What You Need to Know about Applying to Community College

Earning an associate degree from a community college can serve as a gateway to many successful careers. Not only that, but the degree can also satisfy required credits on the path to earning a bachelor's degree—and at a more affordable price. Attending a community college prior to moving on to a four-year college or university has proven to be a much savvier financial option for many students and families, especially in Massachusetts.

If you're considering attending a community college, here are some key points to keep in mind concerning the application process:

1. Don't wait until the spring to submit your application.

Be sure to submit your admissions application to community college in the late fall/early winter, just as you would for a four-year college and university application. Though the deadline for a community college may be much later, prioritize getting it in early in the season.

2. Send a complete application packet.

Community colleges typically include their application on their website, but you may also fill out an application in person at most school's admissions or enrollment offices. Be prepared to provide personal information and educational history. While admissions requirements vary by institution, the community college system is fairly standard with the requirement of a recent or final high school transcript or proof of graduation in the form of a GED or high school diploma. You may be asked to provide test scores, financial information, and immunization records. Check the specific application requirements for your program of interest and provide everything the college is asking for upfront so that the determination on your acceptance is not delayed.

3. Complete your FAFSA^®and include the community college on your school list.

Financial aid is available to help you finance your education, so complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as soon as possible and be sure to list the community college(s) where you are applying. Learn more about how to complete the FAFSA here. If your FAFSA is not on file when you are accepted to the college, your application remains stagnant. This could potentially result in a smaller financial aid package for you. Once the FAFSA is received, the school will notify you of any additional financial aid requirements.

4. Take the academic skills assessment.

Some schools require you to take an academic skills assessment to determine where you stand academically. When applying, you can contact the school's admissions office to determine if an assessment is required, and the details of when and where to take it.

5. Take advantage of Massachusetts cost-savings programs.

With programs such as the Commonwealth Commitment, students in Massachusetts are not only able to save a significant amount of money, but they are also guaranteed admission into the four-year state college or university of their choice if they maintain the requirements of the program. This opportunity is a part of Massachusetts' MassTransfer program, which helps students transition smoothly from a MA community college to a 4-year MA public college or university. Look into these programs before applying to community college and discuss your plans with an academic advisor after you are accepted to the school.

If you're planning to attend school in the Commonwealth, you can learn the details about each one of Massachusetts' community colleges here. If you have any questions about the process of applying to a community college, contact the school's admissions office, schedule a tour of the school, or reach out to us here at MEFA at (800) 449-MEFA (6332) or collegeplanning@mefa.org.