New Student Frequently Asked Questions
Academics - Freshman Year
What is the Center for Academic Success program?
This program is designed to assist first-year college students in clarifying their
academic and career goals. Furthermore, the program also helps you as students master
two other important tasks for college success: adjusting to life on a college campus
and developing a social network. CAS uses three program elements to assist with these
tasks. These elements are the mentor/academic advisor, the peer advisor and the University
Life course.
What is a Freshman Mentor?
The Mentor is a professional advisor who serves as a professor in the University Life
course, as a resource for many questions about the curriculum, and as a counselor
to help freshmen plan their course of study. The Mentor helps students clarify personal,
academic and career goals. Together, the Mentor and the student examine these goals
and use them to shape an academic plan and semester coursework.
What is a Peer Advisor?
Seton Hall freshmen are assigned peer advisors to make the transition to college life
as smooth and enjoyable as possible. These peer advisors are carefully chosen; they
are successful and personable undergraduates who assist freshmen to:
- meet other students,
- find new ways to anticipate and solve typical first year problems,
- gather information about university-sponsored academic and social activities,
- become acquainted with the university.
What is the University Life course?
The course aims to provide students with academic and personal success; integrate
computer technology into academic instruction; familiarize students with University
resources and opportunities; improve reading, writing, and analytical skills and support
the University mission of "forming students to be servant leaders in a global society."
University Life is a graded, one-credit course required for graduation.
I was always a strong high school student, but I know college is different. What is
some general advice for being successful here at Seton Hall University?
We always emphasize these 3 things: 1) Students are expected to read their Seton Hall
emails at least 4 times a day and respond in a timely manner to all correspondences
from their instructors, mentors, university administration, etc. 2) Students are responsible
for reading their Early Warning Alert emails (Starfish) and consulting with the professor
who sent them and their mentor to determine a course of action. 3) Students are expected
to attend all classes on time as scheduled.
Are there tutoring services available?
Yes! Tutoring is available at the Tutors in Residence program. The Academic Resource Center also offers a number of workshops and programs to assist
students with time management, effective study techniques, and more. Participating
in tutoring does not guarantee a passing grade. Students must perform to the instructor's
standards in all areas of the course and meet all requirements stated on the syllabus.
How do I know what classes to take?
Each college or school, and each major within that college or school, has prescribed
courses that are required to complete the major and earn a degree. These are detailed
for each major in the University Catalog.
You will be expected to follow the academic requirements of your major as written in the Undergraduate Catalogue and provided by your mentor; refusal to follow such advisement may jeopardize satisfactory academic progress.
Your mentor will also assist you in selecting courses each semester. You can track your progress to your degree by completing the "Degree Audit" available under the Academic tab in PirateNet.
Residence Life
Is housing guaranteed?
Housing is only secured for ;incoming, first year students who pay their deposit by
May 1st.
How are roommates assigned?
First year students who pay their deposit by May 1st may select their roommate, provided
the roommate also paid the deposit by May 1st.More information is available here »
What are the rooms like?
Each room includes a bed (Twin XL), a desk, desk chair, dresser and a wardrobe. 360 degree room tours can be found here.
What if I want to change my room or roommate?
The Department of Residence Life wants all students to feel comfortable in their home
at the Hall. Residence Life understands that living away from home is a transition
and we are here to support students. When there are disagreements between roommates,
Residence Life does encourage residents to talk to each other and utilize our mediation
process. In the first two weeks after moving into their room, residents are asked
to fill out a roommate agreement that both residents should be comfortable living
with. This is completed with the resident assistant. There is a room change period,
that typically occurs the week after add/drop each semester and lasts for one month.
Students will need to fill out a form located in their eRez Life profile to initiate
the process.
What should I pack?
We have made packing easy for you!Check out our what to bring and what not to bring lists »
What about safety in the residence halls?
The residence halls are equipped with several safety features. All students must use
their Seton Hall University issued ID card to gain access to their residence hall.
Guests must be accompanied by their student host at all times. We have installed a
comprehensive system for fire safety and suppression..
For more information about Residence Life programs, staff support, costs, , and much
more, please visit here »
Student Safety
Your safety is our top priority. The University provides many services to students to support and educate them about their personal and property safety. We encourage you to be familiar with these programs all available through the Public Safety website. There you will find videos, reports, and multiple resources just for you.
What about when I go off campus?
We want you to be safe on and off campus. That is why we have two key transportation
services available for students - SHU Fly is a shuttle that runs a loop from campus and through the South Orange Village, from
early in the morning until after the last train from NYC arrives in South Orange.
Safe Ride supplements SHU Fly by providing transportation to locations in the immediate
vicinity that are not on the SHU Fly route. Safe Ride is available from 5pm - 3am.
There is no cost to students for either service, but they do need to provide their
ID. Detailed information about both services, including schedules and maps, can be
found at -
How do I get notified about emergencies?
The University utilizes a mass notification system, Pirate Alert, which sends alerts
via landline, cell phone, text message and email. All students are enrolled in Pirate
Alert and can manage their notification preferences through their PirateNet account.
The University also has an emergency siren and fire alarm systems that are used when
appropriate. More information on Pirate Alert and emergency preparedness.
Campus Activities and Clubs
What is there to do on campus?
With over 120 active student clubs and organizations, and major events planned by
a student programming board, students can easily find ways to get involved and have
fun. Full list of all student clubs and organizations.
The Student Activities Board plans major events for students throughout the year. These include concerts, carnivals, and major speakers. We also take advantage of our great location and plan trips to Broadway shows, major sporting events, and concerts at local arenas.
How can I get involved?
First things first, attend the Involvement Fair, held the first week of classes each
semester. At the Involvement Fair you can meet representatives for all the different
clubs and organizations, find out more of what they offer, and choose to join or just
get more information. Beyond that, you can always stop by the Student Life office
(located in the University Center) to find out more or to get connected.
Career Planning and Services
What does The Career Center do for freshmen during the first semester?
In addition to individualized counseling, The Career Center offers a wide variety
of programs to assist students with decisions about selecting an academic major, discovering
their calling, exploring career options and preparing for seeking internships (including
creating a professional resume!). Part-time and summer job search assistance is also
available. Encourage your student to meet with a career adviser to get started!
Does Seton Hall have an Internship Program?
Yes. Internships play an important role in developing students' professional skills
and confidence, in addition to learning more about a chosen career field. Highlights
and facts about internships and career outcomes.
Does participation in career-based experiential education affect future career marketability?
Absolutely! In a recent survey of graduating seniors, those who had participated in
career-based experiential education programs (especially internships) were more likely
to have been offered a full-time position by graduation than those who had not participated
in career-based experiences.
What types of employers hire Seton Hall interns?
The Career Center has established longstanding partnerships with employers in a variety
of sectors. Sample listing of internships and employers.
What additional opportunities do students have to explore career interests?
The Career Center offers a Pirate Mentoring group that connects Seton Hall alumni
with students to share information and provide career guidance and connections to
potential internships. Pirate Mentors serve as industry experts and role models on
career issues in their respective fields and are excellent networking resources. In
addition to individual mentoring, Pirate Mentors come to campus each semester to meet
with students at career fairs and other career events.
Learn more about the extensive programs and services offered by the Career Center.
Campus Ministry
What opportunities are there for me to grow in my faith at Seton Hall?
As a Catholic University, Seton Hall has a large and active Department of Campus Ministry.
Campus Ministry offers a variety programs to meet students where they are at and to
help them develop their faith. In addition to the regular liturgical schedule of Masses,
Reconciliation, and Adoration, students will have the opportunity to learn and develop
their faith through small group discussion series, Bible studies, retreats, spiritual
hikes, and many other offerings. A student who has not completed their Sacraments
may also have the opportunity to complete them while on campus.
What else is offered?
Campus Ministry also engages with students through our different ministries present
on campus. These include FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students), Saint
Paul's Outreach, the Community of St. John, and DOVE (Division of Volunteer Efforts)
- see below for more information. Many of our outreaches are staffed with recent graduates
who have decided to share the incredible gift of faith they had while in college.
The University is also fortunate to have a large number of Priests who live on campus,
some in the residence halls with our students. They are active in supporting the spiritual
lives of students.
I am not Catholic. What is available to support me?
Campus Ministry activities are open to all students of all faiths. In addition, the
staff will gladly connect a student to a local congregation of their faith. Find out
more about the rich offerings of Campus Ministry.
What is DOVE?
DOVE is the Division Of Volunteer Efforts offered by Campus Ministry. Through DOVE
and its many programs, Seton Hall demonstrates its commitment to raising awareness
of social injustice through direct involvement in serving others.
What opportunities are there for community service?
We work with more than ten local agencies six days a week, giving students a variety
of ways to be involved. Students also have the opportunity to join international service
trips to El Salvador and Haiti. There are special programs held throughout the year
to raise awareness and address issues of hunger, poverty, and serving those less fortunate.
Finally, many clubs and organizations have philanthropy and service as part of their
mission.
Are students required to do community service?
Yes, all students complete at least ten (10) hours of community service as part of
their University Life class.
More information about the many services and programs offered through DOVE.
Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS)
What counseling services are available on campus?
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides short-term individual counseling,
group counseling, crisis intervention, consultation, and referral services. Services
obtained by students are confidential and information cannot be disclosed to anyone,
including parents, without written permission from the student. Students may call
to set up an appointment for counseling at (973) 761-9500. If a student is in a crisis,
they may call or walk-in and ask to meet with a counselor immediately. Offices are
located on the second floor of Mooney Hall, room 27 and are open Monday through Friday,
9am to 5pm. Counselors are available after business hours and on weekends for emergency
phone consultation and crisis intervention and can be accessed by calling (973) 761-9500.
Disability Support Services
Must I inform Seton Hall that I have a disability?
No. Disclosure of a disability is voluntary. However, if you want Seton Hall to provide
an academic adjustment, a student must identify him/herself as having a disability
by following established procedures through the office of Disability Support Services.
Likewise, the student should let the University know about the disability ahead of
time if he/she wants to ensure that he/she is assigned to accessible facilities.
How does Seton Hall determine what academic adjustments are appropriate for a student?
Once a student has identified him/herself as having a disability, requested an academic
adjustment and provided appropriate documentation upon request, DSS staff will meet
to discuss with the student what academic adjustments are appropriate in light of
individual needs and the nature of the academic or other program. Students with disabilities
possess unique knowledge of their individual disabilities and should be prepared to
discuss the functional challenges they face and, if applicable, what has or has not
worked for them in the past. DSS staff are prepared to describe the barriers a student
may face in individual classes that may affect full participation, as well as discuss
academic adjustments that might enable the student to overcome those barriers.
Find more information about the scope of services provided, the documentation needed for accommodations, and more resources here.
Employment on Campus for Students
How can I get a job on campus?
Campus jobs are like any other job - students must apply, interview, and be selected.
I was awarded Federal Work Study on my Financial Aid Notice. Does this guarantee him/her
a job?
No. There are more students than positions, students must apply and be hired for a
position.
I did not receive Federal Work Study. Can I still get a job on campus?
Yes. Some campus jobs are University Funded and these are open to all students.
Detailed information about campus employment.
Financial Aid
How do I apply for Financial Aid?
In order to apply for aid at Seton Hall a student only needs to submit your Free Application
for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This can be done at www.fafsa.gov.
It is recommended to do this by late January/ early February to meet SHU's priority application date of December 1. The FAFSA can be completed using estimated tax information if the student's or his/her parents' taxes have not been filed. Our school code is 002632.
How do I find out what financial aid I have been awarded?
After a student has deposited, all information regarding financial aid can be found
in his/her PirateNet under the "Profile and Finances" tab. Important communication
from the Financial Aid office is sent to a student via email.
Are scholarships available through Seton Hall?
Seton Hall University, offers numerous academic and need-based scholarships to qualified
students. The scholarship committees in accordance with individual scholarship criteria
determine these awards.
Merit-based scholarships are competitive. They are awarded to students with special talents or accomplishments.
How do I renew my scholarship each year?
Different scholarships have different eligibility requirements. For example, an academic
scholarship requires a minimum GPA of 3.0. Any student who has met the eligibility
requirements for their particular award will have the scholarship automatically renewed
for the next year. Students will be notified via email that their Financial Aid awards
are available. Students who have not met the eligibility requirements for renewal
of their scholarship will receive an email and a letter from the Office of Financial
Aid. This notification will include information on how the student may appeal the
decision to not renew the scholarship.
Does my grades or academic performance affect my financial aid?
Students must meet all Satisfactory Academic Progress guidelines. Detailed information
can be found in our Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy.
Detailed information about Financial Aid.
Health Services
What can I go to Health Services for?
Health Services is a campus medical facility where students receive confidential,
high-quality health care from a professional team who specialize in health issues
specific to the college-age student. Students may go to Health Services for wellness
visits, treatment for illness, referral to a local provider, allergy injections, immunizations,
etc. Health Services is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory
Health Care (AAAHC). All matriculated students (including residents, commuters, undergraduates
and graduate students) are eligible for services.
Is there a charge for an office visit at Health Services?
Students need to present their insurance card at the time of the visit. Office visits
are charged to the student's health insurance plan (all plans accepted). There is
no out of pocket, co-pay, or balance billed. Vaccines and in-house pharmacy items
are billed to the student's Bursar Account. Students are given a receipt for vaccines/medications
that they can submit to their insurance plan for re-imbursement.
What about health insurance?
All fulltime students are automatically enrolled in the Student Health Insurance plan
offered through Seton Hall. Students are billed for the premium each semester.
Students with comparable insurance coverage can waive the Student Insurance Plan. The waiver is only available electronically via PirateNet. Deadlines apply. Parents and students are strongly encouraged to review the Student Health Insurance plan and compare it to their other coverage before waiving the Plan. It is particularly important to check that doctors and hospitals in the South Orange area are considered in-network when comparing plans.
Details and costs of the plan can be found here »
Why would I have a hold my account from Health Services?
All students are required to submit a Health History form, Tuberculosis Risk Assessment,
and Immunization Compliance form. Failure to do so will result in a hold on the student's
account which will prevent him/her from registering for classes. The forms can all
be accessed through the Student Health Portal in PirateNet.
What happens I get sick at night or over the weekend?
If a student needs emergency medical attention, 911 should be called. Students who
require non-emergent medical attention may seek care from a local walk-in medical
provider if they cannot wait until Health Services re-opens. A list of walk-in providers is available here »
Are my parents advised if I’m having a medical problem?
Services provided at Health Services are confidential as required by law. Records
are maintained separately from all academic and other University records. Therefore,
Health Services will not share any information with parents unless the student requests
that they do so.
Meal Plans
Are students required to be on a meal plan?
All students living in Seton Hall University residence halls must have a meal plan.Information about the different options for meal plans is available here »
Meal plans can be changed until add/drop each semester. After add/drop each semester meal plans can only be upgraded.
Resident students who wish to change their meal plan may do so by emailingresidencelife@shu.edu and providing their name, Seton Hall ID number and which meal they wish to change to.
Are there meal plans for commuter students?
Yes, commuters may purchase any meal plan they wish. Commuters who wish to purchase
a meal plan should email residencelife@shu.edu and be sure to include their name, ID Seton Hall number and which meal plan they
wish to add to their account. Detailed information is available here »
I have special dietary restrictions. What should I do?
A student who has a medical condition which impacts his/her diet should register with
Disability Support Services (DSS) for appropriate accommodations. DSS will connect the student with the dietician in
Dining Services.
What are Pirate Bucks?
Pirate Bucks are part of the meal plan and are similar to "cash" on your student's
card. Pirate Bucks can be used at any campus dining/food area.
What is Pirate’s Gold?
Pirate’s Gold is a debit-like account you can use to purchase items or pay for services
on and off campus. From buying a textbook or getting a snack, Pirate's Gold is both
easier and faster than using cash. Click here for more information.