GIVE TO MESA

First Time College Student

I'm a First Time College Student

Whether you want to earn your degree or certificate, transfer, or prepare for a rewarding career, Mesa is the place to make it happen. Follow these 10 steps to get started and begin your higher education journey at Mesa.

1. Submit an Online Application

Our online application is free and open year-round! Mesa College uses CCCApply to provide you with a quick and easy way to apply to college. Plus, with our open enrollment policy, your admission is guaranteed. What are you waiting for?

Apply to be a student

Need Help?
CCCApply Application Instructions

2. Create and Login to your mySDCCD Portal

You will use your mySDCCD Portal throughout your time as a Mesa student. Set it up now to ensure that you'll be able to access registration dates, register for classes, and view important District information.

Create your account
*Note, you will need to wait for your application to process before creating a mySDCCD account. Applications can take up to 48 hours to process.

3. Apply for Financial Aid

Get help paying for college tuition and fees. Learn more about how to apply for financial aid and scholarships and see how you can finance your education at Mesa.

Get money for college! Discover your options

4. Complete the Online Orientation

Familiarize yourself with Mesa's campus and policies. Learn about our programs, support services, and registration process during the Online Orientation for incoming students. Create a student account, complete the online orientation, and send your email confirmation along with your Mesa Student ID number to the Assessment Office at testing@sdccd.edu.

Access the Online Orientation

5. Find Your Math and English Milestones/Placement

If you graduated from a US high school within the last 10 years you will receive your placement levels which we call milestones, based on the information you provide in your application (CCCApply).

OR

If you graduated more than 10 years ago, completed the GED, or HiSet exam, you are eligible to use the Placement Assistant to identify the courses you should enroll in.

Take the assessment

6. Attend a Pre-Registration Workshop

Attend a pre-registration workshop to create an Abbreviated Education Plan, learn about our various educational pathways, and find resources for registration.

Schedule a workshop appointment

7. Register for Classes

Register and pay for classes through your mySDCCD portal account. Access your portal to keep on top of important admissions dates and deadlines.

Learn how to register for classes

Setting Up Your Student Email

24 hours after you register for classes you will be able to setup your student email. All official communication will be sent to this email.

Learn how to setup your student email

8. Sign Up for CRUISE

Mesa College's CRUISE program has provided thousands of new, incoming college students with the opportunity to get introduced to our campus, resources, faculty, and one another all before your first day of class. Receive continued support with the help of a peer navigator.

Learn more about CRUISE

9. Prepare for Your First Day

Get ready to succeed at Mesa College! Purchase your class textbooks and parking permit (if applicable), and pick up your College Student ID card from the Admissions Office, on the first floor of the Student Services Center (I-400 building).

10. Find Support

Learn more about the programs and services designed for new Mesa students and utilize the Your Mesa Journey tool to find support that is tailored to your specific background and needs.

Access student support for New Students
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