Steps to Enroll for New Students

We’re so happy you’re here! Follow our steps to enroll for new students who've never taken college classes before. We'll help you apply, get help paying for college, get an early registration date, and get registered for classes. If you have any questions along the way, our Welcome Services team can help.

Find your program 

Step 1: Choose an interest area and major

When you apply, you'll get to choose an interest area and select the degree or certificate you want to complete at DVC. Not sure yet? No problem! Learn more about our five interest areas and programs below.

Explore Interest Areas

Apply to DVC

Step 2: Submit your application

Submit your application to become a student at Diablo Valley College through CCC Apply. It’s free to apply, there are no required tests, and our acceptance rate for completed applications is 100%! 

Application Instructions    Apply Now

Get help paying for college

Step 3: Apply for financial aid

Learn how to apply for financial aid and explore other ways to save as a college student. U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students who are undocumented and qualify for AB-540 status should fill out the California Dream Act Application. We recommend applying early, since the review process can take time!

Apply for Financial Aid

Get an earlier registration date

Want to sign up for classes faster? Complete your online orientation, placement process, and education plan to get an early registration date!

Step 4: Complete your online orientation

Learn about DVC's programs and policies, support services, and success tips in our self-paced, online orientation!

Complete Your Orientation

Step 5: Complete your math & English placements

In as little as five minutes, you can get help choosing the math and English or ESL courses that are best for you. No exams necessary!

Complete Your Placements

Step 6: Complete your education plan

Get help creating a plan to achieve your career goals and map out your first two semesters at DVC! Register for COUNS 095: Education Planning (COUNS 096 for athletes) in InSite.

Complete Your Education Plan

Get your class schedule

Step 7: Sign up for classes

Now that you have a plan, it’s time to put it into action! Register for your first-term classes in InSite. For step-by-step instructions, visit our How To Center.

Register for Classes


Learning Communities

DVC students working together in a Student CenterDon't go it alone! If you'd like to work with other students and friendly faculty who share your interests, then check out DVC's Learning Communities.

In a learning community, you take a set of classes (two or more) together, which gives you a great opportunity to make friends. Even better, these shared classes are specifically designed to help you do your best as a college student. Classes in a learning community are linked by common themes or student interest.