COCC NEW ONLINE STUDENT CHECKLIST
1. Apply for admission
Complete the online COCC admissions form. The admissions process will vary slightly depending on
your student status (new, returning, transfer, etc.). Contact Admissions and Records if you have any
questions!
2. Placement testing & Advising
COCC uses placement tests to help determine your skill level in writing and math. Placement tests
assess academic skills and help place you into the right level of courses and may meet a
program/course prerequisite. You can find more details on placement testing requirements and
options by visiting COCC's Placement Tests web page.
Once you have completed your testing, you will meet with an academic advisor to review any
transfer credits or transcripts you may have, discuss degree requirements, your academic plan,
and set your first term schedule. Visit the Academic Advising page for more information.
3. Get Financial Support
Financial Aid: the first step is to fill out the FAFSA. COCC offers FAFSA and ORSAA workshops on
every campus prior to the start of term, or you can contact the financial aid office if you have any
questions.
• Veteran Benefits: first, apply for benefits with Veterans Affairs at least 6 weeks before you plan
to start classes. Then check out the Veteran Benefits page for more information.
• Scholarships: you can apply for COCC Foundation scholarships or private scholarships – visit the
scholarships page for more.
4. Register for an upcoming Bobcat Orientation
Bobcat Orientation is an option but highly recommended workshop held the Friday before each
new term for new, returning, and transfer students. Whether you are taking online or face-to-face
classes (or both!), attending a Bobcat Orientation session will orient you to the COCC campuses,
technology, instructor expectations and more, as well as giving you the opportunity to speak with
advisors and financial aid, pick up your ID, and more.
5. Complete the Orientation for Online Courses
You must complete Online Orientation before you can register for your first online class at COCC.
Completing the Orientation takes about an hour, and will give you important and specific
information you will need to be successful taking online courses. This orientation is a required
prerequisite for any online students, and can be completed at any time leading up to registration.
6. Review COCC's Technology Requirements
If you're taking online classes, knowing that your computer - or access to a computer lab - meets
our standards for capable technology and software is really important! Make sure you're prepared
by reading through our Technology Requirements page. You can also Tour a Blackboard course to
see what kind of environment you'll be working in as an online or hybrid student.