Policies

The Board of Trustees are elected by the people of the College District. The Board hires the President and approves all other appointments and positions. The Board also sets the basic policies and budget for the college with input from faculty, staff, and students. The Board meetings are open to the college community. Refer to www.svcc.edu/about/board-of-trustees for Board meeting agendas, minutes and Board policies.

Sauk Valley Community College is committed to placing students in courses that correspond with their ability level in order to provide each student with the greatest chance of success in those classes and future course work. The key to accomplishing this goal is a multiple method placement structure that offers students a variety of means to demonstrate college readiness.

Students are required to meet the individual course and/or program co-requisites or prerequisites as listed in the college catalog prior to the course enrollment or program admission. 

SVCC provides multiple placement options in English and mathematics. Approved, valid results are required of all students wishing to register for any English composition course, mathematics course, or any other college course requiring a specific English co-requisite or prerequisite. In addition, high school transcripts may be used as a placement option and/or to satisfy individual course prerequisites. Refer to the Placement Guide on the Testing Center website at www.svcc.edu/departments/testing-center/index.html for more information.

Students who have satisfied placement based on valid high school coursework (including a "C" or better in a state-approved high school transitional math course) will be placed into the corresponding math course without taking a placement test.

Students have an option to test and retest if eligible using an SVCC placement test. The highest placement measure/score achieved by the student is used for course placement. Test scores and high school transcript information have a time limit for use for course placement. All SVCC placement tests are subject to a retest fee.

Students with documented disabilities will be accommodated on an individual basis as each disability dictates and should make an appointment with the Director of Disability Support Services prior to testing and/or enrollment.

Placement is not required for enrollment in community service (noncredit), continuing education classes, or physical education activity courses. Students who currently hold an associate's or a bachelor's degree may be exempt from the placement policy but may still be subject to placement requirements for enrollment in specific courses or programs of study. Any student exempt from the course placement policy for the reasons listed above may need to secure permission from Academic Advising prior to enrollment. 

Determination of Residency and Tuition Information

In-District Students

An in-district student is one whose legal residence is within the boundaries of the SVCC District. All students are required to certify on the application that the address given is correct. A student is considered a resident of District 506 if one of the following criteria is met for at least 30 days prior to beginning of the term.

• The student resides with his/her parents within District 506.
• The student is an emancipated minor, completely self-supporting and resides within District 506.
• The student is 18 years or older, self-supporting, and maintains a residence within District 506.
• The student works full-time *(as defined by IRS regulations) within District 506 and can show proof of his/her employment.

Students that move into the district for reasons other than attending Sauk Valley Community College shall be exempt from the 30-day requirement if they demonstrate a verifiable interest in establishing permanent residency. Verification will consist of employment documentation, home purchase document, and/or other legal documents. Special cases regarding legal residency of students shall be considered individually.

Out-of-District Students

An out-of-district student is any person whose legal residence is outside the boundaries of SVCC District 506, but in the State of Illinois.

Out-of-district residents who wish to attend Sauk and pay tuition and fees at the in-district rate must file the "Comprehensive Agreement Regarding the Expansion of Educational Resources" form with his/her community college district and receive authorization. The student will then be enrolled on the same tuition basis as the in-district resident. These forms can be obtained from the student's community college district and must be filed with the SVCC Admissions and Records Office prior to the semester when the out-of-district student wishes to begin attending Sauk.

An out-of-district resident who does not have a "Comprehensive Agreement Regarding the Expansion of Educational Resources" authorization will be charged the out-of-district rate.

Out-of-district charges are subject to changes based on fiscal year audits ending each June 30th.

Out-of-State Students

Anyone who is a resident of another state at the time of application will be considered an out-of-state applicant. Out-of-state students will be charged the current rate of tuition for out-of-state students.

Online Students

All students will be charged the current online tuition rate for online courses.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees established by the Board of Trustees are subject to change. Up-to-date tuition and fees are available online at svcc.edu/tuition

Any request for a refund of tuition must be made by the following schedule:

Fall and Spring Semesters:

16-week courses:	100% refund period - through the first week of the term 80% refund period - the second week of the term (See Academic Calendar for specific dates)
Less than 16-week courses:	100% refund period - first day of the class and the following business day 80% refund period - third and fourth business day
Summer Semester:	100% refund period - first day of the class and the following business day 80% refund period - third and fourth business day

 

Final Exams

Instructors give final examinations at scheduled times. Final exam schedules for the current semester are located online at the exam schedule link at svcc.edu/schedule/final-exams.html. Schedules will be available by the third week of classes. See individual instructors for questions.

Grading System

Grades are recorded at the end of each semester with a system of letters indicating the quality of academic work as follows:

These grades are used in calculating a student's GPA

Grade		Grade Points
A	Excellent	4
B	Good	3
C	Average	2
D	Below Average	1
F	Failure	0

These grades are not used in calculating a student's GPA

I	Incomplete
P	Passing
W	Withdrawal
X	Audit
Z	Proficiency

The student's GPA is determined in the following manner:

Example:

Student X is taking five classes and received the corresponding grades:

Course	Course Credits Attempted	Grade	Grade Points	Hours for GPA	Total Grade Points
ENG 101	3	A	4	3	12
HUM 210	3	B	3	3	9
PSY 103	3	A	4	3	12
BIO 105	5	C	2	5	10
CIS 101	3	W
Totals	17			14	43

Your grade point average (GPA) is calculated by dividing the total amount of grade points earned by the total amount of GPA credit hours.  Your grade point average may range from 0.0 to a 4.0.

Total Grade Points	Hours for GPA	GPA
43 divided by	14 =	3.07

Note: Developmental grades are not calculated in the GPA.

For students wishing to appeal grades, please refer to the Academic Appeals Policy.

Incomplete Grade

If a student is unable to complete a course and the student-initiated withdrawal date has passed, the instructor may assign a grade of "I" under the condition that it is practical for the student to complete the requirements of the course in the following major term. Re-registering in the course is not required in order to change an incomplete to a grade. With instructor approval, the incomplete grade ("I" grade) allows a student to make up a major exam or project after the semester has officially ended. The incomplete grade is not designed to be used in place of a Withdrawal (W grade) and is only used at the discretion and approval of the instructor and the College's Academic Deans. The instructor and the student must complete an incomplete contract that the instructor will provide to the student.

A grade of "I" must be changed to a letter grade by completing the requirements of the course no later than the end of the following major term, or the "I" grade will be changed to an "F" on the student's permanent record. A grade of "W" is not acceptable once the incomplete option is taken. It is the student's responsibility to initiate the contract with the instructor for the completion of the course. When the "I" grade is requested, the student and the instructor will submit an appropriate written plan noting projects and a timeline for completion of the course to the Vice-President of Academics and Student Services for consideration. Then, when the course requirements are completed, the instructor will submit a grade change to Admissions and Records. Incomplete grade contracts must be submitted to the Vice-President of Academics and Student Services prior to the week of finals. Reregistering is not a requirement.

Pass Grade	A "P" (passing grade) is a grade that demonstrates that the student has met the class requirements and/or allows the student to proceed to the next level of the course sequence. These credits will not be used in the calculation of GPA.
Withdrawal Grade	A "W" (withdrawal grade) is a grade that signifies that a student was not pursuing completion of the course work during the enrolled semester. These credits will not be computed in the GPA.
Audit Grade	A "X" (audit grade) is a grade assigned when a student registers for a course to gain knowledge but does not wish to earn credit for the course. These credits will not be computed in the GPA.
Proficiency Grade	A "Z" (proficiency grade) is awarded when a student passes a proficiency exam. These credits will not be computed in the GPA.
Grading Options	Letter grades - (A, B, C, D, F) Will be awarded based on student performance as defined in the instructor's syllabus. Pass/Fail - (P/F) - The pass/fail option can only be used for courses other than those within the major field. This option must be designated by mid-term. Pass/Withdrawal - (P/W) - The pass/withdrawal option can be used only for fitness center courses. (PED 150-153). This option must be designated by mid-term.

Administrative Transfer

Sauk Valley Community College will recognize an "administrative transfer" from one course level to another course level, or from one section of a course to another section of that course, until the last date in the term to withdraw from a course as long as the "sending" instructor, "receiving" instructor, and the student all agree to the transfer in writing.

Audit

A student who wishes to gain knowledge but does not wish to earn credit for the course, may, at the time of registration or during the registration change period, register to audit the course. Registration is required and the tuition for auditing is the same as for enrollment for credit. Transfer from audit to credit or credit to audit status is not permitted after the registration change period. A grade of "X" will be recorded on the transcript and the credits will not be computed in the GPA.

Fresh Start

On occasion, a student may realize that a new career path is in his/her best interest. In such cases, grades earned in the previous program of study, which are not required as part of the new career (non-transfer) program, will not be used to determine the student's Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) or in the computation of degree or certificate requirements in the newly selected career program. The student must follow a prescribed course of study as set forth in the College catalog. Once this policy has been enforced it cannot be rescinded.

Students wishing to choose this option should contact the Dean of Student Services for further details at 815-835-6305.

Repeat Policy

A student may repeat a course or courses previously taken at the College or courses transferred in from other accredited institutions of higher learning. All grades earned at Sauk shall be recorded on the official transcript; however, only the last grade and credit shall be used to determine the student's grade point average. A student should be aware that other colleges may interpret repeated courses according to their own policy.

The College offers courses systematically, regularly, and as often as possible; however, the College will not necessarily offer a course requested for the purpose of repeating.

Failure of a student to attend class does not constitute student-initiated withdrawal. Withdrawal from class becomes valid only after the proper procedure has been followed. Drop Forms are available online at www.svcc.edu/admissions or students may withdraw via the Student Self-Service website student.svcc.edu during the 100% refund period (see college calendar for specific date). The student will receive a final grade of "W" when withdrawing from a class after the registration change period. This is a non-punitive grade and does not affect the student's GPA. Students should contact Academic Advising and/or Financial Assistance prior to withdrawing from any class. Withdrawing from a class or multiple classes may affect future financial aid eligibility and academic standing. Deadlines for withdrawal will be pro-rated for classes that meet less than 16 weeks, including summer sessions.

Student Initiated

During the first two weeks of the fall and spring semesters, a student may drop a course by filing an online drop form at svcc.edu/admissions.

From the third through the tenth week of the class, a student may withdraw from a course by filing an online drop form that will be forwarded to the instructor. The instructor's acknowledgement indicates that the instructor is aware of the withdrawal and has had an opportunity to discuss reasons for the withdrawal and possible alternatives. The instructor must indicate the official last date of attendance on the drop form. A grade of "W" will be recorded on the student's transcript. This does not relieve the student from their obligation to make payment for this class.

Deadlines for withdrawal will be pro-rated for classes that meet less than 16 weeks, including summer sessions. Contact Admissions & Records for specific dates. Students should contact Academic Advising and/or Financial Assistance prior to withdrawing from any class. Dual-enrollment students must contact their high school counselor and SVCC Dual Credit Coordinator prior to withdrawing.

Students who stop attending without completing the proper college procedure may receive a grade of "F" in the course.

Instructor Initiated

Prior to the final examination, an instructor may withdraw a student if the instructor believes a student cannot successfully complete the course. Admissions and Records will notify the student of this withdrawal. The student will receive a final grade of "W" as outlined above. Students should consult individual instructors about his/her policy on withdrawing the student from the course. Any time a "W" grade is assigned, the official last date of attendance must be recorded. Students may appeal this withdrawal by using established department and College appeal procedures. Students enrolled in classes requiring course/programs internal or external mandatory levels of compliance may be withdrawn if they are found during the course of the course/program to be out of compliance. The academic appeals process will be used to adjudicate when necessary.

Students who stop attending without completing the proper college procedure may receive a grade of "F" in the course.

Withdrawal from the College

Full-time students who decide to withdraw from the College must notify the Dean of Student Services or their designee, complete the withdrawal process, and clear all obligations with the College. Grades for students who withdraw from the College after the second week of classes will be recorded as "W".  Students withdrawing from the College may, with official permission, do so during the designated withdrawal period. Students who stop attending classes without completing the proper college procedure may receive a grade of "F" in all courses.

Deans'/President's List

As an expression of commitment to academic achievement, the College recognizes superior scholarship in several ways. Students taking courses numbered 100 or above, in good academic standing, and maintaining a semester average of 3.5 to 3.749 for the semester will be placed on the Deans' List. The Deans' List will recognize and distinguish between full-time students (12 or more GPA credit hours) and part-time students (6-11 GPA credit hours) achieving this honor. Students maintaining a semester average of 3.75 or higher in courses numbered 100 or above and in good academic standing will be honored through placement on the President's List. The President's List will recognize and distinguish between full-time students (12 or more GPA credit hours) and part-time students (6-11 GPA credit hours). Students attending during the summer semester with 6 GPA credit hours will also be recognized for the Deans'/President's List.

Graduation with Honors

Students who maintain high academic achievement throughout their period of study at the College may be graduated with honors or high honors. Students with a cumulative GPA of 3.5-3.749 will be graduated with honors, while students with a cumulative GPA of 3.75 or higher will be graduated with high honors. Students who graduate with honors will be designated as "Honors Graduates" on their SVCC transcripts.

Honors Program

Educational opportunities are available to successful students through the SVCC Honors Program. Honors students receive an enriched general education, the basis for all future academic experiences.

The Sauk honors experience includes specially designed academic work that extends beyond normal course activities, individual interaction with faculty members in the pursuit of special interests, and the opportunity to work with advanced scientific instruments. Honors students may receive financial awards from the College Foundation and recognition for academic work at honors gatherings. They also have the opportunity to transfer to an honors program at a four-year college or university.

Once admitted to the program, students may take one or more courses on an honors basis. That means going beyond the normal course requirements by doing a research project, writing a paper, or engaging in other academic work designed specifically for each student. While executing honors projects, students will improve their abilities to speak, write, listen, and conduct research.

Each semester, students who satisfy one or more of the following criteria are invited to apply for membership to Sauk's Honors Program:

• has earned 12+ semester hours and a 3.5+ cumulative GPA out of 4.0
• has been recommended for consideration by a faculty member
• has earned an ACT composite score of 27+ or an SAT of 1290+
• was a member of high school Honors program
• was in the upper 10 percent of high school graduating class
• has been an Illinois State Scholarship recipient

For more information, visit the Honors Program web page at  svcc.edu/academics/honors-program/

Academic Alert, Supervision, Suspension, and Dismissal

All students are expected to maintain progress toward achievement of their academic goals. Students who do not comply with academic standing requirements at SVCC are subject to academic alert, supervision, suspension, or dismissal.

For academic standing, a student's cumulative GPA includes courses numbered 100 or above taken at SVCC and any coursework transferred from other colleges. The cumulative GPA excludes developmental and adult basic education courses. Attempted courses include developmental (courses numbered below 100 level), transfer credit, and pass/fail courses.

Academic alert, supervision, suspension, and dismissal are NOT recorded on a student's academic transcript.

Alert:

After attempting 12 GPA credit hours at SVCC, a student who does not maintain a cumulative 2.0 GPA or higher and/or does not complete 49% of term courses attempted will be placed in academic alert status and will be notified by the College.

• CSS 100 required
• 13 hours maximum enrollment*
• Students on Alert whose cumulative GPA is below 2.0, yet achieve a minimum 2.0 term GPA and complete 49% of term courses attempted, will continue under alert
• Students maintaining under alert or moving from supervision to alert are not required to re-enroll in CSS 100

Supervision:

A student on alert status who does not achieve a term 2.0 GPA and/or does not complete 49% of term courses attempted will be placed on supervision status and will be notified by the College.

• Reenrollment in CSS 100 required
• 10 hours maximum enrollment*
• Permission to register (approval of classes by an academic advisor)
• Required to meet regularly with assigned academic advisor
• Students under supervision who achieve a minimum 2.0 GPA each term and complete 49% of term courses attempted will return to Alert status until their cumulative GPA is at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Students returning to Alert will be required to continue to meet regularly with assigned academic advisor.

Suspension:

A student under supervision who does not does not achieve a term 2.0 GPA and/or does not complete 49% of term courses attempted will be placed on suspension. Students who are suspended from the College will not be allowed to attend any classes until after the next regular major semester (i.e., spring or fall).

Re-admittance after Suspension:

Students who are suspended from the College may return after remaining out for one major semester (fall or spring). Prior to returning to the College, the student must schedule a conference with the Dean of Student Services. The student will agree on guidelines under which she/he will be allowed to return. Upon return, the student will be placed on supervision status. Students are required to meet regularly with assigned advisor.

Academic Dismissal:

Academic dismissal occurs if a student returning from suspension fails to maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA each term and/or does not complete 49% of term courses attempted after returning. This represents a separation of students from Sauk Valley Community College for at least two major semesters (fall and spring).

Students are eligible to apply for readmission to the College after the dismissal period. Admission will be on a petition basis to the Dean of Student Services. In order for readmission to be approved, the petition must present evidence of some change in the students' circumstances.

*excludes required labs and PED fitness center

The following procedures shall govern appeals by affected persons of post-admission student academic issues. This procedure shall not apply to decisions of agencies other than Sauk Valley Community College such as National Junior College Athletic Association, clinical facilities, employers of students, and other businesses allowing job site training of students; the College has no authority over those decisions.

Step One: Informal Resolution

1. Appeals regarding instructional or grade issues will be handled informally insofar as possible. Ordinarily, matters will be decided by the instructor, who is the first point of contact.  The student has the right to have an advisor present during the meeting with the instructor.
2. Any student may appeal any instructional or grade issues to the appropriate dean/director within ten (10) College business days after receiving the grade. The student has the right to have an advisor present during the meeting with the appropriate academic dean/director.

Step Two: Appeals Board

1. Should the decision of the appropriate dean/director still not satisfy the student, the student may request an appeal to the Vice-President of Academics and Student Services. Should the decision of the Vice-President of Academics and Student Services not satisfy the student, the student may then request an appeal to the Academic Appeals Board. The Academic Appeals Board request should be submitted to the Dean of Student Services within ten (10) college business days from receipt of the decision of the Vice President of Academics and Student Services. The student must present his/her appeal in writing stating 1) the specific action being appealed and 2) the remedy sought. The student should present this appeal to the Dean of Student Services, who will act as the ombudsperson throughout this process.
2. When the written appeal for an Academic Appeals Board has been received, the Dean of Student Services will notify the Vice-President of Academics and Student Services that a request for an Academic Appeals Board has been received and that Academic Appeal Policy procedures were followed prior to this request.
3. The Academic Appeals Board hearing shall consist of three members from instructional faculty, serving alphabetically-rotating appointments, that are not in the area being appealed (appointed by the Vice-President of Academics and Student Services), one student member and one student services member, who is not the student's primary advisor or was not previously involved in the case (appointed by the Dean of Student Services).  Attendance of five board members shall be required as a quorum.  The selected members of the Academic Appeals Board will be required to attend an organizational/training meeting and shall elect its Chair at the start of the first meeting.

 Hearing(s)

1. The Dean of Student Services will call a meeting of the Academic Appeals Board at a time arranged in consideration of the schedules of the student and the members, with avoidance of conflict with class schedules. The student will be notified of the scheduled time of the meeting in writing at least five (5) College business days prior to the meeting. The Academic Appeals Board Chair may request other students or College staff members who have information relevant to this case to appear at the meeting of the Board. The student or instructor may also make such a request in writing to the Dean of Student Services, and the Chair shall decide if such person(s) (in addition to their advisor[s]) shall be permitted to appear. All meetings of the Academic Appeals Board are closed.
2. The student and the instructor involved may each request the removal of any one member of the Academic Appeals Board from the hearing for legitimate reason. Issues of removal shall be decided by the Academic Appeals Board at the first meeting, and the Dean of Student Services shall coordinate any necessary replacement(s).
3. If the student gives notice and appropriate justification requesting a rescheduling of the meeting, the meeting may be rescheduled once.
4. The student and the instructor may each have one pre-approved advisor present. (Each party has the right to object to a chosen advisor upon just cause, i.e., personal conflict issues. The Academic Appeals Board chair makes the final decision.) The advisor is not permitted to speak or to participate directly in the proceeding before the Academic Appeals Board and is not permitted to examine or cross-examine witnesses.
5. The hearing shall not be public. For all stages of presentation of evidence and argument to the Academic Appeals Board, the Dean of Student Services*, the appellant student's advisor, the student's parents or legal guardian (only if the appellant student is a minor), the involved instructor, and the involved instructor's advisor, shall be present. Admission of any other person shall be at the discretion of the Academic Appeals Board.
6. The hearing will be recorded for possible use during an appeal to the President and/or Board of Trustees. The video will be disposed of/deleted immediately following any last appeal.

*The Dean of Student Services shall act as the facilitator/resource person for the elected Board Chair in order to ensure consistency and fairness in the process.

Academic Appeals Board

1. Only the members of the Academic Appeals Board shall be present during their deliberations. Discussion must remain confidential and only the final decision is to be discussed.
2. All deliberations of the Academic Appeals Board will remain confidential.

Recommendation(s)

1. The Academic Appeals Board may choose to reach its recommendation(s) by secret written ballot. All members have a vote, but if the final vote is taken openly, the Chair shall vote last. A majority decision of those present shall constitute the recommendation to the Dean of Student Services.
2. The Board may recommend upholding the previous academic action, or it may recommend that the previous academic action be overruled in whole or in part. The Chair shall forward the Board's written recommendation and rationale to the Dean of Student Services for action within five (5) College business days. Copies shall also be provided at the same time to the student and the involved instructor.  Decision is binding unless appealed by the student.

 Disposition

1. The Dean of Student Services shall notify the student, the instructor, and the President in writing of the decision made by the Academic Appeals Board within ten (10) College business days of the date of the Board meeting.  
2. When the written decision of the Academic Appeals Board is given to the student and the instructor, the student will be provided with options as to follow-up action she/he may pursue.  All evidence and minutes from the appeals process, including the student's written request, reasons, response, and decision will be kept on file by the Dean of Student Services.  All other copies/documents will be destroyed.

Step Three: President

1. The decision of the Academic Appeals Board may be appealed by the student to the College President within ten (10) College business days after the date of the Academic Appeals Board decision letter.
2. As the final step in the formal procedure, the President will render his decision within ten (10) College business days.

Step Four: Final Appeal-Board of Trustees

1. In accordance with Board Policy 601.01 the Board of Trustees serves as the final appeal for grievances in any matter concerning the College, provided that the student shall have first exhausted all relevant procedures and appeals provided by College policy or procedure.

Dual Credit

Dual Credit is a program that allows eligible high school students to take Sauk courses to earn credit simultaneously toward both a high school diploma and a college degree. The student can fulfill high school graduation requirements while at the same time earn college credit. Dual Credit courses are offered at SVCC, Whiteside Area Career Center, online, and at area high schools. Contact either a high school counselor or SVCC Dual Credit Coordinator at 815-835-6266 or visit svcc.edu/students/dual-credit, for more information. To check the transferability of specific courses, contact Academic Advising at 815-835-6354.

Hybrid Courses

Sauk offers some of its courses in a delivery mode currently termed as hybrid. A hybrid class is defined as one that meets on campus in a traditional face-to-face classroom setting for 50% of the class time and online (asynchronously) for 50% of the class time.

Independent Study/Tutorial

Tutorial courses are offered when a student is unable to register for a needed regularly offered course due to one of the following reasons: medical, course was canceled because of insufficient enrollment, or a student is in his/her last semester and has been unable to register for a course required for graduation.

Independent study courses are specially designed to allow a student to pursue a particular topic or subject, under the guidance of a qualified instructor. The student requesting an independent study course will discuss the project with the instructor who will then prepare an independent study outline. The student will work on his/her own to achieve mastery of the material in the course. Periodic conferences are scheduled with the instructor to ensure that satisfactory progress is made. It is the student's responsibility to discuss the transferability of the course with a receiving institution.

A student wishing to take courses in a tutorial or independent study format may enroll by securing an Application for Tutorial/Independent Study Form and submitting it to the instructor and academic dean for recommendation. All tutorial/independent study applications are approved by the Vice-President of Academics and Student Services.

A student may begin an independent study or tutorial program only after receipt of approval from the Vice-President of Academics and Student Services, who determines the action taken. The instructor will specify the testing, attendance, and other requirements of the class. The regular grading system applies to all independent study or tutorial students. Grades earned through independent study or tutorials have the same effect as those earned through regular classroom instruction.

Live Streaming/Synchronous Courses

These courses meet off campus at regularly-scheduled times, in which instruction is provided virtually. Faculty teach these courses both from on-campus and off-site locations. A computer is required including a webcam.

Online Courses

Sauk offers courses via the Internet. These classes are equivalent to traditionally-delivered classes and offer an alternative to students who prefer to take classes at non-traditional locations and times. SVCC requires students and faculty to have substantive online interaction. Students not actively participating in an online class may be withdrawn or their final grade may be affected. 

Online courses may require proctored exams. Arrangements for proctoring locations, other than the SVCC testing center can be made for students living out of district by approval of the instructor. Refer to the SVCC Testing Center at svcc.edu/departments/testing-center/off-site-testing.html for more information. Any fees related to proctoring of off-site testing are the responsibility of the student. Some courses may require off-site proctoring through use of webcam and online technologies. Refer to the current online class schedule for sections that require proctored exams, computer access, or webcam usage.

Sauk Valley Community College is a member of Illinois Community College Online (ILCCO) www.ilcco.net, a consortium created to share online courses across the State. This allows Sauk students a wider array of online course offerings. Please contact Academic Advising for more details at 815-835-6354.

Study Abroad

Sauk offers semester and summer study abroad programs for Sauk college credit through the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP). Program countries may include Austria, Cambodia, China, Costa Rica, England, France, India, Ireland, and Spain. The study abroad program offers students an opportunity to explore the world, travel, and receive college credit. For more information about the program, specific countries, or scholarship opportunities, contact Professor Paul R. Edleman at paul.edleman@svcc.edu or 815-835-6265.

College Credits Earned at Other Institutions

Sauk Valley Community College will accept credits earned at other regionally accredited institutions of higher learning if the institutions' grading symbols are "A," "B," or "C" in credit given by American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO). College level transfer grades are computed in the students' cumulative GPA.  

Credit successfully completed will be accepted:

• On a course-for-course basis, or
• As a division elective, or
• As a general elective, or
• As an IAI equivalent elective.

Students requesting transfer of "D" or "P" grades must see an academic advisor for consideration. If approved, "P" grades are not computed in the cumulative GPA.  Program completion limits the number of credits earned with a grade of "P".

Some programs do not accept transfer credit. Refer to individual program requirements for more information.

Credit for Prior Learning

Credit for prior learning can be awarded only after the assessment of prior learning experiences and only for documented learning that demonstrates achievement of all terminal objectives for a specific course.

Students enrolled at SVCC may earn credits based on prior learning in the following ways:

1. Armed service experience
2. Evaluation
3. Proficiency examination
4. College Level Examination Program (CLEP) in general and subject examinations
5. DANTES examinations
6. The Advanced Placement Examination Program
7. Credit by Certification, License or Registry
8. The International Baccalaureate Program 
9. State Seal of Biliteracy

Credit for prior learning does not count toward the residency requirement for a certificate or degree at SVCC except for credits earned by proficiency examination. A maximum of 30 credits gained through prior experience can be used toward a degree at SVCC; up to 50 percent of the credits earned through prior experience may be applied toward a certificate at SVCC. Students should be aware that acceptance of credit for prior experience varies among transfer institutions.

1. Armed Service Experience
   Credit toward graduation may be granted a veteran for certain armed service experience. All claims for experience, including armed service schooling, must be documented. All veterans must submit a copy of form DD 214 or separation record. In the case of special schooling claims, a certificate of completion for the appropriate training must be presented to Admissions and Records for credit evaluation. The College will accept armed service experiences toward college credit as recommended by the Commission on Accreditation of Service Experience of the American Council of Education.
    
   1. All USAFI courses numbered 400 599 are accepted for college credit if a passing grade was obtained. A grade of "P" is assigned to these credits.
   2. The College accepts credits earned through various Armed Forces Education experiences as recommended by  A Guide to Evaluation of Educational Experiences  in the Armed Services.
   3. A veteran may receive Sauk Valley Community College physical education credit at the rate of one semester hour for one year of active duty served in the armed services up to a maximum of four semester hours.
       
2. Evaluation
   Credit by Evaluation certifies knowledge gained through work experience, technical or vocational training, and other learning experiences. The first step for such an evaluation should begin in the office of the Vice-President of Academics and Student Services. Appropriate work experience in which a body of knowledge is parallel to SVCC courses will be evaluated and credit will be given when approved by the Vice-President of Academics and Student Services. A maximum of 15 semester hours may be earned through credit by evaluation. If the student is allowed credit by evaluation, he/she will be required to pay a fee for the number of semester hours requested.
    
3. Proficiency Examination
   Proficiency examinations may be taken in certain courses or programs upon petition by the student. These examinations may be taken only with the approval of the Vice-President of Academics and Student Services. They are open to those students that, in the judgment of the above listed people, meet the requirements through previous course work, experience, or a combination of both. Applications for proficiency examinations are available in the office of the appropriate dean or Vice-President of Academics and Student Services.
   
   If the student passes a proficiency examination, he/she will be given credit, which will be shown on the record as "Credit by Proficiency." A grade of "Z" will be recorded and the credits will not figure in the GPA. A maximum of 15 semester hours may be earned through proficiency examinations.
   
   The following restrictions apply to proficiency examinations:
    
   1. They may not be taken to raise a grade, remove a failure, or replace an incomplete;
   2. They may not be taken before the student is admitted to SVCC;
   3. They may not be taken more than once in a given course;
   4. They may not be taken in a course that is below the level of previous course work that the student has completed; and
   5. They may not be taken in a course which the student has previously audited or in which he/she has enrolled.
      
      Exceptions to these policies may be made only upon approval by the Vice-President of Academics and Student Services.
       
4. Credits Earned by College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
   Sauk Valley Community College will accept credits earned by CLEP to a maximum of 30 semester hours, as recommended by the American Council on Education. Guidelines established by the American Council on Education will be considered in granting credits by CLEP.
   
   The College follows Illinois Community College Board guidelines in granting credit for general examinations. For a complete list, go to  svcc.edu/admissions, proceed to Records and then Transfer Credit to Sauk. Credit for subject matter examinations is granted in accordance with guidelines of the American Council on Education. Students may not use CLEP credits for purposes of completing the 16-semester hour residency policy at SVCC. CLEP credits will not affect a student's GPA. Students should consult with Academic Advising prior to testing to ensure compatibility of the CLEP examination with SVCC courses. A fee must be paid prior to testing. For further information call the Testing Center, 815-835-6530.
    
5. Credit Earned through the DANTES Program
   Sauk Valley Community College accepts credits earned through the DANTES program to a maximum of 30 semester hours as recommended by the American Council on Education. Guidelines established by the American Council on Education will be considered in granting credits through the DANTES program. Students may not use DANTES credits for purposes of completing the 16-semester hour residency policy at SVCC. DANTES credits will not affect a student's GPA. Students should consult with the Advising Department prior to testing to ensure compatibility of the DANTES examination with SVCC courses. A fee per exam must be paid prior to testing. For further information call the Testing Center, 815-835-6530.
    
6. Credit Earned through the Advanced Placement Program
   Sauk Valley Community College accepts Advanced Placement (AP) for college credit through tests administered from the College Entrance Examination Board, Advanced Program. Credit may be granted to students who have participated in the Advanced Placement Program in their high schools. HB3428 provides that a student who takes a College Board Advanced Placement examination and receives a score or 3 or higher on the examination is entitled to receive postsecondary level course credit at a public institution of higher education. For a complete list, go to svcc.edu/admissions, proceed to Records, and then AP score credit. Students who have taken Advanced Placement Program examinations through their high school should request that the scores be sent to Admissions and Records at SVCC. An academic advising appointment should be made to review scores and the type of credit awarded. Call 815-835-6354 to make an appointment.
    
7. Credit by Certification, License, or Registry
   Sauk Valley Community College provides credit for currently enrolled students that have successfully completed state and/or national certification, licensing, and registry examinations. The credit must be applied in a program in which the student is enrolled. The college currently provides credit recognition in the following disciplines:
   • Industrial/Technical (IND/HRS)
   • Nursing (LPN)
   • Radiography (RAD)
   
   To request credit recognition for a state or national exam passage, contact the academic dean or Vice-President of Academics and Student Services responsible for the program discipline in which the student is enrolled and credit is requested. 

Credit for the Child Development Associate (CDA)
Per the Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity (ECACE), 6 credit hours are to be awarded to those that have successfully attained the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. It is the recommendation by the faculty and the administration to award the following credit to students with an active Preschool or Infant/Toddler CDA:

• ECE 115 Introduction to Early Childhood Education (3 credit hours)
• ECE 228 Child Health, Nutrition and Safety (3 credit hours)
  

  Exceptions to awarding credit include the following:

• Credit for the CDA has already been awarded at another institution or awarded for another CDA specialization (e.g. preschool, infant toddler, family child care). Institutions are not expected to award separate credit for multiple CDAs.

• The student has already completed an Associate of Applied Science degree in early childhood or a Gateways Level 2 or higher (though the 4-year would accept credit that had been awarded for CDA). If a student already has an Associate of Arts degree, the student's CDA will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

• The CDA is expired, in which case, credit will be determined on a case-by-case basis by the individual enrolling institution.

8. The International Baccalaureate Program
The International Baccalaureate Program provides secondary school students the opportunity to prepare for college-level coursework and earn college credit while in high school through the successful completion of IB examinations. Sauk Valley Community College accepts a specified range of IB scores as equivalencies for selected college courses. Students should submit IB scores to Admissions & Records for credit/placement evaluation. For a complete list, go to svcc.edu/admissions, proceed to Records, and then Transfer Credit to Sauk.

9. State Seal of Biliteracy
Sauk Valley Community College accepts the State Seal of Biliteracy as equivalent to two (2) years of foreign language coursework taken during high school if a student's high school transcript indicates the student has received the State Seal of Biliteracy. Specific scores are located on the college's website http://svcc.edu/state-biliteracyat 

SVCC has established an informal and formal process for reporting a concern or addressing a complaint on campus. Refer to https://www.svcc.edu/about/procedures/complaint-procedure-form.html

Articulation

Transfer to Other Institutions

Credit in college-level courses earned at SVCC may be transferred to other institutions of higher education, academic advisors will assist students in planning appropriate transfer programs. It remains the responsibility of the student to select his/her transfer institution and to follow the requirements for transfer to that institution.  The SVCC catalog provides suggested program guides for select transfer majors. Transfer guides/agreements to specific institutions are located on the SVCC website at svcc.edu/transfer.

MyCreditsTransfer/Transferology

MyCreditsTransfer is a statewide initiative designed to facilitate transfer within Illinois using the nationally available tool, Transferology™. Within Transferology™ find the courses that transfer between institutions, degree requirements your courses satisfy and different majors that institutions offer. For more information, visit transferready.org or https://www.transferology.com/state/il?all

Illinois Articulation Initiative

Sauk Valley Community College is a participant in the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI), a statewide agreement that allows transfer of the completed Illinois General Education Core Curriculum between participating institutions.  This agreement is in effect for students entering an associate or baccalaureate degree-granting institution as a first-time freshman in summer 1998 and thereafter.  Application of credit completed prior to the summer of 1998 is each institution's decision. SVCC will use credits completed prior to 1998 towards the GECC. However, some institutions may choose not to include courses taken prior to the summer of 1998 within the general education core curriculum. Acceptance of evaluated transfer credit outside of IAI may be applicable to meet Illinois GECC and transfer degree requirements at SVCC.  Some receiving institutions may choose to re-evaluate these courses.  The General Education Core Curriculum is outlined at the IAI web site at www.itransfer.org.

Catalog for Graduation

A student has six years from the date of initial enrollment to fulfill the graduation requirements outlined in the College catalog in effect at the time of his/her first enrollment. A student may choose to meet the graduation requirement stated in the catalog in effect at the time of his/her initial enrollment or any subsequent valid catalog during the six-year period. If a student has not fulfilled the requirements within the six-year period, he or she is subject to the requirements in effect at the time of graduation. The student must remain consecutively enrolled during this period. A break in consecutive enrollment occurs when a student is not enrolled at college for a period of two or more years. If a student is unable to complete his/her requirements within six years, an appeal to use a different catalog may be made to the appropriate academic dean or the Vice-President of Academics and Student Services. When an enrollment break occurs, the student is subject to the degree requirements in the catalog in effect at the time of re-enrollment.

Students may be required to follow degree requirements outlined in later catalogs when certificates, degree programs, or courses have been extensively modified from previous catalogs.

Graduation requirements

The College reserves the right to administratively award degrees/certificates upon completion of any program.

Degree Programs

To be eligible for the associate in arts, associate in science, associate in liberal studies, associate in engineering science, associate in fine arts, or associate in applied science degree at SVCC, a student must fulfill the following requirements:

1. Satisfy all admissions requirements;
2. Complete a minimum of 16 semester hours at SVCC toward a degree; complete 16 hours in the major field for A.A.S. degree;
3. Complete no fewer than the required semester hours in a prescribed program of study;
4. Achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00;
5. Fulfill all financial obligations to the College;
6. File an "Intent to Graduate" form with Admissions and Records. Deadline to file this form is midterm week of the semester which the student intends to graduate;
7. If the student wishes to participate in the commencement ceremony, he/she must pay a commencement fee by a designated date of the graduation year.

To be eligible for a second associate degree a student must complete, in addition to the above requirements:

1. All course requirements necessary for the second degree, and
2. A minimum of 16 semester hours at SVCC in addition to those credits applying to the initial degree.

Certificate Programs

To be eligible for a certificate, a student must fulfill the following requirements:

1. Satisfy all admission requirements;
2. Complete the prescribed program of study;
3. For certificates of 30 hours or more:
   complete a minimum of 16 semester hours toward the certificate at SVCC;
4. For certificates of fewer than 30 hours:
   complete a minimum of one-half of the total credit hours toward the certificate at SVCC;
5. Achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00;
6. File an "Intent To Graduate" form with Admissions and Records for the program from which the student intends to graduate. Deadline to file is the end of the fourth week of the fall or spring semester or the second week of the summer semester in which the student intends to graduate.
7. If the student wishes to participate in the commencement ceremony, he/she must pay a commencement fee by a designated date of the graduation year.

GECC Credential

SVCC offers a credential for completion of the GECC (General Education Core Curriculum.) This General Education Core Curriculum credential indicates the satisfactory completion of GECC course requirements and will satisfy the lower-division general education requirements at the participating Illinois college or university to which they transfer. The GECC courses embedded within the credential will transfer to participating Illinois institutions of higher education as part of a transferable degree. The GECC credential is not a workforce certificate nor an industry-recognized credential.

Reverse Transfer of Credit

Former Sauk Valley Community College students who have also completed coursework at an Illinois public university may be eligible to use prescribed coursework toward the completion of an associate degree from Sauk Valley Community College. For more information about the process and requirements, visit svcc.edu/admissions or contact Admissions & Records at 815-835-6354.

Graduation Procedures

Intent to Graduate

Degree and certificate-seeking students must apply for graduation at the beginning of the semester in which they will fulfill their graduation requirements. It is recommended that the student apply for graduation the semester prior to graduation to verify that all requirements are met or are in progress. Proper notification of intent to graduate must be on file in Admissions & Records by mid-term of the fall, spring or summer semester in which students intend to complete their award. The College reserves the right to administratively award degrees/certificates upon completion of any program.

Commencement

A College-wide commencement is held once each year in May. Students completing degree and certificate graduation requirements at the end of the fall or spring terms and those students who will complete their requirements at the end of the summer term following commencement, are invited and encouraged to participate in the spring commencement ceremony. All participants in the May commencement ceremony should have an "Intent to Graduate" form on file in Admissions and Records by the mid-term of the spring semester prior to commencement. A non-refundable fee is required by a designated date of the year of graduation to participate in the commencement ceremony. This fee entitles the student to participate in the commencement ceremony, including cap and gown, graduation tassel, and diploma cover.

Sauk Valley Community College is committed to providing and maintaining an environment for faculty, staff, and students that is drug-free, healthy, safe, and secure. SVCC prohibits the unlawful possession, distribution, dispensing, manufacture, possession, or use of illicit controlled substances and alcohol by students, employees, and visitors on its owned and controlled properties, at college-sponsored activities, and in College vehicles. The college actively works to maintain compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 and has developed and implements policies, programs, and procedures to that end.

Please note that, though the implementation of the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act (410 IL ILCS 705/) has decriminalized the possession and use of cannabis in certain specific circumstances, SVCC remains cannabis free. SVCC receives federal funding and therefore complies with federal regulations. Possessing, selling, or using cannabis in any form at any SVCC location or event or in college vehicles is not permitted. Furthermore, no legal provision currently exists to provide qualified individuals with a disability accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act for medical marijuana possession or usage, based on the current federal classification of marijuana. 

Non-Discrimination in Employment and Student Relations

Sauk Valley Community College is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to an effective policy of non-discrimination and equal opportunity in all employee and student relations. Except to the extent and subject to the exemptions permitted by law, no qualified employee or student shall be excluded from employment or educational opportunity, be denied benefits, or be subjected to discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation (as that term is defined in the Illinois Human Rights Act), marital status, handicap, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service classified as Re-3 or the equivalent thereof. When special requests are made from persons with disabilities during the hiring process, every effort will be made to accommodate such requests. Any individual who has questions or needs advice concerning matters about discrimination should contact the Equal Opportunity Officer, 815-835-6291.

Violations of this policy on the basis of sex are also governed by the Sexual Misconduct Procedures.

Sexual Harassment Policy

Applicable Statute: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

The College shall provide its employees and students an educational and employment environment free from unwelcome sexual advances by employees of the College, free from requests for sexual favors by employees of the College and free from other verbal or physical conduct by employees constituting sexual harassment as herein defined and as is otherwise prohibited by state or federal law.

The College will develop, make publicly available, and review and update at least annually a set of Sexual Misconduct Procedures in compliance with Title VII and other applicable statutes.

Sex Discrimination and Sexual Misconduct

Sauk Valley Community College is committed to fostering a safe, productive learning environment and does not discriminate on the basis of sex in any of its educational programs or activities. Title IX and College Policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender or sex. Sexual misconduct including sex-based harassment, domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, exploitation, and stalking are prohibited acts. All forms of sexual misconduct or other identified acts of prohibited conduct under the College’s policy is regarded as serious, and violations can result in discipline, including possibility of separation from the College. In accordance with Title IX and Sexual Misconduct/Discrimination policy, Sauk Valley Community College will develop procedures that:

• Comply with the most recent State and Federal Regulations pertaining to Sexual Misconduct in Higher Education
• Highlight the College’s commitment to address sexual misconduct and define prohibited conduct.
• Describe the reporting, investigation, and grievance procedures for allegations of sexual misconduct.
• Define the roles of various individuals at Sauk Valley Community College involved in the investigation and adjudication of reported instances of sexual misconduct.
• Outline the resources available to all parties in reported sexual misconduct cases.
• Provide appropriate training to all employees, students and others involved in sexual misconduct cases.

Sexual Misconduct/Title IX Incident Reporting Form  svcc.edu/about/procedures/sexual-misconduct/reporting-form.html

Affirmative Action

Sauk Valley Community College shall utilize Affirmative Action as required by law. The College has adopted an Affirmative Action Plan. Copies of this document are available in the office of Human Resources. The Sauk Valley Community College Affirmative Action Plan contains a grievance procedure that any employee, employment applicant, student, or student applicant may obtain by contacting the Director of Human Resources.

College Resource Officers

svcc.edu/about/college-resource-personnel.html

 

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No Discriminación en Relaciones Laborales y Estudiantiles

Sauk Valley Community College es un empleador que promueve igualdad de oportunidad, comprometido a una política efectiva de no discriminación y de igualdad de oportunidad en todas las relaciones de empleado y estudiante.  Ningún empleado ni estudiante calificado será excluido de la oportunidad de empleo ni de la oportunidad educativa, ni se le negarán beneficios, o estará expuesto a discriminación por su raza, color, religión, origen nacional, ascendencia, edad, sexo, orientación sexual (como el término se define en la Declaración de los Derechos Humanos de Illinois), por estado civil, discapacidad, posición militar o por descarga desfavorable del servicio militar clasificado como Re-3 o el equivalente del mismo, excepto a la extensión y sujeto a las exenciones permitidas por la ley. Cuando se realicen solicitudes especiales de personas con discapacidad durante el proceso de contratación, se harán todos los esfuerzos posibles para acomodar dichas solicitudes. Cualquier estudiante con preguntas o que necesite asesoramiento sobre cuestiones relacionadas con la discriminación debe comunicarse con el Oficial de la Igualdad de Oportunidad, 815-835-6291.

Las violaciones a esta política basada en el sexo también están gobernadas por los Procedimientos de Conducta Sexual Inapropiada.

Política de Acoso Sexual

Estatuto Aplicable: Título VII de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964

El Colegio proporcionará a sus empleados y estudiantes un ambiente educativo y laboral libre de insinuaciones sexuales no deseadas por parte de los empleados del Colegio, libre de solicitudes de favores sexuales por parte de los empleados del Colegio y libre de cualquier otra conducta de forma verbal o física por los empleados que constituya acoso sexual como se define en este documento y como es prohibido por la ley estatal o federal.

El Colegio desarrollará, pondrá a disposición del público y revisará y actualizará al menos una vez al año un conjunto de Procedimientos de Conducta Sexual Inapropiada en conformidad con el Título VII y otros estatutos aplicables.

Discriminación Sexual y Mala Conducta Sexual

Sauk Valley Community College está comprometido en fomentar un ambiente de aprendizaje seguro y productivo y no discrimina por motivos de sexo en ninguno de sus programas educativos o actividades. El Título IX y la Política del Colegio prohíben la discriminación por motivos de género o sexo. Conducta sexual inapropiada, incluyendo acoso sexual, violencia doméstica y de pareja, asalto sexual, explotación y el acecho son actos prohibidos. Todas las formas de conducta sexual inapropiada u otros actos identificados de conducta prohibida según la política del Colegio se consideran graves, y las infracciones pueden resultar en medidas disciplinarias, incluyendo la posibilidad de separación del colegio. De acuerdo con el Título IX y la política de Conducta Sexual Inapropiada/Discriminación, Sauk Valley Community College desarrollará procedimientos que:

• Cumplan con las regulaciones estatales y federales más recientes relacionadas con Mala Conducta Sexual en la Educación Superior.
• Destaquen el compromiso del Colegio de abordar la conducta sexual inapropiada y definan la conducta prohibida.
• Describan los procedimientos de denuncia, investigación y quejas para las alegaciones de conducta sexual inapropiada.
• Definan los roles de varias personas en Sauk Valley Community College involucradas en la investigación y adjudicación de casos denunciados de conducta sexual inapropiada.
• Describan los recursos disponibles para todas las partes involucradas en los reportes de incidentes de conducta sexual inapropiada.
• Provean capacitación adecuada a todos los empleados, estudiantes y otras personas involucradas en casos de conducta sexual inapropiada.

Formulario para Reportar Incidentes de Conducta Sexual Inapropiada / Título IX

svcc.edu/about/procedures/sexual-misconduct/reporting-form.html

Acción Afirmativa

Sauk Valley Community College utilizará la Acción Afirmativa como lo requiere la ley. El Colegio ha adoptado un Plan de Acción Afirmativa. Copias de este documento están disponibles en la oficina de Recursos Humanos. El Plan de Acción Afirmativa de Sauk Valley Community College contiene un procedimiento de quejas que cualquier empleado, solicitante de empleo, estudiante o estudiante solicitante puede obtener comunicándose con el Director de Recursos Humanos.

Oficiales de Recursos del Colegio

svcc.edu/about/college-resource-personnel.html

The College prides itself on providing a caring, friendly atmosphere conducive to the learning process. A student experiencing academic difficulties is encouraged to contact his or her instructor to determine what additional assistance, if any, can be provided. Full-time college faculty maintain convenient office hours to provide interactive opportunities for students to discuss class work. Information about contacting all faculty, including adjunct faculty, can be attained by visiting svcc.edu/directory or reviewing a course syllabus.