Getting Started  
 
Step 1 - Apply for Admissions.

You can apply online for admission to Orange Coast College by navigating to the Orange Coast College homepage and clicking APPLY NOW. If you need assistance, computers and staff are available in the Admission & Records office located in Watson Hall.

Step 2 - Request transcripts.

Request official transcripts for any colleges and universities previously attended. Transcripts can be mailed to the student for hand-delivery to OCC or mailed directly to OCC.*

*Official transcripts hand delivered from students MUST be in their original sealed envelope.

Step 3 - Familiarize yourself with the different VA benefits.

NOTE: In some circumstances, MGIB Ch. 30 may provide better benefits than the new Post 9/11 GI Bill program. VA and OCC are urging persons eligible for education benefits under the Post 9/11 GI Bill and other programs to consider carefully which program is best for them before making an irrevocable selection.

Take a moment to compare the different VA benefits available and determine which may best suit your needs by visiting the Department of Veterans Affairs website at http://www.gibill.va.gov/. You may complete the VONAPP online or you may discuss the differences between the education chapters with the OCC Veterans Services staff.**  Staff is available to assistance you in completing the application for benefits.

**Please note, if you complete the VONAPP online, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and print a copy of the completed application before exiting the session. Bring a copy of the printed VONAPP when you visit Veterans Services.

Step 4 - Visit the staff at Veterans Services.

Veterans Services is located on the first floor in Watson Hall adjacent to parking lot A.

Bring with you:

• A copy of your DD-214 (Member 4).

Veterans who cannot locate their DD-214 may order a new copy. click here.

Students who are on terminal leave may provide current military ID.

• A printed VONAPP (if completed online).
• Official or unofficial transcripts from colleges/universities previously attended.
• Certificate of Eligiblity for Education Benifits if issued by the VA.

Upon your first visit with Veterans Services, we will:

• Assign veteran's priority registration.***

           ***Beginning Spring 2011, veteran’s priority registration will be granted for two 
           years, beginning the first term of enrollment within the Coast Community College 
           District (OCC, GWC, CCC). Once your veteran’s priority registration exhausts, 
           registration status will be determined by units completed.

• Provide detailed information regarding educational benefits and how they work.
• Guide you through matriculation which includes English/math assessment and orientation.****

****If you have successfully completed English and/or math (with a "C" or better) at another accredited college, your transcripts may be used for assessment and may meet matriculation requirements.

• Guide you to academic counselors who work specifically with veteran students.
• Schedule an orientation (if you have completed fewer than 12 college units).
• Provide introduction to financial aid.
• Complete:

Enrollment Certification Request.

Enrollment Fee Deferral (Chapter 33 students only).

Step 5 - Register for Classes.

As a veteran, you will be assigned veterans priority registration, which enables you to register for classes early, ensuring you have the opportunity to get the classes you need to complete your education plan. Veterans priority registration dates and times are posted for each semester under the announcements tab on the OCC Veterans page and at Veterans Services located in Watson Hall. You can register for classes online on and after your designated registration time on MYOCC.

Step 6 - Pay for Classes.

Pay all fees at the time of registration, even if you anticipate receiving financial aid.  Financial aid may not cover all fees and charges. Failure to pay all fees may result in being dropped from classes for non-payment. When financial aid is posted to your MyOCC account, you will be reimbursed.

NOTE: Students who are using the Post 9/11 GI Bill will not be required to pay fees at the time of registration after they have completed an Enrollment Deferral Form in person at Veterans Services located in Watson Hall.*****

*****Enrollment Deferral Forms MUST be completed BEFORE the start of EACH SEMISTER.