Non-Traditional
Student Association

Because some masterpieces
take a little longer to finish…

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is a "Non-Traditional" student?
A. This term refers to students who are either over the age of 25 or who are coming to college after an absence from education.

Q. My high school grades were terrible. Will I be able to "make it" in college?
A. High school grades do not foretell how well a non-traditional student will do in college. Overall, our non-traditional students do very well academically. Real-life experiences, maturity and hard work are advantages that lead to classroom success.

Q. I've forgotten how to study, how to take notes, how to prepare for tests. Is there any help available?
A. Yes, the Center for Academic Support, located in the library, provides help in brushing up on all these skills. They also provide tutoring for specific classes you may be taking. These services are free. Also, there is a Freshman Orientation class called College 101 Freshman Seminar that covers these topics as well as other topics.

Q. Will I be the only older student in my classes?
A. Definitely not! Approximately 24% of all students at MWSU are over the age of 25.

Q. Do I have to take the ACT test before I enroll in college?
A. Yes, the residual ACT test is given at MWSU on dates throughout the year. Call the Counseling Center at (816) 271-4327 to register or obtain more information. The cost is $36. National test dates are also available in the center (Eder Hall, Room 203).

Q. What if I flunk the ACT test?
A. You cannot flunk the ACT test. Because Missouri Western has an "open door" admissions policy, you may take classes no matter what your ACT score is. (NOTE: The state of Missouri requires a composite score of 22 or better if you want a degree in education or a score of 20 or better if you want a degree in nursing. The other degrees on campus do not have a minimum composite score.) You may take the ACT test as often as you need to.

Q. How many hours do I have to take to be eligible for Financial Aid?
A. You must be enrolled in 6 hours, which is considered a half-time student, in order to receive Financial Aid. A "full time" student is enrolled in at least 12 hours. (if you are enrolled in 6 hours, you can receive half of the aid aid you are eligible for. If you are enrolled in 12 hours, you can receive the full amount of aid you are eligible for.)

Q. I don't know what I want to study.
A. The Counseling Center has three full-time counselors who will help administer career and personality aptitude tests to help you get started. Their phone number is (816) 271-4327 and they are located in Eder Hall, Room 203. You may also visit with the Career Development Director to discuss career possibilities. Their phone number is (816) 271-4205 and they are located in Eder Hall, Room 202.

Q. I don't know where to go or what to do to get started in coming to college.
A. Make an appointment to see Ellen in the Non-Traditional Student Center, Eder Hall, Room 202A, by calling (816) 271-4280. She will be happy to assist you in getting pre-enrollment information. She will also explain what student services are available to help you make a successful entry into college.

     Missouri Western State University recognizes that adult learners may have unique and special needs. Go to the Non-Traditional Student Center to voice any concerns and ask any questions you may have!