Frequently Asked Questions - Southwestern Illinois College

How much is tuition at the college?

To determine your total tuition and fee cost per semester, add the tuition cost, mandatory fee charges and course/class fee charges. For additional information, go to Tuition & Fees.

For a full break down of estimated In-district, Out-of-District, and Out-of-State budgets, go to Cost of Attendance.

What other costs are there?

Other expenses to consider are individual course fees and textbook cost. 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 SWIC courses are intended to transfer. These courses are identified in the college catalog Course Description Guide with the letter T. For specific information about transferring, see an academic advisor prior to choosing your classes each semester. Learn more about Transfer of Credit and Articulation.

How can I get help with college expenses?

Go to Financial Aid & Scholarships to see if you’re eligible for SWIC scholarships, community scholarships, transfer scholarships, veterans services, student employment and/or state and federal financial aid.

Are there services available to adults returning to SWIC after their traditional college years are behind them?

Refer to WIOA and Career Services. Personal Advocate Linking Services (PALS) supports and encourages all students’ endeavors toward academic and career success. There are personal advocates at all campuses and they support students with their successful transition into college. The program also encourages ongoing support to current students for completion of personal and academic goals.

Where can I go for assistance finding a job while I am a student?

Job placement assistance is available from both the Financial Aid Office (on-campus jobs) and the Career Services Office (off-campus jobs). Career Services provides job search assistance such as resume and portfolio preparation, interviewing skills and registration into SWIC College Central Network for online employment opportunities.

Are tutoring services available?

Free tutoring is offered in the Success Centers at campuses either in-person or via online for current SWIC students enrolled in the course for which they seek tutoring. Tutor schedules are available at each of the Success Centers.

How do I request accommodations for a disability?

SWIC is committed to providing equal access to qualified students with disabilities. Contact the Disability & Access Center to request and receive accommodations and support services.

What types of extracurricular activities are offered?

Educational and cultural events and a wide variety of clubs and organizations are available at SWIC for students, faculty, staff and the community. A broad range of intercollegiate and intramural athletics is also available. For more information, go to College Activities.

What are the different types of degrees offered at SWIC?

The degrees available to students who plan to transfer to another college or university to earn their bachelor’s degree are the Associate in Arts, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in Engineering Science and Associate in Science. Students who plan to enter the work force immediately upon graduation would pursue our Associate in Applied Science. For additional information about degrees as well as certificate programs, go to Academic Programs.

What is the average class size at SWIC?

While class sizes vary, the student-to-teacher ratio is 18-to-1, which makes it easy to get individual attention from your instructors.

How do I know which classes to take first?

Academic advisors are available to assist in selecting classes each semester. Visit Career Services to take interest assessments to help determine with path is right for you!

Do I need to take a placement test?

SWIC uses a variety of measures to determine college level placement in English and math. Speak with an Academic Advisor to review the best course placement for you.

How do I get a Student ID number?

Your Student ID number will be generated upon completion of your New Student Information Form. You will receive an email confirmation with this number. Returning students can also request their student ID number at the eSTORM login page or in person at the Enrollment Services office with a photo ID. You need a student ID number to access your student email.

Do I need a student ID card and, if so, where do I get one?

SWIC students are entitled to a student identification card at no cost. The ID 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, ridership on the St. Clair County District Transit Authority MetroBus and MetroLink, Madison County Transit Bus System, book buyback, etc.

ID 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 online through National Student Clearinghouse. For more information, go to Request a Transcript.

What is SWIC Alert?

This free emergency alert system sends text messages and/or emails to students and employees. Text messaging is an opt-in notification system where a text message can be received on your mobile phone. SWIC does not charge for this service; however, the only cost is what the cell phone carrier charges to receive text messages. You may choose to receive text messages or emails for a specific campus or all campuses. Once enrolled, your account is active for one year. You will receive notice 30 days before your enrollment will expire.

How do I sign up for SWIC Alert?

Log in to your eSTORM account; click Main Menu in the upper left; scroll over SWIC Alert and choose SWIC Alert Signup.

How can I find out if the college is closed or has a delayed opening due to inclement weather?

Information regarding the use of the Snow Schedule or closure due to weather conditions will be sent via SWIC Alert, posted on the college’s homepage and broadcast on these stations: FOX 2 (KTVI); KMOV-TV Channel 4; KSDK-TV Channel 5; KMOX-AM 1120; WHCO-AM 1230 and WIL-FM 92.3. This information will also be posted on the home page of the SWIC website.

Can I take college classes if I am 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 Enrollment Services at 618-235-2700, ext. 5455. Students interested in earning college credit at their high school should check out Dual Credit opportunities.

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. Permits are free and are issued by the Public Safety Departments on those campuses or through the Student Development Office at the Red Bud Campus. Students attending the East St. Louis Community College Center must obtain a SWIC parking permit for that site. SWIC parking permits can be obtained in Bldg. A, Room 1003.

When do I apply for graduation?

Students need to apply for graduation by the following dates: Oct. 15 for fall graduation; Feb. 15 for spring graduation; or June 15 for summer graduation. The application for graduation is located in the eSTORM student center.