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TinaK
•This response has been verified in line with school guidance.
Academics

Textbooks: do OSU profs actually use them immediately or can students wait until after the first lecture to buy

At Ohio State University, it is generally advisable for students to wait until after the first lecture or to review the syllabus before purchasing textbooks. This approach allows students to confirm the necessity of the materials and potentially save money.

Why Wait?

  • Professor Flexibility: Most professors are understanding and often do not require textbooks immediately. They may provide a few days before assigning any work from the text, allowing students time to assess their needs.
  • Syllabus Insights: Many professors post their syllabi on CarmenCanvas prior to the start of the term, which detail required materials and when they will be utilized in the course. This can clarify whether a textbook is essential from day one or if it can be postponed.
Key Considerations
  • Required vs. Recommended: If a textbook is labeled as "recommended," students can often delay purchasing it until they determine its necessity.
  • Exceptions: Certain materials, such as lab manuals, may be required immediately for the first lab session, so students should be aware of these exceptions.
For more detailed advice on textbook purchasing, students can refer to the OSU Undergraduate Student Government's Textbook Tips.

Recent questions at Ohio State University

Broxton634
•This response has been verified in line with school guidance.
Housing

Are students able to stay over in the dorms if they are doing summer school rather than being forced to moveout?

Students enrolled in summer sessions at The Ohio State University are permitted to reside in campus housing, and in fact, most undergraduate students are required to live on campus unless they qualify for an exemption.

Housing Arrangement Steps

To secure summer housing, students must take the following steps:

  • Request a Contract: Unlike the academic year, students must proactively contact Housing and Residence Education to request a summer contract.
  • Contact Methods: Reach them by phone at 614-292-8266 or via email at housing@osu.edu.
  • Select Your Session: Specify which summer session you will attend (e.g., 4-week, 6-week, 8-week, or the full 12-week term).
  • Complete the Application: After receiving the contract, complete it through the OSU Housing Portal.
Summer Housing Details
  • Location: Summer housing is centrally located at Busch House on the Columbus campus.
  • Room Type: Rooms typically feature two-person occupancy with semi-private baths and air conditioning.
  • Meal Plans: Summer residents are not required to have a meal plan but can choose to add one if desired.
For more information, please refer to the Ohio State University Housing.
Anonymous
•This response has been verified in line with school guidance.
Housing

How do we request Special Residence Arrangements or medical housing for next year before the March 31 deadline

To request Special Residence Arrangements or medical housing for the 2026-2027 academic year at Ohio State University, you must follow distinct processes based on whether your request is for a disability accommodation or a non-disability special consideration.

Disability or Medical Accommodation

If your request is due to a medical condition or disability, you must register with Student Life Disability Services (SLDS). The priority deadline for returning students is January 30, 2026. After this date, requests will be reviewed on an "as available" basis. The process includes:

  • Submit Application: Complete the Housing Accommodation Request Form on the SLDS website.
  • Provide Documentation: Upload a completed Provider Housing Letter from your healthcare provider and answer the Student Housing Questions.
  • Welcome Meeting: After document review, you will be invited via Buckeye Mail to schedule a mandatory meeting with an Access Specialist to finalize your needs.
Special Residence Arrangements (Non-Disability)

For requests not related to a disability, such as financial hardship, you must submit your request by March 31 of your first academic year. The process involves:

  • Written Request: Send your request and all supporting documentation to Housing and Residence Education at housing@osu.edu.
  • OSU Housing Portal: Complete any required administrative forms for your specific renewal or exemption request.
For more information, refer to the OSU Housing Policies and the SLDS Housing Accommodations page.

AlexisB
•This response has been verified in line with school guidance.
Academics

Does the university's optional tuition insurance cover a partial withdrawal for mental health reasons, or must the student withdraw from all courses for the semester to trigger a claim

Ohio State University's optional tuition insurance, provided through GradGuard, does not cover partial withdrawals for mental health reasons. Students must withdraw from all courses in order to be eligible for a claim.

Withdrawal Requirements

  • Full Withdrawal: To trigger a claim, students must complete a full withdrawal from the semester. Partial withdrawals, such as dropping one or two classes while remaining enrolled, are not covered.
  • Covered Reasons: Claims can be made for serious conditions, including mental health issues like stress, depression, or severe anxiety, but only if the student withdraws entirely.
  • Documentation Needed: Students must provide medical documentation from a healthcare professional to support their claim.
Next Steps

Students considering withdrawal should:

  • Officially withdraw through the Student Advocacy Center by filing a Withdrawal Petition.
  • Gather necessary documentation, including a personal statement and medical records.
  • After approval, file the claim through GradGuard for reimbursement of tuition costs related to the withdrawal due to mental health reasons.

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