Academics Academic Resources Academic Advising Advising PIN
Academic Advising

Advising PIN

So you've tried to register for classes, received a notification that you have a PIN hold, and have no idea what that means! Review the information below to better understand what a PIN is and what steps you need to take in order to have your PIN hold released.

What is an Advising PIN?

An Advising PIN is a unique six-digit number that unlocks registration for students once they successfully complete 15, 30, or 45 hours of classes

Why do I have an Advising PIN?

You will receive an Advising PIN three times in your SPC academic career; when you successfully complete 15, 30, and 45 college credit hours. For your PIN to be released, you are expected to discuss with your assigned advisor your Individual Success Plan (ISP) and any other requirements for your degree/certificate.

How do I get my Advising PIN?

You can get your PIN from your Certified Advisor once your Mission Statement and your Individual Success Plan have both been updated in the system.  You can schedule a meeting with your assigned Certified Advisor by visiting Navigate, which is found in ACES

Is the Advising PIN issued every semester?

The Advising PIN is issued to students who have reached the 15, 30, or 45 hour milestone for Fall or Spring registration.  A PIN is currently not issued for Summer registration.

Will I use this same Advising PIN every semester?

No. The PIN is milestone-e and semester-specific.  Your Advising PIN at the 15, 30 and 45 hour milestones will all be different numbers.

Does every student have an Advising PIN?

No, not all students are issued an Advising PIN.  The Advising PIN is issued based on a student completing 15, 30, and 45 college-credit hours ahead of registration for Fall or Spring.

All Students, who need a registration PIN to schedule classes, are required to complete/update the following tasks before requesting their PIN.

  • My Mission Statement (MMS)
  • Individual Success Plan (ISP)
  • Transfer Intent (TRF)

There are additional PIN tasks (based on your earned credit hours):

15-hour PIN (0-15) 

  1. Understand Degree, Certificate, and Transfer options
  2. Know how to Register for Classes (Visit Advising Services for a written step-by-step registration guide)

30-hour PIN (16-30) 

  1. Understand your Academic Standing and how it affects academic progress and transfer
  2. Explore career goals through the Career Readiness and Experiential Learning Services (CRELS)
  3. Pursue Scholarship opportunities 

45-hour PIN (31-45) 

  1. Review your Academic Standing and its impact on academic progress and transfer
  2. Use College Career Services  to prepare for future career and job placement
  3. Know your Transfer Institution DEADLINES and admission process 

For additional assistance, students can contact their assigned Certified Advisor or spc-advising@alamo.edu (please include your Banner ID number in your email)