Student Frequently Asked Questions Regarding COVID-19 Public Health Threat

Frequently Asked Questions concerning 51ºÚÁÏ’s Response to the Coronavirus 51ºÚÁÏ is closely monitoring the progression of COVID-19 and remains in close contact with the Virginia Department of Health and the CDC. Our top priority is the health and safety of 51ºÚÁÏ students, faculty, and staff as well as our surrounding community. Below are some Frequently Asked Questions regarding University proceedings moving forward. Please continue to check vsu.edu for all updates and changes.

What is the current status of all 51ºÚÁÏ Classes?

Effective Monday, March 23, 2020, 51ºÚÁÏ will convert to all remote instruction (online/distance education) classes for the remainder of the Spring 2020 academic year. Students will receive instructions from the professor for each of their classes no later than Friday, March 20, 2020. This includes part-time and graduate students.

Is the entire University closed?

No, 51ºÚÁÏ remains fully operational. Some areas have altered their schedules. Some areas are teleworking. Our staff remains available to conduct University business and transactions via phone or email. This includes Admissions, Financial Aid, and the Registrar’s Office.

At what point will employees who are eligible to telework begin doing so?

51ºÚÁÏ Administration has approved teleworking for the University. It is at the discretion of each manager to determine when and if their staff can begin this option. Managers should work closely with employees to determine their teleworking needs and ensure that operations are minimally impacted.

Will graduation be postponed due to these changes?

No decision has been made on graduation at this time. The University has canceled all upcoming large gatherings over the next 30 days. We are working with the 51ºÚÁÏ SGA to evaluate how best to handle graduation as we continue to do what is in the best interest of our community. Updated information will be shared via your 51ºÚÁÏ email, website, and social media.

Will students be reimbursed for tuition payments for classes?

Tuition will not be reimbursed since the instruction is still being delivered remotely/online.

Will students be reimbursed for campus housing and food?

Currently, our top priority is to ensure the health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff. 51ºÚÁÏ will closely visit this topic in the near future. At this point, the university intends to credit the student’s account for any unused housing and meals. The university is in the process of calculating the adjustments for each student and will provide additional information at a later date. We will communicate that information via the 51ºÚÁÏ emails. In addition, we have created a web page for all new information.

How will 51ºÚÁÏ continue to communicate with students, faculty, and staff?

Please access and check 51ºÚÁÏ issued emails as that will be the primary method of communication with students regarding these continued urgent changes.