What Are the Biggest Challenges for New Students in the Credit System (SKS)?

For new students, entering college is not only about a new environment but also about facing a different academic system, including the Semester Credit System (SKS). This system provides flexibility in choosing courses but also demands great responsibility in managing academic workload.

Many new students feel confused or even overwhelmed in their first semester. So, what are the biggest challenges they face?

LACK OF UNDERSTANDING OF HOW THE CREDIT SYSTEM WORKS

Many new students do not fully understand what credits mean, how many study hours they represent, and how they affect academic workload. As a result, they choose courses simply by following friends or wanting to graduate quickly. This often leads to overly packed schedules that are difficult to manage.

CHOOSING THE WRONG NUMBER OF CREDITS

Taking too many credits in the first semester is a common mistake. Students feel confident, even though they are not yet used to the rhythm of college life that requires independent study.

An excessive workload reduces focus, increases assignment pressure, and raises the risk of poor grades.

DENSE AND UNBALANCED CLASS SCHEDULES

The credit system allows students to arrange their own schedules. However, without proper planning, schedules can become unbalanced, such as having classes from morning until evening without enough breaks. This condition leads to physical and mental fatigue, reducing learning productivity.

DIFFICULTY MANAGING STUDY TIME

Each credit does not only mean time in class but also independent study outside class hours. Many new students are not prepared to allocate this extra time. As a result, they struggle to understand material deeply and often rush when preparing for exams.

LACK OF ACADEMIC GUIDANCE

Some new students do not actively seek help from academic advisors. In fact, this guidance is important for planning an ideal number of credits according to personal ability. Without proper direction, students are more likely to make poor academic decisions.

STRATEGIES TO HANDLE THE CREDIT SYSTEM WISELY

To avoid problems with the credit system, new students can:

• Understand academic regulations from the beginning
• Take a realistic number of credits
• Create a balanced schedule
• Regularly consult with academic advisors
• Manage independent study time effectively

These steps help maintain stable academic performance.

CONCLUSION

The credit system offers flexibility but also presents significant challenges for new students. Lack of understanding, poor workload planning, and weak time management are the main obstacles.

With careful planning and proper guidance, new students can navigate the credit system effectively and achieve optimal academic results.