Skip to main contentSkip to main navigationSkip to footer content
Saint Xavier University Chicago Campus Residence Halls

Student Advising Center


At Saint Xavier University, academic advising is a pivotal component of the educational experience, used to empower students to think critically and to explore and identify academic and career interests. Through guidance and mentorship, advising encourages academic excellence and accountability and helps students to realize their full potential.

Academic Advising Philosophy

Academic advising is a shared responsibility between student and advisor. Advisors work to inspire students by building relationships, empowering self-awareness and reflection, connecting students with appropriate resources, fostering personal development, and supporting various college-to-career pathways. Although advisors provide guidance and recommendations, students are ultimately responsible for making academic decisions and satisfying degree requirements.

Academic Advising practices at Saint Xavier are guided by the National Academic Advising Association's (NACADA) core competencies and core values as well as guidelines provided by the Council for the Advancement of Standards (CAS) in Higher Education.

By engaging in the academic advising process at Saint Xavier University, students will be able to

  • Recognize the value of general education as it relates to real-world skill development.
  • Self-advocate and seek appropriate academic and support resources as needed.
  • Demonstrate understanding of advising technologies, including the student planning system.
  • Articulate academic and career goals, including the steps required to achieve them.

All matriculated undergraduate students are assigned an academic advisor during their first semester. Students can access their advisor's information, including email, through Navigate or Academic Planning. Advising and registration forms, including Add/Drop, Audit, Change of Name or Address, Change of Grade, Change of Major, Intent to Minor, and Pass/Fail Grade Request can be accessed through the Records and Registration website. Additional helpful resources related to academic advising include:

  • Academic Calendar a listing of important dates and events tied to academics at the University.
  • Academic Catalog an official University document that includes course descriptions, academic program information, and academic policies and procedures.

All undergraduate students should meet with their advisor at least once per semester on matters of academic planning and progress. Students should regularly view their progress program evaluation in Self-Service and Academic Planning for accuracy and progress towards graduation. The ultimate responsibility for making decisions about educational plans consistent with policies of the University rests with the student.

Additional Advising Resources