What is S.O.A.R.?
S.O.A.R. is a Student Orientation, Advisement, and (priority) Registration program designed specifically for high school seniors who plan to attend Golden West, Orange Coast, or Coastline Community College.

Each year during the months of February through June, the Orange Coast College Assessment staff administers English and math placement test sessions on-site at local high schools for graduating seniors who are interested in attending Orange Coast College.

High school students should contact their counselor to sign up for the S.O.A.R. placement test if it is offered at their school.  Students who are interested in participating in S.O.A.R. but do not have a test date scheduled at their high school are welcome to attend the S.O.A.R. make up dates at Orange Coast College. 

Please click here to view 2008 S.O.A.R. Test Dates

What advantages does S.O.A.R. offer me?
S.O.A.R. gives you:

• required English and math placement test on your campus
• an orientation to the college
• small group academic advisement with a counselor who will help you select your first semester of classes
• preferred (early) class selection and registration
• your summer to enjoy knowing you'll be prepared.

What will happen during the testing session?
You will fill out an application to the college and take an English and mathematics placement test.

May I use my ACT or SAT scores in place of the English and mathematics testing?
No.  The community college level does not accept ACT or SAT scores as exemption from the placement test. 

How do I get my test results?
They will be mailed to you within two (2) weeks of testing.

When will the orientation and advising sessions be offered?
Sessions will be offered during April, May, and June.

When will I register for classes?
Registration for the fall semester will take place in July or August.  Therefore, your registration appointment will be some time in July or August.

Ok.  Now I know about S.O.A.R.  What if I decide not to participate, but I want to attend Orange Coast College?
 We are always happy to serve new students no matter when they decide to attend.  The following steps must be completed before you will be permitted to register for classes: 

• Fill out and submit an application to the college.  You can pick one up at the OCC Admissions Office or access an application online.
• After completing your application, you must make an appointment for placement testing, orientation and advising.  This site has additional information about testing dates and times and where to call for an appointment for placement testing.

After you have completed these steps you will be given a registration appointment for July or August, which will be after all S.O.A.R. participants have registered.

What if I have a question you haven't answered?
For more information on the S.O.A.R. program please call the Orange Coast College Matriculation Office at (714) 432-5696.