The term “matriculation” is used in the academic community to describe the process of enrolling in school. The procedures and traditions of matriculation differ from one school to the next. Some schools require students to simply fill out paperwork, while others matriculate students with a ceremony, such as the white coat ceremonies held to welcome new medical students. In most cases, matriculation information is included in the admissions packages mailed to students.
Students must fill out a form indicating their intention to attend a school in the most basic form of matriculation. They may also be required to make a deposit. When the form is returned to the school, the student is added to the list of matriculated students, which means he or she will be able to register for classes and other school services.
In most cases, matriculation entails submitting an intent to attend form and attending an orientation session. During orientation, the student’s completed coursework will be reviewed to determine class standing, and academic advising and registration will be available to them. Student identification, as well as dorm keys, student handbooks, and other materials, are frequently distributed. Students may also be given tours of the school to learn about the campus and the procedures that they must follow, which may include everything from how to check out books at the library to making an appointment at the health center.
Some schools use matriculation as an excuse to celebrate and welcome new students with a ceremony. Students may be treated to performances the school band as well as a brief public address from a school official. The goal is usually to instill school spirit and loyalty in students so that they are enthusiastic about the institutions they attend and looking forward to the new semester. These procedures also allow students to meet one another and begin forming connections and relationships that will be beneficial in the future.
Many schools distinguish between matriculated students who are enrolled in school to pursue a degree and non-matriculated students who are simply auditing classes. Non-matriculated students do not have access to all of the services available to matriculated students, and they typically pay higher fees to attend classes because they pay per unit rather than a lump sum tuition fee. People may choose to audit for a variety of reasons, including wanting to broaden their horizons or working with a well-known professor.