New Student

Wherever you want to go, HCC can help you get there! Looking for a top-notch education, outstanding professors, and an array of academic support? Ready to explore your career options, try out an internship, and discover the perfect future for you? Want a college that buzzes with activities and events, and supports a boatload of student clubs and sports teams (not to mention a state-of-the-art fitness center!)? Of course you do! Luckily for you, it's all at HCC!

1. 1

   Apply for admission

   Complete an online application Note: You need a different application if: You’re interested in becoming a nurse or radiologic technologist. If you’re still in high school and want to be a dually enrolled student, you must use the high school Early Admit Form. International Students must download the International Student Application.

   Tip:

   Applying to HCC early will allow time for you to complete your placement testing assessment, meet with an academic advisor, and attend orientation! Holyoke Community College can’t guarantee the availability of all courses. Apply today so you can begin the enrollment process and get the classes you need!

1. 2

   Apply for financial aid

   Nearly half of all HCC students receive financial aid from federal, state, and private sources. One application—the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)—is used to determine the amount of aid you will receive. To meet deadlines and ensure fund availability, it is important to fill out your application as soon as possible. The HCC Financial Aid Office can help you complete and submit your paperwork—you can even apply and submit federal financial aid forms directly from our self-service computers.

1. 3

   Transcripts

   Once you apply, be sure to have a copy of your high school transcript or diploma sent to:
   HCC Admissions Office
   303 Homestead Avenue
   Holyoke, MA 01040.

1. 4

   Test Assessment

   The Computerized Placement Test (CPT) assesses your skill level in writing, reading and math to ensure your success. When you receive your letter of acceptance to HCC, it will include a date and time for you to take your CPT. After your test, you’ll get your photo ID, and meet with your advisor to choose and register for your classes. This appointment usually takes approximately 2-3 hours.

   Waiving the Computerized Placement Test (CPT)

   If you completed the CPT as a Tech Prep student, you do not need to take it again. If you have successfully completed a college level math class, you do not need to take the math assessment. If you have successfully completed a college level English class, you do not need to take the reading and writing assessment. If that’s you, make sure your college transcripts or evidence of your Tech Prep CPT are sent to the Admissions office as soon as possible, and contact the HCC test administrator to arrange to have your photo taken for your student ID card.

1. 5

   New Student Advising and Registration

   When you’ve completed your CPT, you will make an appointment to meet with an advisor. If you were allowed to waive the CPT (because you had taken the test within the last two years or had completed college-level coursework), you’ll need to contact the Advising Center and make an appointment. During the meeting with your advisor, you’ll review your educational plan, choose courses, and register for classes.

1. 6

   Submit Proof of Immunization

   Massachusetts law (Chapter 76, Section 15C) requires that all students carrying 12 or more credits must submit proof, within 30 days of registering for courses, of the following immunizations: MMR (measles, mumps, rubella: 2 shots), Tdap (tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis: must be within last 10 years), Hepatitis B (3 shots), and chickenpox (2 shots). Documentation of positive antibody titers for measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis B, and varicella is acceptable. Immunization records can be obtained from your high school, physician’s office, military records, or other colleges attended, and must be submitted to HCC Health Services Office (Frost 105D) for review. If needed, low cost vaccines are available at HCC Health Services.

1. 7

   Orientation & Vehicle Registration

   After you meet with your advisor and register for classes, you’ll receive a packet of information in the mail, including the date and time of your orientation. Orientation will cover everything from academic policies to registering your car, accessing the college computer network, locating campus resources and services, and securing a student ID and bus pass. It’s also a great opportunity to meet other students, get familiar with the campus, and pick up your books. While you’re on campus, stop by the Office of Public Safety to register and get your parking permit.

1. 8

   Pay Tuition and Fees

   You can pay your tuition and fees online at MyHCC, by mail, or in person at the Bursar’s Office. Financial Aid is available for those who qualify, and HCC also has a payment plan available. Follow the “Paying for College” link for more information.

1. 9

   Get Updates & Print Your Class Schedule

   The week before classes begin, logon to MyHCC to check for any changes and print your class schedule.