MS SB2061

Requires students at state institutions of higher learning to file a degree plan by the end of the second semester after earning 45+ credit hours, with a maximum of 140 credit hours to complete a 124-hour degree by May 2019.

Directs community colleges to review transcripts of transfer students who earned at least 30 community college credits and 90 total credits, and award an associate degree if degree requirements are met.

Prohibits undergraduate students who enrolled as first-time freshmen beginning fall 2013 from dropping more than six courses without academic penalty while remaining enrolled, with exceptions for good cause including illness, family care, death, or military service.

Establishes refund schedules for students withdrawing from institutions based on timing within the semester, ranging from 100% refund before classes begin to 0% after specified deadlines.

Directs the Board of Trustees to implement policies on degree completion timelines, course drop limits, and withdrawal refunds, effective July 1, 2013.