F-1 Visa International Students

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SEVIS & Your Status
SEVIS (Student Exchange Visitor Information System) is the Department of Homeland Security
(DHS) database developed to track the movement and studies of international students in the
United States.
Prior to 2002, the tracking of international students was done through a paper-based system in
which schools collected certain information about each international student that attends their
institution. This information was then shared with DHS upon request. This system, because of
the need for paper to be moved, made it impossible to track and enumerate international students
in the country. It also caused lengthy delays (as much as 14 months) in the processing of
paperwork for students with problems or who were applying for different benefits of their status.
This new system will make available to DHS (and only DHS) certain information
instantaneously. This will also allow for a more speedy process in receiving benefits such as
employment permission as well as for new students in receiving visas. However, this new
system will bring new responsibilities and consequences for breaking rules and regulations.
1. Violations of status will now be entered into the SEVIS file of the students which will
then notify the DHS immediately of the violation.
2. The ways of regaining student status have been greatly reduced. In the past, a student
who had violated status could simply get another I-20 and exit the U.S. and then return
and thereby regain their status. This will no longer be the case.
3. In order to regain status, a student will have to file for something called “Reinstatement.”
This will cost the student approximately $200 as well as a month’s wait to see if the
application is accepted. During these four months, the student will be able to continue
studying but will not be eligible for benefits such as working or receiving scholarships.
4. Students will be responsible for making sure that they keep the DHS updated on changes
of address either by informing them using the AR-11 form or by informing the
Designated School Official (DSO) of any changes.
5. Students must inform and receive permission from the DSO to drop below full-time.
Full-time status for undergraduates is 12 credit hours per semester and no less than 9
credit hours per semester for graduate students, unless the student holds a Graduate
Assistantship. Failure to do so will result in a student being determined out-of-status.
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Welcome to Murray State University. All of you are here either as an F-1 student or as a J-1
student/scholar. This sheet will list and discuss the most important rules and regulations you will
need to remember during your studies in the U.S. You should put this sheet with all of your
other important documents and review every semester to make sure you are maintaining your
status.
Definitions:
ISA – International Student Advisor also includes ESL Advisor. At MSU these people are your
immigration advisors Bill, Misty, Brittany, and Dominique (ESL).
DHS – Department of Homeland Security is the agency of the U.S. Government that is given the
responsibility for admitting and keeping track of all visitors to the U.S.
F-1 – This visa is the most common for those who wish to engage in academic studies in the
United States. It is for people who want to study at an accredited U.S. college or university or to
study English at a university or intensive English language institute.
J-1- This is a non-immigrant visa issued by the United States to exchange visitors participating
in programs that promotes cultural exchange. All applicants must meet eligibility criteria and be
sponsored either by a private sector or government program.
Visa – A document issued by a foreign country that allows the owner the opportunity to travel to
that country.
Status – The category of a visitor to the U.S. that is given by the DHS that allows a visitor to
stay in the U.S. Status also determines what responsibilities and rights a visitor has while they
are in the U.S.
In-Status – A term used to describe a visitor who is meeting all the requirements and
responsibilities of their category and is therefore eligible for all of the benefits of that category.
Out-of-Status – A term used to describe a visitor who has broken at least one of the regulations
concerning their category. This person will lose all of their benefits for the time they are out-ofstatus and are subject to removal from the U.S. at the request of the DHS.
Benefits – Privileges granted to a visitor who is maintaining their status. For F-1s these include
the ability to work on-campus, the ability to apply for off-campus employment permission, the
ability to have their I-20 signed to return to the U.S., and the ability to receive scholarships or
tuition waivers from the university.
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List of Regulations – This is not an exhaustive list and should not be considered as such. If ever
have any questions or think you are about to do something that might jeopardize your status, you
should contact the IIS office immediately and speak with one of the International Students
Advisors.
1. Maintain a valid and unexpired passport at all times. (If your passport will expire within
six months, you should begin the process to have it renewed as it may take a few months
to complete the process inside the U.S.)
2. Maintain an unexpired I-20 that states your correct field of study. If you change majors,
you will need to get a new I-20 as soon as possible. Failure to do so will put you out-ofstatus.
3. Maintain full-time hours every semester and at all times during the semester. (Full-time
for an undergraduate is 12 hours and for graduates it is 9 hours. There are two reasons
that a student can be less than full-time.
-It is the students last semester.
-They are a graduate student and they have a Graduate Assistant position. If this is the
case the graduate student can take 6 hours to be full-time.
If there is a reason that you have to drop below full-time at any point, you must contact
your international advisor (not your academic advisor) first to receive permission to
do so. Failure to get permission will result in the student falling out-of-status.
4. Do not work off-campus without permission from the DHS. You will need to contact an
advisor to go over the process for receiving this permission. If you work off-campus
without permission, you will be subject to deportation by the DHS and will likely not be
allowed to reenter. You will have no recourse as far as applying to the DHS for leniency
as DHS regards unauthorized employment as an extremely serious offense.
5. Have your I-20 signed prior to exiting the U.S. on vacation unless it has been signed in
the previous six months. This signature assists the port of entry officer in determining if
you should be allowed back in the U.S.
6. Make sure that the IIS office has complete and updated information on you at all times.
We should have copies of all of your important documents, including current I-20,
current I-94, passport page, and visa page. If you return home on vacation, you will
receive a new I-94. You can print it off at the following website https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov
7. If you change your physical address, you must notify the IIS Office (you will also notify
other offices on campus but you must tell the IIS office directly) within 10 days. Failure
to do so will place you out-of-status. There is a form located in our office that you will
fill out to change your address. We also request that you keep an updated e-mail address
with our office as most of our correspondence is done via e-mail. If you are not receiving
periodic e-mails (at least once a month), this means we do not have a current e-mail
address. You should contact us to make sure we have your e-mail.
8. When in doubt about your status, ask your advisor! Do not rely on your friends,
academic advisors, or professors for this information.
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9. When you get to your final semester and wish to apply for work permission, remember
that your must apply before you complete your studies. In addition, before you may
apply for OPT, you must file for graduation with the graduation office in Sparks Hall.
Remember that Bill, Misty, Brittany and Dominique are here to be advocates for your rights as
international students. We will advise you on your rights and responsibilities, but we can only
do this if you keep us informed. We will do everything within our power to help you in any
situation but the regulation limits our abilities if you do not keep us informed ahead of time.
Examples:
1) Student A notices that his/her I-20 or some other document will expire in two months.
“A” comes to our office and we inform “A” of the process to get this document renewed
if necessary. The student completes this process and has no further problems.
Student B comes to the IIS office on January 1 to tell us that his/her I-20 or passport
expired on December 31. We inform the student that he/she is out-of-status and must do
a very expensive and time consuming process to regain his/her status. The student must
spend as much as $2,000 and return home and then reenter the U.S.
2) Student A informs the advisor in December that he/she wants to do an internship for the
summer. The advisor will give the student three options on how to complete this
internship and let the student decide and help the student gather the needed
documentation.
Student B informs the advisor in July that he/she will be completing an internship at the
end of summer and asks if there is anything that must be done. The advisor informs the
student that they are out-of-status. Refer to Example #1 for the consequences.
3) Student A realizes that one of the classes they are taking is too difficult and they need to
drop it. “A” informs the advisor. The advisor tells them to get a letter from the professor
stating the problem and tells the student it is okay to drop the class with permission.
Student B has the same problem and drops the class without informing anyone. The
advisor receives the student’s grade report at the end of the semester showing that
Student B was not full-time. Student B receives a letter from the advisor stating that “B”
is out-of-status. Refer to Example #1 for the consequences.
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F-1 Visa International Students
F-1 visa students must follow these immigration regulations.

Maintain full-time enrollment
Students must be fully enrolled at all times. There are three exceptions to this rule.
Students must speak with an International Student Advisor BEFORE falling below fulltime hours for any reason. Undergraduate full-time enrollment is a minimum of 12 credit
hours. Graduate full-time enrollment is a minimum of 9 credit hours, unless the student
has an assistantship.

Do NOT work off-campus without authorization
from the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS).

Do NOT work on-campus for more than 20 hours
while classes are in session.

Be sure your passport is valid
Passport renewal should be done six months before the expiration date.

Make sure your I-20 is valid
This cannot be done after the I-20 expires. See the International Student Advisor about
an extension when necessary.

Maintain updated contact information
Update your address, phone, and e-mail contact information with the IIS Office.
Failure to follow these rules will prevent you from receiving the following benefits:





On-campus employment
BCIS authorization to work off-campus
Program extension
Signature on I-20 for travel
Financial assistance offered by the university (scholarships and waivers)
Questions concerning F-1 immigration regulations should be addressed to Misty Brown or
Brittany Fentress, the International Student Advisors.
Appointments may be made directly with the International Student Advisors of by calling the
Institute for International Studies at 270-809-4152.
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J-1 Visa International Students
J-1 visa students must follow these basic immigration regulations.

Maintain full-time enrollment
If, for any reason, you need to drop below full-time, you must seek the J-1 Advisor for
assistance BEFORE you drop any courses. Full-time status for undergraduate students is
12 hours. Full-time status for graduate students is 9 hours.

Do NOT work off-campus
Off-campus employment can only be approved by the J-1 Advisor. If you can show
evidence of economic hardship or if you are applying for Academic Training, contact the
J-1 Advisor for assistance.

Do NOT work on-campus without prior authorization
from the J-1 Advisor. If you can show evidence of economic hardship or if you are
applying for Academic Training, contact the J-1 advisor for assistance.

Make sure your passport is valid at all times
You should apply for renewal six months before expiration.

Make sure your DS-2019 is valid at all times
If you need to extend your stay for any reason, you must ask permission for an extension
of your J-1 visa by extending the time period on your DS-2019. Contact the J-1 Advisor
for assistance.

Maintain updated contact information
Update your address, phone, and e-mail contact information with the IIS Office.
Failure to follow these rules will prevent you from receiving the following benefits:

Maintaining valid status, which may cause problems if you want to re-enter the US at a
later date.

On-campus employment

Authorization to participate in Academic Training off-campus

Program extension
Questions concerning J-1 immigration regulations should be addressed to the International
Student Advisors, Misty L. Brown Lanham or Brittany Fentress.
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Murray State Bursar Office
General Information
The Bursar's Office is responsible for the collection of all fees owed to the University. The
office is divided into three units: Bursar, Cashier, and Student Loans. The offices are located on
the second floor of Sparks Hall. Sparks Hall is located on the corner of 15th and Main
Streets. Our building is wheel-chair accessible. Visitor parking and posted handicapped parking
spaces are available.
General Office Hours:
Monday – Friday
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. CST
(August - May)
Monday – Friday
7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. CST
(June - July)
The dates will vary depending on Memorial Day and the last day of summer school.
Office Mailing Address:
Electronic Mail Address:
Bursar's Office
msu.bursar@murraystate.edu
Murray State University
200 Sparks Hall
Murray, KY 42071-3312
Bursar Phone Number: 270-809-4226
Bursar Office Fax Number: 270-809-2273
** If you are sponsored by Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission you need to take your financial
guarantee to the Bursar Office. **
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Payment Options
Students & parents have several payment options available to them to pay the balance of their
Murray State student account. Options for payment are listed below. If you have questions
regarding payment or charges applied to the student account, please contact the Murray
State Office of the Bursar.
myGate
Student who have access to their myGate account have the ability to pay online though the
payment portal located under their "Money" tab.
Once students have followed the "My Account" link under the "Money" tab, they will be redirected to the payment website. Students will then use a web-based payment method to pay
the balance of their student account using an electronic check from a checking or savings
account, debit card, or credit card through Pay-Path®.
Students will also be able to view their e-billing statements, view statement history (and print
copies), see current account balances, enroll in a payment plan, and authorize other users (such
as parents or guardians) to view their e-bill & make payments on the balance due.
Note to Authorized Users:
Once your student has authorized you to access their account, you may sign into the payment
website using the "Authorized User" box on the left hand side of the screen (under the first user
log-in box).
U.S. Mail
Please allow time for mailing & processing of payments on all checks/money orders sent
through the U.S. mail. Checks are processed when they are received and posted to the
student account on that date.
Mail all written communication, payments (check/money order), and payments from 529 plans
directly to:
Murray State University
Cashier's Office
200 Sparks Hall
Murray, KY 42071
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All external scholarship checks should be sent to the Bursar's Office at the address below:
Murray State University
Bursar's Office
Attn: Jenny Ison
200 Sparks Hall
Murray, KY 42071
Wire Transfer
Murray State University will accept funds via wire transfer to pay charges on the student
accounts. Please refer to the wire transfer instructions listed below:
http://murraystate.edu/Admissions/BursarsOffice/InternationalStudentPayments.aspx
Payment Plans
Students can make payment arrangements with the Bursar's Office when the parents/student are
unable to make a payment in full from personal funds (or student aid) by noon on the due date
listed on the billing statement. Student may enroll in the payment plan through their myGate
account.
By clicking on the MY ACCOUNT link under the MONEY tab of their myGate account students will visit the payment website. From here - students will be able to enroll in the plan
online. The links listed across the top of the screen will show available payment plan
options. Students can select and enroll in the current semester's payment plan and MUST do so
if they are not able to pay the full balance of the billing amount due by the due date.

There is a $30 enrollment fee each time the student enrolls in the plan. The payment
plan is good for the entire semester - but each NEW semester that the student wishes to
be enrolled in the plan - they will need to visit the payment website and re-enroll. This
will result in a $30 set up fee each semester that the student elects to use the Murray
State payment plan. There will be no other fees/charges associated with the payment
plan unless the scheduled payment is made late (a payment is considered late if it is
made 5 DAYS after the posted due date). The fee will be 0.65% of the total amount due
and will be charged to the student account.
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
Payment of all fees in full is due by noon on the due date shown on the semester billing
statement. Cash, checks, credit cards (MC, AMEX, Discover Card, and VISA) and
debit cards are acceptable forms of payment. **Please note: credit card payments are
subject to a 2.75% service charge and can only be made ONLINE (not at the cashier's
office).

Accounts with a balance of $200 or less will be due in full.
The MSUPP contract is calculated on a semester basis and must be completed each
semester. The total charges (tuition, housing, meal plan, and fees) less financial
aid/scholarship/third-party authorizations for a semester result in the MSUPP contract
amount. At the beginning of each fall and spring semester this contract amount is divided into
four payments - Fall payments are due August, September, October and November, Spring
payments are due December, February, March and April. Payment plans for Summer Sessions
are generally divided into three equal payments that are due in May, June and July.
The contract amount is calculated each month when the first billing statement is
produced. Changes in your financial aid, tuition, course fee(s), housing, meal plan or
miscellaneous charges will be reflected in the monthly amount due. Notification of the change
will be reflected in the billing statement and may result in an increase or decrease in the amount
due for the month being billed.
You may, at any time in the semester, elect to pay an amount greater than the amount due on
your billing statement or you may pay your account balance in full.
For more information on how to set up a payment plan - view our Payment Plan help guide,
or contact our office.
Rights and responsibilities
Rights

You have the right to expect that members of our staff will be available to assist you.

You have the right to expect to be kept informed. Murray State strives through
publications, correspondence and other media to provide students and parents with
updated information.
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
You have the right to expect fair treatment. Murray State does not discriminate on the
basis of race, creed, age, disability, sex or national origin.
Responsibilities

When you schedule classes, you accept the liability for payment of all associated fees
unless you complete the procedure for official withdrawal.

You are responsible for being knowledgeable of Murray State's payment policies by
reviewing the Bursar's Office web-site of information and all other pertinent
information.

You are responsible for making payment arrangements with the Bursar's Office in
accordance with the guidelines set forth in Murray State's payment policy.

You are responsible for satisfying all financial obligations with the university before
you will be granted a release of grade report/transcript/diploma.

You are responsible for collection costs that occur as a result of your account being
placed with an internal collector or an outside collection agency.
Billing Rights Summary

In case of errors or questions about your bill:
If you feel there is an error on your billing statement or if you need more information about a
transaction on your bill, write to us at the Bursar's Office, Murray State University, 200 Sparks
Hall, Murray, KY 42071-3312 as soon as possible. Be sure to include student name and M#, a
daytime phone number, amount of the suspected error, and description of the error. Also
explain why you believe there is an error. We must hear from you no later than 60 days after
we send you the first bill on which the error or problem appears.
Refund Information (Bursar Office)
Students may become eligible for a refund when their account reaches a credit balance
status. Students that receive financial aid (in the form of grants, student loans, and scholarships)
often receive more than what necessary to cover the amount of charges is billed to their
account. In these instances, refund checks are issued from the Accounting & Finance office and
mailed to the student at their refund or permanent address. Students also may have adjustments
on their accounts or receive an account payment that causes their account to enter a credit
status. Refund checks are issued to these students as well.
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Students are also eligible for a refund when they withdraw from the university. PLEASE
NOTE that failure to pay does NOT withdraw you from your classes. Should you decide not
to attend Murray State University, you need to notify the Registar's Office prior to the first day
of class. If you do not request that your registration be canceled, you risk receiving grades of "F"
in your courses. If you do not take action you will remain registered in your classes and you will
be responsible for all tuition, course fees and other miscellaneous charges billed to your student
account through the time of the withdrawal form completion. You will owe all or a portion of
these fees if your withdrawal is processed after the 100% refund period. Please view the refund
tables portion of the Bursar's Office website for additional information on refund periods.
When checks are issued they are mailed to the students "special refunds" address or to their
"permanent" address. Therefore, it is important that students keep their address updated in our
system. You can change your address on your myGate account by clicking on the Self-Service
Banner link under the "ACADEMICS" tab. Self-Service Banner>Personal
Information>View/Update Addresses and Phones>Update Addresses and Phones will take you
to the site when you can change your personal information.
Direct Deposit
Murray State University now offers direct deposit services to their students that will be receiving
refund checks. Bursar refunds are deposited automatically into your checking or savings account
- making it an easy alternative to waiting in line to cash your check.
Why Sign Up for Direct Deposit?
When you sign up for direct deposit, you will NOT have to wait while your refund check is
mailed. There's no opportunity for the check to be lost in the mail, or holds on your account until
the funds are released. When the check is direct deposited into your account, you will receive an
email to your Murray State email address notifying you that the deposit has been issued (no bank
information is included in these emails). The transaction usually takes two business days and is
a safe and secure way to receive your refund check/s.
How to Sign Up
Currently, you can only sign up for the direct deposit option on the main campus of Murray State
on the 2nd floor of Sparks Hall. You will need to bring two forms of ID (at least one being a
photo ID) and know both your account number and your banks physical address and routing
number. If your account number or banking information should change for any reason - you will
need up fill out a different form before your refund can be successfully deposited. Please notify
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the Accounting Department if you want to cancel your direct deposit or make any changes to
your direct deposit information.
International Student Payments
Murray State University has partnered with peerTransfer to offer an innovative and streamlined
way to make a payment from your home country. Founded by a former international student,
peerTransfer's mission is to save money for international students and their families that would
otherwise be lost on bank fees and unfavorable foreign exchange rates.
The Information below includes a summary and instructions. To begin the process you will need
to log into your MyGate.

Once logged into your MyGate, click on Peer Transfer International Payment under the
Money Tab.

Select your home country and the available payment options will be displayed.

In most cases you'll be able to pay in your home currency, at peerTransfer's preferential
exchange rates, which will translate into savings for you.

After providing some basic information, you will send your home currency from your
bank account (via phone or online) to peerTransfer via the provided instruction.

peerTransfer will then convert your currency to U.S. dollars and forward the U.S. dollar
amount to Murray State, where it will be directly credited to your student bill account.

Unlike the traditional international wire payment process, your payment will arrive in
full to Murray State, meaning even more savings for you.

Through the peerTransfer student dashboard you will be able to track where you payment
is in the transfer process.

You will receive an email confirmation when your payment is deposited into Murray
State's bank account.
peerTransfer Customer Support https://www.peertransfer.com/help
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No matter your time zone, you will have a dedicated multilingual customer support team
available to you - reachable 24/7 via live chat, Skype, email and phone to answer any of your
questions.
Watch a video tutorial at https://www.peertransfer.com/help to see exactly how this process
works.
RacerCard Office
What is a RacerCard?
RacerCard office
Curris Center, first floor
(270) 809-3003
msu.racercard@murraystate.edu
The RacerCard is your official Murray State University ID. The Murray State University
RacerCard Identification (ID Card) fee is assessed once to all students enrolled in main campus
courses. Students enrolled in off-campus or online-only courses are not assessed an ID fee unless
specifically requested by the student. Scheduling courses and payment for all financial
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obligations are necessary for appropriate ID activation each semester. Use your RacerCard to
access:

Meal Plan

Flex Dollars

Declining Balance

University Libraries

Wellness Center

Residential Colleges

Campus Buildings

Discounts at Local Businesses
Who gets a RacerCard? Murray Campus: All Murray State University students, faculty and
staff at the main Murray, Ky., campus should have a RacerCard. You may find it hard to get
around without it. Extended Campuses: Those studying at extendened campuses are not required
to have a RacerCard, and most likely won't need one on a day-to-day basis. You are, however,
welcome to come to the main office in Murray and have one made. Many businesses do offer
student discounts and there's no shame in Racer pride!
How much does a RacerCard cost? RacerCards are $20. The one-time fee is included on your
first tuition bill if you attend the main Murray, Ky., campus. This fee is waived for faculty and
staff. If you attend a Murray State extended campus, you will need to pay for your RacerCard
when you have it made. The RacerCard office accepts cash, check, credit and debit cards. Office
hours are 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday. Replacement cards are also $20. Please
see Replacement Cards for more information. There is no charge to update a RacerCard to
include the M number.
When and where are ID pictures taken? New freshmen and transfer students should have their
pictures taken at Summer O. All other pictures will be taken during regular business hours at the
RacerCard office located on the first floor of the Curris Center. The RacerCard Office keeps
most pictures on file. You are not required to have a new picture taken for lost or damaged cards.
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Where do I pick up my card? Students living on campus will receive their RacerCards upon
moving into a residential college or college courts. Commuters may pick up their cards at the
RacerCard Office in August. Faculty or staff member may also pick up their cards at the Racer
Card office.
Do I need a new RacerCard each semester? No. RacerCards never expire. It should last your
entire academic career at Murray State and stay on for a nostalgic encore in the back of your
wallet. Please note: Some privileges, such as Wellness Center access, will cease after you
graduate and are no longer enrolled as a Murray State student.
Lost RacerCard
If you lose your RacerCard, your first action should be to report that it is lost at the RacerCard
Office. Your card will then be deactivated to protect the meals, Flex Dollars and declining
balance remaining on your card.
Once you report your card lost so no one else can use it, you will be given a grace period of two
meals at Winslow before you have to purchase a new RacerCard. If you lose your card after
2p.m. Friday, the grace period extends to four meals over the weekend. The meals at Winslow
are given only if you report the loss of your card. If you find your card within this time period,
you will need to reactivate it at the RacerCard office before it can be used again. There is no
charge for reactivation of a lost card.
If you do not find your card, you may purchase a replacement card for $20.00. The RacerCard
Office accepts cash, check, credit or debit. Office hours are 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday.
Damaged RacerCard
A $20.00 replacement charge will apply to all damaged cards. The $20.00 may be waived if
RacerCard staff determines the damage is from normal wear and tear. Charge waivers are
unlikely-- if proper care is taken, the RacerCard should last at least four years at MSU. It should
not be bent or scratched. It must be in good condition to enable the card readers to scan
effectively.
Name change
If your name has been legally changed, you may request a replacement card at no charge.
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Replacement card reasons and charges
Lost card - $20.00
Damaged - $20.00
New Photo - $20.00
College to College - $10.00 *
Move On/Off Campus -$10.00 *
Name Change - No charge
* All fees will be waived for those with approved documentation for the Fall 2013 semester.
Health Services
Mission statement
The mission of Health Services is to maintain, improve and promote optimal wellness of the
Murray State University community so that its members may achieve their academic,
professional and personal goals. The staff is committed to enhancing the educational process by:
 Removing or modifying health-related barriers to academic, professional and social
activities;
 Educating individuals regarding lifestyle choices and the impact on health and wellness;
 Educating individuals to make informed decisions about health-related concerns and how
to be informed health-care consumers; and,
 Promoting optimal wellness in all dimensions of the individual's life.
Health Services Information
Eligibility

Enrolled students who have paid tuition and mandatory fees

Full-time faculty and staff

Part-time faculty and staff may use Health Services for blood pressure screening
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
Any Murray State University community member may call Health Line (270.809.3809)
for health/wellness information or for referrals
Use of Health Services
When a client arrives at Health Services for the first time he/she will be asked to complete the
front of the chart that includes basic demographic information. Students, faculty and staff who
use Health Services will complete a Health & Immunization History. The history form may be
downloaded and printed for completion prior to the first visit.
Student History & Immunization Form - Faculty/Staff History Form
Clients are seen on a drop-in basis (see Location and Hours of Operation) for primary health care
in an outpatient setting. Clients are screened and assessed by professional nurses; they may
receive treatment by the nurse based on orders from the physician or referred directly to the
nurse practitioner or physician, depending on the nature of the visit. The nurse practitioner is on
campus daily during clinic hours. The physician is on campus six hours per week, but is
available to the nurses by phone when not on campus. The client may be referred to the
physician's private office as necessary.
Should a client receive a prescription while at Health Services, he/she may get that prescription
filled at a local pharmacy (there is no pharmacy on campus). When a specialist's care is
indicated, the nurse will assist with the referral.

Services Available to the Murray State University Community

Physical assessment for illness or injury

Treatment of illness and minor injury

First aid - Crutches are available on a loan basis

Referrals as needed

Laboratory services - We have an on-campus CLIA-certified lab for moderately
complex procedures including complete blood counts, urinalysis, rapid strep
screens, urine colony counts, pregnancy tests and sexually transmitted infection
testing. Additional, fee-based testing may be ordered through LabCorp (an
independent lab service that provides tests that Health Services is not able to do
on campus).

Evaluation of health risks

Health Promotion
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
Health Education
Health Services does not have an immunization program on campus. Clients who need
immunizations are referred to the Calloway County Health Department for those immunizations
that are considered standard by the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The
cost is minimal.
For the meningococcal vaccine, students are encouraged to talk with their primary care physician
to discuss the pros and cons of receiving this vaccine. (See Health Clips - meningitis
information.) Should a student wish to receive the meningococcal vaccine in Murray, they may
call the Calloway County Health Department at 270.753.3381 to schedule an appointment. There
is a charge for the meningitis vaccine. Other Health Departments in Kentucky and other states
may also offer this immunization.
Confidentiality
Our office is fully committed to protecting the privacy of our patients' information. Medical
records are strictly confidential. No medical information is released without the clients written
consent except as required by law. Records will not be faxed, except for unusual circumstances,
due to the potential for breaches in confidentiality.
Chronic Conditions
For those individuals who have long term or chronic health conditions, such as diabetes,
hypertension, asthma, depression, allergies (needing allergy injections) ADHD, etc. we
encourage maintaining contact with your private health care provider for follow-up care and
treatment. Or, you may choose to establish yourself with a local physician while you are at
Murray State for the continuing care of long term conditions.
If you should develop such a condition, while at Murray State University, you will be referred to
your private health care provider or to a local health care provider of your choice, for further
evaluation, assessment, and treatment of the condition.
Most of the health care needs that you may require while on campus can be met at the Health
Services.
For a complete listing of Nurse Practioners and Physicians, physicians who administer allergy
injections and dentistsin the Murray area, you may click on any of the fields to get a .pdf
document to print. You may also want to have this information for insurance purposes.
For complete information regarding Health Services and for health and wellness links
please visit ourHealth Services home page on RacerNet.
19
Location
Health Services is located in the North wing of Wells Hall on the ground floor. The main
entrance faces the quadrangle and is the door closest to Faculty Hall.
Hours of Operations

Clinic Hours for Fall & Spring:
Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. EXCEPT Wednesdays
Wednesday open from 8:00 - 11:30 a.m.
The clinic nurses are available for appointments, emergencies and phone calls on
Wednesday afternoons.

Clinic Hours for Summer:
Monday - Friday 7:30 - 11:30 a.m.
The clinic nurses are available for appointments, emergencies and phone calls Monday - Friday
afternoons.

Physician Hours:
By appointment

Health Line Hours
Our phone line 270.809.3809 for advice and referral information. Calls may be directed to the
staff Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

After Hours
Should a student, faculty or staff member have an urgent health care need during times that the
Health Services Clinic or the Health Line is not open he/she may call Public Safety at
270.809.2222. The Public Safetyofficer will contact a nurse on call who will then get in touch
with the individual.
The client also has the option (at his/her own expense) of seeking help from one of the urgent
care clinics:
1. Murray Medical Associates - 270.753.0704
2. Primary Care - 270.759.9200
OR, If An Emergency, Murray Calloway County Hospital Emergency Room has 24 hour
physician services
Health line
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Health Line is a telephone information service for students, faculty and staff. Professional Nurses
will answer health questions, discuss appointments or offer assistance with referrals. Access to
Health Line is at 270.809.3809. Health Line is open Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
MSU Counseling Center
Mission Statement
The mission of the Counseling Center is for specially trained and licensed mental health
counselors to provide services that enhance the growth and development of all members of the
university community. Through counseling, consultation, education, and advocacy, the
Counseling Center aims to assist all members of the university community to develop a mental
health environment that is conducive to the retention and graduation of all students.
We Are Here to Help
The licensed mental health professionals in the Counseling Center are available to provide a
variety of counseling services for MSU students, faculty, and staff, including individual therapy,
couples therapy, group therapy, and family therapy.
The Counseling Center is open 8:00 - 4:30 Monday through Friday, and we have a counselor on
call 9:00-12:00 and 1:00-4:00 daily to help with emergency situations. All services are free of
charge.
Some of the issues we commonly help with include

Adjusting to new situations

Depression

Managing stress

Homesickness

Anxiety, fear, nervousness

Poor anger control

Grief

Eating and body image issues

Relationship issues
21

Social issues

Family problems

Asperger’s Disorder

Crisis intervention

Trauma recovery, as in situations of rape or abuse

Diversity and cultural issues

LGBT concerns

Self-awareness and self-care
Getting Started
Initial paperwork is done on a walk-in basis 9:00-12:00 and 1:00-4:00 Monday through Friday.
These forms take approximately 30 minutes to complete. A counselor will be available to answer
any questions. A counselor will call you to schedule your first appointment once your paperwork
is complete and your case has been assigned.
Confidentiality
Your discussions with your counselor and any paperwork you complete are treated confidentially
by the Center. Your records are NOT part of your academic or administrative records. If you
would like us to share any information with another person or agency, you must sign a written
release permitting us to do so. No information will be transmitted to any other individual or
agency without the express permission of the client, except as required by law.
All staff members in the Counseling Center adhere to the federal Health Insurance Portability
and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) Privacy Rule and the Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act (FERPA).
Limitations Regarding Our Services
The Counseling Center does not perform court-ordered or court-mandated counseling or
assessment. We also do not provide primary substance-abuse treatment.
The Counseling Center does not provide prescription services. We will refer students who may
require a medical evaluation for prescription medications used in the treatment of mental illness
to area medical providers. Students are responsible for ascertaining whether their health
insurance plans cover these prescription services.
Concerns About Other Individuals
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If you would like to report concerns about other individuals on campus, please contact our
Student Intervention Team using this link: Report Concerns. The team's purpose is to collect,
track, and evaluate reports from all parts of campus concerning students who may pose a threat
to their own safety and/or the safety of others. Students and faculty can do their part by reporting
concerns on the Student Intervention Team website. Help us to promote a safe and supportive
campus.
Murray State Career Services
Office Hours: Mon - Fri, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM (Summer) | 8 AM - 4:30 PM (Fall/Spring)
100 Oakley Applied Sciences Bldg | Murray, KY 42071
P: 270.809.3735 (call for appointments) | F: 270.809.3516 | msu.careerservices@murraystate.edu
City Sticker Information
Murray City Stickers are required of all persons who reside within City limits (including
MSU Students living either on or off campus in the City of Murray); any resident or nonresident who work inside the city limits of Murray; or anyone who performs a businessrelated activity is required to purchase a City sticker for each vehicle owned or used in those
pursuits. Anyone employed as a Murray State employee including student employee is
required to purchase a city sticker. Please contact Murray City Hall at (270) 762-0300 or
via email at customerservice@murrayky.gov

Murray City Hall will be set up on the 3rd floor of the Curris Center on August 19th August 21st from 8am-4pm for individuals who need to pick up their city stickers.
Important Information for MSU Permit Holders

To complete the registration process, please have the following information ready to
enter: Vehicle Year, Make, Model, Color, License Plate #, County, and State in which
the vehicle is registered.
23

Prior year vehicle information will not be available.

Parking permits must be picked up in person at the Public Safety Parking Office and a
photo ID will be required at the time of pick up.

The cost for a parking permit is $75.00 (BOR approved June 2014) (For Freshmen living
in the North Residential Complex and parking at the Stadium, the parking permit is $45BOR approved June 2014)

Anyone needing assistance in logging into myGate should contact the CTLT Helpdesk at
(270) 809-2346.

Faculty, staff, and students who forget their parking passes can come to Public Safety to
pick up a free temporary pass for the day.

Please contact the Parking Office for any parking system assistance or questions at 8094812 or via email at msu.publicsafety@murraystate.edu

Before and after office hours arrangements for picking up permits may be made by
contacting the Parking Office 24 hours in advance at (270) 809-4812 or via email
at msu.publicsafety@murraystate.edu

Parking System instructional videos are available below.
Parking and personal safety tips from Public Safety
Parking Enforcement & Motorist Assistance
Murray State University’s parking regulations are intended to educate people about parking on
the MSU campus. Parking Enforcement officers not only write tickets, they help people find
their way around campus. Enforcement of regulations is to promote your safety. The temporary
convenience of illegal parking is rarely worth the hassle and expense of a ticket or towing. The
Parking Office recommends that students, faculty, staff, and visitors observe these regulations as
24
a courtesy to everyone. Please remember that parking regulations are in effect year around,
including semester breaks. The enforcement regulations apply to all persons operating
motor vehicles on Murray State University campus. It is your responsibility to read and fully
understand these regulations. Not knowing the regulations is not considered a valid reason for
appeal.
Murray State University reserves the right to change any parking regulation. Normally, changes
in the regulations will be announced through proper university communications channels. Any
questions regarding parking regulations should be addressed to the Parking Office on campus.
These two files comprise the official Murray State University Student Handbook. Subject
to change without notice. Please read!
https://www.murraystate.edu/HeaderMenu/Administration/StudentAffairs/Handbook.aspx
Academic Bulletin- List classes and requirements for each major and minor at MSU.
http://www.murraystate.edu/academics/RegistrarsOffice/catalog_1415.aspx
MSU Parking Permits
All students, faculty and staff (full time or part-time, retired, volunteer) who
operate a motor vehicle on the MSU campus must properly display a current
parking permit. This includes all personnel that work or maintain an office on
campus. Annual renewal of parking permits is required. Vehicles must be
registered within one day after being brought onto campus, excluding
weekends and holidays. Registration and parking permits are valid for the fall,
spring, and summer sessions. Information required to register vehicle is as
follows:
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
NAME

MSU ID OR DRIVER'S LICENSE

LOCAL ADDRESS

VEHICLE YEAR, MAKE, MODEL, AND COLOR

LICENSE PLATE NUMBER

STATE AND COUNTY VEHICLE REGISTERED IN
Parking permits are assigned to the individual purchasing decal, not the
vehicle in which it is displayed.
Registration is enforced 24-hours daily.
This includes everyone registered as an MSU student
Acquiring a Permit
Permits should be purchased prior to the beginning of the fall semester.
Enforcement will begin on the first day of scheduled classes. Only one permit
will be issued to a student, faculty or staff member and is valid only when
permit holder is driving. This permit may be transferred from one vehicle to
another when permit holder is the driver. Permits are NOT transferable from
one person to another. Ownership of the parking permit remains with the
university and is not transferable to other persons. A faculty/staff or
student may not purchase a permit for someone else. Permits are to be
used by the individual whose name is registered with the permit. Use of
the permit by anyone else is considered false registration, AND IS
SUBJECT TO PARKING CITATION AND $90 FINE.
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STUDENT
Students may purchase a permit prior to the beginning of a semester. Early
registration for students normally begins at the end of the Spring
Semester. These permits may be picked up beginning August 1 at the Public
Safety Parking office or during registration at a designated location in the
Curris Center at the beginning of the fall semester. After fall registration,
permits must be picked up at Public Safety within 24 hours of arrival to
campus, excluding weekends and holidays. Summer sessions begin the
Monday following spring graduation.
Rights and Responsibilities of
Permit Holders
It shall be the responsibility of the recipient to secure the permit from theft or
loss. The person to whom the permit is issued will be responsible for all
violations received against the permit regardless of current status at the
university or lack of knowledge of current parking regulations. It is the permit
owner’s responsibility to surrender to the Public Safety office their permit
when leaving the university to ensure no one can utilize and receive tickets on
their permit. The purchase of a permit does not guarantee the holder a
parking place, but only an opportunity to park on university property. If a
parking zone is full, ample parking is available in the parking lot at 17th and
Hamilton; at Roy Stewart Stadium; and the Sorority suites lot at Poplar and
27
Brentwood . A permit signifies that an individual has been granted the
privilege of parking on university property. Permits must be properly
displayed on the rear-view mirror the day issued. A vehicle may receive a
citation ($60) for “No registration permit displayed” if the permit does not
appear in the proper location. If the permit cannot be displayed in the proper
location, a stick-on permit may be obtained in lieu of a hangtag. The stick-on
permit must be placed in the lower corner of the driver’s side front windshield.
At the time of registration, students, faculty, and staff will be required to list all
vehicles in which the parking permit will be displayed.
Non-compliance in registration of your vehicle as a student, faculty, staff, or
visitor could result in any or all of the following:
• First violation will result in your account being charged a fine.
• Additional violations for failure to register vehicle and display permit will be
charged $60 per violation.
• May result in your vehicle being towed and/or loss of parking privileges on
campus.
Permits should be removed from the vehicle when there is a change in car
ownership, the permit has expired, or vehicle is left for maintenance or repairs
to prevent theft of permit.
The Parking office must be informed of new vehicle information when a
registered vehicle is replaced or its license plate changed.
28
Deliberate falsification of records and/or information pertaining to the
registration of your vehicle may result in the rejection of the parking
application, a parking citation for “false registration” with a $90 fine, and
denial of parking privileges on the MSU campus. The purchase of a
permit certifies that you have secured the permit for your own use and
no other.
Dos and Don'ts

DO contact the Murray State University Parking Office with parking
questions at (270) 809-4812 or email us. Other sources of information
may be unreliable.

DO observe the signs in each lot. The signs will indicate what type of
permit is required there. All vehicles parking on campus must have a
current permit (visitors included).

DO update your permit information with the Parking Office, when
changing vehicles or license plates.

DO familiarize yourself with all the parking regulations. If you drive on
campus, this is your responsibility.

DO park carefully, within a defined parking space, to avoid a citation for
improper parking.

DO understand that parking tickets are issued 24 hours a day/ 7 days a
week.

DO leave permit displayed in vehicle at all times, unobstructed on rearview mirror.

DO contact Public Safety immediately if permit is lost, misplaced, left, or
stolen to get replacement.
29

DON'T assume that because others have parked illegally you may do
so.

DON'T park on yellow lines, fire lanes, etc. with your hazard lights on,
this will not prevent you from receiving a citation.

DON'T park anywhere that is not designated as a parking space. A
parking space is defined by two white lines on either side of the vehicle.

DON'T park in a disability space without a Murray State University
issued disability permit.

DON'T trade permits with friends. If your friend is using your permit or
vehicle and receives a citation you are responsible for the citation.

DON'T purchase or accept a permit from anyone except Murray State
University Parking Office. Parking permits purchased from private
individuals are invalid and may be stolen.
General Information
Parking permits are the property of the university and must be returned to the
Public Safety Office upon termination of employment as a part of the
clearance process.
In the case of curb parking, all vehicles will be parked headed in the direction
of the traffic flow, 24-hour enforcement.
Requests for special use of parking areas or streets (dances, etc.) should be
submitted to the Vice President of Finance and Administrative Services for
approval and then coordinated with the Director of Public Safety.
30
All serious incidents or vehicle accidents should be reported to the University
Police (270) 809-2222 immediately – do not move the vehicle.
Theft of personal or university property should be reported to the University
Police (270) 809-2222 immediately. The University Police Department will
furnish engraving devices free of cost for the purpose of marking personal
property. Personal Property Inventory sheets are also available at the
University Police Department and on the Public Safety website.. For your
protection it would be wise to make photographs of jewelry and other
valuables.
University, state, or government-owned vehicles may be parked in any color
zone, service vehicles areas, or restricted areas, without displaying a
university permit.
Parking on the MSU campus is permitted only in marked spaces.
The City of Murray, by ordinance, requires the purchase of a city sticker for
the following persons:

City stickers are required of all persons who reside within City limits
(either on or off campus); any resident or non-resident who work inside
the city limits of Murray; or anyone who performs a business-related
activity is required to purchase a City sticker for each vehicle owned or
used in those pursuits. Any one employed as a student employee is
required to purchase a city sticker.
31

Murray city stickers may be purchased at the Murray city hall building,
City Clerk’s Office ($50). Questions about city stickers should be
directed to the City Clerk’s office (270) 762-0350. Stickers can be
purchased at City Hall in the Customer Service Center.

Persons exempted are non-resident (commuting) university students not
employed or living, working, or performing business-related activity
within the city limits of Murray.
Anyone planning short courses, workshops, or meetings to which persons
from off campus are invited should notify Public Safety of the location of the
event, date(s) and time, and the number of expected participants involved.
This notification should be made two weeks prior to the event, so that permits
may be issued and parking provided. Special permits are for two weeks or
less.
Anyone wishing to make parking recommendations regarding regulation
changes or modifications should address correspondence to: Director,
Department of Public Safety and Emergency Management, 101 Public Safety
Building, Murray, KY 42071.
Parking on University Property
The university reserves the right to tow any vehicle creating a hazardous
condition, or any situation otherwise interfering with the overall operation of
the university. Excessive and continuous failure to comply with university
parking regulations could result in vehicle being towed. Vehicles will be
towed at the owner’s expense.
32
Murray State University assumes no responsibility for theft or damage to
vehicles or personal possessions on university property.
Parking is permitted only in legal marked parking spaces - parking outside of
designated parking spaces will result in a citation being issued.
Due to limited parking facilities and increasing demand for space, an
inoperable vehicle will not be allowed to occupy a parking space for a period
exceeding 24 hours. All inoperable vehicles reports may be called in to the
Murray State Police at (270) 809-2222, within 24 hours. Failure to notify
Murray State Police may result in a notice of violation being issued to vehicle
and/or vehicle being towed at the owner’s expense.
Operation of a Motor Vehicle
University Police enforce all laws and regulations regarding the operation of a
motor vehicle.
All motor vehicles operating in the Commonwealth of Kentucky are required
by law to have liability insurance coverage. KRS 304.39-110.
Kentucky law requires the operator of a motor vehicle to have in his or her
possession: a driver’s license, vehicle registration, and current proof of
insurance.
33
Parking lot speed limit 15 mph.
Kentucky traffic laws are enforced on university property. Violation of traffic
laws may result in a citation to appear in Calloway County District Court.
The operator of a vehicle is responsible for any damage to university property
occurring from the operation of that vehicle. Criminal charges may be filed in
Calloway County District Court.
Non-Pedestrian Devices Regulations
Non-pedestrian devices include, but are not limited to: bicycles, skateboards,
skates, roller blades, and unicycles. It is the responsibility of all individuals
using these devices on campus to read and understand these
regulations. Lack of knowledge of these regulations will not be accepted as
grounds for dismissal of citations or enforcement actions.
General Guidelines for Non-Pedestrian Devices:

Pedestrians have the right-of-way.

Bicycles shall not be operated within university buildings, or other areas
designated by regulation or signs.

Cyclists are required to operate within applicable Kentucky law when
riding on streets or roadways.

Skateboarding is permitted to and from class only. All other
skateboarding is prohibited.
34

Stunt riding, trick riding, free-style riding, or skating, are not to be
performed on university property. In addition, excessive noise, speed,
stunt riding, or any other use of non-pedestrian devices that may cause
disturbances of studies, property damage, or endanger self or others is
prohibited. Users may not ride on stairways, patios, dock areas,
benches, picnic tables, stairs, ramps, curbs, or other irregular surfaces.

Student, faculty, or staff violators are subject to disciplinary
proceedings. Violators’ equipment is subject to confiscation and
impoundment.

The university may impound any non-pedestrian device which is
classified as abandoned, lost, or stolen. The university reserves the
right to remove locks and/or security devices attached to bicycles in
order to impound.
Points of contact for Public Safety

Emergency
o


911 – on campus
University Police
o
2222 – on campus
o
(270) 809-2222 – off campus
Parking Management Office
o
4812 – on campus
o
(270) 809-4812 – off campus
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