What is an "Alternate PIN"?
The Alternate PIN is a 4-digit number that students obtain from their academic advisers to be used for registration. While the regular sign-on ID/PIN will allow students to look at a variety of personal information online (grades, transcripts, account status, etc.,), only the Alternate PIN will allow them to register for classes or add/drop classes within our BannerWeb online registration period.
Why do we require an Alternate PIN?
Alternate PINs are assigned in order to encourage students to meet with their adviser to discuss academic progress and plans. Advisers will receive a list of their advisees and their assigned Alternate PINs just prior to the Advising Period. (Alternate PINs for advisees are also posted online for advisers via BannerWeb.) Students should see their advisers during the Advising Period to discuss their academic plans and to receive their Alternate PIN. Entering this Alternate PIN, if assigned, is the ONLY way the student can access the on-line registration page within BannerWeb for Students. Students enter BannerWeb as usual, and only need the Alternate PIN, if one is assigned to them, to connect to the "Register Add/Drop Classes" link on their menu.
Will all students be assigned the Alternate PIN?
No, only students with earned or in-progress courses totaling less than 21 credits* are assigned an Alternate PIN for registration. Also, students who have earned or in progress credits equal to 21 or more who have not declared a major, are also assigned an Alternate PIN. Alternate PINs must be obtained from their adviser once the official Advising Period begins and will be required in order to be able to register online. While some students are not assigned an Alternate PIN, they are still encouraged to see their adviser if on campus.
*Testing credits, such as those from AP and IB exams, are not included in the credit-based calculation. Also, during registration for Spring, students are always granted one credit for the assumed completion of the previous Winter Term.
How will I know if I am assigned an Alternate PIN to get into the Registration system?
No one needs the Alternate PIN during Round One or Winter Term web registration, but when Round One opens, students will see from their BannerWeb, "Check your Registration Status" page what groups (also outlined above) are assigned an Alternate PIN, as well as other important registration related criteria such as credit-based class standing and related registration windows. Students assigned an Alternate PIN need to see their adviser regarding course selections and to obtain their Alternate PIN. Double majors can obtain their Alternate PIN from either adviser.