College Readiness Validation (ADM 100-008)

1.0 Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline the admission criteria and processes for different types of prospective students based on their academic readiness. This policy aims to provide clear guidelines for evaluating the college readiness of traditional and non-traditional students, as well as undergraduate transfer students, ensuring equitable and informed admission decisions. By establishing these criteria, the policy seeks to support students' successful transition into collegiate studies by recognizing their academic achievements and potential.

2.0 Definitions

FASTRACK Program- A preparatory program designed to help students meet college readiness standards in core subjects such as Math and English.

Non-Traditional First-Time Students- Students who are applying to college for the first time and have been out of high school for six or more years.

Post-Traditional First-Time Students- Students who are applying to college more than five years after graduating from high school.

Traditional First-Year Students- Students who are applying to college directly after graduating from high school or within five years of high school graduation.

3.0 Scope

This policy applies to all prospective students seeking admission to Baker College, including traditional first-year students, post-traditional first-time students, non-traditional first-time students, and undergraduate transfer students. The policy delineates the criteria for admissions based on high school GPA, academic trends, and college coursework performance. It does not cover admissions criteria for graduate programs or non-degree seeking students.

4.0 Policy Statement

Traditional First-Year Students and Post-Traditional First-Time Students

Admission Based on High School GPA

• Prospective students should submit a partial unofficial high school transcript after their junior year.
• If the cumulative GPA is 2.5/4.0 or higher, admission is offered pending fulfillment of other requirements.
• If the GPA is below 2.5 but shows an upward trend in core subjects, students may be considered for admission.
  • Submit a screenshot of the updated transcript after the first grading period.
  • The Admissions Advisor or Enrollment Specialist assesses the upward trend and recommends admission if appropriate.
  • If GPA improvement is due to electives, students may be advised to complete foundational coursework before reapplying.

Admission Denial

• Students with a GPA below 2.5 and no upward trend may be denied admission.

Non-Traditional First-Time Students

Application Requirements

• Provide a final official high school transcript for review.
• If the GPA is 2.5/4.0 or higher, admission is offered pending other requirements.

Assessment of Academic Trend

• For GPAs below 2.5, evaluate academic performance trends, with emphasis on core subjects like Math, English, Science, and Social Studies.
• Review evidence of competence gained through employment or training. Assess skills developed through consistent employment, including letters of recommendation, relevant certifications, job-related coursework, or a resume highlighting increasing responsibilities. This evidence can demonstrate competency in core areas such as Math and English and supplement academic qualifications.

FASTRACK Coursework

• Non-traditional students with a GPA below 2.5 who do not demonstrate upward academic performance trends or competence gained through employment are required to complete FASTRACK coursework in core subjects before starting collegiate studies at Baker College.

Undergraduate Transfer Students

Admission Criteria

• If the student has a high school diploma or GED and completed at least 12 college credits with a GPA of 2.0 or higher, their application is reviewed.
• If the college GPA is below 2.0, assess academic performance and trajectory, considering high school GPA.
• Review evidence of competence gained through employment or training. Assess skills developed through consistent employment, including letters of recommendation, relevant certifications, job-related coursework, or a resume highlighting increasing responsibilities. This evidence can demonstrate competency in core areas such as Math and English and supplement academic qualifications.

Special Considerations

• Provide a detailed recommendation to the Directors of Admissions if GPA falls below 2.0.
• Emphasize available support services if admitted.

5.0 Procedures

Traditional and Post-Traditional Students

• Collect and review unofficial high school transcripts.
• Assess academic trends and recommend admission as appropriate.
• Notify students of admissions status and advise on further actions if necessary.

Non-Traditional Students

• Review final official high school transcripts and additional evidence of competence.
• Recommend admission or denial based on academic performance and supplemental evidence.
• Require completion of FASTRACK coursework before starting collegiate studies.

Undergraduate Transfer Students

• Evaluate high school/GED and college transcripts.
• Make admission recommendations based on GPA and academic performance.
• Inform students of admission and available support services.

6.0 Responsibilities

Director of Admissions

• Oversee the implementation and adherence to the admissions policy.
• Review recommendations for admission and make final decisions based on policy guidelines.
• Ensure accurate communication of admissions decisions to prospective students.
• Review and approve admission recommendations based on policy criteria.
• Ensure consistency and fairness in the admissions decision-making process.

Admissions Advisor / Enrollment Specialist

• Collect and assess academic transcripts and supplemental documentation.
• Recommend admissions decisions based on the student's academic performance and potential.
• Notify students of their admissions status and provide guidance on additional requirements.

7.0 Citations & Related Information

None