Non-traditional higher education institutions are unique and so are their needs. Unlike traditional semester-based universities, institutions offering rolling admissions, modular blocks, or career-focused programs have distinct operational requirements. Let's dive into the essential student information system features designed specifically for your institution's success.

1. Flexible Term and Scheduling Models: Freedom to Thrive

Gone are the days of strictly semester-bound terms. Today's innovative institutions need student information systems (SIS) that flex effortlessly with rolling admissions, open-entry/open-exit models, clock hours, and modular or accelerated programs. Whether you're running short-term certificates, evening cohorts, or weekend intensives, your SIS must adapt smoothly, letting you innovate without technological roadblocks.

Your students aren't traditional—so why should your scheduling be?

2. Multi-Campus and Remote Location Mastery: Grow Without Chaos

Many career and technical institutions expand by acquiring campuses or launching new remote locations. But growth shouldn't equal administrative headaches. An SIS tailored for non-traditional institutions ensures seamless management across all locations, no matter how distinct or geographically dispersed.

Key features include:

• Centralized Management, Decentralized Control: Empower your central administration to maintain oversight, yet allow local campuses to customize grading policies, calendars, or programs independently.
• Brand and Division Flexibility: Whether unified under one brand or operating distinct acquired identities, your SIS must effortlessly handle diverse branding, logos, and campus-specific configurations, all while keeping your reports neatly centralized.

Expand your reach without expanding your stress levels.

3. Flexible Financial Aid: Navigating Complexity with Confidence

Non-traditional terms and diverse funding sources—from Title IV to Veteran's benefits, WIOA, and private loans, demand robust, adaptable financial aid capabilities. Your SIS should effortlessly package aid across unconventional term structures and simplify compliance tasks, such as Return to Title IV (R2T4) calculations.

Whether you opt for a specialized servicer or leverage Student First's integrated financial aid solution, flexibility is non-negotiable.

Simplify financial aid so you can focus on supporting students.

Additional Must-Have SIS Features

While the above features are foundational, here are other essentials to keep your institution ahead:

• Seamless LMS Integration: Connect directly to your Learning Management System, reducing manual work and ensuring accurate, timely grading.
• Real-Time Analytics: Data-driven insights to boost student retention and program effectiveness.
• User-Friendly Student Portal: Allow students to manage schedules, view financial aid status, and communicate seamlessly.
• Compliance Automation: Simplify state, federal, and accreditation reporting through built-in tools.

Why Student First Gets It

At Student First, we’ve been around the non-traditional education block a few times. We don’t just claim to understand your needs; we've shaped our SIS to meet the precise challenges you face every day. From flexible scheduling to multi-campus mastery and financial aid intricacies, we've got you covered.

Want to explore how these student information system features can streamline your operations and empower your mission?

Book Your Free Consultation Today!