Community colleges generally offer an "open door" admissions policy and are for individuals who are at least 18 years old and have graduated from high school or have a GED.
Use the following information as a guide. Contact the admission office at the school you are considering for their admission requirements.
Students seeking an associate degree
If you're looking to get your associate degree, you may need to provide:
- An application and application fee
- Official school transcripts from an accredited high school or accredited GED scores
- SAT or ACT scores
- Placement test scores
If you were home schooled, you need to be at least 16 years old and provide a copy of a signed home school agreement between the appropriate school system and the authorizing parent or guardian.
International students
If you're in the U.S. on an approved visa or status, you may be eligible to study at a community college. Check with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to see if your visa or status makes you eligible.
Dual enrollment for high school students
High school students who want to take classes at a community college should check with the college they would like to attend to find out what their specific requirement s for high school dual enrollment students. Requirements vary by school.
A typical admissions process
- Complete application for admission
- Determine what tests you need to take: Contact the counseling center to find out what tests you'll need to take. Some community colleges require you to take placement tests, for example, if you want to get into certain degree programs. For students whose first language is not English, an English proficiency test may be required.
- Schedule a meeting with a counselor: Counselors help you with academic and career planning, transfer requirements, student financial aid, and more. It's a good idea to pick up a college catalog for campus policy, course descriptions, and class schedule information.
- Apply for student financial aid: You may qualify for financial aid such as scholarships, grants, loans, student employment. Also, make sure to submit the FAFSA.
- Select classes: Class schedules are usually available two months before the start of each semester.
- Register for classes: Register early for the best selection. The schedule of classes includes instructions and forms necessary for registration.
- Pay tuition: Tuition payment is normally due at the time of registration. Often paying tuition entitles you to use the library, bookstore, student lounge, and other facilities.
- Review your course schedule: Check your schedule for accuracy. It's your responsibility to make sure you have registered for the right courses on the right days, times, and campus.
- Get your student ID
- Purchase textbooks and parking pass
