Advising FAQ's


Getting Started

What are the placement test requirements?

All Minnesota State Colleges and Universities require placement testing in English, math and reading. View the Placement For Success page for Anoka-Ramsey's policies, sample test questions and links to pre-testing review sites. You can also access the testing schedule and sign up for placement testing from this site.

How do I receive help with registering for classes?

Academic advisors are trained to help you plan your class schedule. Go to Academic Advising  to learn more about how to make an appointment with an academic advisor.

How do I get started if I want to take an online class?

Anoka-Ramsey online courses are taught using Desire to Learn (D2L) software. D2L Student Help is available if you need assistance.

How do I transfer advanced placement (AP) or CLEP credits to ARCC?

Please view Anoka-Ramsey's Webpage regarding alternative credit options to learn more about AP and CLEP credits.

Academic Questions

How do I test out of the Anatomy and Physiology prerequisite (Biology 1106)?

The prerequisite for Biology 2113 Human Anatomy and Physiology I is Biology 1106, Principles of Biology. Biology 1106 (or a transfer equivalent) is specifically required. General Biology courses taken at other colleges or universities typically do not transfer as direct equivalents. Log into the MN Course Applicability System to view equivalency tables for courses transferred to Anoka-Ramsey. If you have previous college level Biology courses, but have not successfully completed BIOL 1106 or an equivalent course, you may attempt to satisfy the BIOL 2113 prerequisite through successful completion of the General Biology Competency Exam.

Should I withdraw ("W") from a class that I am failing?
You should contact a counselor or an advisor prior to initiating an official withdrawal from college or from a specific class. The counselor or advisor will explore alternatives with you and, if appropriate, assist you in completing the withdrawal forms. Completed forms must be submitted directly to the Admissions and Records Office.

Students who withdraw from college by the deadlines listed in the class schedule will receive a “W” in each course. Withdraw grades may subject you to academic probation/suspension. Important: If you leave and do not officially withdraw from the college or from a specific course, you will receive the grade you had earned up to the end of the course. Therefore, receiving an “F” grade is a possibility.

Do "D's" transfer?
Students need to check specifically with the institution where they transferring to get this information. Oftentimes, this policy is listed in the institution’s college catalog and can usually be viewed on-line.

Can I take a Pass/Fail grade in a class?
That is an option that is usually discussed with your professor during the first week(s) of class. If you’re unsure – ASK! A "P" grade is not calculated into your grade point average.

Can I repeat a course to improve a grade?
Yes, you can repeat a course to improve a grade and ultimately your GPA. Only the most recent grade is calculated into your GPA; however, all grades will appear on your transcript.

How do I calculate my grade point average?
Generally called GPA, grade point average is determined by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of credit hours attempted.

For example, 45 grade points divided by 15 credit hours earned = 3.0 GPA. Anoka- Ramsey Community College is on a 4 Point System, so:

A=4 points
B=3 points
C=2 points
D=1 point

If, for example, a student earned an A in English 1121 (4 credit hours), then the student earns 16 points: A=4 points x 4 (credit hours) = 16 points.

Sound too confusing? Here's a link to an on-line GPA calculator

What is academic probation and suspension?
Every college evaluates your progress towards a degree by evaluating your GPA and percentage of completion (credits earned compared to credits attempted). If you don't meet the standards set by the college, you may be placed on probation or suspension.

What is a petition?
A student who thinks that there are unusual circumstances which may warrant departure from established college policies may file either an Academic Standards petition or an Exception to Policy petition. Forms are available at most student service areas.

Additional Questions

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How do I get a copy of my academic transcript?

Submit a written request that includes your Student/Tech ID or Social Security number, the name of the institution where the transcript should be sent and your signature. There is a $5.00 fee per transcript which must be paid at the time of the request. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, personal cheque, or cash for payment. Download a Transcript Request Form here.

Unofficial Transcripts: You may print your unofficial transcript at no charge by logging into your student account.