Admissions

Montana Tech encourages all prospective students who are interested in attending to apply for admission. Applications for admission are accepted from in-state, out-of-state, and international students. The Enrollment Services Office has counselors available to assist full-time, part-time, and non-degree applicants in the admission process. For admissions or additional information, please call us at (406) 496-4256 or 1-800-445-TECH (8324), or visit our website at: www.mtech.edu.

Application Processing occurs in the Office of Enrollment Services located in room 207 of the Mining-Geology Building. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the campus on weekdays when classes are in session or weekends by appointment. Contact Enrollment Services via email at: enrollment@mtech.edu. You can also visit us at www.mtech.edu.

Measles Immunization Policy

If you were born after December 31, 1956, you must submit proof of two separate doses of measles and rubella immunity by immunization record or a physician’s record of diagnosis. While measles and rubella immunization (with dates) is not an admission requirement, it is necessary to complete your file and must be submitted before you are allowed to register for courses. This policy is in effect at all units of the Montana University System. Students enrolled exclusively in distance-delivered courses are exempt from the measles requirements.

Freshman Students

Freshmen are students who have graduated from an accredited high school (or have a GED) and have never attended a post-secondary school on a full-time basis (excluding summer school). Students who have attempted or earned fewer than 30 semester or 32 quarter credit hours on a part-time basis at a post-secondary institution while attending high school are also considered freshmen.

When to Apply - Freshmen Students

Freshmen applying for Fall admission are encouraged to apply by January 1. Students will not be considered for scholarships, financial aid or housing until they have completed an application. All first-time, U.S. residents enrolling full-time at Montana Tech are eligible to apply for new student scholarships. Undergraduate scholarship awards are based primarily on academic merit and leadership ability. Scholarship applications should be received by the Enrollment Processing Office before the priority deadline of January 1.

Application Procedure - Freshmen Students

1. Complete and submit the Montana Tech Application for Admission.
2. Submit a $30 (U.S.) nonrefundable application fee. An application will not be processed until the application fee is received.
3. Submit all academic transcripts including: official high school transcript or GED test score report or home school and any official transcripts from other post-secondary institutions previously attended.
4. Submit the score report from the ACT or SAT test. (Not required for Highlands College students.)
5. Submit proof of two separate doses of measles and rubella immunization if you were born after December 31, 1956.
6. The COMPASS test is required for all students who are applying for a certificate and/or associate of applied science degree program. It is also required of any student who has been out of school for more than 3 years and has not successfully completed College Writing I or College Algebra within the last three years. To schedule an appointment to take the test, call the Enrollment Services Office at (406) 496-4256.

Home Schooling Admission Requirements

Students who have received their education through home schooling or who have graduated from a non-accredited high school can satisfy the requirement of high school graduation by:

1. Obtaining a High School Equivalency Diploma based on the G.E.D. (General Education Development) examination; or
2. Satisfactory performance on either the ACT (American College Testing Progran) or COMPASS examinations.

Home school students must also submit a transcript summarizing their academic history.

North Campus - Admission Requirements

All first-time, full-time resident and non-resident freshmen who graduated from high school within the past three years are required to meet the following entrance requirements for admission:

Freshmen applicants must satisfy the following standards

1. ACT Enhanced composite score of 22 or SAT combined score of 1530, OR
2. A high school cumulative grade point average of 2.50 (4.0 scale) or greater, OR
3. Rank in the upper half of their graduating class, AND
4. Meet math and English standards (see below)
5. Complete the College Prep Curriculum (see below)

Math and Writing Proficiency Standards

Student must demonstrate minimum Math and English proficiency. Math proficiency may be demonstrated with an ACT math score of 22 or SAT math score of 520. For current and complete Math and English proficiency standards, please visit the Montana Board of Regents website at www.mus.edu and view “Proficiency Standards” links. Montana Tech reserves the right to place students in the appropriate Math & English courses.

Freshmen applicants must also complete the full College Preparatory Requirements

1. Four years of English.
2. Three years of Mathematics (Algebra I & II, & Geometry). Math in senior year encouraged.
3. Three years of Social Studies to include one year of Global Studies (World History or World Geography), one year of U.S. History, and a third year of either Government, Economics, Geography, Indian History, Sociology, or Psychology.
4. Two years of laboratory science (one year must be Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, or Physics), the other year can be from one of those sciences or another college preparatory laboratory science.
5. Two years chosen from the following:
   • foreign language
   • computer science
   • visual and performing arts
   • vocational education units

Out-of-state applicants who have not completed the college preparatory requirements stated above may satisfy the requirements by providing evidence that they have:

1. Completed a similar college preparatory program required in their home state. Evidence of this completion must be certified by the high school.
   OR
2. If the applicant’s state has no college preparatory program, meet two of the five numeric admission requirements stated above plus math and writing standards.

Students who did not graduate from high school but who have passed the General Education Development (GED) examination may be eligible for admission.

The following students are exempt from the above requirements

Nontraditional age students (those who graduated from high school more than three years ago); students attending during summer session without the intent of registering during the regular academic year; part-time, non-degree-seeking students taking fewer than 8 credits per semester, exclusive of remedial courses.

Applicants who do not meet the admission requirements to North Campus degree programs or the college preparatory requirements stated above may be considered for an admission exemption. Due to the limited number of exemptions available, priority consideration will be given to those applying before February 1 for Fall; December 1 for Spring; and May 1 for Summer.

South Campus - Admission Requirements

Applicants to Highlands College are considered and accepted on a first-come-first-served basis. It is advisable to submit an application early as some programs have waiting lists. Applications are accepted throughout the year. Applicants must be able to provide proof of high school graduation or its equivalent (GED). Students applying for admission will be scheduled for the COMPASS exam. The COMPASS test is used by Highlands College as a diagnostic and advanced placement measurement. The results of the test will be used to counsel students concerning their program choice, class schedule and credit load. No student will be admitted after the tenth instructional day of the semester.

Transfer Students

A transfer student is one who has registered or enrolled for credit at another post-secondary institution for one or more terms of full-time attendance or has attempted or earned at least 12 semester or 16 quarter credit hours as a part-time student. All official college transcripts are required in order to evaluate transfer credit. Transfer students will also be required to complete the COMPASS test if they have not completed college level math and/or English within the last two years.

When to Apply - Transfer Students

It is recommended that transfer applicants complete their file at least two months before the beginning of the semester so an evaluation of transfer credit can be completed before they register for classes.

Application Procedures - Transfer Students

1. Complete and submit the on file transfer or Montana Tech Application for Admission.
2. Submit a $30 (U.S.) non-refundable application fee (waived if attended another MUS affiliated campus.)
3. Submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities previously attended.
4. Submit ACT or SAT scores on high school transcript. These scores are not required of students who have been out of high school for more than three years, or have earned 30 semester credits of undergraduate course work. (Not required at Highlands College)
5. Submit proof of two separate doses of measles and rubella immunization if you were born after December 31, 1956.
6. Students who have not taken math within the last two years, or College Writing I at a post-secondary institution are required to take the COMPASS test for advising and placement.

Admission Requirements - Transfer Students

A transfer student transferring from U.S. colleges must have an academic record with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 or greater on a 4.0 scale or at least a “C” average, in order to be eligible for admission. The grade point average is based on all college-level GPA or “pass” credits attempted from all colleges or universities previously attended. Students on academic probation from a post-secondary educational institution may be eligible for admission. Refer to the section titled “Academic Standing  .” A post-baccalaureate student is considered admissible as long as his or her cumulative grade point average is at least 2.0 or greater on a 4.0 scale.  Students transferring from non-U.S. colleges may be subject to different minimum GPA requirements.

Transfer of Credit

All college or university-level credit earned at a regionally accredited post-secondary educational institution will be considered for transfer credit. Students planning to transfer to Montana Tech are strongly urged to consult with the Office of Enrollment Services and their prospective major department as far in advance as possible in order to ensure that the courses they take will satisfy course prerequisites and degree requirements at Tech. For additional information, refer to the section on “Transfer Credit Policy .” A grade of “C-” or better is required for acceptance of credit.

Dual Admission (UM Helena FVCC)

Students will be governed by the catalog in effect when they are accepted for the dual admission status provided the catalog is not more than six years old when the students graduate. Students with dual admission to Montana University System schools who interrupt their attendance are governed by the catalog in effect when they are readmitted.

International Students

Montana Tech is authorized to issue the U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) Form I-20AB for F-1 student visas and DS-2019 for J-1 student visas. Students and Exchange Visitors issued an I-20 or DS-2019 are required to pay a $200.00 SEVIS fee, and J-1 are required to pay a $180 SEVIS fee prior to being issued a visa to enter the United States. For more information: www.ice.gov/sevis/. To pay the fee go to www.fmjfee.com/I90/fee.

When to Apply - International Students

All of the items listed below under “Application Procedures” should be received by the Admissions Office according to the following schedule:

Admission Requirements - International Students

See requirements for Freshman, Transfer, or Returning students.

Application Procedures (Undergraduate) - International Student

A decision regarding your admission status will be made upon receipt of the credentials mentioned below. All items listed must be received before a decision will be made concerning your application (deadlines are applicable). If admitted, students will receive a letter of acceptance, an evaluation of transfer credit (if necessary and complete), and an I-20 form necessary for obtaining an F-1 student visa. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE PROCESSED.

1. APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION (Undergraduate)
   Please complete all items on the application form. Materials from applicants are filed alphabetically under the family name you indicate on your application. Use the same spelling of your name on all correspondence. Please check that your application is signed and dated.
2. APPLICATION FEE (Non-refundable and will not be waived)
   The $30 U.S. dollars (non-refundable) application fee is required of all applicants.
3. ENGLISH REPORT
   Applicants who are citizens of countries other than Australia, Canada, England, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, or Wales are required to certify English proficiency by supplying one of the following:
   1. Official TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign language) score report showing a minimum score of 71 Internet based, 525 paper-based or 195 computer-based. Please obtain information concerning this test at www.ets.org/toefl.
   2. Official IELTS score report showing a minimum score of 6. Please obtain all information concerning this test at www.ielts.org.
   3. Certification of successful completion of ELS Language Centers level 109. Please obtain all information concerning ELS from: ELS Language Centers, Executive Offices, 57961 Buckingham Parkway, Culver City, CA 90230, U.S.A
   4. Certification of grade “C” or higher on the English Language section of one of the General Certificate of Education, Ordinary Level (GCE-O), examinations administered in England.
   5. Official Cambridge IGCSE scores with five passes of grade C and above.
   6. Students who have graduated from an accredited high school in the U.S. may satisfy this requirement by providing an official high school transcript along with two letters of recommendation from high school faculty/administrators regarding proficiency in English language skills.
   7. Students transferring to Montana Tech after one (or more) year of full-time enrollment at a college/university in the United States may satisfy this requirement by providing at least two letters of recommendation from faculty members regarding proficiency in English language skills.
4. STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL SUPPORT
   An original, current financial statement from your bank/sponsor must certify that funding will be available to cover estimated expenses during your first year at Montana Tech. ALL international students applying for admission must provide a certified financial statement showing at least $33,000 (U.S. dollars). (NOTE: The financial statement should cover expenses for dependents accompanying you to the United States by certifying an additional $4,200 for your spouse, and $1,200 for each child.) Students may be required to have their first semester’s tuition and fees on deposit at Montana Tech before their I-20 will be issued. This comes to $10,860 United States Dollars.
5. EDUCATIONAL CREDENTIALS
   Academic eligibility, placement, and transfer of credit will be determined by the Office of Enrollment Management. Secondary school graduates must show the equivalent of at least a 2.00 (C) grade point average (GPA) on secondary school units. Students transferring college level credits to Montana Tech must show the equivalent of at least 2.00 (C) grade point average (GPA). Admission to some engineering programs and nursing may be restricted. Please provide academic credentials as requested below:
   1. International students who have attended institutions outside the U.S. or Canada must request an evaluation of Academic Credentials from Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc. (ECE). Students who have attended a foreign university should use the ECE application requesting a detailed report to be sent to you and to the Enrollment Services Office. ECE will require official credentials as described on the reverse of the ECE application; the Enrollment Services Office requires a DUPLICATE set of credentials. IMPORTANT! ECE evaluations of credit may not reflect actual college credits accepted by Montana Tech. Allow 8-12 weeks for ECE to complete the evaluation process.
   2. International students who have attended U.S. and Canadian institutions must submit the following: Official transcripts from high schools/technical schools/colleges/universities you have attended. Transcripts are required and will be evaluated by the Enrollment Services Office. (Note: Before transferring to Montana Tech from a U.S. college/university, you should see your present foreign student advisor regarding transfer procedures. Contact the Enrollment Services Office at 1-800-445-8324 for a “Notice of Intent to Transfer” form to be completed by the Foreign Student Officer at your present U.S. college).

   3. Secondary school graduates (Freshman or First Year Applicants) must take a Compass Exam to determine math and English course placement. This test can be administered at Montana Tech when the student arrives for study. The drawback to waiting to take the Compass Exam when you arrive here is that the student may not learn until they are already here, that they are not fully admissible into their program of study. Because of this, it is very highly recommended, and preferred, that the student take the SAT or ACT early in the application process. Additionally, to be considered for scholarships, international students must submit SAT or ACT scores.

6. IMMUNIZATION/HEALTH RECORDS
   A physician-validated record showing immunization for rubella, measles (two doses of measles vaccine after 1st birthday), diptheria, tetnus, and a recent (within the last year) skin test for tuberculosis. Each of these must be identified on the record in English and signed by a physician or registered nurse.
7. MEDICAL HEALTH INSURANCE
   Proof of medical health insurance is required for all international students. Coverage is not required for dependents, but is recommended. Students without such insurance or with inadequate coverage are required to obtain medical health coverage through a campus-approved policy. Students registered for four or mour credits are automatically enrolled in the campus insurance plan, and the premium for coverage is added to tuition. Students showing proof of adequate coverage may request a waiver of the campus insurance by contacting the Student Life Office. Please understand that health care in the United States is largely a private, not a governmental function. THERE ARE CHARGES TO THE STUDENT FOR MANY MEDICAL SERVICES. These may range from a few dollars for very simple procedures to thousands of dollars for extended hospitalization or major operations. All J-Visa international students and dependents are required to obtain minimum medical health insurance as required by the Department of Homeland Security through a campus endorsed policy.
8. COPY OF PASSPORT
   A copy of you passport is required to ensure the correct spelling for the form I-20.

Former Student Readmission

A former student who was not in attendance during the semester preceding the intended term of return, excluding summer school, is required to reapply for admission. Returning students are required to follow the college catalog in effect at the time of reentry, including any changes to program requirements.

When to Apply - Returning Students

It is recommended that students apply at least one month in advance of the semester, however, applications will be accepted until the 10th day of classes.

Application Procedures - Returning Student

1. Complete and submit an Application for Admission on the Montana Tech website. The $30 application fee is not required for former students.
2. If applicable, submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended since leaving Montana Tech.
3. If you were born after December 31, 1956, and have not attended Montana Tech in the last five academic calendar years or were enrolled as a non-degree student, you must submit proof of two separate doses of measles and rubella immunization.

Admission Requirements - Returning Student

All returning or former students who have attended a college or university since leaving Montana Tech must meet the admission requirements for transfer students in order to be readmitted.

Former students who have not attended another college or university must be readmissable according to the policy in the section titled “Academic Standing .” Students who are on a probationary status from Montana Tech are considered readmissable.

Students on first suspension are readmissable after one semester of non-attendance (remaining out-of-residence). If a student has been suspended twice from Montana Tech, he or she must be out of school for an interval of one academic year, and must receive approval for readmission from the Academic Standards Committee. Students suspended from the North Campus (undergraduate degree program) may be admissible to the South Campus (Highlands College).

Jump Start/Early Admission/Dual Credit

Montana Tech initiated the Jump Start Program for high-achieving high school juniors and seniors who have an interest in early admission at Montana Tech to enroll in college-level course work while still enrolled in high school.  Dual Credit college-level courses are also taught at the high school by Montana Tech-approved instructors, and count towards BOTH high school graduation requirements and also appears on the student’s Montana Tech transcript. Jump Start and Dual Credit courses are open to any eligible high school student and are taught at area high schools, on campus, or via the internet. Applicants must submit a completed Jump Start/Dual Credit Application and Registration Form to apply for participation in the program. Applicants must have a minimum 2.75 GPA, be at least 16 years of age, and must receive the permission of their parents or guardians and their high school counselor or principal. Partial fee waivers are available (limits may apply) for students participating in this program. Contact Bernie Phelps with the Institute for Education Opportunities, (406) 496-4565 or bphelps@mtech.edu for more information.

When to Apply - Jump Start and Dual Credit Students

Applicants for early admission should complete the Jump Start application process at least two weeks prior to the beginning of the semester.

Application Procedures - Jump Start and Dual Credit Students

Application for early admission must be initiated by the student through the appropriate high school administrator. Such application must meet with the specific agreement, recommendation and approval of the student’s parents or guardian, the student’s high school, and the Enrollment Services Office. Students applying for early admission must complete and submit a Jump Start Application with all required signatures.

Non-Degree Students

A non-degree student is defined as a student taking fewer than 8 credits a semester and whose purpose in attending Montana Tech is not to pursue a degree. If a non-degree student subsequently decides to pursue a degree at Montana Tech, he or she must complete a regular undergraduate or graduate application form and submit additional documentation as required (see the Enrollment Services Office). Enrollment as a non-degree student does not guarantee admission to a degree program. A maximum of 45 credit hours earned as a Montana Tech non-degree student may be transferable to an undergraduate degree program. Any graduate course taken by a non-degree student must be approved in advance by the director of the Graduate School and the head of the department in which the student intends to pursue a graduate degree in order for the course to be applicable to the degree. Non-degree students must maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Application Procedure - Non-degree

1. A student must submit the Application for Admission via the Montana Tech website, along with a $30 (U.S.) non-refundable application fee (waived if attended an affiliated MUS campus.) An application will not be processed until the application fee is received.
2. Students taking more than 7 credits must submit proof of two separate doses of MMR if born after December 31, 1956.

Admission Requirements - Non-degree

All non-degree students should be high school graduates or have received their GED. However, high school or college transcripts or standardized test scores are not required unless necessary to comply with course prerequisites or if the student chooses to seek a degree.

General Information for all Students

1. Any qualified applicant will be accepted for admission to Montana Tech regardless of race, color, creed, sex, national origin, or handicap.
2. Failure to submit all required credentials may result in cancellation of registration.
3. The falsification or willful suppression by the applicant of any information requested on the application form may be grounds for cancellation of registration and exclusion from subsequent attendance at Montana Tech. Failure on the part of the applicant to provide all of the requested information will cause delays in processing the application for admission.
4. The term “official” in reference to academic credentials indicates that the documents are forwarded directly by the principal or registrar of each school attended to the Enrollment Services Office at Montana Tech. Faxed copies, or those “issued to the student” will not be accepted. An official transcript must have a signature, stamp or seal.
5. Information regarding residency classification for fee purposes is available from the Enrollment Services Office.
6. GED: A student may be admitted on the presentation of a high school equivalency certificate issued by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction under authorization of the Board of Public Education. The high school equivalency certificate based on the GED examination may not be used to satisfy the requirement of high school graduation until after the student’s high school class has graduated. Further information regarding requirements and test center locations in Montana may be obtained from the Office of Public Instruction, Helena, MT 59620.
7. WICHE-WUE: On a space available basis, residents of states participating in the Western Interstate Commission on Higher Education (WlCHE) Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) may be eligible for the WICHE-WUE Scholarship. Students approved for this benefit pay 150% of resident tuition instead of the non-resident tuition. This scholarship is available to qualifying newly admitted, first-time undergraduate students only. Post-baccalaureate and graduate students are not eligible. Currently participating states are as follows: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. Montana Tech reserves the right to change the requirements for admission into the WUE program without further notice. For current information about the WICHE-WUE Program, contact the Montana Tech Enrollment Services Office.

Because Montana Tech participates in the WICHE-WUE Program, residents of Montana may enroll under similar terms in designated institutions and programs in other participating states. Montana residents may obtain information about WUE programs in other states from the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education, 2500 Broadway, Helena, MT 59620-3101, (406)444-6570; or from WICHE Student Exchange Program, P.O. Drawer P, Boulder, CO 80301-9752, (303) 497-0210.

8. All eligible high school applicants may be considered for admission and given conditional acceptance on the basis of six or seven completed semesters of acceptable high school work. However, applicants must supply the Enrollment Services Office with final semester grades, certification of high school graduation, class size, rank in class, and meet the minimum admission standards and college preparatory requirements in order to be officially admitted.
9. ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS: First-time freshmen must meet two of the following three entry-level requirements before being allowed to participate in intercollegiate athletics:
   1. An ACT Composite of 18 or a SAT combined score (verbal & math) of 860 on the new re-centered scale.
   2. A high school GPA of at least 2.00 (4.00 scale).
   3. Rank in the upper half of your high school graduation class.
10. ATTENTION UM AFFILIATE STUDENTS: If you have attended any of the University of Montana-affiliated colleges in Butte, Dillon, Missoula, or Helena (excluding Carroll College) you may not have to pay the $30.00 application fee. To waive the application fee, please forward an official copy of your transcript(s).

Transfer Credit & Other College-Level Course Work Policies

Montana University System Transfer of Credit Policies

www.mus.edu/borpol/default.asp

Board Policy Transfer of Credits (Policy 301.5)

1. All college-level courses from regionally accredited institutions of higher education will be received and applied by all campuses of the Montana University System, and by the community colleges, towards the free elective requirements of the Associate and Baccalaureate degrees.
   
   NOTE: College level courses shall be defined as those courses that are applicable toward an associate of arts, associate of science or baccalaureate degree at their respective institution. The receiving institution will determine in advance of a student’s enrollment which courses within an associate of applied science degree program will be credited toward a given associates or baccalaureate degree. In all cases, such courses shall not include remedial or developmental courses.
2. In relation to the major, minor, general education, distribution requirements, and free electives of the Associate and Baccalaureate degrees, all campuses of the Montana University System, and the community colleges, are authorized to determine the applicability of credits earned at regionally accredited institutions of higher education.
3. In administering the policy in paragraphs A and B an institution shall include the credits earned by a student from an institution which is a candidate for regional accreditation after the student has successfully completed 20 semester credits with a 2.0 cumulative grade point average at the receiving institution.
4. Campuses of the Montana University System, and the community colleges, may give credit for education received from non-collegiate institutions on the basis of recommendations published by the American Council on Education and the National Program on Non-collegiate Sponsored Instruction from the Board of Regents of the State of NY (NYSED).
5. Institutions may make exceptions to give credit if the criteria described above are not met. However, the following principles should be followed:
   1. The chief academic officer, registrar, and admissions officer should review each case utilizing the following criteria:
      1. There must be evidence that there is academic quality in the institution, both in the faculty and in program offering.
      2. The student must earn at least a minimum 2.0 grade point average or its equivalent at the receiving institution.
   2. Institutions may determine policies relating to the acceptance of college credit from other countries.
6. Students may appeal the result of a transfer credit evaluation if they believe the results are incorrect. Contact the Enrollment Services Office for information about Montana Tech’s transfer credit appeal policy. If a student exercises the appeal rights set out in this policy, the review and a final decision must be completed by the class pre-registration date for the following academic term. The student must initiate the appeal process, in a timely manner, in order to give the institution time to complete its review before the deadline described in the preceding sentence.

Board Policy General Education Transfer (Policy 301.10)

Refer to the Undergraduate Academic Programs  section.

Board Policy Outdated Course work (Policy 301.5.2)

In evaluating course work from postsecondary institutions, the campuses within the Montana University System will:

1. guarantee that any postsecondary course work taken within five (5) years of being admitted or readmitted to the campus will be included in the transfer analysis of specific required classes in a major, minor, option or certificate.
2. guarantee that any postsecondary course work taken within fifteen (15) years of being admitted or readmitted to the campus will be included in the transfer analysis of general education course work.
3. guarantee that any postsecondary course work taken within fifteen (15) years of being admitted or readmitted to the campus will be included in the transfer analysis of elective course work.

Course work that falls outside these guarantee periods may be included in the evaluation, at the discretion of the individual campuses. Since it is a discretionary decision, it cannot be challenged by students.

The provisions of this policy will also govern the evaluation of “outdated” classes that have been completed at the institution doing the evaluation.

Board Policy Minimum Course Grades (Policy 301.5.3)

1. All students in the Montana University System and the three (3) community colleges must earn the following minimum grades in order to demonstrate their competency and preparation:
   1. a “D-” or better in all classes that are used to satisfy so-called free or elective credits in an associate or baccalaureate degree program;
   2. a “C-” or better in all classes that are used to satisfy a general education program;
   3. a “C-” or better in all classes that are used to satisfy the prerequisites or required courses in a major, minor, option or certificate.
2. Individual programs may establish grade standards that are higher than the minimums set out in paragraph A , for some or all of the courses that are used to satisfy the prerequisites or requirements for a major, minor, option, certificate or general education. Students will be notified of that expectation.
3. All campuses of the Montana University System and the three (3) community colleges will adopt a grading system that includes the use of pluses and minuses in addition to letter grades. The grade point average calculation will also be the same throughout the System.
4. Students are required to meet the overall Montana University System standard of a 2.00 grade point average for satisfactory academic progress as specified in Board Policy 301.8.

General Information

Montana Tech reserves the right to make the final decision in regard to the evaluation and approval of course work presented for transfer credit. An evaluation of transfer credit will be performed for any student who has previously acquired college level credit for courses at regionally accredited institutions of higher education and who wishes to pursue a degree at Montana Tech.

The Board of Regents & Montana Tech recognize the following regional accrediting agencies:

New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Western Association of Schools and Colleges

To qualify for a transfer credit evaluation, transfer students must submit ALL official transcripts to the Enrollment Services Office. An official transfer credit evaluation will not be performed until all transcripts have been received, the student’s application for admission is complete, and the student has been admitted. An official transcript must have a signature, stamp or seal. Faxed copies, or those “issued to student” will not be accepted. Preliminary evaluation can be provided to the prospective student by contacting the Enrollment Services Office.

If all college-level transcripts are on file in the Enrollment Services Office 30 days before the semester begins, an evaluation will be performed and notification will be mailed to the admitted student within 10 working days. College transcripts received less than 30 days before the semester begins will be evaluated as soon as possible. Every effort will be made to evaluate transcripts within two weeks of the student’s admission to the institution.

The Enrollment Services Office, in conjunction with the appropriate academic department, will review all eligible course work for transferability, and will determine the applicability of transfer credit to specific degree program requirements. Transfer credit not applicable for some degree requirements will be applicable as additional free elective credit.

The Montana Tech transcript will list all transfer courses acceptable in the degree program being pursued as the equivalent Montana Tech course or general degree requirement. Additional free electives will be posted as such. The transfer grade point average is not listed nor calculated into the Montana Tech grade point average. Only the credits and grade points earned in courses taken at Montana Tech are used in the calculation of the grade point average. A transfer student’s Montana Tech transcript will list previous institutions attended from which transfer credit has been granted.

Challenge Procedure - Credit by Examination

All course challenges must be done before the 15th day of class. Industrial work experience, military work experience, employer-sponsored courses or training, or self-study may provide justification for a student’s request to challenge a course. By challenging a course, a student seeks to earn course credit by passing appropriate examinations rather than by attending class and meeting usual course requirements.

Any student wishing to challenge a course must obtain the Challenge Course Form and Instructions from the Enrollment Services Office, follow the instructions accordingly and pay the appropriate fees. The challenge will not be official until the Challenge Grade Form and examination results are received by the Enrollment Services Office and the appropriate fees have been paid. Grades from the successful challenge will be recorded on the student’s transcript.

The following are guidelines for students wishing to challenge a course:

• Activity courses and courses for which a grade (including a W) has been received, or which have been taken for no credit may not be challenged. This includes courses previously failed (“F”) courses in which a student has received an Incomplete (“I”) or a course previously taken on an audit basis. Also Senior Design & Capstone courses may not be challenged.
• Otherwise, all college-level courses may be challenged if appropriate resources are available as determined by the appropriate Department Head.
• Only students in good academic standing (2.00 grade point average or above) at Montana Tech may challenge courses.
• The maximum number of credits that may be earned by challenge examination is 16.
• All appeals are handled by the grade appeal system described in the Grading System section of this Catalog.
• The Challenge process will require the student to complete a written examination and, when necessary, an oral examination and/or laboratory assignment.
• Students must have all challenges resolved PRIOR to filing for graduation.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

Montana Tech will accept as transfer credit most Subject Examinations under the CLEP Program. CLEP General Examinations will not be accepted for credit. Please contact the Student Life Office at Montana Tech for further information.

College and University Credit

Montana Tech maintains and updates transfer credit guidelines with numerous regional community colleges, as well as with a number of technical institutes in Canada. Copies of these agreements are generally available from these institutions, or from the Montana Tech Enrollment Services Office. Course equivalencies may be viewed via the Montana University System Office web site, http://www.mus.edu/Qtools/CCN/ccn_default.asp. All courses listed on official transcripts from regionally accredited institutions of higher education will be eligible for transfer credit to Montana Tech. All college-level courses will be reviewed for transfer credit and applied to degree program requirements. Credit will not be granted for course work taken at any institution not accredited by a recognized regional accrediting association. Credit will be granted from an institution which is a candidate for accreditation upon the student successfully completing 30 credits at Montana Tech.

Correspondence Credit

A maximum of 30 credits from regionally accredited schools may be granted toward a baccalaureate degree for correspondence, extension, and continuing education courses. The department head where the course resides must approve credit for correspondence course. A maximum of 10 credits may be applied to an associate degree.

Military Credit/Dantes

Credit may be granted for courses or training received while in the military based upon the American Council on Education’s “A Guide to the Evaluation of Education Experiences in the Armed Services.”  Students should contact the Enrollment Services office for assistance regarding credit for military training. 

Technical Level Course Work from Colleges of Technology

Course work taken prior to Fall 1991 from Montana Vocational Technical Centers is NOT TRANSFERABLE. The Colleges of Technology (now Highlands College) were once called Vo-Tech and were not accredited until Fall 1991, when they became part of the MUS system and began granting AAS degrees. Technical level course work earned from vocational-technical schools or colleges of technology, including Montana Tech College of Technology (Montana Tech COT courses ending with a “T” or numbered between 0100-0999, unless specifically excluded), may be transferred as free electives at the undergraduate level and will be considered for transfer toward specific degree requirements for the Associate of Science or Baccalaureate Degree. A grade of “C-” or above is required. The student’s department head will make the final decision of acceptance of technical level course work toward specific degree requirements within the student’s Associate of Science or Baccalaureate Degree program. Those students seeking the Bachelor of Applied Science Degree and who have completed an Associate of Applied Science Degree will receive a block transfer of A.A.S. credit as noted in the program descriptions within this catalog.

International Baccalaureate

The college welcomes applications from students in the IB program. Students may receive course credit and advanced placement for IB higher level work on a course-by-course basis. Contact the Enrollment Services Office for the latest information on acceptance of IB course work by the college.

Tech Prep

Montana Tech College of Technology has established and maintains articulation agreements with a number of area high schools through the “Tech Prep” program. Course(s) from a high school with which the institution has an approved articulation agreement must have been completed within two calendar years of the initial enrollment in the college’s program. It is the student’s responsibility to submit the petition for Tech Prep credit. Tech Prep credit will be granted based upon the following guidelines:

An articulating student shall:

• graduate from an accredited high school that has a current Tech Prep Articulation Agreement;
• apply for admission to the participating college through the regular admissions process and provide an official high school transcript showing the articulated Tech Prep classes;
• complete and submit the petition for Tech Prep Credit indicating those classes for which Tech Prep credit is being petitioned;
• achieve a grade of B (3.0) or better in the articulated high school class(es);
• meet the specifically agreed-upon competencies and conditions stated in the Agreement for each class for which Tech Prep credit is being petitioned, including passing competency tests where applicable;
• pursue a certificate or AAS degree from the participating college in a program of study approved to accept Tech Prep credits;
• utilize the agreement within two (2) academic years of high school graduation;
• successfully (2.0 GPA) complete a full semester of resident college classes (minimum of 12 credits) and continue to make satisfactory progress in higher level courses within the program of study.

Tech Prep credits will:

• appear on the College of Technology transcript only after the student’s successful (minimum 2.0 GPA) completion of a full semester (12 credits) at Montana Tech
• apply towards completion of the designated program at the participating college of technology
• not be calculated in determining grade point average
• result in the waiver of regular tuition and fees for credit(s) granted under the agreement

For further information, please call the Enrollment Services Office at 406-496-4256.

Advanced Placement (AP)

Montana Tech will generally accept the Advanced Placement (AP) Examination from The College Board for transfer credit if the student has scored at least 3 or above on the appropriate AP examination and if an official score sheet has been received by the Enrollment Services Office. Some courses may require a minimum score of 4 for AP credit to be granted. Contact the Enrollment Services Office for current information.