First-Year Frequently Asked Questions
What is GT 1000 and should I take this class?
Coordinated by the Office of Success Programs, GT 1000 is a one-credit seminar course that helps first-year students adjust to their new environment and make the most of their experience at Georgia Tech. Through the course, students acquire strategies that promote academic, social, and professional success. Examples of topics include: Academic Enrichment Opportunities (Co-op, Study Abroad, Undergraduate Research), Time Management and Study Skills, Involvement, Leadership, and Community Service Opportunities, Career and Major Exploration, Team Building, Georgia Tech History and Traditions. The course is taught by both academic faculty and administrators with advanced degrees, and upper-class students volunteer to serve as Team Leaders (or TLs) in each class. TLs facilitate small groups within the class and offer mentorship, advice, and support to freshmen. Some sections of GT 1000 are taught within an academic department or college and are intended for students in those departments. Other sections are open to all students regardless of major. Your advisor, or Success Programs, can help you identify which section of GT 1000 to take. Please visit www.gt1000.gatech.edu for more information.
When does the semester start and end? When are semester breaks?
To access Georgia Tech's semester calendar, visit www.registrar.gatech.edu/students/calendar.php.
How do I apply for financial aid?
To be eligible for financial aid, including endowed scholarships and grant- and need-based aid, students must submit two financial aid forms to Georgia Tech's Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. Both the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form and the Georgia Tech Financial Aid Application can be accessed online at www.finaid.gatech.edu.
Where do I send my immunization records?
Immunization and medical entrance forms can be accessed from the Stamps Health Services Web site. Medical records forms should be filled out and returned to the Stamps Health Services Office in accordance with their instructions.
How do I obtain information about student health insurance?
Stamps Student Health Services offers a voluntary accident and illness policy to help cover unexpected and potentially expensive costs. To access more information about student health insurance options, visit www.health.gatech.edu/departments/insurance.htm.
What services are available for international students?
The Office of International Education (OIE) serves and supports Georgia Tech's large and diverse group of international students and visiting scholars. OIE offers a wide range of organizations and programs to international students. For more detailed information about OIE services, visit www.oie.gatech.edu.
How can I get involved with the Co-op Program?
Georgia Tech's Cooperative Education Program is the largest optional co-op program in the nation. It combines traditional on-campus academic coursework with practical employment related to a student's academic major. To apply for Tech's co-op program as an entering freshman, you must submit a co-op application to the Division of Professional Practice. More information on the co-op program, including an application, is available at www.profpractice.gatech.edu.
Why should I attend FASET Orientation?
It is very important to attend FASET Orientation because that's where you will be advised on what courses to take, and orientation leaders will help you register for your first-semester courses. You will also learn about what services are available to you on campus; meet other incoming students, current students, and staff; and find out what life is really like at Georgia Tech. You can also complete all of your school business (such as obtaining computer accounts and post office boxes) with the assistance of FASET staff. More information about FASET Orientation can be found at www.faset.gatech.edu.
What is Freshman Experience?
The Freshman Experience program is a self-selected living option offered by the Department of Housing and designed for freshmen who want to build a solid foundation for success at Georgia Tech. Since the program began eleven years ago, more than 14,000 freshmen have participated in Freshmen Experience. To be involved in Freshman Experience, you must complete a housing application form and select the Freshman Experience program. Additional information is available at www.freshmanexperience.gatech.edu.
Where do I go to buy my books and a computer?
Open since July 20003, the 43,000-square-foot Barnes & Noble @ Georgia Tech offers the selection and service of a world-class bookstore in the Technology Square area of campus. Featuring a vast array of books, the latest technical reference materials, CDs, DVDs, computer products, supplies, and Tech apparel and gifts, the bookstore serves not only the Georgia Tech and high-tech community but also the midtown Atlanta neighborhood. For more information, visit gatech.bkstore.com.
Who will advise me when it is time to register for my classes?
All entering students are assigned an academic advisor depending on their declared majors. Undecided students are each assigned an academic advisor within their declared colleges. Undergraduates meet their assigned advisors at orientation to help them with course scheduling, degree requirements, and academic counseling. More information about advising can be found at www.advising.gatech.edu.
Why should I get involved on campus, and how do I find out what's available?
There are many reasons to get involved on campus:
- Meeting new people
- Improving or building a new skill
- Feeling like you're a part of the campus community
- Getting the most out of your college experience
- Managing stress better
- Having fun
Visit the Office of Student Involvement Web site for information about the more than 300 student clubs and organizations on campus.
How can I get involved with intramural sports?
Intramural teams are created through common bonds within the community at Georgia Tech—friends, residence halls, campus organizations, sororities, and fraternities. For more information about Georgia Tech's intramural program and the wide range of activities offered, visit www.crc.gatech.edu.