Navigating the Towson University Undergraduate Portal: A Comprehensive Guide

The Towson University (TU) undergraduate portal serves as a central hub for prospective and current students, offering access to essential information, applications, financial aid resources, and academic tools. This article provides a comprehensive guide to navigating the portal effectively, ensuring a smooth and informed experience.

Applying to Towson University

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Towson University employs rolling admissions for some programs, allowing applications to be submitted at any time. However, it's crucial to adhere to all admission requirements meticulously. Incomplete applications will remain pending for one year before being canceled, with notification sent to the applicant prior to cancellation.

The application process involves several key steps:

Completing the Application: Access the application menu and fill out all required fields accurately to avoid delays. The application consists of three pages, accessible via a secure server.
Paying the Application Fee: Submit the application along with a non-refundable $40 application fee via a secure server at the time of submission.
Submitting Transcripts: Freshman applicants must submit official high school transcripts, including final grades and graduation verification, as soon as they are available.
Test-Optional Policy: TU is test-optional, meaning SAT and/or ACT scores are not mandatory for admission but will be considered if submitted. To be considered official, scores must be sent directly by the testing agency. TU’s College Board identification code number is 5404 and our ACT code is 1718.
Immunization Records: All entering students, including freshmen, graduates, and transfer students, must submit proof of immunizations.

Paying the Application Fee: A Step-by-Step Guide

After completing the application, proceed to the payment page by clicking "SUBMIT" at the bottom of the page. You will be directed to a secure payment gateway where you will need to enter your payment information (card number, expiration date, card billing information). Verify all details before clicking "Submit" to finalize the payment.

Understanding Your Check and Card Information

When providing payment information, be aware of the numbers required. The routing number, which is the first set of numbers at the bottom of your check, is essential for electronic payments. Ensure you have this information readily available when completing the payment process.

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Application Fees and Enrollment Deposits

It is important to note that application fees and enrollment deposits are non-refundable.

Towson Online Services Student Dashboard

The Towson Online Services Student Dashboard is a self-service web application designed to provide a single-entry point for navigating student-related transactions. It consolidates essential information, including class schedules, enrollment details, and financial data, in one convenient location.

Accessing the Dashboard

To access the dashboard, open towson.edu in your preferred browser.

Navigating the Dashboard

There are two primary methods for navigating Towson Online Services:

Widgets: These interactive elements provide quick access to specific functions and information.
Navigation Menu: Located on the left side of the screen, the navigation menu offers a structured way to explore the various sections of the portal.

Utilizing Widgets

The dashboard is organized into three content tabs:

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General: Contains general information and resources.
Academics: Provides access to academic-related tools and information.
Financial: Displays financial aid details, billing information, and payment options.

To open a widget, select the "Go to" button in the top right corner of the widget. To customize the widgets displayed, select the "Edit My Widgets" button in the upper right corner of the screen. A variety of widget selections will display under the three main categories.

Exploring the Navigation Menu

The navigation menu on the left side of the screen offers access to various features and information. For instance, selecting the "Class Information" arrow reveals details about your enrolled classes. The "Additional Actions" menu (represented by a triple dot) to the right of a course provides further options. The "Important Links" menu option offers quick access to essential resources.

Monitoring Degree Completion Progress

The dashboard allows you to track your progress toward degree completion. Look to the right side of the screen to see categories related to your degree requirements. Select the down arrow beside a category to expand and view additional details.

Seeking Assistance

If you require further assistance, consider the "Related Articles" box on the page or open a support ticket. You can also provide feedback on articles using the "Yes" and "No" buttons below.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Accessing Your Award Notification

When your Award Notification is ready, Admissions will notify you. Log in to your TU Admissions Portal to view it. It is a three-page document. The Award Notification outlines the financial aid you are eligible to receive.

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Completing Part 1 Steps

Complete the Part 1 steps within two weeks of receiving your Award Notification. These steps could change your aid offers, so it is important to complete them promptly.

Release of Financial Information Form

Follow the instructions provided to complete the Release of Financial Information Form.

Notice of Additional Resources Form

If you receive a TU award notification and have additional resources, you must submit a TU Notice of Additional Resources Form. However, if you plan to enroll full-time, do not submit this form.

Reviewing Housing Status

Review the housing status listed on your Award Notification.

Loan Options

If you're not sure if you need loans, leave them in offer status. If the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) offered you any aid, you must also log in to their MDCAPS system to accept their offer and tell them which school you will attend. MHEC will notify our office.

Determining Loan Amounts

Decide how much you want to borrow from each loan program to cover educational and personal expenses. Your Award Notification lists the maximum amounts you can borrow from Federal Direct Subsidized & Unsubsidized Student Loans and your maximum Federal PLUS Loans or Private Loans. You have the option of accepting one loan program and declining others. Review the federal loan interest rates table for current rates.

Loan Changes

If you need to change your loan amount after you accept it, submit a TU Loan Change Form.

Federal Work-Study Program

If your Award Notification includes a Federal Work-study (FWS) award, review the Federal Work-Study Program information. If you might want a FWS job, accept the award in step 10 above.

Scholarship Opportunities

Towson University offers a variety of foundation scholarships to students. To apply for scholarships that require an application, you must first sign in with your Towson University login portal user name and password. Below you will find a listing of Towson University Foundation scholarships available to students with brief information about the scholarship qualifications. Examples include:

Eileen M. Scholarship: Open to Mass Communication majors.
Susan A. J. Scholarship: Open to Mass Communication majors.
Keith L. Scholarship: Open to students pursuing a minor in Italian.
Alena and David M. Scholarship
Ann L. Scholarship: Open to Nursing majors.
Douglas D. Martin, Sr. Scholarship
Dr. Scholarship: Open to Nursing majors.
Dr. Walter M. Scholarship: Open to Nursing majors.
Kathryn H. Scholarship: Open to students majoring in Mathematics.
Marie D. Scholarship
Mildred H. Scholarship
Mildred T. Scholarship
Robert H. & Ruth S. Scholarship
Rowannetta S. Scholarship

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