Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to take any assessment testing?: Yes, unless you have already taken college-level math and English courses and received a grade of “C” or better at another college or university, OR if you are taking classes that do not require math or English prerequisites or course competency requirements. For more details, go to Assessment and Course Placement.
How much is tuition at the College?: If you reside in our district, tuition is $75 per semester credit. For additional information, go to Tuition & Fees.
What other costs are there?: Other expenses to consider are individual course fees and textbook costs. For more information, go to Tuition & Fees. Information on textbooks is available through our campus bookstores. For more information, go to Bookstore.
Will my classes transfer to another college or university?: Many Southwestern courses are intended to transfer. These courses are identified in the Course Index with the letter “T”. For specific information about transferring, see a Counselor prior to choosing your classes each semester.
How can I get help with College expenses?: Go to Financial Aid & Scholarships to see if you’re eligible for Southwestern scholarships, community scholarships, transfer scholarships, veteran’s services, student employment and/or state and federal financial aid.
Where can I go for assistance in finding a job while I’m a student?: Job placement assistance is available from both the Financial Aid Office (on-campus jobs) and the Career Activities and Employment Center (off-campus jobs).
What types of extracurricular activities are offered?: Educational and cultural events and a wide variety of clubs and organizations are available at Southwestern for students, faculty, staff and the community. A broad range of intercollegiate and intramural athletics are also available. For more information, go to Athletics & Activities.
What are the different types of degrees offered at the College?: The degrees available to students who plan to complete a bachelor’s degree after transferring to another college or university are the Associate in Arts, Associate in Fine Arts, and Associate in Science. The degree available to students who plan to enter the workforce immediately upon graduation is the Associate in Applied Science. For additional information about degrees as well as certificate programs, go to Instructional Programs.
Are child care services offered?: Child care is available at the Belleville Campus. The Kids Club Child Care Center provides affordable and convenient childcare to the children of students while they are on campus.
What is the average class size at Southwestern?: While class sizes vary, the student/teacher ratio is 19-to-1, which makes it easy to get individual attention from your instructors.
How do I know which classes to take first?: Our academic counselors are available to assist you in selecting your classes each semester.
Are academic, career and personal counseling available and, if so, do I need to set up an appointment?: A full range of counseling services is available to Southwestern students. While appointments are not always required, they are recommended.
Do I need a student I.D. and, if so, where do I get one?: Southwestern Illinois College students are entitled to a Student Identification Card at no cost. The Identification Card is optional but is required to receive the following services: Library Card/Internet Access, Open Computer Lab access, discounts at the Bookstore and Café (when offered), College Activities reduced purchases, free pass to Athletic events, free ridership on the St. Clair County District Transit Authority MetroBus and Metro, Book Buyback, etc. Identification cards are available through the Public Safety Office at the Belleville and Sam Wolf Granite City Campuses and at the Student Development office at the Red Bud campus.
How do I get my transcript?: Students may request transcripts in person at each of the three campuses, by printing a request form from the College web site, (www.swic.edu), or by written request submitted by mail or fax. For more information, go to Transcripts.
How can I find out if the College is closed due to bad weather?: Information regarding the closing of Southwestern Illinois College due to weather conditions will be broadcast on FOX 2 (KTVI); KMOV-TV Channel 4; KSDK-TV Channel 5; KMOX- AM 1120 and WIL-FM 92.3. This information will also be posted on the home page of Southwestern’s Web site at www.swic.edu, and on KSDK.com.
Can I take college classes if I’m still in high school?: High school students age 16 and older who have authorization to participate in college courses and programs may enroll. For more information, please contact the Enrollment Services Office at 618-235-2700, ext. 5526.
Where do I get a parking permit?: For students, faculty and staff, parking is by permit only on the Belleville and Sam Wolf Granite City campuses. Annual permits are free and are issued by the Public Safety Departments on those campuses.
When do I apply for graduation?: Students need to apply for graduation by the following dates: June 15 for Fall graduation; September 15 for Spring graduation; February 15 for Summer graduation.
Is there job placement after graduation?: Job placement is available to all students…through job fairs, career fairs, on campus recruiting, job matching and resume writing.