcy.

1. Although no courses which were previously taken, whether passed or failed, will be counted in the student’s GPA or toward meeting degree requirements, the courses and grades will still appear on the student’s scholastic records and transcripts, with the notation: “Academic bankruptcy declared (date). Credits attempted and earned prior to this date will not be used in computing a grade point average or for meeting graduation requirements.”
2. Students filing Academic Bankruptcy are placed in the department of General and Basic Studies and transferred out only upon successful completion of all Basic Studies requirements.
3. Declaration of Academic Bankruptcy does not pertain to accumulated financial aid history. Accumulated semester and award limits include all semesters of enrollment, both before and after declaring Academic Bankruptcy.
4. To fairly determine graduation honors, McNeese considers the entire academic record of each student, including credits attempted and earned prior to filing Academic Bankruptcy.
5. Students should also be aware that, when considering applications for admission, many undergraduate professional curricula and most graduate and professional schools compute the undergraduate GPA on all hours attempted.
6. Academic Bankruptcy may be granted only once in a student’s academic career, regardless of the institutions attended.
7. Once filed and approved, the Academic Bankruptcy decision is irreversible, even if the student decides not to enroll or re-enroll at McNeese.
8. McNeese accepts, in transfer, academic bankruptcy granted at another institution.

Additional information on Academic Bankruptcy may be obtained by contacting the Assistant Director of Admissions and Recruiting at (337) 475-5148.

Determination of Residency Classification

The residence status of an applicant or student is determined in accordance with the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors regulations and is based upon evidence provided on the application for admission and related documents. Residence status is determined by the Office of Admissions and Recruiting after the completed application for admission has been submitted. The regulations are based primarily on the location of the home and the place of employment of the applicant or the applicant’s parents or legal guardian. Residence status may not be acquired by an applicant or student while residing in Louisiana for the primary purpose of attending school (i.e., enrolling more than part-time in any semester).

Residence status, for fee purposes only, will be granted to non-resident graduate students registered for three semester hours or less and undergraduate students registered for six semester hours or less in any session, or all non-resident students enrolled in graduate or undergraduate courses offered through web-based or other electronic instruction, when domiciled outside of the state of Louisiana and not enrolled in any other courses at the university.

For tuition purposes, a resident student is defined as one who has: (1) resided continuously in Louisiana for at least one full year (365 days) immediately preceding the first day of classes of the term for which resident classification is sought; and (2) abandoned all prior domiciles. ‘Domicile,’ as the term is used in the context of residence regulations, is defined as an individual’s true, fixed, and permanent home and place of habitation at which the individual remains when not called elsewhere for labor, studies, or other special or temporary purposes, and the place to which the individual returns after an absence. A nonresident student, for tuition purposes, is defined as a student who is not eligible for classification as a resident.

The individual’s physical presence within this state for one year must be associated with substantial evidence that such presence was with the intent to maintain a Louisiana domicile. Physical presence within the state solely for education purposes without substantial evidence of the intent to remain in Louisiana will not be sufficient for resident classification regardless of the length of time within the state.

United States Residents

1. Applicants living with their parents are classified as residents if the parents have established a bona fide residence in Louisiana. Ordinarily, a parent is considered to have established a residence in Louisiana, if he/she actually resides and is employed full time in the state. A parent who is unable to be employed or who is a housewife may be considered to have established a residence in Louisiana if there is convincing evidence that the person continuously resides in Louisiana. If only one parent qualifies as a resident of Louisiana, the student shall be classified as a resident provided that student resides with the parent who is a resident of Louisiana. An individual who resides in Louisiana and is employed full time in another state may be classified as a resident. In such cases, appropriate documentary evidence must be presented.
2. Students residing with their parents and enrolling as nonresidents are classified as residents if the parents move to Louisiana and acquire residence as defined in these regulations.
3. Persons may be classified as residents of Louisiana at the end of twelve consecutive months of residence if they have been employed full time in Louisiana and if during that period they have not been registered for more than six semester hours or its equivalent in an educational institution in any semester. Persons who are unable to be employed and who have not been registered in any educational institution for more than six semester hours or its equivalent in any semester may acquire residence in Louisiana if there is convincing evidence that they continuously resided in Louisiana for twelve consecutive months immediately preceding registration.
4. A student who is married to a Louisiana resident may acquire the residence status of his or her spouse.
5. Persons who reside in Louisiana for at least two years, exclusive of military service, and who then move to another state or foreign country retain the right to enroll themselves or any dependents as a resident for a period equal to the number of years they resided in Louisiana, but the right shall expire upon the person’s residing for a period of two years in another state or foreign country.
6. Members of the Armed Forces (not reserve or guard) currently stationed in Louisiana and their dependents shall be classified as Louisiana residents. Military personnel stationed in Louisiana immediately prior to release from active duty may enroll themselves or their dependents as residents during a period not to exceed twelve (12) months after the date of release provided that the term of active duty shall have been no less than twelve (12) consecutive months.
7. Members of a Reserve Component of the Armed Forces currently living and stationed in Louisiana may be classified as residents.
8. A veteran of the Armed Forces currently living in Louisiana who has been assigned a service-connected disability by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
9. Members of the full-time Armed Forces who were residents of Louisiana immediately prior to entering the Armed Forces retain the right for themselves or any dependents to be classified as residents as long as they are in the Armed Forces and for a two-year period after leaving the Armed Forces.
10. As indicated below, anyone using educational benefits under either chapter 30 or chapter 33, of title 38, United States Code, who enrolls prior to the expiration of the three year period following discharge, release, or death of the service member and who remains continuously enrolled (fall and spring terms) shall be classified as a resident:
    1. A Veteran using educational assistance under either Chapter 30 (Montgomery G.I. Bill - Active Duty Program) or chapter 33 (Post-9/11 G.I. Bill), of Title 38, United States Code, who lives in Louisiana (regardless of his/her formal state of residence) and enrolls within three years of discharge or release from a period of active duty service of 90 days or more.
    2. Anyone using transferred Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits (38 U.S.C. § 3319) who lives in Louisiana (regardless of his/her formal state of residence) and enrolls within three years of the transferor’s discharge or release from a period of active duty service of 90 days or more.
    3. Anyone using benefits under the Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship (38 U.S.C. § 3311(b)(9)) who lives in Louisiana (regardless of his/her formal state of residence) and enrolls within three years of the Service member’s death in the line of duty following a period of active duty service of 90 days or more.
11. A resident of Louisiana does not lose the right to be classified as a resident during periods of employment in a foreign country.
12. An alien who has been lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence as an immigrant (proof of such status shall be possession of Form I-551-Alien Registration Receipt Card or passport officially stamped ‘approved as resident alien’) and who has established residence under any of the foregoing provisions shall be declared a resident of the state.
13. A student may be declared a resident if either parent is a graduate of McNeese.
14. A student who graduates with an associate or higher degree may be classified as a resident for subsequent enrollment at McNeese (applicable only to U.S. citizens).

Non-United States Residents

1. A student who is a non-U.S. citizen may be entitled to resident classification if the student has been lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence (refugee, spouse of a U.S. citizen, ‘temporary’ or amnesty alien, etc). This granting of resident status for fee purposes shall be in accordance with all applicable laws of the U.S. and relative requirements of the Residence Regulations.
2. Students and their dependents present in the United States under terms of any one of the following visa classifications who demonstrate a Louisiana domicile for at least one full year (and meet residence regulations) prior to the first day of class of the beginning of the semester will be eligible for an exemption of nonresident fees while holding such a visa:
   1. E visa-Treaty trader or investor
   2. G visa-Representative of international organization
   3. H-1B visa-Temporary worker in a specialty occupation (H1-A and H-4 may also apply to qualify for exemption.)
   4. I visa-Foreign information media representative
   5. K visa-Fiance’ (Residency approved with proof of marriage to U.S. citizen.)
   6. L visa-Intra-company transferee/foreign employer
3. Students holding an A visa (government officials) will be immediately eligible for an exemption of the non-resident fees while holding such a visa.
4. Students holding the following visa classifications are not eligible to establish Louisiana domicile nor be exempted from non-resident fees unless otherwise permitted by law, by system policy, or other regulations:
   1. B visa-Visitor for business/pleasure
   2. C visa-In transit
   3. D visa-Crewman
   4. F visa-Academic student
   5. H visa-Temporary worker (other than H1-A, H1-B, or H-4)
   6. J visa-Exchange visitor
   7. M visa-Vocational/non-academic student
5. The domicile of a dependent or an unmarried minor is regarded to be that of the parent with whom such a dependent or minor maintains his/her place of abode.

Residence Regulation Appeals

Any student who feels that he or she has been incorrectly classified as a non-resident may appeal that classification to the Assistant Director of Admissions and Recruiting. Residency forms are available online at www.mcneese.edu/admissions/application-forms. If the appeal is denied, the student can then appeal to the Residency Appeals Committee.

Incorrect Residency Classification

All students classified incorrectly as residents are subject to reclassification and payment of all nonresident fees not paid. If incorrect classification results from false or concealed information from the student, the student is also subject to University discipline.

McNeese Access Award

By approval of the Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System, non-resident fee waivers may be granted to new undergraduate students from other states and countries who satisfy the following admission criteria:

U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents:

1. First-time freshmen (students who have completed less than 12 hours of college-level credit):
   1. ACT composite score of 21 (or equivalent SAT), and
   2. Cumulative high school GPA of 2.25 or higher, and
   3. Have no need for remedial/developmental course work. (ACT or SAT scores are needed for determination.)
2. Transfer students (students who have completed 12 or more hours of college-level credit):
   1. Cumulative GPA of 2.5 on college-level work, and
   2. Be eligible to return to their previous institution, and
   3. Have no need for remedial/developmental course work. (ACT or SAT scores may be needed for determination.)
3. Students must be enrolled as full-time students.

International Students:

1. First-time freshmen (students who have completed less than 12 hours of college-level credit):
   1. Minimum TOEFL score of 525 (paper-based), 195 (computer-based), or 71 (Internet-based), or IELTS Band 6.0, and
   2. Have completed a recognized secondary program comparable to U.S. high school graduation with a cumulative high school GPA of 2.25 or higher, and
   3. Have no need for remedial/developmental course work. (ACT or SAT scores are needed for determination.)
2. Transfer students (students who have completed 12 or more hours of college-level credit in the U.S.):
   1. Cumulative GPA of 2.5 on college-level work, and
   2. Be eligible to return to their previous institution, and
   3. Have no need for remedial/developmental course work. (ACT or SAT scores are needed for determination.)
3. International students whose native language is English shall be expected to satisfy the same requirements as students from the United States.
4. Students must be enrolled as full-time students.

Students admitted under these criteria may remain eligible to retain this waiver as long as they maintain satisfactory academic progress (2.0 cumulative GPA). Contact the Office of Admissions and Recruiting for more information. (International students should contact the Office of International Programs.)

Special Achievement Waiver

An undergraduate, non-resident student with high achievement in dance performance, debate, visual arts, music performance, or theater performance may be granted a waiver if that student’s presence will improve the educational opportunities of other students. Cheerleaders, flag corps, University recognized or sponsored spirit groups that perform at athletic game activities, and the SGA president, as well as certain others, may also be considered in this group. The applying student must meet each of the following criteria:

1. Demonstrate high achievement in the appropriate performance area
2. Have a cumulative minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale in high school, if applying prior to entering college, or on at least 24 hours of college work
3. Demonstrate leadership
4. Receive a satisfactory rating in a documented interview (personal or by telephone)
5. Commit to participate in the appropriate area at the granting institution.

To be eligible to continue receiving this waiver (resident fee status), the student must meet the following criteria:

1. Maintain satisfactory participation and performance in the appropriate collegiate activity. Failure to maintain satisfactory participation and performance in one semester will result in forfeiting the waiver for subsequent semesters. After reestablishing satisfactory performance for at least one semester (not summer session), the student may reapply for the waiver.
2. Maintain status as a full-time student.
3. Maintain a semester and cumulative 2.0 GPA. If the semester or cumulative GPA falls below 2.0, the student may retain the waiver for the succeeding semester, but will forfeit the waiver if the semester or cumulative GPA is below 2.0 at the close of that succeeding semester.

A student granted a waiver is expected to make steady progress toward a degree. Appeals may be reviewed by the appropriate committee.

Additional information may be obtained from the Office of Scholarships.