Supporting Your Bearkat

From applying to graduation, explore academic resources that help your student succeed every step of the way.

• Admissions – Learn about applying, deadlines, and requirements.

• Majors and Degree Programs – Explore over 90+ undergraduate and graduate programs.

• Academic Advising – Connect with advisors who help students plan their path to graduation.

• Course Registration – Find how and when to register for classes.

• Transfer to SHSU – Review credit transfer details and admission requirements.

• Bookstore – Purchase textbooks, supplies, and SHSU gear.

• Academic Calendar – Stay on top of key academic dates and deadlines.

• Tutoring & Academic Support – Find free tutoring, workshops, and learning resources.

• Study Abroad – Explore international learning opportunities.

• Graduation & Commencement – Celebrate your student’s achievements.

• Bearkat Ring Program – Learn about the official Bearkat Ring tradition.

The safety of every Bearkat is a top priority. Explore these resources to stay informed, prepared, and confident that SHSU is committed to your student’s well-being.

• Emergency Notifications & SHSU Alert System – Sign up to receive immediate alerts about campus emergencies and weather updates.

• University Police Department (UPD) – Learn about patrol services, safety escorts, and how to contact campus police 24/7.

• Campus Safety Resources – Access emergency plans, safety procedures, and prevention programs.

• Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Resources – Review SHSU’s commitment to a safe and respectful campus for all students.

Whether your student is grabbing a quick bite between classes or sitting down with friends, SHSU Dining makes it easy to eat well and stay fueled. Explore meal plans, dining locations, and payment options available across campus.

• Campus Dining Locations & Hours – Explore all on-campus dining locations, hours of operation, and menus.

• Meal Plans – Learn how meal plans work, find pricing options, and purchase or manage plans online.

• Bearkat Bucks – Add money to your student’s Bearkat OneCard for use at dining locations and select campus vendors.

• Dietary & Nutrition Information – Review nutritional info, dietary accommodations, and allergen awareness resources.

• Contact SHSU Dining Services – Reach out directly to the dining team for questions about meal plans or accommodations.

Disability Services Office – Learn about SHSU’s accessibility services and accommodations process.

Bearkat families are an important part of our university community. Whether you’re joining us for Family Weekend or staying connected through our parent and family association, SHSU provides opportunities for parents and families to stay involved and support their students throughout the year.

• Parent & Family Relations – Connect with SHSU’s Parent & Family Relations office for support, events, and updates.

• Bearkat Family Weekend – Celebrate your student’s achievements and enjoy fun campus events designed for families.

• Parent & Family Association – Join to stay involved, meet other Bearkat families, and support student success initiatives.

Helping your student fund their education is an important part of the Bearkat journey. SHSU offers financial aid, scholarships, and payment options to make earning a degree more affordable and accessible.

• Financial Aid Overview – Learn how to apply for aid, complete the FAFSA, and explore available assistance programs.

• Scholarships4Kats Portal – Access SHSU’s centralized scholarship application and explore opportunities for new and continuing students.

• Important Dates & Deadlines – Review key financial aid and scholarship submission dates.

• Tuition & Fees – View current rates and cost breakdowns for undergraduate and graduate students.

• Payment Plans – Set up a flexible payment plan to help manage tuition and fees.

• Financial Wellness Coaching – Learn how your student can develop smart financial habits and budgeting skills.

Living on campus helps students build connections, stay engaged, and make the most of their SHSU experience. Explore on-campus housing options, Living-Learning Communities, and helpful resources for both residents and commuters.

• Residence Life Home – Explore the mission, philosophy, and what living on campus at SHSU looks like. 

• Living On Campus – Learn about residence halls and apartment-style housing that support students’ growth. 

• Housing Options – Review types of housing available, amenities, and features of each option. 

• Apply for Housing – Begin the housing application process online and secure your student’s room and roommate. 

• Off-Campus Living – Get guidance for students living off-campus, including resources and best practices. 

• Mail & Packages / Move-In Info – Find the mailing address for on-campus residents and move-in procedures. 

Stay informed about the key dates that keep your student on track — from registration and tuition deadlines to holidays and graduation ceremonies.

• Academic Calendar – Review important dates for registration, add/drop, and semester schedules.

• Tuition & Fee Deadlines – Find payment and refund deadlines for each semester.

• Financial Aid & Scholarship Deadlines – Keep up with key dates for FAFSA, awards, and scholarship submissions.

• Housing Application Timeline – Review housing contract, move-in, and renewal dates.

• Graduation & Commencement Schedule – See when ceremonies are held and how to prepare for your student’s big day.

• University Holidays & Breaks – Check university closure dates and campus holidays.

At SHSU, your student’s physical and mental well-being is a foundational part of their success. Below are key resources you should know about to help support your Bearkat on campus and beyond.

• Student Health Center – A primary care outpatient clinic on campus providing routine medical services, immunizations, labs, wellness education, and accessible care for students. 

• Counseling Center – Confidential individual, couples, and group therapy, crisis intervention, and outreach to support student mental health and personal growth. 

• Student Wellness (Health Promotion) – Programs and peer health ambassadors focusing on preventive care, wellness education, and promotion of balanced lifestyles. 

• TimelyCare Virtual Mental Health Services – 24/7 virtual counseling access through the Health Center’s portal for enrolled students, offering flexibility and remote mental health support. 

• Emergency & After-Hours Medical Care – If the Student Health Center is closed, this outlines where students can go off-hours, local urgent care or hospital, and what steps to take in emergencies. 

At Sam Houston State University, we take your student’s privacy seriously. These policies help protect their personal, academic, and health information while ensuring families understand the boundaries of information sharing.

• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) – Learn how FERPA protects your student’s education records and when information can be shared.

• Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) – Understand how HIPAA safeguards your student’s medical information at the Student Health Center.

• Student Code of Conduct & Rights – Explore the policies that guide student behavior, privacy expectations, and community standards.

College is more than classes — it’s about finding community, building leadership skills, and enjoying campus life. SHSU offers countless ways for students to get involved, stay active, and make the most of their Bearkat experience.

• Student Involvement Center – Discover organizations, leadership programs, and ways your student can get connected on campus.

• Campus Activities & Traditions – Explore events and traditions that bring Bearkats together throughout the year.

• Campus Recreation – Find fitness programs, intramural sports, and outdoor adventures through the Rec Center.

• Bearkat Spirit Programs – Learn about cheer, dance, and mascot programs that build campus pride.

• Transportation & Parking Services – View parking permits, shuttle routes, and transportation options around campus.

• Career Success Center – Support your student in preparing for internships, interviews, and future career goals.

• Student Employment Opportunities – Find on-campus and part-time job listings for SHSU students.

• Campus Events Calendar – Stay up to date on campus happenings, student performances, and organization events.

Sam Houston State University is proud to serve our military-affiliated students and their families. The Veterans Resource Center provides support, guidance, and community for those who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

• Veterans Resource Center – Explore services, programs, and support designed to help military-affiliated students succeed at SHSU.

• Apply for Military Benefits – Learn how to apply for VA education benefits, submit documentation, and verify enrollment.

• Hazlewood Act Benefits – Review eligibility and steps for using Hazlewood tuition exemptions in Texas.

• Academic Support for Veterans – Access tutoring, transition assistance, and academic coaching for military students.

• Veteran Student Organizations – Get involved in veteran-focused student groups and connect with peers.

• Contact the Veterans Resource Center – Find location, office hours, and staff contact information.