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Non-Degree Seeking Student | Bismarck State College

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Non-Degree Seeking Student

A non-degree student is any student who has not met the necessary admission requirements or is not pursuing a degree or vocational program. Credits earned cannot be used toward a degree, diploma, or certificate until all admissions requirements have been satisfied and all college credit records have been evaluated by the Registrar.

Non-degree students are not eligible to:

  • Receive any Title IV financial aid
  • Receive G.I. Bill benefits
  • Apply for a degree.

Application Process

The application process at Bismarck State College (BSC) is designed to be clear and accessible for all prospective students. The first step involves submitting an application along with a non-refundable $35 fee, unless you qualify for an exemption—such as being active duty military or having previously paid the fee. Please note that documentation is required for all exemptions, and fraudulent payments will result in withdrawal of the application.

For on-campus students, documented proof of immunity to certain diseases, including Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), and Meningitis, is required in accordance with North Dakota University System (NDUS) policies. Specific guidelines apply based on age and vaccination history, and exemptions may be granted under certain conditions.

Additionally, placement test scores or transcripts are required for students enrolling in select English or math courses. BSC accepts recent ACT, SAT, or ACCUPLACER scores, or evidence of prior college coursework in these subjects. If you are a non-degree seeking student, a separate form is required, and there is a clear process for changing to degree-seeking status if your plans change.

If you have any questions about these requirements or need assistance at any point, BSC Admissions Counselors are available to help guide you through the process.

Ready to Apply? Complete the following steps

Step 1 - Submit an Application
APPLY NOW
 
  • Non-refundable $35 application fee*
    • Students who meet one of the following criteria are exempt from the application fee:
      • You previously paid the application fee
      • You are active duty military and as proof provide one of the following:
        • Military ID indicating Active Duty Status - verified in person only
        • Leave and Earning Statement (LES)
        • Orders indicating Active Duty Status
These documents may be emailed to bsc.admissions@bismarckstate.edu

*If proof of fraudulent payment is discovered toward submission of the $35 application fee, BSC Admissions reserves the right to withdraw the student’s application and may impact admission for future terms.
Step 2 - ON - Campus Students Documented Proof of Immunity to the Following Diseases
  • Measles, Mumps, and Rubella
    • 2 doses if student was born after 1/1/1957.
      • A student may be accepted with proof of one dose provided a second will be received in no less than 28 days.
  • Meningitis (Meningococcal) - Meningitis information
    • All students 21 years of age and younger must provide documentation of Meningitis vaccination.
    • Vaccination must be AFTER age 16.
    • NOTE: Meningococcal-B is a separate Meningitis vaccination. It does NOT meet the NDUS requirement.
North Dakota Residents: www.ndhealth.gov/Immunize/Public/ImmRecord
 

Exemptions to this policy may be granted in accordance with SBHE Policy 506.1. Students with vaccination exemptions may be excluded from class in the event of an outbreak. Contact BSC Admissions with questions regarding the exemption.

Step 3 - Submit Placement Test Scores or Transcripts (Select Courses Only)
Placement test scores or equivalent courses are only required of students enrolling in select English or math courses, or other courses that have a pre-requisite. 

The following Placement Exams are preferred by BSC:
  • ACT or SAT must be dated within the last five years
  • ACCUPLACER dated within the last three years
The assessment may be waived by the following:
  • Remedial or College level English and Math courses successfully completed at a regionally accredited institution
  • A baccalaureate or higher degree has been earned from a regionally accredited institution
The college transcript will only be used for placement and will not be officially evaluated.

For further details or to schedule an exam, please visit our Placement Testing Page.
Step 4 - Non-Degree Seeking Verification

What if I want to change from non-degree seeking to degree seeking? 

  1. Notify the Admissions office of the change
  2. Complete a BSC application for admission, declaring a new major
  3. Complete all admissions requirements
  4. This will go into effect at the start of the following semester

If you have questions about any part of this process, feel free to contact an Admissions Counselor or call 701-224-5429.

Bismarck State College Admissions Office reserves the right to revoke review of admission upon proof of fraudulent practices in the application process.