Administrative Steps

Administrative Steps

Despite class being months away, there are several steps you can take now to ensure a smooth transition to graduate school. This step-by-step guide will help prepare you for your first semester at UNC Charlotte.

1. Send your “intent to enroll” card back to the graduate school. It should have been included in your admission packet sent by the graduate school. Return the card within two weeks to assure your spot in the Communication Studies program.
2. Meet with the graduate coordinator for initial academic advising. This is required of all new students to the program and is an integral step for answering any questions you may have regarding the program. You will also get help planning your course of study.
3. Set up you 49er Express Account. Instructions and a password will be included in your admission packet. 49er Express is a Web-based program you will use to register for classes, pay tuition, check grades, access your UNC Charlotte email account, and much more.
4. Submit your immunization records to Brocker Health Center. This is required of all entrants to college unless:

•you are only taking off-campus courses.
•you are only taking classes on or after 3:30 p.m.
•you are only taking weekend courses.
•you are only taking four (4) credit hours or less per semester.

Guidelines for submitting immunization records will be included in your admission packet.
5. If appropriate, apply for financial aid. Refer to the financial aid (link to that tab, please) tab for more information.
6. Register for classes. Please do not register for classes until you have met with the Graduate Coordinator. Register for class via 49er Express.
7. Pay your tuition. Tuition is due the first week of class; specific dates are published each semester in the academic calendar. You may pay online via 49er Express or by visiting the Student Accounts office (2nd floor, Reese Building) or by calling them at 704.687.2938.
8. Buy your books. Your options for purchasing textbooks are: the University Bookstore, located in the Student Union; Grays College Bookstore, located on the corner of Highway 49 and Old Concord Road; or online retailers like Amazon.com or Half.com.
9. Obtain a parking permit and student ID card. There is no free parking on UNC Charlotte’s campus. Contact Parking Services, located in the Auxiliary Services Building, or call them at 704.687.4285 for information. You will need a student ID card to check out books from the library, utilize the campus fitness center, the student health center, and a host of other services. To obtain your student ID, visit the ID card office on the first floor of the Cone Center. Bring your driver’s license or another official form of photo identification.
10. Attend an orientation session for new graduate students. There is a new student orientation sponsored by the Graduate School each spring and fall. It is typically held the Saturday before class begins. You will learn more about policies, procedures, and other campus services and be able to purchase a parking permit and student ID card during the orientation.