First-time college student

Your College Story Starts Here

Never been to college before? You are in the right place. If you have a high school diploma or GED, but have never attended college out of high school, you are considered a first-time college student.

Not sure what to study? Still figuring out whether college is the right move? That is a completely normal place to start. Most Comets begin with more questions than answers, and that is why we make sure you are connected with an advisor from day one to help you choose the right courses, explore financial aid, and build a plan that fits your life.

Applying is free, takes just a few minutes, and is open year-round. CCC has open admissions, so there is no application fee, no essay, and no need to compete for a spot.

Apply Now Meet with an Admission Advisor

How to Become a CCC Student

Submit your CCC application
You will receive an email confirmation from CCC admissions with your next steps. If you need help, make an appointment with an Admission Advisor.
Set up your student account
Instructions to set up your account will be sent to the email address you used to apply to CCC. Once it is active, all future communication from CCC will go to your student email, so check it regularly. Admissions staff may reach out requesting additional documents to complete your enrollment, so keep an eye out and respond promptly.
Apply for financial aid
Don’t skip this step! There are several options available to help you cover the cost of your education, including grants, loans, scholarships, and the Comet Promise. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to get started.
Meet with your Academic Advisor.
Your advisor will help you figure out course placement, choose your first classes, and map out a plan for your first semester. If you have an admissions hold, that must be resolved before meeting with an Academic Advisor.
Register for classes.
Once you have your plan, you will register for classes through your student portal.
Pay tuition and fees
Make sure payment is submitted before the deadline to secure your spot in class. See more about setting up a payment plan.
Get ready for day one
Welcome to the Comet community! We’re glad you’re here!

Still in High School?

Still in high school? You have options too. Visit our Early College page to explore Dual Enrollment, Concurrent Enrollment, and CAVIAT programs designed specifically for high school students.

Go to Early College/Dual Enrollment

AdDitional Resources

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to have good grades or test scores to apply?
No. CCC has an open enrollment policy, which means everyone is welcome. You do not need a minimum GPA or standardized test scores to apply. Some courses have placement or prerequisite requirements, and your advisor can help you navigate those when you meet for the first time.
How do I know if I qualify for financial aid?
The best way to find out is to apply. Start by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines your eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. CCC also offers scholarships and the Comet Promise for eligible students. Do not assume you will not qualify before you apply.
What if I do not know what I want to study yet?
That is more common than you think. You do not need to choose a major or have a career goal in mind before you apply or register for classes. Your advisor can help you explore your interests, identify programs that might be a good fit, and build a first-semester schedule while you figure out your direction.
How long does the application process take?
The application itself takes just a few minutes and is completely free. After you apply, you will receive a confirmation email with next steps. From there, timelines can vary depending on how quickly you set up your student account, submit any required documents, and connect with an advisor. Starting early gives you the most flexibility, especially when it comes to registering for the classes you want.

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