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Ask the Team

Can't find what you need? Not sure which department to ask? Confused by the Calvin lingo? Ask the parent relations team; we will respond within one business day, whenever possible. Thank you!

Mike Van Denend
Director of Alumni and Parent Relations

Susan Buist
Parent Relations Coordinator

Jen Penning
Student Treats Coordinator

parents@calvin.edu | (616) 526-6142



F.A.Q.

Do you have suggestions for what to pack and bring to Calvin?

The housing office provides a list of what to bring—and what not to bring. The Calvin information technology office also offers advice about computer softward/hardware for those looking to purchase a computer.

How can I see a copy of my student's tuition statement?

Students are responsible for their tuition and miscellaneous financial statements. They can choose to have it sent to a parent e-mail address via their Calvin portal account:

1. Login to the portal.
2. Hover over the "Services" tab (black bar).
3. Select "Student Accounts and Finances."
4. Click on "E-statement and subscription."
5. Students should then see options for both the tuition, room and board statement and the miscellaneous charges statement; below each option they can enter multiple e-mail addresses to which each statement should be sent.

For more information about tuition costs or statements, see the financial services web site.

How can I see a copy of my student's grades?

Students can request to have a copy of their grades mailed to parents this way:

1. Login to the portal.
2. Hover over the "Services" tab (black bar).
3. Select "Student Academics."
4. From the right column, choose "Send grades to parents" and click on which parent(s) should receive copies of their grades.

When is Family Weekend scheduled?

Family Weekend is also held with Homecoming and will be October 19-21, 2012. Some initial schedule information is available on www.calvin.edu/homecoming and ticket orders for certain events will be available in mid-September. The inauguration of President Le Roy will be part of Family Weekend. Also, note that Siblings Weekend is scheduled for February 22-24, 2013.

What are the core classes my student needs to take?

The academic services office outlines core curriculum requirements for various programs. In addition, follow the link to "An Engagement with God's World" on that site to learn more about the philosophy behind Calvin's curriculum.

I need to ship a package to my student; where do I send it?

Addresses for the residence halls, on-campus apartments and Project Neighborhood homes are available on the mail services website.

What banking services are available on or near campus?

Calvin's financial services office provides some suggestions on banking services, and banks such as Lake Michigan Credit Union, Fifth Third, Chase, PNC and Bank of America will have information tables at PASSPORT (orientation). Checks up to $200 can be cashed at the financial services office; some fees may apply.

My e-mail address (or regular mail) changed. To whom should I send the new information?

The academic services office, acadservices@calvin.edu, maintains parent contact information. If you are receiving Calvin-parents, you will also need to change your e-mail address on the Calvin-parent list-serve. You can always let us know via parents@calvin.edu and we'll be happy to pass on the information, too.

I heard I can watch chapel live. How do I do that?

This link on the www.calvin.edu/faith website will allow you to watch the chapel service online from 10-10:20 a.m. on weekdays during the school year. The Sunday evening LOFT services are also available at that link. In addition, choose the "Archived Videos" link on the right side of the screen to watch any of these services after they have been recorded.

Where can I find out about my student's 1098-T tax form?

These forms were mailed to the student's home address at the end of January. Contact the financial services office at finserv@calvin.edu for additional information.

What are the dates for Spring Break this year?

See the academic calendar for spring break and the dates for the start and end of each semester.