A Guide to Academic Advising and Class Registration

What’s a DAR? How do I read it? When does my registration window open? When should I meet with my advisor? How do I register for my classes next semester? These questions and more plague students every semester. Don’t fall behind by going with these questions unanswered, follow this guide so you can register like a pro when fall and summer registration begins on Tuesday, March 29.

If you really feel left in the dark and would like to talk to someone face-to-face there will be two Registration Refreshers hosted in Library 113. Topics that will be covered in these refreshers include:

  • How to search for a course
  • How to view your Registration Window
  • How to view and read your DAR

Sessions will be held in Library 113 on the following dates:

  • Tuesday, March 22 – 10:30 a.m. – 11:20 a.m. & 3:00 p.m. – 3:50 p.m.
  • Wednesday, March 23 – 10 a.m. – 10:50 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. – 2:20 p.m.
  • Thursday, March 24 – 9:30 a.m. – 10:20 a.m. & 1:00 p.m. – 1:50 p.m.

When does Academic Advising begin?

Academic advising begins on Monday, March 7, which means it’s time to schedule a time to meet with your academic advisor to plan for summer and fall semester classes and to obtain your access code. Unsure who your advisor is? Your advisor is listed on your Degree Audit Report (DAR).

Below are instructions on how to view your DAR:

  • Log in to eServices and with your Star ID and password
  • From the left menu, select “Grades and Transcripts”
  • Select “Interactive Degree Audit Report”
  • Your advisor assignment will be listed at the top of your audit

When does my registration window open?

Although registration for summer and fall semester begins on Tuesday, March 29, you must wait until your registration window opens to officially register. To check when your registration window opens, follow the instructions below:

  • Log in to eServices and with your Star ID and password
  • Click on “Registration Window”
    • Change the semester if needed (Click on “Registration Window” again if you need to change the semester)
  • The date given will be the earliest date you are allowed to add or drop a course from your schedule

How do I read my Degree Audit Report?

It is important to review your DAR carefully once a semester to ensure it represents what you are expecting in terms of graduation planning and degree completion.

Questions concerning your DARS report can be addressed by your academic advisor or the Registrar’s Office.

How should I prepare for my advising appointment?

Here are some helpful hints on how to prepare for your academic advising appointment:

  • Print off your DAR. (From the MSUM homepage, click on eServices. Log on and select “Grades and Transcripts” on the left hand side. Then select “Interactive Degree Audit Report.” There is a “Printer Friendly” version that can be selected under the graphs on the left hand side of the page)
  • Create a draft of a course schedule. Be sure to include some alternative courses and times.
  • Be prepared to talk with your advisor about liberal studies, your major, internships, graduate school, etc.
  • Write down any questions you have.
  • Be sure you know your access code after leaving your appointment.
  • Register when your registration window opens.

How do I change my major?

Planning to change your major? Complete the Major, Minor, Certificate, or Advisor Change Form to obtain the necessary signatures and return to the Registrar’s Office.

How do I view the course schedules for fall and summer semesters?

There are two ways to view the course schedule for spring semester. Follow the instructions below: