How to Schedule Your Advising Appointment at UMBC

Where to schedule your UMBC advising appointment

UMBC students schedule advising appointments through Titan Connect, the university's online appointment system. You access it through your myUMBC portal — the same login you use for email and course registration. Once you're in myUMBC, look for the Advising section or search for "Titan Connect" to find available time slots with your assigned academic advisor or the advising office that serves your major.

If you don't know who your advisor is, check your myUMBC account under "My Advisor" or contact your college's advising office directly. UMBC has separate advising offices for the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; the College of Engineering and Information Technology; the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences; and the Erickson School of Aging Studies, plus a general advising center for undeclared students.

Some advisors also hold walk-in hours during peak times like registration periods. Check your college's advising website or ask at the front desk whether walk-ins are available that week — this can be faster than waiting for your next scheduled slot if you have a quick question.

Key Takeaways

• Schedule through Titan Connect in your myUMBC portal, where you can see your advisor's available times and book directly.
• Find your assigned advisor's name and office location in myUMBC under "My Advisor," or contact your college's advising office if you're unsure.
• Most advising offices hold walk-in hours during registration periods and at the start of each semester, which may be faster than booking ahead.
• Bring your student ID, a list of questions, and any documents related to your major or course planning so the appointment stays focused.

What to bring and how to prepare

Before your appointment, write down the specific things you need to discuss — course selection, major requirements, graduation timeline, prerequisite questions, or concerns about your academic standing. Advisors see many students each day, so a short list keeps the conversation on track and means you won't forget to ask something important once you're in the office.

Bring your student ID and have your degree audit open in myUMBC if you're discussing progress toward graduation. Your degree audit shows which requirements you've completed and which ones remain, and your advisor will likely pull it up anyway — having it ready saves time. If you're changing majors or considering a minor, bring any course descriptions or program information you've already looked at.

When to schedule: registration and critical times

The best time to schedule an advising appointment is before registration opens for the next semester. UMBC releases registration dates in myUMBC, and advising appointments fill up quickly once students know when they can register. Scheduling a week or two before your registration window opens means your advisor can review your plan and you can register immediately when your time slot arrives.

If you've missed that window and registration is already open, book the earliest available slot — even a same-day or next-day appointment is worth it if you're about to lose your registration time. If you're on academic probation, need to appeal a grade, or are facing a hold on your account, schedule as soon as you notice the problem rather than waiting for a convenient time.

During add/drop periods (usually the first two weeks of the semester), advising offices are busier than usual. If your question can wait until week three or later, you may find more availability then.

What happens during the appointment

Your advisor will review your degree audit, discuss your course plan for the next semester, and answer questions about major requirements, prerequisites, or graduation timeline. They can also discuss academic concerns, refer you to tutoring or other support services, and help you understand policies like grade replacement or course substitution if those apply to your situation.

Advising appointments typically last 20 to 30 minutes. If your question is complex — like changing majors, appealing a grade, or addressing an academic hold — mention that when you book so your advisor can reserve extra time or connect you with the right office.

If you need to reschedule or cancel

Cancel or reschedule through Titan Connect at least 24 hours before your appointment. This frees up the slot for another student and prevents a no-show from affecting your advising record. If you miss an appointment without canceling, some advisors may note it, which can matter if you later need to request an exception or appeal.

If you can't make your scheduled time and no other slots work for you, email your advisor directly explaining the conflict. Many advisors can fit in a brief phone or video call if an in-person appointment isn't possible, especially for straightforward questions.

Advising for specific situations

If you're a first-year student, you may be required to meet with your advisor before registering. Check your college's advising page or your welcome email for any mandatory advising holds on your account. Removing these holds requires completing the advising appointment, so schedule early in the semester.

If you're changing majors, contact your new major's advising office as well as your current one. The new office can explain requirements specific to their program and may need to sign off on your course plan. Some major changes require paperwork filed through the registrar, which your advisor can walk you through.

If you're on academic probation or have a GPA concern, your advisor can discuss what courses to prioritize and whether you're may be able to access for grade replacement or other academic recovery options. These conversations are confidential and are meant to help you succeed, not to penalize you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule an advising appointment if I'm not sure what major I want?

Yes. If you're undeclared, contact the General Advising Center through myUMBC or visit their office in the Administration Building. They help students explore majors and understand general education requirements. You don't need to have decided on a major before booking an appointment.

What if my advisor is unavailable or I want a second opinion?

You can request a different advisor in your college's advising office, or visit during walk-in hours to speak with whoever is available. Some students find it helpful to get input from multiple advisors, especially for major decisions. Your assigned advisor is your primary contact, but you're not limited to only that person.

Do I need an appointment to ask a quick question, or can I just email my advisor?

Quick questions by email are fine — most advisors respond within one business day. Reserve an in-person or phone appointment for longer conversations about course planning, major changes, or academic concerns that need back-and-forth discussion.

What if I have a registration hold and can't schedule an appointment?

A registration hold usually means you need to complete advising before you can register. Schedule immediately through Titan Connect, or visit your advising office in person during walk-in hours to get the hold removed the same day. If no appointments are available, ask at the front desk whether a walk-in slot is open.

Can I schedule an advising appointment over the summer or winter break?

Most advising offices have reduced hours during breaks, and some close entirely for a week or two. Check your college's advising website for holiday schedules. If you need advising during a break, email your advisor as soon as you know — they may be able to meet by phone or video even if the office is officially closed.