Frequently Asked Questions

Address changes

How do I change my address?: Address changes must be made through myZou. After logging into myZou, click on the "Self Service" link, then the "Student Center" link. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the address you need to change.

Billing

Can I make payments on my account instead of paying it in full?: Yes, but remember that a one percent finance charge is assessed on the unpaid billed balance each month until the balance is paid in full. The balance must be paid in full by the last payment due date of each semester.
When are bills normally generated?: The bills are generated on or around the 20th of each month.
When are bills due?: The bills are due on the 15th of the following month unless the 15th falls on a weekend or holiday, then they will be due on the previous business day.
Is there any penalty for not paying my bill on time?: The minimum payment must be made by the due date or you will be subject to a $10.00 late fee. There will be a one percent monthly finance charge on the unpaid billed balance until the balance is paid in full. Past due amounts owed the University must be satisfied by payment in full. If you fail to pay, you may be subject to sanctions including the inability to add/drop classes, elimination of student charge privileges, and denial of access to the Student Recreation Center. Failure to pay may also result in denial of class registration access. Also, transcripts or diplomas may be withheld. If it is the first payment due date of the semester, the payment must be made on time or your classes will be subject to cancellation.
Do you accept online payment?: Yes. You may pay online via direct debit of your checking or savings account through myZou. Payments may also be made on the student account with Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.

Is there a booklet explaining the Student Billing System?: Yes, upon request you may receive a copy of "Your Money Matters" from the Cashiers Office. You may also visit the Billing and Due Dates section of this website for more information.

What is the "Tuition" charge on my bill?: This is the cost of your classes. This amount will change each academic year according to the number of credit hours you take each semester and the cost per credit hour.
What is the Information Technology Fee on my bill?: This is a mandatory fee and contributes to the total cost of use, maintenance and upgrading of computing and network facilities and services for students, including public computing sites, e-mail, file storage and similar resources. This charge is assessed per credit hour of classes the student is taking.
I have my own computer, why must I pay the Information Technology Fee charge?: The Board of Curators has determined that this is a mandatory charge for every student attending the University.
What is the Student Activity Fee?: This is a mandatory fee charged to all students who are taking classes on campus. This money is allocated to Student Organizations, Student Life, etc.
What is the Recreation Facility Fee?: This is a per semester mandatory fee for all students enrolled in more than 6 credit hours. Student who are enrolled in 6 hours or less or are taking classes off campus are not automatically charged this fee, but may opt to include this charge if they would like to access the recreation facilities. The Recreation Facility Fee allows students to use campus-based indoor and outdoor facilities as a self-service participant. Recreation facilities include an aquatic complex, basketball courts, a fitness center, racquetball courts, indoor and outdoor tracks, and tennis courts.
What is the Prepaid Health Fee?: The Prepaid Health Fee allows the student to use the Student Health Center.
I already have insurance, do I still have to pay the Prepaid Health Fee?: Yes, this is a mandatory fee for all full-time students.

Bookstore

How do I get an itemized breakdown of bookstore charges?

Contact the Bookstore at (573)882-4254.

Can I make payments on my bookstore charges?

Bookstore charges are part of the student billing system and minimum payments may be offered as an option on the bill. Minimum payments will result in an additional one percent monthly finance charge on the unpaid billed balance.

What should I do if the Bookstore refuses me charging privileges?

Contact the business office of the Bookstore at (573) 882-4254 or in person at the Bookstore administrative office, located on the main level of the bookstore in the Student Center, corner of Hitt Street and Rollins Rd.

How do I get a refund on my books if I drop a class or totally withdraw from the University?

Take your books and your add/drop or withdrawal slip immediately to the reception desk located on the main level of the Bookstore in the Student Center, corner of Hitt Street and Rollins Rd. Credit will be given in the same manner as the books were purchased.

Where can I get an estimate on what my books might cost?

Contact the Bookstore at (573)882-4254 or write to the University Bookstore, University of Missouri-Columbia, Student Center, Columbia MO 65211.

Can I get a refund on my books after using them for the semester?

Refunds on textbooks are left to the discretion of the Bookstore.

Can a student purchase books with a check?

Yes.

What is the returned check policy at the Bookstore?

One check returned: after that check is paid in full, the student may charge and cash checks immediately.
Two checks returned: after those two checks are paid in full, the student may not charge or cash checks until the following semester.
Three checks returned: the student may not charge or cash checks for five years.
Any exception to the above must be made by the bookstore.

What would revoke my check writing privileges at the Bookstore?

Returned checks that were unable to be cleared by your bank, or check amounts exceeding the daily maximum could revoke your check writing privileges. Students who are not financially enrolled for the current semester may not write checks.

Checks

Where can a student write a check for cash on campus?

US Bank is located within the MU Student Center and will only cash US Bank checks.

What is the maximum amount I can write a check for?

The maximum is $50.00 per day.

Is there a penalty for checks that do not clear my bank?

Yes, at the present time the University of Missouri charges a returned check fee of $20.00 for each check returned by your bank.

What is the University's returned check policy?

One check returned: after it is paid in full, the student's check writing privileges are returned.
Two checks returned: after they are paid in full, the student will not be able to write checks until the next semester they are enrolled.
Three checks returned: check writing privileges are revoked forever! All future payments will have to be made by cashier's check, money order, or approved credit card.

Who do I contact to pay for a returned check and returned check charge?

Contact the Cashiers Office, University of Missouri-Columbia, 15 Jesse Hall, Columbia, MO 65211 or call (573)882-6351.

Classes

Who do I contact to find out what the class rates are?: You may call the Cashiers Office at (573)882-3097 or you may write to: Cashiers Office, University of Missouri-Columbia, 15 Jesse Hall, Columbia, MO 65211. The rates are also available on this website.
Who do I contact to register for the first time?: All inquires should be addressed to the Admissions Office, University of Missouri-Columbia, 230 Jesse Hall, Columbia, MO 65211 or phone at (573)882-7786. The toll-free number for Missouri and Illinois residents is 1-800-225-6075.
Who do I contact if I wish to transfer from my present school to the University of Missouri?: All inquires should be addressed to the Admissions Office, University of Missouri-Columbia, 230 Jesse Hall, Columbia, MO 65211 or phone at (573)882-7786. The toll-free number for Missouri and Illinois residents is 1-800-225-6075.
Do some schools require a minimum number of hours in order to be accepted in their school?: Yes, you will have to contact your individual school or college.
Are there any special fees assessed other than the Tuition, Non-Resident Tuition, Information Technology, Student Activity, Recreation Facility, and Prepaid Health fees?: There is a course fee assessed on courses taught through specific colleges and schools. Please visit our costs page to see the various costs.
Who is an Easy Access student?: A person taking courses that do not count towards a degree program is classified as an Easy Access student. These courses do not require prerequisites and are usually taken for self-improvement.
Can my Easy Access courses count toward my degree?: Any questions on what courses can count toward a degree should be directed to the Admissions Office, University of Missouri-Columbia, 230 Jesse Hall, Columbia, MO 65211 or phone at (573)882-7786. The toll-free number for Missouri and Illinois residents is 1-800-225-6075.
Who is qualified to participate in Early Registration?: Only currently enrolled students in good standing are qualified to participate in early registration.
If I wish to drop a class, whom do I need to contact?: Drops are initiated at the Dean's Office of your individual school.
If I want to withdraw from the University, whom do I contact?: Withdrawals are initiated at the Dean's Office of your individual school.
Is there a charge for withdrawing from the University?: If you withdraw the first day of class or after, you will receive a percentage-based refund based on the date you withdraw. The further into the semester the less you will receive as a refund on your bill. Please see refund schedules for the percentage refund. For additional information please see about refunds on our website.
Am I required to have all holds cleared before I become enrolled for the next semester?: Yes, you are. Any loan or past due holds must be cleared before you can become enrolled in a new semester.

Continuous enrollment

When can a student enter the continuous enrollment program?: After completion of the Comprehensive Exam, a student may enter the continuous enrollment program. Any questions on entering this program should be directed to the Graduate School, University of Missouri-Columbia, 210 Jesse Hall, Columbia, MO 65211 or phone at (573)882-6311.
How many hours are required each semester for continuous enrollment?: For Fall and Spring the requirement is two and for Summer it is one.
What fees are applicable to a continuous enrollment student?: Any continuously enrolled student taking classes on campus is required to pay the Graduate Level Tuition, Information Technology Fee, Student Activity Fee and any course fees. Continuously enrolled students who are taking classes off campus are not required to pay the Student Activity Fee.
When is the due date for payment of Continuous Enrollment classes?: Please see our billing and due dates page for due dates.
Will I be charged a late fee if I do not pay my bill on time for my class fees?: Yes, if your bill is not paid on time the Cashiers Office will send an email to your PawPrint account advising you that if payment is not made by a specific date your classes will be canceled. If you still do not make the minimum payment by the due date your classes will be subject to cancellation. If you went through early registration, you will have to register again through regular registration. If you went through regular registration and your classes are cancelled due to non-payment you will have a hold placed on your account. The hold must be cleared with the Cashiers Office and you must get your Academic Unit approval before you will be able to register again. Registration that occurs after classes have already started is considered "late registration" and you will incur a late registration fee equal to one credit hour tuition fee at the undergraduate rate. If your classes are cancelled due to non-payment, you will be treated the same as students who withdraw or reduce their course load after classes have begun and will be subject to the University's refund schedule.
Is there a non-resident fee for a continuously enrolled student who is out of state?: Continuously enrolled students are not charged a non-resident fee for up to and including 2 hours during each of the Fall and Spring Semesters, and 1 hour during the Summer Session. An out of state continuously enrolled student taking more than the minimum required hours is charged the non-resident fee for any hours above the minimum. In some cases, the student's department will cover the additional non-resident fee.
What is a 9090 course?: These courses are normally for PhD dissertation research.

E. Z. charge

Is E. Z. Charge for food only?: No, it is for anything that is sold through Campus Dining Services.

Family dwelling

Whom do I contact if I wish to live in Family Dwelling?: Contact the Residential Life University Student Apartment office. They are located at 1133 Ashland Road, Columbia, MO 65201. They may also be reached by phone at (573)875-1133 or by e-mail at umcreslifeapartments@missouri.edu.
Will my rent be placed on my monthly billing statement?: Yes, your rent is placed on your bill each month around the 18th. Bills are mailed out around the 20th of each month and are due in full the 15th of the following month.
Do I have to give a notice when I am ready to move; and, if so, how much notice do I need to give? Is there a penalty if I do not give a notice?: Yes. The amount of notice that you are required to give, as well as any potential penalties for failing to give proper notice, is outlined in your contract. Students on the current contract are required to give 90 days notice. Students on the older version of the contract are required to give 30 days notice.
If I give the proper amount of notice, will I receive a refund for the days that I was charged beyond the last day of my contract?: Yes, a credit will be placed on your monthly billing statement and, if you do not owe the University of Missouri any other charges, then a refund will be issued.
Who do I contact about the damage charge on my billing statement?: All damage charges for the University Student Apartments are assessed by the University Student Apartment office. You may contact them at 1133 Ashland Road or by phone at (573)875-1133.

Financial aid

What is classified as Financial Aid?: Any Grant, Scholarship, or Loan applied to the student account.
Where can I find out information about my eligibility for financial aid?: All questions on eligibility for financial aid should be directed to Financial Aid, University of Missouri-Columbia, 11 Jesse Hall, Columbia MO 65211 or phone at (573)882-7506. The toll-free number for Missouri and Illinois residents is 1-800-225-6075.
What will financial aid pay for?: Financial aid is applied to your account covering anything on your student bill at that time. If the financial aid application results in a credit balance on your account, then a refund is issued to you.
If I am eligible for financial aid why am I receiving a bill?: If you have received a bill then your aid was not enough to take care of the total due.
If my statement does not show my financial aid that I am eligible for who do I need to contact?: Contact the Financial Aid Office at (573)882-7506.
Why am I being charged for classes when I have a full Curator's Scholarship?: The Curator's Scholarship offsets only the tuition. You are responsible for the Student Activity, Information Technology, Recreation Facility, Prepaid Health, and any course fees.

Grades

Where do I find my grades?: Grades can be seen in myZou. After logging into myZou, click on the "Self Service" link, then the "Student Center" link. Then click on the "Grades" link in the Academics section.
Who do I contact to be sure that the grade of an incomplete has been changed?: Contact the Transcripts and Records Office, University of Missouri-Columbia, 125 Jesse Hall, Columbia, MO 65211 or phone at (573)882-8252.

ID card

Where do I go to get an ID card?: They are located in the University Bookstore in the MU Student Center.
Why do I need a student ID card?: After you become enrolled and at the start of each semester your ID card will allow you access to campus facilities, meals, dorm after hours, and to charge items to your student account. It also provides a second picture ID for you.
If I lose my ID is there a charge for a new one and where should I go?: Yes, there is a $10.00 charge and you will need to go to the University Bookstore in the MU Student Center.

Insurance

Who is eligible to be enrolled in the student accident and sickness insurance plan?: Current financially enrolled students, their spouse, and/or children.
Who can tell me what the student insurance policy will cover?: There are brochures available in the Cashiers Office, 15 Jesse, explaining the insurance program. You may also visit the insurance company's website.
When do I have to decide on whether or not I want the insurance?: Generally you have 30 days after a semester starts. After that time you will have to contact the insurance company directly.

Parking

What are the parking charges on my account?: Parking and Transportation issued you a ticket. If payment is not received within a reasonable length of time, tickets are then placed on your student account. There is an administrative charge when you receive more than 5 tickets. From 6 through 10 tickets there is an additional charge of $15 in addition to the face value of the tickets. After 11 tickets the additional charge is $50 in addition to the face value of the tickets.
This parking charge has a transaction date and I was not in school then.: The date shown on your monthly billing statement is the date the charge was entered unto your student account; not necessarily the date you were given the ticket.
Who do I contact to find out when I received the ticket?: Contact Parking and Transportation, University of Missouri-Columbia, Turner Garage Level 2, Columbia, MO 65211 or phone (573) 882-4568.
I don't own a car; why do I have a parking charge on my bill?: Contact Parking and Transportation, University of Missouri-Columbia, Turner Garage Level 2, Columbia, MO 65211 or phone (573) 882-4568.
If a received a parking ticket yesterday, where do I pay it?: Parking and Transportation, Turner Garage Level 2.
Why does it take so long for parking tickets to show up on my student account?: Any questions along this line should be directed to Parking and Transportation, University of Missouri-Columbia, Turner Garage Level 2, Columbia, MO 65211 or phone (573) 882-4568.
I have already paid for a parking ticket, why am I being billed for it again?: If you feel you are being billed for the same parking ticket, you need to contact Parking and Transportation at (573)882-4568.

Parking permits

Whom do I need to contact to get a parking permit?: Parking and Transportation, University of Missouri-Columbia, Turner Garage Level 2, Columbia, MO 65211 or phone (573) 882-4568.
Can I choose a parking space?: Students may request a specific parking lot, but assignments are based on availability.
Whom do I contact about requesting a parking space next to my dorm?: Parking and Transportation at (573)882-4568. Adjacent residence hall parking is based on availability.
Are there different amounts charged for different parking areas?: Yes, parking charges vary due to the location of the parking lot.
I have a parking permit, why did I get a ticket?: Contact Parking and Transportation at (573)882-4568.
Can I have my parking permit charged to my student account and put on my monthly billing statement?: Yes.
Do I have to renew my parking permit each year?: Yes, they are issued on a yearly basis and normally billed per semester.
Why am I receiving a bill for a parking permit when I am not enrolled in school this semester?: Parking permits are issued for a year and billed on a semester basis. If you do not return to school for the Spring Semester you must return your permit to Parking and Transportation, University of Missouri- Columbia, Turner Garage Level 2, Columbia, MO 65211.
If I am disabled is there disabled parking?: Yes, you will need to request a disabled parking permit from Parking and Transportation. You will also need to bring in or send in the receipt from your state showing that you have a disabled license or permit.
Where would I find parking meters for longer than one hour?: Level 3 in Turner Garage and most top floors of parking garages.

Refunds

If I drop a class do I receive a credit for class fees?: If you drop a class before classes begin you will receive full credit for the cost of the class. If you drop a class once classes have started you will receive credit equal to a percentage of the cost of the class. Please see our refund schedule page for more detailed information.
Where can I obtain a copy of the refund schedule?: This information may be obtained by contacting the Cashiers Office at (573)882-3097 or by going to our refund schedule page.

Residential Life

Are Residential Life contracts for the academic year or semester?: They are for an academic year but you are billed on a semester basis.
When are Residential Life payments due?: The initial payment is due with a signed contract. The exact date is adjusted and assigned by Residential Life.
How many payments do I have to pay for my dorm and meals?: For the Fall and Spring semesters, your Residential Life charges for the semester are calculated with tuition and other fees and you will have five payments if you pre-registered and three if you register during regular registration. For the Summer session, Residential Life charges are due in full with the submission of the contract. See also MU's Payment Options.
Will I be able to make meal changes during the year and, if so, how many times can I change?: For the Fall Semester, dining plans can be changed up until August 1st. For the Spring Semester, dining plans can be changed up until January 1st.
If I decide to vacate my dorm room before the end of the semester who would I contact to find out how much credit I will be receiving?: Residential Life, University of Missouri-Columbia, 0780 Defoe-Graham, Columbia, MO 65211 or phone at (573)882-7275.
What is the buy-out penalty for breaking my dorm contract?: The penalty for breaking a dorm contract is 40% of the remaining value of the contract.
What is the room damage charge for?: All questions on room damage should be directed to Facilities Operations, University of Missouri-Columbia, 8 Defoe Hall, Columbia, MO 65211 or phone (573)882-7211.
Can I renew my residential hall contract for the next year and keep the same room?: For contract renewal please see the Residential Life webpage. Or you may visit the Residential Life office at 0780 Defoe-Graham.
If my roommate moves out, will I automatically be charged a single room rate if no one moves it?: Yes, upon cancellation of your roommate's contract, the system automatically increases your room rate to that of a single occupant until a new person moves in.
Can I use my financial aid to pay my residence hall charges?: Yes, anything that is charged to your student account is paid by the available financial aid.

Sponsor billing

What is meant by Sponsor Billing?: Sponsor billing is a payment agreement between the student, university, and the student's sponsor. The sponsor is an outside source that takes responsibility for all or partial payment of fees, books, etc. A third party sponsor is not an individual such as a parent or grandparent, but an agency such as the military or Vocational Rehabilitation. Please see our webpage on sponsor billing.
Must I request that my fees be paid by my sponsor each semester?: Please see our sponsor billing webpage.
If my class fees are reduced who will receive the refund or credit?: The sponsor receives the refund or credit for any reduction of fees that they were originally billed for.
How do I have my bookstore charges billed to my sponsor?: Documents showing sponsor approval should be sent to the Bookstore Office in the MU Student Center, 911 East Rollins St., Columbia, MO 65211. You should have the bookstore clerk process your bookstore charges on a "house charge" to your sponsor. Any bookstore charges that are to be paid by your sponsor SHOULD NOT be charged on your student ID card.
Does Sponsor Billing only bill charges for class fees?: Coverage by sponsor varies. Any questions about what your sponsor will cover should be directed to your sponsor.
Will I need to forward my monthly billing statement to my sponsor?: No, the Sponsor Billing office will bill your sponsor for you after the 50% refund period is over.
What happens if my sponsor does not pay my fees?: Initially, you will have credit put on your student account for the charges billed to your sponsor. But if your sponsor fails to respond to the bill by the due date, the credit applied to your account in anticipation of your sponsor paying is removed. You will now be billed and subject to interest.

Transcripts

Who do I contact if I wish to have a transcript mailed and is there a charge?: Contact the Transcript Office, University of Missouri-Columbia, 125 Jesse Hall, Columbia, MO 65211 or by phone at (573)882-8252.
Does my account with the University of Missouri have to be paid in full before I can receive my transcript?: Yes, you may not receive a transcript unless all accounts with the University of Missouri are paid in full.
If I have a hold and am currently enrolled, will I be able to get a transcript for advisement, scholarships, or employment?: Transcripts for advisement for school, scholarship applications, or employment may be approved by the Cashiers Office, but the transcript must be sent directly to the college, scholarship department, or employer. You will need to contact the Cashiers Office in 15 Jesse Hall or by phone at (573)882-3097 to make arrangements.