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Parent and Family Resources

The transition to college is a major step for students and their families. At North Park University, we consider parents and families an important part of our community and partners in the educational journey. We’re here to support you by anticipating your questions and offering helpful resources.

Stay Connected

We hope these tools help you stay engaged with your student and the North Park community throughout the year. We look forward to seeing you on campus and are always happy to assist.

 

Student records (FERPA)

Due to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), we cannot share certain student information, including grades, with parents or family members without the student’s permission. Under FERPA, students are considered responsible adults and must authorize the release of academic or financial records by signing a FERPA Release Form.

We encourage open communication between you and your student about how this information will be shared.

 

Additional information

  • Students who receive work-study as part of their financial aid will be placed into on-campus jobs. On-campus jobs are also available to non-work-study students. More information can be found on the scholarships and aid page. 
  • The residence halls are open during the short breaks but are closed during the winter and spring break periods.

 

  • It’s common for students to face challenges as they adjust to college-level academic work. At the first sign of difficulty, encourage your student to speak with their instructor and then reach out to the Student Engagement office. Our staff can assist with study strategies, time management, and connect students with tutoring and other academic support services.
  • For students with diagnosed disabilities—learning or otherwise—North Park offers resources and accommodations to support their success. Additional information is available through our student support specialist, who can help guide students and families through the process.

  • If your student is having difficulty adjusting to college life or getting socially involved, several campus resources are here to help. The dean of students, Counseling Support Services, Residence Life staff, and the campus pastor are all available for support. Encourage your student to begin by talking with their RA or RD about ways to get connected on campus.
  • Counseling Support Services also offers one-time consultations, assessments, and ongoing support to help students care for their overall well-being.

 

  • North Park bills students each semester. Fall bills are issued in July; spring bills in mid-December. Charges include tuition, housing, food, and course fees.
  • Traditional undergraduate students are automatically enrolled in a monthly payment plan for a $30/semester fee. Fall plans typically run from July 15 to December 15. The fee is waived if the balance is paid in full by August 15 or once college savings plan payments are complete.
  • Learn more about billing, financial aid, and payment options.

The college transition can be exciting and challenging for families. These recommended books and websites can offer guidance:

Books

  • Don’t Tell Me What to Do, Just Send Money – Helen E. Johnson & Christine Schelhas-Miller
  • Letting Go: A Parents’ Guide to Understanding the College Years (5th ed.) – Karen Levin Coburn
  • The iConnected Parent – Barbara Hofer & Abigail Sullivan
  • You’re On Your Own (But I’m Here If You Need Me) – Marjorie Savage

Websites

Contact us

Division of Student Engagement
Johnson Center, 1st floor
5141 N. Christiana
Chicago, IL 60625

studentengagement@northpark.edu
(773) 244-5737