Steps to Success

Step 1: Apply for Admission and Financial Aid
You can obtain an Admission Application from area high schools and agencies, Delta's Centers, the Admissions Office or on-line.  Official copies of your transcripts (high school/G.E.D.) should be sent to the Admissions Office. A one-time, non-refundable application fee of $20.00 must be submitted with your application.

If you are planning to apply for financial aid and you haven't already completed the federal financial aid form, begin the process now. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which has no application fee. Be sure that you indicate Delta College's Code, 002251, in Step 6, so that we can receive your FAFSA information electronically. You will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR). Review it carefully to make sure it is correct. If corrections are needed, bring it to the Financial Aid Office, so that we can submit the corrections electronically.

Step 2: Complete Assessment
Assessment is a process to help identify your current skill levels in Writing, Reading, and Mathematics. It is not a test that you pass or fail; however, assessment scores are used as prerequisites for some courses. Your Assessment scores, as well as other skill indicators, will help you and your Delta counselor/advisor select the right beginning courses for you. The COMPASS Assessment is computerized and untimed but takes approximately two hours to complete. Computer skills are not required to take the COMPASS Assessment. COMPASS is available on a walk-in basis during the office hours of Assessment/Testing Services.

Note on Accommodations:  If a student has a barrier to taking the COMPASS (physical or learning disability) that warrants an accommodation, an alternate testing format called ASSET is available by calling the Disability Services Office.

An appointment must be made in advance for this "alternative format", so that a support person can assist with this "paper-and-pencil" version (e.g. separate environment, testing reading, scribing and other adjustments as necessary). Two to three hours are generally required for completing the ASSET. 

Step 3: Attend Orientation and Advisement
You will learn more about our programs of study, courses, registration, and services designed for your success. You will meet your advisor, discuss your Assessment results, and receive assistance in starting your student educational plan, as well as starting a tentative class schedule. You will receive materials including a catalog and a schedule of academic courses.

Step 4: Register and Enroll in Courses
The earlier you complete Steps 1, 2, and 3, the sooner you can register. This means a better selection of courses should be available. At registration, you officially enroll in courses, pay your tuition and fees, receive a copy of your class schedule, and have your college I.D. taken at Campus Security. Purchasing of books can be done in our College Bookstore.

Financial Aid Applicants Note: If you have received your Award Letter from Delta's Office of Financial Aid, you may charge your tuition, fees, and books up to the amount you were awarded.