User Guide

Student Guide

The MAR Calculator helps you estimate your eligibility for Forsyth Tech’s health science programs. Here’s how to use it:

1. Open the Calculator
  • Go to the MAR Calculator link provided by Forsyth Tech.
  • Log in if prompted.
2. Choose Your Programs
  • Click Select Programs.
  • In the pop-up window, check up to three programs you’re interested in.
  • Click Done when you’re finished.

The calculator will pull all of the program requirements and merge any shared ones so you only enter them once.

3. Enter Your Information
  • For each related course, select the grade you earned from the drop-down list.
  • If you have an equivalent course, select it from the Equivalency drop-down.
  • Enter your TEAS score in the field provided (insert 0 if you have not taken the TEAS or if it is not required for your program).
  • A few programs offer additional points for certifications, credentials, or work experience. If you select a program that offers this, expand the Additional Point Opportunities section and follow the instructions to maximize your points.
4. Calculate Your Score
  • Click Calculate.
  • Your scores for each program will appear in the results section.
  • Compare your score with the competitive threshold listed. If your score meets or exceeds it, you’re likely competitive for that program.
5. Make Adjustments
  • You can update your grades, equivalencies, or additional requirements anytime and recalculate.
  • To choose different programs, just reopen the Select Programs window.

Tips to Improve Your Score

  • Take All Required Courses – Make sure you�ve completed all course requirements for each program you�re interested in. Missing a required course can keep you from being competitive, no matter your grades elsewhere.
  • Use Course Equivalencies Wisely – If an equivalent course is available, choose the one where you earned the higher grade. This can boost your overall score.
  • Try “What-If” Scenarios – Use the calculator to see what your score would be if you improved certain grades. Simply changing your grades in the calculator can help you understand which courses to retake to reach a competitive score.
  • Retake Courses if Needed – Consider retaking courses where you earned lower grades to raise your GPA and program score.
  • Improve Your TEAS Score – For some programs, your TEAS score has a big impact. Set aside study time and use practice tests to boost your results.
  • Complete Additional Requirements – Certifications, volunteer work, and related experience can add points to your score. Check the Additional Requirements section and plan ahead.
  • Apply Early – Some programs fill quickly. Knowing your score early gives you time to improve before deadlines.
  • Talk to Your Advisor – Meet with your academic advisor to discuss your score, program requirements, and options to strengthen your application.

Advisor Guide: Managing Programs in the MAR Calculator

This guide explains how to create and update health science programs in the MAR Calculator.

1. Accessing the Admin Dashboard

After logging in, click your name in the top right corner and select Admin from the drop-down menu.

The Admin Dashboard will open, showing all existing programs and tools to manage courses and additional requirements.

2. Adding or Editing Programs

Click Add New Program to create a new program. Fill in the program details and click Save.

To edit an existing program, click View next to the program name. On the program page, you can:

  • Update basic details, such as minimum TEAS score and competitive score.
  • Set grade weights for A, B, C, or other grades.
  • Add or remove required courses and mark courses that do not count in the calculation.
  • Define course equivalencies if alternative courses are acceptable.
  • Add additional requirements (certifications, experience, etc.) and assign point values.
3. Managing Courses

In the Course Management panel on the Admin Dashboard, you can add, edit, or delete courses.

Note: If you delete a course, it will automatically be removed from any program that uses it.
4. Managing Additional Requirements

Use the Additional Requirement Management panel to create or update requirements that award extra points (such as certifications or work experience). Once created, you can assign these requirements to individual programs from each program page.

5. Saving Changes
  • Make sure to submit each form to apply your updates. The page will reload to show your changes.
  • After making edits, review the program on the student dashboard to ensure that calculations work as expected.

Advisor Tips

  • Double-check program details regularly to ensure they match current admissions requirements.
  • Use course equivalencies to give students credit for alternative courses when appropriate.
  • If you’re unsure about grade weights or requirements, consult with program leadership to maintain accuracy for applicants.