Skip to main content

Frequently Asked Parent Questions

Two parents pose with their Shocker student

Sign up for the Shocker Family quarterly newsletter at wichita.edu/shockerfamily!

 

Whether you're a parent, family member, supporter or friend of a new Shocker, browse frequently asked questions that may come up for you or your student during their time at Wichita State.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m from out of town, what is there to do in Wichita?

Welcome to Wichita! Visit the First-Year Programs website at wichita.edu/firstyear to find local restaurants and Wichita-area attractions..

Do you have a parent’s guide to student resources?

Yes. Wichita State has a parent and family website you can use to stay up to date with what is happening on campus and keep your student aware of the resources provided to them on campus. Visit wichita.edu/parentfamily for information.

What if my student needs to take a placement exam?

The English or math placement exam can be administered in person or online. The Spanish exam is offered online. To view more information on the placement exams, visit wichita.edu/placementexams.

How can my student purchase books for classes?

All the books your student needs can be found at the Shocker Store, located in the Rhatigan Student Center. They can also go to shockerstore.com to search for the books they need and print a book list.

What health services requirements does my student need to complete before arriving on campus?

After being admitted to the university, every student will need to complete the tuberculosis screening, a quick survey accessed through myWSU. Students living on campus will need to have a meningitis vaccine before living on campus. For more information regarding health services and student requirements visit wichita.edu/shs.

How does my student get an advisor?

High school seniors

  • Degree-bound students directly out of high school will be assigned a first-year advisor through OneStop.
  • First-year advisors will help students through processes like accepting financial aid, viewing their bill and setting up payment plans.
  • Complete your Orientation RSVP to start the enrollment process.
  • If you have questions, contact OneStop any time at 316-978-3909 or wichita.edu/onestop.

Transfer students

  • If your student is a transfer student or adult learner, they will work directly with a college academic advisor.
  • Visit wichita.edu/advising for contact information.

How often do students meet with the academic advisor?

Each college has different rules about meeting with academic advisors. However, it is advised that for your student to stay on track to graduate, they should meet with their advisor at least one time each semester.

Are the advisors readily accessible?

Advisors are accessible to schedule on-campus appointments and can be contacted via phone and email. Advisors may be willing to take phone / Skype meetings for our online or distance students.

Does the university help students find internships?

YES! Many of our students are earning while they learn! Wichita State’s Career Development Center helps students find internships and year-round, work-based learning opportunities with hundreds of employers locally, regionally and nationally. You can visit wichita.edu/careers for more information about our career events and services.

What if my student brings a car to campus?

WSU students and visitors wishing to park on campus during the enforcement period must register online with the Shocker Parking Management System. For general parking-related information including a parking map and permit costs, visit wichita.edu/parking. Students can purchase virtual permits called ePermits online at wichita.edu/parkingpermit. All other parking questions can be answered via phone at 316-978-4775 or in person at the Parking and Transportation Office located at the University Police Department.

What resources are available for tutoring help?

Tutoring is a free academic resource provided by Student Success. Tutoring is usually in small groups, but can be one-on-one, based on the needs and schedules of the tutors and individual requesting help. For more information visit wichita.edu/tutoring.

How can my student get involved on campus?

Wichita State has over 200 student organizations, student government, mentoring and intramural programs. There are a number of ways to get involved. Students can request information about student organizations online through OrgSync on their myWSU student portal. There are also involvement fairs at the beginning of each semester at which students can get information and join student groups.

Where does my student go if they need to speak with someone about financing college?

The Office of Financial Aid is always ready to answer any questions your student may have about scholarships and funding for your college experience! Visit wichita.edu/financialaid. For questions regarding paying bills, your student can visit the Office of Financial Operations or go to wichita.edu/fobt. The Office of Student Money Management in Student Success can help your student develop wise financial habits throughout college. Peer Financial Coaches are available for one-on-one coaching sessions for students. Visit wichita.edu/osmm.
©