Heavener School of Business Home

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand each category for related questions and answers.

Academic Probation

What is academic probation?

There are two types of academic probation: university-level probation and college-level probation. Review the UF Probation Policies on their Academic Progress Policies page.

Regarding college-level probation, if you earn less than a 2.0 core, major, area of specialization, or UF GPA, the School of Business will place a registration hold on your record and require you to meet with an advisor. As a rule, you will be asked to earn specific grades in the following semester to eliminate at least half of your grade point deficits. If you accomplish this, you will be allowed to continue on probation for one more semester. At the end of the second semester of probation, you must either earn the grades you need to remove all deficit points or change your major to a non-business major. Visit the School of Business Probation page to learn more.

Adding a Course after the End of the Drop/Add Period

I'm a business major. Can I late add a course?

To late add a School of Business course, business majors must obtain permission from the instructor, electronic consent from the department who offers the course, and then the assistance of an advisor in 233 Bryan Hall to add the course. To late add a non-business course, business majors must obtain permission from the instructor, electronic consent from the department who offers the course, and then the assistance of an advisor in 233 Bryan Hall to add the course.

I am not a business major. Can I late add a business course?

To late add a School of Business course, non-business majors must obtain consent from the professor who teaches the course, electronic consent from the department who offers the course, and then they must ask an advisor in their college to add the course.

Advising

Can I be advised over the phone? How about via email?

You must see an advisor in person to receive individual academic advisement. Federal privacy laws prevent an academic advisor from discussing your academic record over the phone. Non-individual specific questions, such as questions of policy, may be answered via email (undergraduate.business at ufl.edu) if you contact us using your GatorLink account.

How can I see an advisor in person?

You can speak with an academic advisor at the front walk-in counter, or you can make a one-on-one appointment. Walk-in advising is limited to brief policy-related questions, approval of forms and other minor issues. Normal walk-in hours are Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m; during drop/add and advance registration periods, walk-in hours are from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. More in depth issues, such as long range academic planning, career counseling, or academic probation, should be addressed in a one-on-one appointment. To schedule an appointment, call (352) 273-0165 (at least 24 hours in advance) and speak with the front desk staff for assistance.

Area of Specialization

What is an area of specialization?

An area of specialization is a degree requirement for Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration - General Studies (BA-GBA) majors only. Instead of taking the 12-16 hours of business major courses that economics, finance, information systems, management or marketing majors do, general studies majors take 12 hours of related courses from other UF colleges. General studies majors have over 70 areas of specialization to choose from, including pre-health, pre-law, international business, chemistry, travel and tourism, sports management, and criminology.

Why should I choose to major in General Studies?

The general studies major, which requires an outside area of specialization, is ideal for students who want a business background, but who also want to explore other interests. For example, students interested in going to med school can ensure that they’ve completed the requisite coursework through the pre-health area of specialization. Here are some other examples: a pre-law student can pursue an area of specialization in pre-law to help prepare for law school, or if you are pursuing a dual degree in Business and Spanish you can efficiently use your Spanish major courses to meet the Spanish area of specialization requirements for your general studies business degree.

The general studies major is a Bachelor of Arts degree and the other business majors are Bachelor of Science degrees. Is that important?

No. There is no significant difference between a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science degree One degree will not look better than the other on your resume.

When do I have to declare my area of specialization?

You must declare your area of specialization by the end of your third semester at UF. If you do not declare your area of specialization by that time, the School of Business will place a registration hold on your record. Once you declare your area of specialization, an advisor will remove your hold.

Can I choose substitute courses for my area of specialization?

Yes, but you must submit a course substitution request form to do so. The form requires the written consent of the department who offers the area of specialization, as well as approval from the School of Business. Internship and research credit are not acceptable substitutions. Generally, a course can be substituted if it can be used to satisfy a minor in that discipline, if it is a 3000-4000 level course, and if the course has a standardized format (i.e. set class periods, required papers or exams, etc.)

Can I also minor in my area of specialization?

Yes, students often choose to take an extra course or two to earn a minor in their area of specialization.

Can I pursue more than one area of specialization?

No, but you can pursue a minor in a different discipline.

Course Policies

Can I re-take a course I earned AP or IB credit for?

Yes, but you will not earn credit for the course. In essence, the UF course will replace the AP/IB course and you will earn a letter grade that will factor into your GPA(s).

Can I take courses in another business major for elective credit? For example, if I'm a finance major, can I take management major courses?

You may take courses from other majors within the School of Business; however, major courses have registration restrictions. In the fall and spring, during the first three weeks of advance registration, only students in their respective majors may register for major courses. See the School of Business' advance registration page for specific dates.

Can I re-take a course to earn a better grade?

Business majors should not re-take a required course to improve their GPA once they earn a grade of C or higher in the course. If you re-take a course that you already earned credit for, you will not earn additional credit for the course and the original grade you earned in the course will not be removed from your transcript. If you re-take a course that you earned a C or better in and earn a higher grade, only the original grade will factor into your GPA. If you re-take a course that you earned a C- or lower in and earn a higher grade, both grades will factor into your GPA. If you re-take a course and earn a lower grade than your original grade, the lower grade will replace the higher grade. Review UFs Grade Polices for complete information.

What is the three-peat fee?

If you register for a course three times (which includes earning a failing grade, drops after the drop/add deadline, or withdrawals), UF will charge you three times the normal tuition fee.

If I take too many courses, will UF charge me for "excess hours"?

Yes. If you entered UF as an undergraduate between Fall 2009 and Summer 2011 you are subject to an excess surcharge upon reaching 120% of the total number of hours required for your degree. For example, a bachelor of science in business administration requires 120 credit hours, so upon reaching 144 credit hours you will be charged an excess surcharge. If you entered UF as an undergraduate in Fall 2011 or later, you are subject to an excess surcharge upon reaching 115% of the total number of hours required for your degree.

The amount of the surcharge will depend on the date you enrolled. If you enrolled between Fall 2009 and Summer 2011, the surcharge is 50% of the normal tuition. If you started in Fall 2011 or later, the surcharge is 100% of the normal tuition rate.

It is important that you understand that all credits you’ve taken in college count towards the threshold percentage, including: failed courses, withdrawals, drops/adds, repeats, and transfer credit earned at another institution. Credits that do not count toward the threshold include: AP, IB, Dual Enrollment, AICE, credits taken by active-duty military personnel, and credits taken to achieve a dual major while pursuing a baccalaureate degree.

Dean's List Requirements

How do I make the School of Business Dean's List this semester?

To make the Dean's List in the fall or spring semester, business majors must complete 12-14 hours (no S-U courses) with a 3.70+ GPA or 15 hours (no S-U courses) with a 3.5+ GPA.

Degrees

The general studies major is a Bachelor of Arts degree and the other business majors are Bachelor of Science degrees. Is that important?

No. There is no significant difference between a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science degree. One degree will not look better than the other on your resume.

Dropping Courses

Where do business majors go to drop or add a course?

To drop or add a course, business majors must see an advisor in 233 Bryan Hall.

How many drops do I have?

You have two drops available to you during your first 60 hours taken at UF (this does not include AP, IB, AICE, and dual enrollment credit). After earning 60 UF credits, you are eligible for two more drops. Unused drops do not carry over from the freshman/sophomore years to the junior/senior years.

How will a dropped course appear on my transcript? Will dropping a course reflect poorly on me?

If you drop a course during the drop/add period, it does not count as a drop and will not be reflected on your transcript. If you drop a course after the drop/add period, it will count as one of your two upper or lower division drops and a letter grade of W (Withdrawal) will appear on your transcript. Generally, a few W's on your transcript will not harm your academic record.

What happens if I drop a course and go below 12 credit hours?

If dropping a course will take you below 12 credit hours (or 6 hours in a summer term), you should consult a financial aid advisor in S107 Criser to determine how the drop will affect your financial aid. Be aware that your eligibility for university athletic events, on-campus housing, and family health and automobile insurance may also be affected if you are registered for less than 12 hours.

If I drop a course, will I have to pay my Bright Futures scholarship back?

Students on Bright Futures Scholarships will have to repay tuition for dropped courses or withdrawals. Petitions can be made to the Student Petitions Committee.

What if I've used all of my drops and I need to drop another course?

You can petition the School for additional drops if you can document an extenuating circumstance that was beyond your control (i.e. personal injury or illness, a natural disaster, death in the family). Petition forms are available on our website or at 233 Bryan Hall.

If I withdraw from an entire semester, will I use all of my "free" drops?

No. Withdrawing from an entire semester does not require the use of your two "free" lower or upper division drops. If you have not already used your free drops, they will be available to you when you return to the university.

How do I withdraw from an entire semester?

If you need to withdraw from an entire semester, complete the application and submit it to the Registrar in 222 Criser.

Dual Degrees

Can I earn two bachelor's degrees?

Yes, but you must earn the two degrees simultaneously—not one after the other. Within business, only a double major in information systems and one other business major is possible. For example, you can double major in finance and information systems, but you cannot double major in finance and marketing. Students are not allowed to earn a business degree and an economics degree from the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences because the requirements for these degrees are too similar to merit the awarding of a second bachelor's degree. Students may select another major outside of the School of Business provided that the student meets each college's requirements, as they may vary.

• College of Liberal Arts & Sciences dual degree information

How soon can I apply for a dual degree?

You can start taking courses for your dual degree as early as your first semester, but you cannot apply for a dual degree until you a) earn 45 credits (including AP, IB, and dual enrollment) and b) successfully complete all of your business and second major tracking requirements. You should apply for a dual degree before earning 96 credit hours. You will be expected to work on both degrees simultaneously; in other words, you cannot finish one degree and then start a second degree. And, as a rule, you must complete the requirements for both degrees in the same semester.

Electives

What should I take for my electives?

Business majors are encouraged to take additional business courses to serve as their electives. Review our Choosing Your Electives page and recommended courses.

Grades

Can I re-take a tracking, core, major, or area of specialization course to boost my GPA?

You cannot re-take a tracking, core, major, or area of specialization course to boost your GPA if you have already earned a C or better in the course. If you earned a C- or below, you can re-take the course. If you do re-take a course, your original grade AND your new grade will be calculated in to your GPA; the lowest grade does not disappear, as UF does not offer grade forgiveness.

If you received AP/IB credit you were awarded a grade of P, which doesn’t affect your GPA. You may retake a course for which you have AP/IB credit and have the grade earned replace the P and factor into your GPA. Additional credit hours are not awarded for repeated AP/IB courses.

As a business major, do I have to earn C's in all of my required courses?

It depends. You must earn a C or higher in all general education courses. For tracking, core, and major (or area of specialization) courses, you can pass with a C-, D+, D, or D-; however, you are required to earn a 3.0 tracking gpa and must maintain a minimum 2.0 in your core, major, and UF gpa. Additionally, some majors or prerequisites require a specific grade be earned in certain courses. Check your degree audit or consult with an academic advisor for the most accurate requirements for your major.

Graduation/Commencement

What do I need to do to graduate?

In addition to fulfilling all of your degree requirements, business majors must see an academic advisor in 233 Bryan Hall for a graduation check at least one semester prior to graduation. You must also complete the online degree application on ISIS by the published deadline.

Where can I find information on the commencement ceremony, ordering a cap and gown, etc.?

Commencement information, including the date/time, location, ordering regalia, and seating information, can be found on UF's Commencement page and the School of Business graduation page. These websites may be helpful to family and friends who are planning to attend your graduation.

Can I participate in the spring commencement ceremony if I haven't finished all of my degree requirements?

If you will complete all of your degree requirements by the end of the following Summer A term (not Summer C), you CAN participate in the spring commencement ceremony. If you want to participate in the spring ceremony, register for your final courses for Summer A, and then see a School of Business advisor in 233 Bryan Hall for a graduation check. If your academic advisor verifies that you will meet all graduation requirements by the end of Summer A, he or she will provide you with a memo that gives you consent to participate in the ceremony. Note that your name will NOT appear in the spring commencement program; it will appear in the summer program. In addition, you will not be able to purchase honor cords until the summer ceremony in August.

When will I receive my diploma?

Diplomas are mailed to your permanent address, approximately eight weeks after commencement. To insure the receipt of your diploma, you should verify that the address on your MyUFL account is correct.

What will happen if my grade change form or my study abroad transcript is not posted to my student record by the last day of exams in the term that I am graduating?

To graduate in the current term, all transcripts and grade changes must be posted to your academic record within 30 days after commencement. If your grade change or study abroad transcript was not posted by the last day of exams, but is posted within the 30 day window, you must contact the School of Business and ask to be reinstated to graduate this term. If you still have an outstanding transcript or grade change after the 30 day window, you must re-apply to graduate the following term.

I thought I was going to graduate this semester, but I just realized I'm going to fail a required course. My family has already made travel plans to attend my graduation ceremony. What can I do?

If you applied to graduate on time, you will still be able to pick up your regalia, walk in the ceremony and have your name listed in the commencement program. However, you will not officially graduate or receive a diploma until the course is completed. You should plan to complete the required course the following semester.

Honors Cords

Where do I get my honors cords and how soon can I get them?

Honors cords can be purchased at the UF Bookstore when you pick up your regalia the week before commencement.

I tried to purchase my honor cord(s) from the UF Bookstore, but the bookstore staff said their records do not show an honors designation for me. How can I verify my honors designation?

Business majors should contact an advisor in 233 Bryan Hall for assistance in determining their honors designation. If a change of designation is appropriate, the advisor will notify the Office of the University Registrar in writing, and then the Registrar will update your record. At that point, you can purchase your honor cord(s) from the UF Bookstore.

If my honors status changes, what should I do?

If your honors status changes, you can purchase the appropriate honors cords at the UF Bookstore. Cords can be returned for a refund, but no later than 5:00 p.m. on the day before commencement.

Honors Requirements

What kinds of grades do I need to graduate with honors?

If your Catalog Year is 2003 or later, you must earn a 3.5 UF, core, and major or area of specialization GPA to graduate cum laude; a 3.7+ UF, core, and major or area of specialization GPA to graduate magna cum laude; and a 3.9+ UF, core, and major or area of specialization GPA to graduate summa cum laude. You must also complete an honors thesis to earn the magna or summa cum laude designation. Review our Graduating with Honors information.

Do I have to write a thesis to graduate with honors?

To graduate cum laude, you do not have to write an honors thesis. To graduate magna or summa cum laude, you must complete an honors thesis.

What's involved in completing an honors thesis?

To complete an honors thesis, you must find a professor who will oversee your work, register for a one credit honors thesis course, and then complete an honors thesis/research paper by the end of the term in which you will graduate. Each business major has its own specific set of honors thesis requirements.

Why should I complete an honors thesis?

Completing an honors thesis will allow you to gain in depth knowledge of your field and develop a relationship with a professor who can write a valuable letter of recommendation for you. You will also have the words magna or summa cum laude on your diploma (and resume). Finally, if you are selected to participate in the University Scholars Program (USP) you can use the required research paper for USP to fulfill your honors thesis requirement and you will receive a $1,750 award.

Internships

What is the internship requirement?

Business majors who started at UF Summer B 2009 or later are required to enroll in GEB 4941 - Internship in Business Administration (one credit) and complete an internship of at least 150 hours before the start of their senior year. The internship requirement can be waived for students who participate in a study abroad experience of at least six weeks; however, students who waive the requirement via study abroad are strongly encouraged to complete at least one internship to improve their chances of obtaining full-time employment and/or admission to graduate programs or law school.

Is an internship required for my degree?

If you started at UF Summer B 2009 or later, the answer is yes (unless you complete a six week or longer study abroad experience.) If you started UF prior to Summer B 2009, the answer is no; however, the School of Business strongly encourages all students to complete at least one internship experience.

How can I find an internship?

School of Business academic advisors/career coaches and Career and Academic Peer (CAP) mentors are available to meet with you and guide you through the internship process. For additional information on finding an internship, see our Find an Internship page and make an appointment to see your advisor/career coach or a CAP mentor. Finally, consider our London study abroad program, which provides a built-in internship opportunity

Can I take courses while I'm away on my internship?

Yes, if you are residing in Florida, you can take a variety of School of Business courses online and test at a local test site. Please meet with a School of Business advisor to discuss taking courses while you are away.

Minor and Certificates

What is the difference between a minor and a certificate?

Minors and certificates are very similar in that they allow you to broaden your knowledge of a particular subject. They are different in that a minor will be listed on your transcript when you graduate, but a certificate will not. This should not inhibit you from pursuing a certificate. Certificates are very beneficial because they oftentimes require a related internship. The Warrington College of Business Administration offers two certificates; retailing leadership which is available to all UF majors, and leadership development which is available for all Heavener School of Business and Fisher School of Accounting students.

Where can I find a list of minors and certificates offered at UF?

A complete list of minors and certificates and their requirements can be found in the UF Undergraduate Catalog.

How important is it to earn a minor or certificate?

It's not imperative that you earn a minor or certificate. Your primary goal should be to take courses that interest you and that will help you develop career knowledge/skills. Minors and certificates are beneficial in that they focus your required elective courses on a specific topic.

When can I start working on my minor or certificate?

You can begin minor or certificate course work in your first semester. It's ideal to decide on a minor or certificate early on in your college career so that you have time to finish it.

Can I earn more than one minor or certificate?

Yes. There is no limit on the number of minors you can earn; however, you must complete all of your minor and bachelor's degree requirements in eight to nine semesters (excluding summers).

When can I apply for a minor and how do I go about doing that?

You can apply for your minor once you earn 45 credits (including AP/IB/Dual enrollment/AICE course work). To apply for a minor, speak with an advisor in 233 Bryan Hall. To apply for the entrepreneurship minor, you must first complete ACG 2021C and ENT 3003 with a grade of B or better. To apply for the real estate minor, you must first complete REE 3043 with a grade of B or better.

Can I take my minor and certificate courses at another institution?

Lower division courses that are required for the business administration, entrepreneurship, and real estate minors and the retailing certificate can be taken at another institution that offers an equivalent course; however, all 3000-4000 level minor courses must be taken at UF or via a study abroad program that is pre-approved by the School of Business. Students who are pursuing a minor in other UF colleges should consult with an advisor in that college. REMINDER: Business majors who are taking their last 30 credit hours cannot take courses at another institution except via a pre-approved study abroad program.

• Equivalent Lower Division Minor Courses
• UF Advisor Contact

I noticed the requirements for the business administration minor have changed. Which requirements do I have to complete?

Requirements for the business administration minor are based on catalog year. If you started UF prior to Summer B 2009, you will not be held to the new requirements. If you started UF Summer B 2009 or later, you must complete the new requirements.

Can I take the 3000-4000 level courses that are required for the business administration minor while I'm away from Gainesville?

The School of Business offers FIN 3403, MAN 3025, and MAR 3023 via a distance learning option every semester. With this option, you can watch the course lectures online and test at a local test site.

Pre-Health or Pre-Law Students

What options are available to me as a business student if I am interested in preparing for a career in medicine or law?

Students interested in careers in medicine or law should consider our general studies major. This major offers areas of specialization in pre-health and pre-law. For more information, please visit our general studies webpage or schedule an appointment to meet with a School of Business advisor.

What kind of grades do I need and what courses should I take to prepare for a career in medicine or law?

Pre-health and pre-law students can find out how to prepare for their professional career on the Academic Advising Center's (AAC) website.

• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences' Pre-Health Advising
• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences' Pre-Law Advising

Prerequisites

Can I take a course without meeting the prerequisite(s)?

No. Students are required to meet all course prerequisites. It is possible that the registration system will allow you to register for a course even though you have not met the course's prerequisites. If you register for a course in which you do not meet the prerequisites, it is likely that you will be dropped from the course by the end of the drop/add period. Therefore, it is very important that you check all course prerequisites prior to registration.

I have met the prerequisite(s) for a course I am trying to register for, but ISIS will not allow me to add the course to my schedule.

If you register during summer/fall advance registration for a summer course that is a prerequisite for a fall course, ISIS will need 24 hours to recognize your summer registration. You can return to ISIS the next day to add the fall course. If you took the prerequisite course at another institution, it is possible that ISIS is not recognizing the course as an acceptable prerequisite. If that is the case, or if there seems to be some other problem, see an academic advisor in 233 Bryan Hall for assistance or send an email (undergraduate.business at ufl.edu).

Professional Communication Requirement

What is the professional communication requirement? Does this requirement apply to me?

All business majors who started at UF Summer B 2008 or later are required to complete the School's professional communication requirement. This degree requirement calls for the completion of one of the following courses with a grade of C or better: GEB 3213, Professional Writing in Business; GEB 3218, Professional Speaking in Business; SPC 2600, Introduction to Public Speaking; ENC 3312, Advanced Argumentative Writing; or a similar course with prior approval.

Can the course I take for the professional communication requirement count toward some other degree requirement?

Yes. In addition to counting toward the professional communication requirement, GEB 3213 - Professional Writing in Business and ENC 3312 - Advanced Argumentative Writing, count as General Education - Composition (C) courses and as 6,000 word Gordon Rule Writing courses. If a student takes two or more 3000-4000 level professional communication courses, one will count toward the professional communication requirement and the other(s) will count as a restricted elective; said another way, the course taken to fulfill the professional communication requirement will NOT double count as a restricted elective.

Readmission

How do I apply for readmission?

If you have not attended UF for two semesters in a row (including a summer term), you are required to submit a readmission application to the University. [Note: If you attended school during a given semester but withdrew from that semester, you are considered to have attended that semester.] The application will be forwarded from the UF Office of Admissions to the School of Business, who will determine whether you qualify for readmission. Generally, students who are on track and who left the university in good standing are admissible. Applications must be received in the Office of Admissions by the published deadline.

Registration

Can a School of Business advisor add me to a business course that is full? What if I have the permission of the instructor?

Enrollment caps are controlled by departments and are strictly adhered to once they have been established. An advisor will only add you to a full business class if you need the course in that term for progression or graduation. Faculty cannot add students to classes.

I'm trying to get into a non-business course and all the sections are filled. Can a School of Business advisor help me?

No. School of business advisors do not have authorization to force you into a course that is taught by another college or department. If you are graduating and need a specific course to complete a minor or some other requirement, seek assistance from the department that offers the course (see "Course Listings" in the Schedule of Courses for departmental contact information). Other than that, we recommend that you keep trying to register for the course through the end of the drop/add period and also register for a back-up course in case you are not able to register for the course you want.

Why won't ISIS allow me to sign up for a fall course? I just added the prerequisite to my summer schedule.

If you register during summer/fall advance registration for a summer course that is a prerequisite for a fall course, ISIS will need 24 hours to recognize your summer registration. You can return to ISIS the next day to add the fall course.

How many credit hours can I take per semester?

You can only register for 18 credits hours each semester. If you wish to take more than 18 credits, you must submit a petition to 233 Bryan Hall. Generally, your petition will be approved if you have 1) demonstrated an ability to handle heavy course loads in previous semesters, 2) an above average GPA, and 3) available drops.

Residence Requirements

What is the university residence requirement?

The UF residence requirement states that all students must complete their last 30 credit hours "in residence" at UF. In other words, you cannot take a course at another institution if you are in the process of completing the last 30 credit hours of your degree program (unless you are taking courses via a pre-approved study abroad program).

S-U Option

Can business majors take courses using the S-U (Satisfactory-Unsatisfactory) grade option?

Business majors cannot take tracking, general education, core, major, area of specialization, or restricted elective courses for an S-U grade; the only courses they can take for an S-U grade are free electives. Students can apply to take only one S-U course per semester although they can take other courses that are offered exclusively for an S-U grade. Students who apply to take a free elective course for an S-U grade do not have the option of changing their mind later and requesting a letter grade. To apply for the S-U option, you must submit a completed S-U option Application (available in 222 Criser Hall) by the Registrar's deadline. Learn more about UF's S-U Grade Option Policies on their site.

Study Abroad

Does the School of Business have its own study abroad programs?

Yes, the School has study abroad programs in London, Madrid, Rome, and Paris. These programs allow students to take required and elective UF online business courses while abroad. In addition, the School of Business also has many study abroad exchange programs.

Do I need a specific GPA to study abroad?

The School of Business requires you to be in good academic standing and have a 2.5 overall UF GPA to study abroad. Participation in WCBA exchange program requires a minimum 3.0 overall UF GPA. The School of Business will not approve students for study abroad if they are not making appropriate progress in their universal tracking requirements. Additionally, students will not be eligible to study abroad if they are on or have failed College probation.

Can I study abroad more than one semester?

Undergraduate students may study abroad on an approved exchange or transfer program for a maximum of two semesters (fall and spring, or academic year.) Students may petition the School of Business for permission to study abroad for a third semester if the semester is a summer term or an international internship. The student's previous performance abroad can be a significant factor in the petition process.

What's the difference between an exchange study abroad program and a transfer program?

With exchange programs, students pay tuition at their specific UF tuition rate. With School of Business and UF study abroad programs, students pay a program fee which includes UF and partner tuition, housing, and other expenses. The courses you earn credit for will appear on your UF transcript and will be calculated into your UF, core, major, and area of specialization GPAs.

With transfer programs, students will pay a program fee which includes tuition at the rate charged by the host institution. Credits earned via a transfer program will appear on the UF transcript, but the grades earned will NOT factor into the UF GPA (although they will factor into the core, major, and area of specialization GPA).

Will studying abroad count toward UF's nine hour summer requirement?

Yes, if you study abroad during the summer and if your experience is six weeks or longer in duration. Spring break study abroad experiences will not count toward this requirement.

Do I have to speak a foreign language to study abroad?

No, there are a number of study abroad programs that offer courses in English.

Can I use my financial aid to study abroad?

Yes, you can apply Bright Futures (fall and spring only), grants, loans, Florida Pre-Paid, and other awards toward your study abroad experience; however, you must be registered as a full-time student. For more information, see a study abroad financial aid advisor in S107 Criser Hall.

Are there any scholarships for study abroad?

Yes, both the School of Business and the UF International Center offer study abroad scholarships.

Summer Requirement

What is the nine hour summer requirement and how do I know if I've met it?

Students who enter a state university in Florida with fewer than 60 credits must earn at least nine credits before graduation during summer terms at State University System institutions. Credit earned through any of the study-abroad programs approved by UF during a summer term counts toward satisfaction of the summer term enrollment requirement.

You can determine whether you've met this requirement by looking at your degree audit. For students who began at the University of Florida PRIOR to Fall 2011 you may have automatically met this requirement if you earned nine or more hours of AP, IB, Dual Enrollment, or AICE credit. For students beginning at UF beginning Fall 2011 or later, you will be required to complete the summer hour requirement.

If I take classes at a Florida community or state college will they count toward the nine hour summer requirement?

No, only credits earned at a state of Florida public university (four year institution) will count toward the nine hour summer requirement, not community college or state college credit.

I can't be at UF during the summer. What other options do I have for meeting the nine hour summer requirement?

You have several options: If you study abroad for a full summer term, the School of Business will waive the requirement. Another option is to take online business courses while you're at home or away doing an internship in the summer (assuming you reside in Florida). Another possibility is taking UF "flexible learning" courses to satisfy free elective or general education credit. As long as you don't break the 30 hour residence requirement (see "Residence Requirement" FAQ above), you can also attend another state university in Florida and earn summer credit there, too.

Do transfer students automatically meet the nine hour summer requirement?

No. Generally, students who enter UF with 60 or more credits automatically meet the nine hour summer requirement; however, if you attended another state university (even for dual enrollment credit in high school) you may be held to taking nine summer hours at UF or another state university. You can check your degree audit on ISIS to verify whether you have met this requirement. If your audit indicates that you have not met the summer requirement, see an advisor in 233 Bryan Hall for clarification.

Taking Courses at Other Schools (as a Transient Student)

Can I take a course at another school, like a Florida community or state college or university? If so, what kinds of courses can I take?

You can take universal tracking, general education, and free elective courses at another university or community/state college in Florida, but you cannot take core, major, area of specialization, or restricted elective courses at another school unless they are pre-approved study abroad courses.

The grades you earn at other institutions will appear on your UF transcript, but they will NOT factor in to your UF GPA (excluding study abroad exchange credits); however, grades earned in tracking courses taken at other institutions WILL be used to calculate your tracking GPA. Reminder: You should not take courses at another school if you are in the process of completing your last 30 credit hours (see "Residence Requirement" FAQ above), unless you are studying abroad.

How do I enroll at another Florida university or community or state college?

To enroll as a transient student at another institution you must 1) submit an enrollment application to the host institution requesting admission as a transient student and pay a nominal application fee (refer to the school's website for instructions), 2) submit an online transient form which will be automatically forwarded for approval to any public school in Florida; 3) register yourself for courses, and 4) ask the school you attend to send your transcript to UF. Refer to our page on taking courses at other schools for more detailed instructions.

Can I enroll at a community or state college and the University of Florida during the same term?

The School of Business prohibits students from taking classes at UF and another educational institution during the same semester. You can, however, enroll at a community or state college (other than Santa Fe College) while taking UF business courses online via our distance learning option.

How do I transfer the credit I earned at another institution?

To earn credit for courses you took at another institution, you must submit a transcript request to that institution asking them to send your transcript to UF. Electronic transcripts are preferred, but you can also submit an official, unopened hard copy transcript to the Registrar's Office. Reminder: If you take courses at another institution, state law requires you to provide UF with a transcript. Failure to do so can result in the rescinding of your degree.

What if I want to take business tracking courses at an out-of-state or private school, or if I want to take tracking or other business core or major courses while I'm studying abroad?

If you want to take a tracking course from an out-of-state or private school, or if you want to take tracking, core, major, or area of specialization courses from an international school, you must determine if the course you wish to take is equivalent to the UF course. First, see if there is an established course equivalency on file by looking up the school you plan to attend on our course equivalency database. If the course does not appear in the database, or if it does but the equivalency has expired, you must submit the appropriate course equivalency form and allied materials to 233 Bryan Hall. If the course is deemed equivalent by its corresponding UF department, it will count toward your degrees.

Do I need to establish a course equivalency for a general education course taken out-of-state, at a private school, or through study abroad?

No. The School of Business does not require equivalencies for general education courses, but be sure to keep your syllabus in case there is any question as to whether the course qualifies as a composition, humanities, biological or physical science, international, or diversity course. If you wish to take courses at an out-of-state or private school, you must complete a hard copy transient form and then follow the host institution's guidelines for transient students. To earn course credit, you must ask the host school to forward your official transcript to UF.

Universal Tracking

What is Universal Tracking?

Universal Tracking is an academic monitoring system that evaluates your progress during the first five semesters to insure that you are taking the appropriate pre-professional courses for your major.

What happens if I don't meet School of Business tracking requirements?

If you don't meet the tracking requirements for business majors, you will either be declared or predicted to be "off track" and will receive a hold on your student record that prevents you from registering for the next semester. You can be deemed off track if you do not complete the required number of tracking courses or earn the required tracking GPA, or both. You will also be declared "off track" if your UF GPA is below a 2.0 or if you do not complete your eighth, major-specific tracking course by the end of the fifth term. For a complete explanation of how the Universal Tracking system works, watch our tracking videos.

What happens if I'm declared "off track?"

If you are off track, you will receive a tracking hold that prevents you from registering for the next semester. To have the hold removed, you must meet with an academic advisor in 233 Bryan Hall to discuss the grades and/or courses you need to get back on track. If you are off track for the first time, the advisor will remove your hold. If you are off track for the second time in a row, or predicted off track for the second time, your hold will not be lifted until your successfully complete all of your business tracking requirements. If you are unable to successfully complete your tracking courses, you must change your major to a non-business major.

What's the difference between "off track" vs. "predicted off track?"

At the end of each tracking semester (terms 1-5), the Universal Tracking monitor checks to see if you earned the required tracking GPA and took the required number of tracking courses for your particular tracking term. If you did not meet both course and grade requirements for that term, you will be declared off track. The Universal Tracking monitor checks your record again at the beginning of each tracking term to verify that you are registered for the appropriate number of tracking courses and if you have the required tracking GPA for your tracking term. If you are not registered for the appropriate courses or if your GPA is below what is required for your tracking term, you will be "predicted off track." In both cases, you will receive a registration hold.

How many times can I be declared "off track"?

If you are off track (and/or predicted off track) two semesters in a row and you are not back on track by the end of the second semester, you will be required to change your major to a non-business major. Students who are declared off track for the second time at the end of spring (only), have until the end of summer to get back on track. If they are not back on track by the end of summer, they must change to a non-business major. Tracking is not cumulative—if you are off track or predicted off track, get back on track, and then are off track (or predicted off track) again, you will only be considered to be off track for the first time.

It is possible to petition for a tracking extension if you can document an extenuating circumstance that was beyond your control (i.e. personal injury or illness, a natural disaster, death in the family). See an advisor in 233 Bryan Hall for more information.

Can I take tracking courses at another university or community or state college?

UF students are strongly encouraged to complete their tracking courses at UF; however, you are able to take tracking courses at other schools. The grades you earn for tracking courses at other schools will be used to calculate your tracking GPA, although they will not factor in to your UF GPA.

Can I re-take a tracking course to boost my tracking GPA?

You cannot re-take a tracking course to boost your tracking GPA if you have already earned a C or better in the course. If you earned a C- or below, or if you earned credit for the course via AP/IB/AICE, you can re-take the course. If you choose this option, both your original grade and your new grade will factor in to your tracking GPA—the lower grade will not disappear, because UF does not offer grade forgiveness. If you re-take a tracking course you earned credit for via AP/IB/AICE, you will not earn additional credit for the course, but the letter grade you earn will replace the "P" (Passing) grade you earned via AP/IB/AICE.

If I took a tracking course via dual enrollment in high school, will that course count toward my tracking requirements?

Yes. Tracking course(s) taken via dual enrollment (in Florida, and possibly out-of-state) will fulfill business tracking requirements and the grades you earned in these courses will factor in to your tracking GPA (but not your UF GPA). Reminder: You cannot re-take a tracking course to boost your tracking GPA (whether it was taken at UF or not) if you have earned a C or better in the course.

Writing Requirement

How do I determine if a course is taught for Gordon Rule Writing credit (i.e. for 6000 words)?

To determine if a course is taught for Gordon Rule Writing credit (i.e. for a certain number of words), refer to UF's online Schedule of Courses on ISIS. Under the appropriate term, select a department to view their course offerings. If a 2 (2000 words), 4 (4000 words), or 6 (6000 words) appears in the column titled "WM," then the course, and that specific section, will be taught for Gordon Rule Writing credit.

Do I have to earn a particular grade(s) to fulfill the writing requirement?

Yes, you must earn a C in a Gordon Rule writing course to earn words and fulfill the writing requirement. In addition, effective Summer A/C 2009, UF implemented an additional grade component to Gordon Rule Writing courses. Students will receive a standard grade for the course, PLUS an additional grade that reflects the satisfactory or unsatisfactory completion of the writing component of the course. It is possible not to meet the writing requirement, but to still pass the course. Be sure to review your degree audit after receiving your grades to verify receipt of credit for the writing component. Learn more about the Writing and Math Requirement (formerly known as the Gordon Rule) on UF's website.