FAQs About First-Year Experience

Q. How do I register for my first-semester schedule?

A. You will be registered for your courses prior to New Student Orientation (NSO). During your New Student Orientation (NSO) you will meet with an advisor to verify your schedule.

Q. Who is my advisor?

A. You will meet with an advisor at NSO who will assist in verifying your schedule. During your first year you may seek advising from anyone in the First Year Office, the Academic Advising Center or EOP.

Q. How many credits/courses will I be taking my first-semester?

A. You will usually take 4 classes your first semester, which are 4 credits each, totaling 16 credits.

Q. What is Common Hour?

A. Common Hour is at 2:40 p.m. - 3:40 p.m., Monday through Thursday. There are no classes scheduled for this time period. SUNY Old Westbury uses this time for programming by clubs and departments.

Q. Will I be able to receive AP credit?

A. Yes. You must score a 3, 4, or 5 to receive AP credit. An Official Score Report must be sent to the Registrar directly from College Board.

Q. Is it possible to receive credit by examination for IB scores?

A. Yes. The grade must be a C or better and you must transfer the scores to Old Westbury. Please see Transfer Services for assistance.

Q. When will I receive my Fall schedule?

A. You will be able to print out your Fall schedule after you complete your NSO. It will be posted to your SUNY OW Connect portal. Instructions will be given out during NSO.

Q. Can I change my schedule once I receive it?

A. Yes. Your schedule will be verified during your NSO. For additional changes after NSO, you must contact an advisor in the First Year Office, the Academic Advising Center or EOP to make any changes.

Q. What if I want to declare a major that is different from the major I listed on my Old Westbury application?

A. Instructions to change your major, or explore other majors will be given out during NSO.

Q. If I have any questions, who can I contact?

A. Please contact the First Year Office by email: FirstYear@oldwestbury.edu