What is a wait list?

Wait lists ensure class openings are filled on a first come, first served basis.  Beginning with Spring 2019 registration, this new online registration feature enables students to get on a list for a course that is full. 

How do wait lists benefit me?

By using wait lists, you no longer need to constantly check to see if a seat has opened up in a much needed course. Signing up on a wait list puts technology to work for you by holding your place in line and automatically registering you in the class if/when a seat becomes available. Wait lists also benefit you and Heartland. They measure demand directly and can be used to trigger additional sections or open more seats in existing sections.

How do wait lists work?

If/when a seat becomes available, the first person on the wait list will automatically be registered for the class. If/when a second seat opens up, the next person on the wait list will be automatically registered, and so on.

May I register for a given course (such as ENGL 101) and simultaneously wait list for a different section of the same course (i.e., ENGL 101)?

Students are strongly encouraged not to get on a wait list while they are enrolled in another section of the same course.  When a spot becomes open in the wait listed course, the system will NOT move you into the wait listed course if you are enrolled in another section. You should either register in an open section OR get on the wait list for section of the course you want, but not both.

Do I have to pay to be on a wait list?

No, it costs nothing to get on a wait list. However, when a seat opens up, you are automatically registered and you will become financially responsible for the class at that time. Normal payment policies apply.

How many wait lists may I be on?

You may add yourself to a maximum of 9 credit hours’ worth of wait list courses per term as a full-time student and 7 credits for a part-time student. Each wait listed course must be unique; that is, each course must have a different subject/catalog number.

Do all courses have a wait list?

No. Individual departments decide which courses do and do not have wait lists.

Is there any limit to the number of students that may sign-up on a given wait list?

Yes. The number of students that may sign-up on a wait list is equal to the maximum number of seats authorized for the specific course.

What are my chances of getting into a class if I sign up on its wait list?

This much is certain: if you do not get on a wait list, you have virtually no chance of getting into a class that is full. Wait lists provide your best chance to get a course you need. Some classes have a lot of “drop” activity, which increases your chances. Also, your place on the wait list has a lot to do with your chances, so the earlier you get on wait lists, the better your chances.

How do I know if I get into a wait listed course?

When a spot becomes open in the wait listed course, you will receive an email notification to your Heartland account.  We encourage you to check your Heartland email frequently while on a wait list.

What is the time frame to “accept” a wait listed class if I get in?

There is not an “acceptance” option.  When you sign-up on a wait list, you effectively “accept” the class if/when it becomes available to you. Registration from a wait list is automatic.

What if I get into a wait listed course, but fail to take action (i.e., did not check my Heartland email account, didn’t know I got in, don’t have funds to pay, etc.)?

Normal payment policies apply. Pay particular attention to due dates.  Visit Payments and Refunds to learn more about payment options. 

How do I sign-up on a wait list?

It’s easy – just follow the step by step instructions. 

Can I wait list for a class even if I’m currently enrolled in a prerequisite class and have not received my final grade?

Yes. The system checks to see if you completed the prerequisite course are or currently enrolled in the prerequisite course.  If you are currently enrolled in the prerequisite course, and do not successfully complete it, you will be removed from the wait list and/or course.

What prevents me from getting onto a course wait list?

• You must be in good standing – no Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) holds, no financial payment blocks, or not on probation, continued probation or dismissal. 
• You must be eligible for the course – meet all prerequisites (or be making successful progress toward completing them in the current term) and any other course entrance requirements.
• You must have availability on your class schedule for each wait listed class – since registration in a wait listed class is automatic, you must leave open the day/time slot so that no conflicts arise and no rescheduling actions are required if/when you get into a wait listed class.
• You may not exceed your credit hour limit – the total credit hours of your currently enrolled courses plus wait listed courses may not be greater than the credit hour limit that applies to you.

 Who can we talk to about wait lists?

Staff in the Advising and Records Offices can assist you with wait lists.

Can I drop other classes for which I previously registered once I know I’ve made it in to a wait listed class?

Yes. Wait list classes have no bearing on your decision to drop other classes. However, you should always consider the academic and financial consequences of dropping classes. In some cases, penalties may apply. Wait lists do not change the circumstances or rules that apply to dropping a class. Speak with your Advisor for more information.

Will wait lists be available after the semester starts, for example, during the first week of class when some students drop classes?

Course wait lists will be closed on the Friday prior to the start of the semester.