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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out the status of my application?
You can check the status of your admission application online at www.dscc.edu or you can call the Admissions & Records office at 731.286.3350.
I requested a catalog last week, but I still haven't received it, why?
Call the Admissions & Records Office at 731.286.3350 to verify your address. You may also view the catalog & student handbook at www.dscc.edu until you receive the catalog on CD.
I took my GED test somewhere else; how do I get a copy of that sent somewhere?
You must contact the GED Testing Center where you took the test.
Can I be contacted in case of an emergency?
All emergency messages should be directed to the Office of Admissions & Records at 731.286.3350 or the director of the center where the student is in class. Efforts will be made to contact the student.
Does Dyersburg State have dormitories or other housing?
No, but the Office of Student Services maintains a housing referral list for the Dyersburg area.
Is a student identification card necessary?
Yes, all students taking credit courses must obtain a student identification card. Identification cards are made at the Learning Resource Center at each center.
What if I lose something on campus?
In Dyersburg, all lost items are returned to the Office of Student Services.
Do I need a parking decal?
Yes, all vehicles parked on campus must have a parking decal prominently displayed.
Why do I have to take the Practice Test?
It is a Tennessee state requirement.
Where is the Adult Education center located?
115 King Avenue, Dyersburg, TN 38024 (next to The Laundry Basket).
Can I apply online for admission to the college?
Yes. Go to www.dscc.edu and click the Apply/Register/Pay link.
Do I have to use my parents' information if I dont live with them?
Students who fall under the following category must use their parents' income information: under the age of 24, unmarried, not a veteran, not an orphan or ward of the court, do not have dependents for whom they provide more than 50% of their support, and not working on a master's or doctorate program.
Who do I include in my household on the financial aid application?
For the household size, include all people that live in your household (or your parents' household, if applicable) for whom you (or your parents) provide more than half of their support and you (or your parents) will continue to provide more than half of their support for the year in which you will be attending school.
What is a MPN?
MPN stands for Master Promissory Note which is an agreement to repay loan funds.
How much Pell money am I going to get?
The amount for which you qualify depends upon family size, number of students in college, income and assets and is determined by a processor for the U.S. Dept. of Education.
Am I eligible for the lottery?
If you recently graduated from a Tennessee high school and obtained a 3.0 GPA or scored at least a 21 on the ACT exam, you may be eligible for lottery funds.
Can I still play athletics if I have attended another college?
Yes, if you get a transfer waiver or a release and you meet all the NJCAA rules.
How do I go about getting a prerequisite hold removed from my account?
You will need to discuss your request with the applicable academic dean. You may contact the Admissions & Records office at 731.286.3350 for contact information.
Where can I can get help if I am failing a class.
Yes, tutoring is available at the Dyersburg Campus and at the Jimmy Naifeh Center in Tipton County through the Tutoring Center.
Is tutoring available at the Jimmy Naifeh Center in Covington?
Yes, tutoring is available at the Jimmy Naifeh Center. The Tutoring Center is located in Room 157 at the Jimmy Naifeh Building. For information
How are student ID's assigned? Is there a particular formula that is followed (e.g. Students initials and last four digits of the SSN)?
The ID you use in order to enter MyDSCC is assigned by our administration system. The ID assigned to you is the first initial of your first name followed by the last name (up to 8 characters). Duplicate ID's are resolved by adding a number to the end of the ID. For example, Joan Smith would be assigned the ID 'jsmith'. John Smith would be assigned the ID 'jsmith1'. For help with this, please contact the helpdesk at 731 288 7780.
Can I just walk on and be eligible for athletics?
No, you must meet certain academic criteria.
What do I need to bring for testing?
Please bring a photograph ID, pencils, scratch paper and a calculator.
Is there a cost for taking the COMPASS?
There is no charge for taking the COMPASS the first time.
What is the score I have to have on the GED?
A minimum score of 410 must be achieved on each subject area and an overall battery average of 450.
Which test do I take: COMPASS or ACT?
If you are under the age of 21, you will take the National or Residual ACT.
How can I test out of the developmental courses?
Placement in developmental courses is based on results from the ACT or COMPASS.
Can I retest in the COMPASS or ACT? When?
Yes, you may retest the COMPASS or ACT; however, there is a waiting period of 60 days for the ACT and 90 days for the COMPASS before you can retake the test.
What do I do to get into school after I take the COMPASS?
After the COMPASS is completed, the scores will be processed and explained.
How do I get my GED?
If it is your first time to take the GED, you must take the practice test administered by the Dyer County Literacy Program.
When will I get my GED test results? How long will it take?
The GED tests are sent off to a national service for scoring.
What is the cost of the GED?
The current cost of the GED is $65.00 for the full test.
Where is the Practice test given?
The practice test is administered at the Dyer County Literacy Program located in the Dyer County Adult Education Center at 115 King Ave., Dyersburg, TN 38024.
If I scored 410 on all of my tests, why did I not pass?
The average for all five subject area tests must be 450.
If I applied and got accepted last year and did not attend, do I still need to submit another application?
Yes.
I did not receive a requested transcript. Who do I talk to?
If the transcript is for your personal use, you can print an unofficial copy by logging into MyDSCC and selecting Self Service Banner. If you provided a written request for your transcript but have not received it, check your mailing address in Self Service Banner. You can update your Mailing address online. After updating your mailing address, contact the One Stop to determine if you need to submit another written request.
What if I don't have any shot records? What do I do about the MMR requirement?
Tennessee law requires that each full-time student must provide proof of two doses of the MMR vaccine. If you graduated from a TN public high school in 1993 or later, the requirement will be met when we receive an official copy of your high school transcript. You may enroll in up to 11 hours without providing proof of MMR immunizations.
Do you need all of my transcripts, even if grades from one school are reflected on another?
Yes.
Who do I speak with about Dual-Enrollment?
Contact your high school guidance counselor or our Admissions Counselor, Larenda Fultz. Larenda can be reached at 731.286.3324 or fultz@dscc.edu.
What do I need in order to be considered an in-state resident?
You need to be able to demonstrate that Tennessee is your true, fixed, permanent resident. To determine whether or not you are an in-state resident, complete an Application for Residency. This application details those items that constitutes TN residency. Residents of Pemiscot and Dunklin counties in MO and Mississippi County in AR are considered in-state for fee-paying purposes.
How much does it cost to go to Dyersburg State?
Dyersburg State's tuition is set each June by the Tennessee Board of Regents. Fees include maintenance fees , technology access fees , campus access fees , a student activity fee , and an international studies fee. Other fees vary according to the number of credit hours taken , such as online courses , RODP courses and dual enrollment courses taught in high schools. In addition to maintenance fees , tuition is charged to non-TN residents. Students should be reminded that the fees are subject to change on an annual basis. Refer to the Fees section in the student handbook for full descriptions at www.dscc.edu.
Can I apply online to Dyersburg State Community College?
Yes , please visit our website at www.dscc.edu and click on Apply/Register/Pay , then follow the simple directions. If you need help , please contact the Admissions and Records Office at 731.286.3350.
Can I have information mailed to me?
We are glad to mail information to students such as the Application for Admission or Readmission. Please contact us at 731.286.3350: information is usually mailed on the day of the request. You may also request information online by going to www.dscc.edu and clicking the Prospective Students link.
I have filled out my application: what do I do next?
You will receive information in the mail from Admissions and Records about logging into MyDSCC. After you receive your Username and Password , you can view which admissions requirements have been completed and which requirements are still needed , find the name of your advisor , view the schedule of classes for the upcoming term , register for classes and view any holds that might prevent you from registering.
Why does Dyersburg State send so many letters?
There is a purpose for every letter that is sent to you from Dyersburg State and each letter should be opened and read. Every letter sent will either contain important information you need to know or requests for action that you need to take.
Can I take a class without receiving credit?
Yes , students wishing to audit a class may do so on a space available basis. An application for admission is required and fees are the same as for a credit class. Students may also change from credit to audit by the published deadline in the course schedule. Students under the age of 17 cannot audit a course without the permission of the academic dean offering the desired course.
I am a new student , where do I go to register?
New students may be able to register in the Advising Centers located at the main campus , the Gibson County Center and the Jimmy Naifeh Center in Tipton County. The advising centers are open during the summer and between the fall and spring semesters. When you apply for admission/readmission , you will be assigned an advisor who can help you plan your schedule of classes and talk with you about your educational goals. If you have already applied for admission , contact the Advising Center at 731.286.3365 for your advisor's name and contact information.
Are there minimum requirements that need to be met before being admitted to DSCC? Is there an age requirement?
The only requirement for admission to the college is the completion of an application for admission (either online or print copy). Also , degree-seeking applicants under 21 must provide official ACT scores. There is no age requirement.
Will my courses transfer from Dyersburg State to other colleges?
As an accredited institution of Council on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) , the undergraduate curriculum at Dyersburg State is designed to consider the institutions to which students transfer. However , students should always consult the catalog of the institution to which they plan to transfer. Course equivalency information is also available online. On the DSCC Web site , click Admissions and Registration and then Transfer Information in the Quick Links box.
Will my classes from other colleges transfer to Dyersburg State?
Once you have applied to the college and your transcripts from other schools have been received , an official transfer evaluation will be done. Credit is contingent upon course equivalence , content , and grades.
Do you accept SAT scores for evaluating admission to the college? I did not take the ACT.
Yes , SAT scores can be used in place of ACT scores.
What do I need to do to apply for admission to your school?
Admission requirements vary according to your most recent educational experience. Admission requirements for current high school students differ from high school graduates or students who transfer from another college or university. The first step for all situations is to complete an Application for Admission.
What is the last day to apply for the upcoming semester?
The deadline to apply for admission is the last day to register or add a class: however , you are strongly encouraged to apply early so that you will have the best selection of classes. Admission applications for international applicants are different: please contact the Admissions & Records Office at 731.286.3350.
How much does it cost to take the GED?
$65.00.
How much do adult education classes cost?
Adult education classes are free.
How old must a student be to attend Adult Education classes?
18
Where do I take the actual GED test?
DSCC offers the GED one Saturday each month at the Dyersburg center: call 731.286.3232 for scheduling information. Additionally , UT Martin offers the GED every Thursday.
If I need advisement and am unable to meet with my regular advisor , where could I go on any given day to get help?
The Upward Bound office , The DSCC Advising center , Student Services or Admissions and Records.
Can I speak to an advisor?
Yes. Advisors are available at the advising centers located at each of the DSCC centers. If you plan to take courses in Trenton or Covington , you can also schedule an appointment with the Center Director (Julie Griggs or Janet Newman). During the fall and spring semesters , you can contact your academic advisor.
Someone told me I had to take a test before scheduling classes. What test do they mean?
Most likely , it is related to developmental courses you might need to take based on your ACT scores or Compass test scores. Please see an advisor to review your records and discuss why you might have been told this. You may contact the Advising Center at 731.286.3365 , 731.288.7514 or 731.286.3359.
Are there any job opportunities for students?
Students whose FAFSA results are received by March 1st receive first priority for Federal Work-Study funds , which is a need-based program with limited funds available. For information on available non-need based jobs on campus , contact Pam Dahl at 731-286-3242.
Can you explain my schedule to me? Why are some classes scheduled two days a week and others one or three days a week?
A number of factors determine when classes are offered , particularly covenience to students. Some students find that one-day a week classes work best for them as opposed to a two-day or three-day class schedule. All classes , however , require the same amount of time based of the number of credit hours being awarded.
When are you considered a full-time student at DSCC? I already have a full-time job , how can I also be a full-time student?
Enrolling in 12 or more credit hours makes you a full-time student. If you are working full-time , you should not enroll in more than one course your first semester. Afterwards , you may want to take two courses , but that should be your limit as long as you are working full-time.
Can I schedule all of my classes as online courses?
Yes , you can. However , this is not a recommended academic path for all students to take. Before you register for all on-line classes , it is recommended you take an on-line measurement to help you to determine if this is a feasible path for you to take at this time.
I did not know I had to request my transcripts from other schools. Can I register for classes without my transcripts?
Yes , you can register for one term before DSCC receives your transcripts. However , without your transcripts , you may not be able to take some courses. Also , you will not be able to receive any type of financial assistance until all admissions requirements are met.
How do I register online?
Access MyDSCC and select the How To tab for step-by-step instructions or go to the One Stop Center in Dyersburg or to the DSCC Gibson County Center or the DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County.
Can I register my friend or relative so we can be in the same class?
No , but you and another person can each attempt to register for the same classes. Remember that many courses have prerequisites , and you and your friend or relative may not be ready for the same courses.
Do I have to see an advisor? Why?
It is highly recommended that all students see an advisor. Advisors are able to help you in the decision-making process that will impact successful goal accomplishments.
Is there a way to satisfy my employer's requirements and my true educational interests at the same time? I need advice.
Yes! Look at your job requirements to see what is expected of you , consider where the business is going for future growth and development and where you plan to be in this movement. Talk to your supervisor to see what the expectations are for you in the position you are currently in or hope to be in. Take a personal inventory of what you want related to education. After you have gained this information , talk to a DSCC advisor about your educational aspirations.
I am not certain what I want to major in. Is there anyone I can talk to about career planning?
Yes! See your academic advisor , academic dean or school counselor or contact the Student Success Center. All are experienced in career planning.
I completed a diploma program at a Tennessee Technology Center. Can I receive credit towards a two-year degree for this work?
Dyersburg State Community College does have Articulation Agreements with the Tennessee Technology Centers in certain technology areas. First , you must contact the technology center that you attended and ask the TTC director to certify in writing your work and give you direction on what else needs to be done. If your diploma is in one of the articulated areas and it meets the guidelines specified in the Articulation Agreement , then follow the guidelines regarding college credit requirementsthe and the specified timeframe.
How do I change my major or concentration?
Talk with your academic advisor or go to the One-Stop Center located in the Student Center.
I cannot take off work to come see an advisor: could you fix my PIN or register me on the phone?
All degree-seeking students must meet with an advisor before attempting to register. Perhaps you can phone or email your advisor to set up a time that fits your schedule.
Why didn't my instructor verify my class attendance?
Some instructors require more than class attendance before they verify class attendance (such as an introduction statement to the class or a course syllabus assessment that does not count in the final grade). If you have performed all that was required for class verification , then there has been an oversight. Please contact your instructor for correction.
I do not think I should be in this developmental course: who can I talk to?
You may discuss this with your academic advisor , the dean of Arts and Sciences or the Developmental Studies Coordinator.
Can I test out of a class?
Yes! A number of courses have a test out option. Your advisor and or academic dean in which the course is located can assist you in this process as to your responsibilities related to testing out of a class.
Is there a try out for baseball , softball or basketball?
Contact the head coach for each respective sport for information on try outs and how to get involved with a team. Basketball: Alan Barnett 731-286-3259 Baseball: Robert White 731-286-3252 Softball: Randy Hulme 731-286-3274 Women's Basketball 731-288-7742
Do you have any athletic scholarships available?
There have been cases where scholarships were available for walk-on athletes. The athlete must pass a proving period before they become entitled to any scholarships that might be available. Contact the athletic director at 731-286-3259.
When are athletic tryouts?
Men and women's basketball try outs are October 1st. Each interested player must have a physical on file with the trainer before they can try out. Contact the applicable head coach for baseball and softball try out dates. Basketball: Alan Barnett 731-286-3259 Baseball: Robert White 731-286-3252 Softball: Randy Hulme 731-286-3274 Women's Basketball Rian Puckett 731-288-7742
Do I need an athletic release or waiver if I am coming from another college?
Yes , you need a release/waiver if you are coming from a 2 year member institution. A release/waiver is not necessary if you are coming from a 4 year institution.
Do I need all my transcripts to be eligible for athletics?
Yes. Failure to submit all college and high school transcripts will prevent you from playing in any athletic sports.
Do I have to have an ID to pick up my financial aid check?
Yes , a picture ID is required to pick up any check.
Where do I register my vehicle?
Students register their vehicles in the LRC. You must have your vehicle license number in order to register a vehicles. Students who need a temporary parking pass , please see Yuketa Hall in room 122 in the Student Center.
Why do I have to pay for auditing a class?
DSCC policy states that students enrolling in regular college classes as auditors will pay the same fees as those enrolling for credit. See page 56 in the DSCC catalog.
When will my second financial aid disbursement be in?
The letter you received from the Financial Aid office should contain that information. Please contact Financial Aid for more information at 731.286.3238.
How can I get a copy of my GED?
You must contact the GED Testing Center where you took the test. You must also submit a written request for the scores to be released. Contact the DSCC testing center at 731.286.3355 for more information.
I would like to start college: where do I need to go?
Please start with the Admissions and Records Office. You may contact them at 731.286.3350.
I will be enrolling in a Dual Enrollment course. How much will I owe?
You may be eligible to receive up to $300 per semester through the Dual Enrollment Grant. While this amount will greatly reduce your course fees , you may be responsible for any amount over $300. This amount will vary , depending on the number of credit hours you take and the teaching format and location.
I have financial aid that will be applied. Why were my classes dropped/purged?
Be sure you have turned in your Contingency form to the Business Office: the Contingency form tells the Business Office to hold your classes until your financial aid disperses to your account. Also , be sure you have made full payment before classes begin for any tuition and fees not covered by your financial aid (or set up a deferred payment plan). If your financial aid covers all tuition and fees and you were dropped/purged , please contact the financial aid office at 731.286.3238.
I dropped a Tuesday/Thursday class and added a Monday/Wednesday class. Why do I owe fees?
If the class added is the same as the class that was dropped , then the fees should remain the same. However , if you drop 3.0 hr class and add a 4.0 hr class , then the fees will increase. Additionally , a DSCC class that is exchanged with a RODP class will occur an increase in fees because there are additional fees associated with RODP classes. If your schedule change was due because of the institution , your fees will be corrected.
I dropped my classes before the first day of class. Why do I owe money?
Call or come by the the Business Office to check the date you dropped your classes. Your drop date may have been after the semester started even though you may not have attended your first class.
The Business Office is open past 4:30. Why are other offices (e.g. Financial Aid) closed?
The Business Office , like all administrative offices , is open from 8:00 a.m. through 4:30 p.m. The cashier normally remains past 4:30 due to closing out their station. The cashier continues to help students during the closing process as a courtesy to our students.
Where do I pay my fees?
Fees can be paid in the Business Office , the One Stop in the Student Center , the Jimmy Naifeh Center , or at the Gibson County Center. Fees can be paid online at www.DSCC.edu or payment can be mailed to DSCC Business Office , 1510 Lake Road , Dyersburg , TN 38024. If you have any questions call 731.286.3306.
Do professionals teach the Continuing Education classes?
Yes. Though our instructors come from all walks of life , they are all experts in their fields.
Do you offer scholarships for parents who can't afford to pay for their children to participate in a Continuing Education children's program?
Yes , we do offer scholarships to all parents who cannot afford to pay the course fee for their children to attend the children's programs. Parents are asked to contact Teresa Evans at 731.286.3267 or tevans@dscc.edu for more information.
Are you penalized if you have to miss a Continuing Education class after you are enrolled?
No , you are not penalized. Most course instructors allow you to make-up work so that you can complete the course. There are exceptions to make-up work , however , such as the Motorcycle Rider Safety course.
Can EMTs and Paramedics get CEUs for refresher courses?
Yes , we issue certificates at the end of each course verifying CEUs (Continuing Education Units) earned. We can also issue transcripts listing the courses (with CEUs) they have taken during a certain time period.
Who do I call to get information on all the Continuing Education courses running in your department?
For all personal enrichment courses and children's programs , please contact Teresa Evans at 731.286.3267 or tevans@dscc.edu. For courses regarding professional development , please contact Birgit Northcutt at 731.286.3265 or bnorthcutt@dscc.edu.
Do you offer online Continuing Education classes?
Yes , we are contracted with various online institutes. We offer over 700 different online classes. For more information on all the online classes we offer , please go to www.dscc.edu/extserv.
Do you offer Continuing Education classes in Trenton and Covington?
We offer classes in Covington. We are not offering any courses in Trenton at the moment , but welcome requests for courses to be offered in that area.
