Click on the question to see the answer.
- Why was I Classified as a Non-Resident?
You were classified as a non-resident based on information that you provided on the application for admission to our college. The following are some circumstances that will classify you as non-resident:
- You are not a U.S. Citizen. Note: this depends on Visa status or type of citizenship
- Your current stay in California began less than two years ago.
- In the last two years you have done any of the following:
- Declared residency in another state for state income tax purposes
- Registered to vote in another state
- Declared residency at an out-of-state college or university
- Petitioned for a lawsuit or a divorce as a resident in another state
- I have lived in California for at least one year. Why am I still a non-resident?
You do not receive automatic residency until you have lived in California for two years and one day. However, if you have lived in California for one year and one day you are eligible to submit a Residency Determination Form to Admissions and Records. Please read the form very carefully and provide proper documentation dated one year and one day prior to the start date of the semester for which you are applying for residency. You must show physical presence and intent for one year and one day.
- My address in California has never changed however I was still classified as a non-resident.
Even though you may have a California address you may have answered "yes" to one of the above questions. You have to be able to demonstrate physical presence AND intent for one year and one day.
- I have lived in California a long time however I am still classified as non-resident.
This could be due to one or more of the following:
- You were born in another country.
- Your legal citizenship status is "other status".
- Your visa has expired or will expire before the end of the semester.
- You changed your legal citizenship status recently.
- You just arrived in this country after a visit to your country.
If you fall into one of the above categories, please contact the Admissions and Records Office to find out if you are eligible to establish residency.
- I made a mistake on my Admissions application: My parent/spouse filled out my application and an error was made. Can I call or go to the Admissions and Records Department and just have them fix it; or can my application be deleted so I start over so I can fix it?
No, your admissions application is a legal document filled out under penalty of perjury which becomes a permanent part of your student record. When it is filled out incorrectly, the student must fill out the residency application and provide the proper documentation to correct the error.
- How will I know if I am approved or not for residency and how long does it take?
You will be notified within 10 working days via your college assigned email address or telephone of your residency status. Please allow ten working days before contacting us. If you are denied for any reasons, you may discuss your options with Admissions and Records. Please be aware that your tuition, non-resident or other, is always due within ten working days or you will be dropped from your classes for non-payment.
- I am a Veteran and I want to take classes at Cerro Coso Community College, where do I begin?
The first thing you need to do in order to be able to take classes at Cerro Coso Community College is apply and fill out the application form at the Admissions for Military Veterans page.
The second thing to do, if you are planning to use your VA benefits is to know which Chapter you are going to use. The Veteran Student Info Handout at the previous link is helpful.
The third thing you need to do if you are planning to use your VA benefits is fill out the VA benefit application form, which can also be found at the previous link.
The fourth thing you need to do is send Cerro Coso your military transcripts. You can send them to:
Admissions and Records
Cerro Coso Community College
3000 College Heights Blvd
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Phone: (760) 384-6357
Fax: (760) 384-6377
The next thing you should do is complete the orientation, assessment, and Student Education Plan (SEP) workshop.
- What is a Veteran Program Approval?
The Veteran Program Approval is done by Counseling and it confirms that the classes you are planning to take for the semester are part of your educational objective so that they can be funded by your VA benefits.
- Do I have to complete a Veteran Program Approval?
If you want your VA benefits to pay for your classes, yes, you do have to complete a Veteran Program approval. The Veteran Program Approval can be done in person or over the phone. If you do not want to use your VA benefits you do not have to do a Veteran Program Approval.
If you are planning to use your VA benefits, you need to complete a Veteran Program Approval every semester. You need to let Counseling know that you want to use your VA benefits and want a Veteran Program Approval.
PLEASE LET COUNSELING KNOW THAT YOU WANT A VETERAN PROGRAM APPROVAL. If you do not let Counseling know, one will not be done.
- Why do I need to submit my military transcripts?
You need to submit your military transcripts as soon as possible. Your transcripts need to be in your student file by your second semester at Cerro Coso in order to have a Program Approval done. Veteran Program Approval will NOT be done if counseling does not have your military transcripts on file by your second semester.
Another reason why you need to submit your military transcripts is because there may be classes taken during your military career that could be used to satisfy some course requirements.
- How do I submit my military transcripts to Cerro Coso Community College?
You can submit your military transcripts to Cerro Coso Community College here.
- Why do I have to inform Counseling of changes made to my class schedule?
Your Veteran Program Approval needs to be revised if you add or drop classes. This needs to be done so that you can be funded for classes you add and so that you will not be asked to pay back money for classes you drop. Please contact and inform Counseling of any changes to your schedule before and during the semester.
- Do I have to let Counseling know every semester what classes I am taking and if I want a Veteran Program Approval done?
Yes. If you want your VA benefits to pay for your classes and receive other benefits you are entitled to you need to let Counseling know of the classes you are taking. You will need to complete a Veteran Program Approval for every semester you plan to use your VA benefits.
Just because you have been using your VA benefits in the past, Counseling DOES NOT know that you plan to use them again. YOU NEED TO LET COUNSELING KNOW THAT YOU WANT A VETERAN PROGRAM APPROVAL IF YOU PLAN TO USE YOUR VA BENEFITS. A Veteran Program Approval WILL NOT be done if you do not let them know you want one.
- How do I register for classes?
You can register for classes by following the directions explained in this How To. If you are having trouble accessing InsideCC, please contact the help desk at (877) 382-3508 or (760) 384-5197.
- How do high school students register for classes?
High School students can take classes at Cerro Coso Community College. They will need to meet the requirements and fill out a concurrent enrollment form. You can review the requirements, obtain the application and concurrent enrollment form by going to the concurrent admissions page.
- When can I register for classes?
For the Fall semester (August-December) and for the Summer session (June-July) you can register for classes in mid-April. You can register for both semesters (Fall and Summer) at the same time. An important date to help you remember when you can register for the Fall and Summer semester is April Fool's (April 1st). This is the date you should schedule an appointment with Counseling to go over classes for the Fall and/or Summer semester.
For the Spring semester (January-May) you can register for classes in mid-November. An important date to help you remember when you can register for the Spring semester is Halloween (October 31st). This is the date you should schedule an appointment with Counseling to go over classes for Spring semester.
- What are my tuition costs per unit?
Classes are $46 per unit. A 3 unit class will cost $138. See Tuition and Fees for more information.
- How many units are required for Full Time status?
12 units per semester are required for Full Time status.
- How do I add and/or drop classes?
To add or drop classes please follow the steps in this How To.
- When can I drop classes?
There are three deadlines for dropping classes. These deadlines vary depending on the semester you are taking classes. You can drop a class before any of these deadlines. The three deadlines are:
- 10% or Refund Date: If you drop classes before this date, you will get a full refund and nothing will appear on your transcript.
- 20% or Census Date: If you drop classes before this date, you will not get a refund and nothing will appear on your transcript.
- 60% or Final Drop Date: If you drop classes before this date, you will not get a refund and a "W" will appear on your transcript.
Drop dates can vary by class. Look up drop dates for your class.
- I dropped a class; where is my refund?
Refunds are not automatic. You need to request a refund.
- How many classes can I take per semester?
During the Fall and Spring semester you can register for a maximum of 19 units. 12 units are considered full-time. In the summer, you can register for a maximum of 8 units. 6 units in the summer are considered full-time.
Students may be approved to take more than the maximum units based on their past academic ability/performance and approval by the V.P. of Student Services.
- Can anyone sign up for an online course at Cerro Coso Community College?
The online courses offered at Cerro Coso Community College are open to anyone. You will need to become a Cerro Coso student. Individual courses may have unique requirements, prerequisites, or required meetings. Review the course information closely before you enroll.
- Are there required meetings for online classes?
Although the dates for online classes are Monday through Saturday, there are no scheduled class meetings. You must log on to the class a few times a week. Your instructors expect you to log on to the class site weekly, participate in discussions, turn in assignments, and take exams. Depending on the class you may have proctor exams. You must have regular, reliable internet access if you are to succeed in your online class.
- Will I have to step foot on campus at all?
No. Classes can be accessed remotely. Proctored exams do require use of a proctor, but if you live more than 30 miles from a Cerro Coso campus, then you can arrange to have a proctor that is local to you.
- Are the online classes self-paced?
No. Our online courses have set schedules, weekly deadlines, and beginning and ending dates. They are instructor-led. You will not be left alone. If you have special needs and must follow a slower (or faster) pace, please discuss your situation with the course instructor. He/She may be able to alter course deadlines to accommodate your needs.
- Are online courses transferable?
Yes. Many of our online classes are transferable. Check with Counseling for details.
- Do I need to buy a textbook for my online class?
Yes, most of our classes (online or traditional) require textbooks. The bookstore can tell you what the required textbook(s) are and what they cost.
- Are fees the same for online classes as on-campus classes?
Yes, the fees are the same. See our for details.
- How do I register for classes online?
The registration process for online classes is the same as that for on-campus classes. You must apply for admission, take a placement test, if needed, and then register for classes by following the directions explained in this How To. If you are having trouble accessing InsideCC, please contact the help desk at (877) 382-3508 or (760) 384-5197.
- How can I login to an online course if I am waitlisted?
Students on waitlists will NOT be able to login to online courses until they are in. If you get in the class, the instructor will email you at your Cerro Coso email address. You will need to log into the class, if you do not you will be dropped. Please check your Cerro Coso email address regularly. You will be notified by email if you did or did not get into the class after the first day of class.
Here is a brief explanation of the process:
- If a seat becomes available, the first student on the waitlist will be notified by email at their Cerro Coso email address.
- That student will have 24 hours to register for the class.
- If that student does not register within 24 hours, they will be removed from the waitlist and the space will be offered to the next student on the list.
You are responsible for checking your Cerro Coso email address. Instructors will only email you at your Cerro Coso email address.
- Why am I on Academic Probation?
You are put on academic probation and have a registration hold when you have attempted a total of 12 units and your overall GPA is below a 2.0.
- Why am I on Progress Probation?
You are put on progress probation and have a registration hold when you have attempted a total of 12 units and 50% or more of your classes are completed with a "W", "I", or "NP".
- Why am I on Disqualification?
You are put on Disqualification and have a registration hold when you have attempted a total of 12 units and have been placed on Academic and/or Progress Probation for three semesters. The third semester of probation is called Disqualification.
- How do I clear and get off Probation?
One option is to attend an Academic Probation/Disqualification workshop on campus. The workshop is an hour long and at the end of it you will be given a Registration Authorization Form so you can register for classes. Times and dates for when these workshops are available can be found on the probation and disqualification page.
Another option is to complete the Academic Probation/Disqualification workshop online. You will need your Cerro Coso Community College student ID# to access the workshop.
- How do I clear /get off Disqualification?
One option is to attend an Academic Probation/Disqualification workshop on campus. The workshop is an hour long and at the end of it you will need to speak with a counselor to go over the form(s) you will need to fill out. There is a process to clear/get off disqualification; you will need to petition to see if you can take classes at Cerro Coso Community College. Times and dates for when these workshops are available can be found on the probation and disqualification page.
Another option is to complete the Academic Probation/Disqualification workshop online. You will need your Cerro Coso Community College student ID# to access the workshop. You will also need to schedule an appointment to speak with a counselor.
Please note, approvals or denials of petitions take about 4-6 weeks.
- What kinds of programs or majors does Cerro Coso offer?
Cerro Coso offers certificates, two-year degrees (AS/AA), and two-year degrees for transfer (AS-T/AA-T). Please see the list of Degrees & Certificates to learn more about each option, the requirements, and where the certificate and/or degree can be complete (online, sister campus, or main campus).
- What degrees and certificates are offered completely online?
A complete list of the degrees and certificates that are completely offered online is available on the CC Online page.
- What is the difference between the AA and AS degrees?
Generally, the AA degrees are more broad in subject and are meant to help a student transfer to a four year school. AS degrees are more focused on specific skills. For more information on transfer, contact Counseling.
- How do I earn a degree?
Each student must have a major and a general education pattern to complete a 60-unit degree. All courses in the major, as well as general education courses, must be passed with a "C" or better. For more information, contact Counseling to attend a Student Education Plan (SEP) workshop.
- Can I use coursework from other schools to fulfill Cerro Coso requirements?
Yes. Unofficial transcripts can be used for course placement or to give credit for coursework. Official transcripts must be received in the Admissions and Records office prior to diplomas being mailed.
- How do I know which general education pattern I need for my major?
There are 3 education patterns from which to choose general education courses.
- The Local Cerro Coso pattern is meant for degrees without transfer intent. This pattern is used by students who are ready to enter the job market after completing their degree.
- The CSU pattern is intended for students who are transferring to a California State University. Each section gives clear instructions on the course students need to complete.
- The IGETC pattern is for a student who is deciding on the UC or CSU system for transfer. The IGETC has options for both systems, so students need to read carefully.
Students who are unclear about a career, educational pattern, and/or future goals, need to contact Counseling to discuss the appropriate course of action. Having a well-defined goal and plan of reaching that goal allows students to focus and to be more successful.
- Do I need general education courses for a certificate?
No. Certificates do not have a general education component. Most students in these programs want to work as soon after completion as possible. Some students just need job skills training, so a degree would not be appropriate. Most certificates are 12-30 units in length.
- What are transcripts?
Transcripts are a record of all the courses you have taken at an institution.
- What is the difference between official and unofficial transcripts?
Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for course placement and for giving credit for courses from other institutions. Most students print these from their college's website. Official transcripts are sealed and must be received by the Admissions and Records department. Remember: Keep official copies sealed. Once the seal has been broken, unless by Cerro Coso personnel, they are no longer official.
- How do I get my transcripts?
You can find your unofficial transcripts in InsideCC. You can order your official transcripts by following the instructions on the transcripts page. The first two transcript orders are free. Grades are not posted to transcripts until all grades are in and have been entered into the system.
- How do I send my transcripts to Cerro Coso?
Send all transcripts to Admissions and Records:
Phone: (760) 384-6357
Fax: (760) 384-6377
-or contact by mail at-
Cerro Coso Community College
c/o Admissions & Records
3000 College Heights Blvd.
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
- Who is responsible for getting transcripts from one school to another?
It is the student's responsibility to obtain all necessary transcripts. If you are having difficulty obtaining a transcript, please contact Admissions and Records at (760) 384-6357.
- When are official transcripts from other schools required?
You must have an official transcript in the Admissions and Records office prior to graduation. Diplomas will not be mailed if official transcripts are not on file. Students requesting grade replacement by use of a course from another college must have an official transcript on file in Admissions and Records.
- Why don't my recent grades show on my transcripts?
Grades from the end of the semester are not 'rolled' or officially transferred to your academic history until approximately two weeks following the end of the semester as grades are recorded and processed into the district-wide system. Even though you may be able to view your grades through InsideCC, they may not have been transferred to your transcript yet. There may be additional delays during the December/January season due to holiday closures.
