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Community College

Applying to California Community Colleges

California community colleges are required to admit any California resident possessing a high school diploma or equivalent. California community colleges may admit any nonresident possessing a high school diploma or equivalent who, in the judgment of the board, is capable of profiting from the instruction offered.

GPA and Test Scores
There are no GPA or test score requirements needed to apply to CCC's.  However, it is strongly advised that students maintain a rigorous course load in high school in order to qualify for non-remedial college level courses, honors programs, and CSU/UC transfer programs.  You will be taking an English and Math placement test prior to entering community college. Placing into remedial (non-college level) classes can set you back as much as one semester. 

**All students at Poly are required to take math their senior year as it will drastically increase your placement scores and overall success in community college.**

To apply for regular admission to a California community college, visit CCC Apply select a community college from the drop down menu in the 'Apply Today' tool, and begin your application.

It is advisable to apply to more than one CCC to increase your chances of getting the classes you need. For example, Poly students may apply to Valley College, but might also want to enroll in Mission College in order to access courses unavailable at your home CCC.

Another strategy for ensuring access to courses is by securing early registration. 

Early registration for courses

Priority registration allows students to register early so they can get into courses before they fill up. First, students must:

(1) Participate in orientation (usually online)

(2) Complete the assessment process (Valley and Mission college offer placement tests here at Poly)

(3) Develop an Education Plan with a counselor or advisor

Transfer Process -  Click HERE for a student-friendly chart explaining the CCC transfer process.
It's a little known fact that the acceptance rates for transfer students into UC's and CSU's are much higher than first time freshman. Starting your college career at a CCC can be a highly strategic move, but only if you're focused and informed about the transfer process. 

If you're serious about starting off at a CCC and transferring to a UC or CSU school visit ASSIST.org.