How To Apply For Admission

New Students

Students who are enrolling for the first time at Golden West College must complete an admission application. Students may apply online or print and mail a copy of the application from the Golden West College website (www.gwc.info/admissions). Applications are also available in the GWC Admissions Office. Students are encouraged to submit an application as soon as possible, since registration appointment times are issued on a first-come, earliest appointment basis. Prior to registration, new students who are pursuing a degree, certificate or a transfer goal, will be required to complete the matriculation requirements listed below. New students will be given additional information upon submission of their admissions application.

Step 1. Basic Skills Assessment — Assessment in English, mathematics, reading, and study skills is recommended for all students and expected of new students who are seeking a degree certificate or transfer goals prior to enrollment (see exemptions). Assessment may also be used to meet prerequisites for certain courses. To complete the assessment process, students take placement tests in English/Reading and mathematics. The results of these tests are then used to assist the student in making appropriate course selections. A schedule of the testing sessions is available online at http://gwc.info/assessment/testsched.html and in the Admissions Office..

Students may waive the English/Reading placement test by presenting official evidence to the Matriculation clerk in the Admissions office of any one of the following:

• A score of 3, 4, or 5 on the Advanced Placement Examination in English Composition, or

• A passing score on the California State University English Equivalency Examination, or

• Completion of a college course equivalent to Golden West College ’s English 010 or higher with a “C” grade or better.

Students may waive the Mathematics placement test by presenting official evidence to the Matriculation Clerk in the Admissions office of the completion of a college course equivalent to Golden West College’s Mathematics 010, Elementary Algebra, or higher with a grade of “C” or better.

Step 2. Orientation/Advisement — The Orientation session is designed to familiarize you with the programs and support services available to the college as well as information on how to register.  During the orientation, counselors will assist you in selecting your first semester classes.   Please allow 2 ½ for this session. You can make an appointment for Orientation in person ( Counseling Center ) or by calling (714) 895-8119.  Note:  You must complete your orientation session at least 24 hours before your registration appointment.

Step 3. Transcripts — Official college transcripts are required for 1 and 2 below:

1. Students who plan to graduate or complete a certificate at Golden West College .

2. Veterans collecting educational benefits.

3. Students needing to show completion of course prerequisites - Personal copies are acceptable.

High school transcripts are required for students under the age of 21.

Special postcards are available in the Admissions office to assist you in ordering your transcripts.

Step 4. Student Educational Plan (SEP) — Once classes have begun, students will be notified to make an appointment with a counselor to develop a Student Educational Plan (SEP). The SEP is a formalized document which assists the student in identifying the courses and services needed to meet their educational goals and objectives. It should be completed and on file before the end of the semester.

IMPORTANT!: Steps 1 and 2 must be completed before registering.

All students new to Golden West College are expected to participate in the matriculation process. Some students may choose to be exempted from Steps 1, 2, and 4 if they meet one of the following criteria:

1. Completed an A.A. degree or higher at an accredited United States college or university.

2. Completed 30 or more units at an accredited United States college or university.

3. Completed 15 or more units with a cumulative GPA or 2.0 or higher along with official evidence of on of the following:

• Verified completion of college level course work in English, writing and mathematics (Intermediate Algebra or higher) with a grade of “C” or better.

• Evaluation of learning skills (placement testing) from a California Community College within the last two years.

• A score of 3, 4, or 5 on the Advanced Placement Examination in English Composition.

• A passing score on the California State University English Equivalency Examination.

4. Enrolling in a single one-semester, specialized job training course which is more than 6 units.

5. Concurrently enrolled K–12th grade school student attending with the recommendation of the school principal.

Students who plan to take six 6 units or less and not pursue a degree or certificate need not complete Steps 1, 2, and 4 until twelve 12 cumulative units have been completed.

All students have the right to challenge or appeal any step in the matriculation process. Forms are available in the Admissions Office for this purpose. A student who feels that his/her right to matriculation services has been violated may file a grievance with the Vice President of Student Services.

It is the student’s responsibility to express a broad educational intent upon admission and to declare a specific educational goal by the time 15 units are completed. The student is also responsible for participating in counseling, attending class, completing assignments, and maintaining progress toward an educational goal.

A student has the right to refuse matriculation services and may do so by contacting the Matriculation Clerk in the Admissions Office to obtain a refusal form. Students who refuse matriculation services will not receive priority registration.

If you have any questions regarding any of the steps in the admissions process, please contact the Matriculation Clerk at (714) 895-8207.