FAQ ABC
Frequently Asked Questions about the American Band College

CHECKLIST: ABC 3-YEAR CHECKLIST (with printable pdf's and screen images)

TEMPORARY: Any FAQ labeled with XXX at the end of the line is under revision until September 10.

ABC REALIGNED SPRING 2010 WITH SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY:

Will the cost of the degree cost more than previous years?
No. Because of this exciting new alignment with Sam Houston State University, we can offer the degree at the same relative cost with normal annual increases in cost.

Do I need to travel to Sam Houston State University (SHSU)?
No. Through Sam Houston State University's Distance Learning Program, the American Band College will offer 3 semester hours in residence in Oregon and the remaining 7 semester credits on-line. Clinics/rehearsals will continue to be in Ashland, Oregon from June 19 through July 5, at the completely remodeled Music, Theater and Athletic facility at Ashland High School. All courses and projects are handled through Distance Learning at SHSU.

Will the ABC coursework/concerts be different now that the degree is aligned with Sam Houston State (SHSU)?
Course titles are those used by Sam Houston State University in their Master of Music-Conducting Track curriculum. This curriculum includes the concerts, performances, clinics, rehearsals, conducting and exams that make the American Band College experience truly unique. Outstanding ABC clinicians from around the world appear either in Ashland or in some cases through our online courses as well. All of this is coordinated with Sam Houston State University faculty to provide a very high quality program. Concert/performances are still held at the Craterian Theatre (Medford, June 25), on the Ashland parade route, and at the Ashland High School football stadium on July 4.

What lodging options do I have during my time at ABC?
ABC has been fortunate to secure high quality rooms with several motels; however, because June-July is high season with the start of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, we do not have enough space (nor a viable cost factor) that allows us to provide any single rooms. Considering that we have been able to include many amenities, including all double queen beds in each of the motels as well as other items never found in dorm situations, we know you will find the inclusion of breakfast every day and lunch most days (by our world-class caterer, Awna Zegsdryn) in the lodging package very positive. The lodging package includes ALL nights from June 18 through and including July 5. Just login or create your ABC account and see more info at the Lodging Tab (roll over hotel text for pop-up).

If I am in the process of getting admitted, what will I need to do to get my paperwork to Sam Houston State University?
First, apply to Sam Houston State University at Apply Texas and pay the application fee online. Send your transcripts of ALL previously attended colleges or universities to Sam Houston State University. SHSU will notify you if they need other materials.

Where can I get more info about financial aid?
You can get detailed info about online forms (FAFSA) and SHSU financial aid at this frequently asked question 

Do I need letters of recommendation to be admitted to Sam Houston State University?
No.

How do I create and upload my recording of my band, my personal photos and my bio?

What is the cost comparison between the American Band College and various U.S. Universities?

Is the ABC program accredited and nationally recognized?

Where can I find a breakdown on current ABC fees?

How much is the registration deposit for ABC?

Can I take more than one elective course in the same summer?

(Updated) Whom do I contact if I am interested in financial aid?

How should I pay ABC if I am receiving financial aid?

How do I defer payment on my financial aid loan(s) if I am still attending ABC?

When should I take my 3 elective classes during my 3 summers in Ashland?

How can I replace lost forms, status reports, etc?

Does ABC mail out 1099 (tax info forms) to ABC attendees?

What is the difference between quarter-system hours of credit & semester-system hours of credit?

What date/time should I plan on leaving ABC?

Is there a meal plan at ABC?

How do I know which hotel to select for lodging?

Is there bus service in Ashland?

(1st Year ABC Candidate) How do I get admitted to SHSU?

(Returning Non-Admitted ABC Candidate) What new option do I have to be admitted to SHSU in 2010?

Can I transfer elective or music credits to Sam Houston State University from another college other than SOU?

ABC ENTRANCE EXAMS: EXAMS
What are the entrance exam requirements for ABC    XXX

(Returning ABC Candidate) What options do I have for admission to SHSU and ABC?  XXX

Why are wireless-enabled laptops REQUIRED for ABC Master's Candidates?

What is Ultimate Pursuit and how did it get started?

How do I create my own tests with Ultimate Pursuit?

How do I create test groups with Ultimate Pursuit?

What kind of wireless-enabled laptop will work for ABC?

What does it mean if I do poorly on the entrance exam?

What time will I be finished on July 5?

How does ABC and SHSU track my progress in the program?  XXX

What happens if I don't pass all portions (instrument startups, diagnostic rehearsals, written) of the 3rd year exit exam?

How do I apply for graduation online?     XXX

When and how do I get my grades from ABC, or how do I order transcripts from SHSU?

How can I replace lost forms, status reports, etc?

Does ABC mail out 1099 (tax info forms) to ABC attendees?

If you have a question that was not answered above, contact us via email: scottmckee@bandworld.org (Scott McKee, Managing Director))