Students Frequently Asked Questions

Using Self-Service:

Will an email or letter be generated and sent to the student after the application has been submitted?
Once a student completes an application, a message will be sent to their personal email or an email assigned by CCCApply.  The message they receive will give instructions for how to log into the Student Center, where they will eventually enroll into classes.  Students will also receive a hard copy letter in the mail explaining the next steps for registration.

How does a student/faculty retrieve their user ID?
If you are a new student, you will receive an email from Peralta with your user ID after you have completed the application process. If you are a continuing student, and have forgotten your user ID and password, you will need click the “Reset My Password” link to recreate your password by entering your SSN & DOB.

How does a student access their password?
Initial user names and passwords by US Mail and through email.  When a student activates their account for the first time they will be prompted to change their password to a password of their choosing.

What is the turn around time for receiving information?
An email will be sent to the student containing information on the next steps of the enrollment process approximately a half hour after submission of the application.

Will faculty still be using add forms/cards?
Yes, if you want to enroll in a class that is full, you will have to get an add form/card from the admissions records office or from the instructor, have it signed and dated by the instructor before the last day to add classes.  After you have gotten permission from the instructor to add the class, you will need to take the add form/card to the admissions and records office to be enrolled in the class.

Searching the Course Catalog:

What courses fulfill the Associate Degree and Certificate Requirements for graduation?
To get complete details and guidance on graduation requirements, make an appointment with a counselor.

Can courses be taken credit/no credit?
Yes.  All courses available for credit/no credit are listed in the Announcement of Courses in the campus catalog.  For

more details and guidance, please make an appointment with a counselor. 

Are courses taken at the colleges included in the PASSPORT system?
Any course that is taken at the colleges is first put into the PASSPORT system in order for students to register for them.

Are course descriptions going to be available through the PASSPORT System?
Yes. Full course descriptions will be available when searching the Course Catalog and abbreviated descriptions will be available when searching the Schedule of Classes.

How will someone be able to find a major, department, or discipline, if they don’t know the name?
When searching for courses, there is a link entitled “Additional Search Criteria” to retrieve detailed information about a course. (instructor, meeting times, available sections, etc)

Will someone be able to access policies or district rules and regulations from the catalog?
Yes.  The campus course catalogs will be available as PDF files. 

If a student has questions regarding courses while searching the Course Catalog, where should they go for help?
Students will need to contact the Counseling Department. 

Can a student see if a course is UC/CSU transferable?
Yes.  This information will be available in the online PDF version of the course catalog, as well as in the printed Course Catalogs.

Will there be access to ASSIST from PASSPORT?
There will be a link on the Student Center page to www.ASSIST.org available. 

Will PASSPORT identify articulated courses to other colleges?
No.

Can a course be repeated for credit?
A course can be repeated for credit only if you have earned a grade of D, F, NC, MW, W, or IP.

Searching the Schedule of Classes:

Will I be able to search for specific types of classes, by time, special sessions, hybrid on-line, by instructor?
Yes, by using the “Additional Search Criteria”.

Will the PASSPORT Schedule of Classes look like the hard copy of the Schedule of Classes?
No.  The information will be the same but the look and feel will be different.

Will there be a notice that there are no wait lists offered?
There will not be a notice, but the option to choose wait list for a class will not be available.

Will students be able to build a list of classes and view them all at once?
When registering for a semester, a student can add classes to a shopping cart and view them before finishing the enrollment process. 

Will students be able to query and determine if there is an instructor assigned to a class that says “staff”?
No, the student will need to contact the Office of Instruction. 

How can someone find out about fee-based courses?
When searching for courses, under the Class Course Criteria, they can choose fee-based or undergraduate courses from the “Course Career” field.

Can someone find out about courses that are designed for specific student populations, e.g., EOPS, PACE, Digital Bridge, etc.?
No.  Students will need to meet with a counselor for details about courses designed for specific student populations. 

Can you leaf through the schedule, similar to a hard copy of the schedule?
No.

Can I ask for classes that satisfy different graduation requirements?
No.  This will be available in Phase 2.

Can I search for one-unit classes to complete a full class schedule?
No.

Adding a class:

Can a student register for classes once they receive a confirmation e-mail?
Registering for classes right away depends on the status of the student (whether the student is exempt or matriculating).  The email will specify whether a student can register immediately or will provide appropriate steps to follow in order to register for classes. 

How does a student register for “locked” classes?
A student will have to get an add form/card from the admissions records office or from the instructor and have it signed and dated by the instructor before the last day of the add classes.  Once permission from the instructor to add the class is received, the student will need to take the add form/card to the admissions and records office to be enrolled in the class.

Will the system give information as to why a class is locked and how to register for it?
The system will only display whether a class is locked and not the reason why it is locked.

What do we do for students who are on having problems using the system or do not have a personal computer at home?
Students that are having problems or issues enrolling or registering for classes or who do not have a personal computer at home, will need to visit the Welcome Center or the Counseling Department for assistance.

How does a student register for variable unit classes?
If a student chooses a variable unit class, the system will prompt them to choose the number of units for the class.  The number of units can be changed/edited later if needed.

How do I add a class for a course that has a “pre-requisite” that I have taken at another institution?
Students will need to complete an affidavit form to clear a prerequisite and submit official transcripts from the other institution in order to gain permission to add the class.

How do I add a class when I’m a high school concurrent enrollment student?
High school students will only be allowed to add classes through the Admissions and Records office, even though they will have access to a Student Center page, by submitting their High School Concurrent Enrollment Form.

Will the system be limited for enrolling high school concurrent students?
Yes, High school students will only be able to drop classes and view important information on their Student Center Page.

Can PASSPORT have a field solely for high school concurrent enrolling students?
No.

How will linked classes be added, e.g., If I register for one-linked class, should all linked classes be added?
If a student wants to add a lecture class that also requires to enroll in a lab course then the student will choose the desired lab class (day and time) and they will be automatically enrolled into the lecture co-requisite that is attached/linked to that lab.

Will a student be notified on how to challenge a prerequisite?
Not in the Student Center, but the information will be on the portal page when a student first logs on.

Will a student still have a specific registration appointment time and will they be able to look when the appointment time is?
Yes.  Continuing students will have specific appoint times while new students will have access during open enrollment. 

What happens when a student tries to register for courses that would appear to have a time conflict?
The system will notify the student of the time conflict and they will need to choose which class they would like to add.

Can they get permission to take courses that conflict?
No.

Dropping a class:

If dropping classes after the deadline, will students be informed that a fee is owed?
Yes.

Will students be told initially about the last day to drop to receive a refund?
No, however, drop dates deadlines are available under the class information in the student’s schedule using the academic calendar link, as well as in the Schedule of Classes on the academic calendar on the website. 

Will students be given drop dates for short-term classes?
Yes.  Drop dates deadlines are available under the class information in the student’s schedule using the academic calendar link.

Are students notified that it’s their responsibility to drop classes?
Yes.

Does the system give information about how to obtain refunds?
No, this information is available on the website, on signs posted on campus and in the hard copy of the schedule of classes.

How does a student drop on-line?
A link to drop a class is available on the Student Center page.

Will faculty be able to drop students on-line?
Faculty can drop students from the class roster by either indicating “drop” or “no show”, however, it is still the student’s responsibility to drop their class as well. 

Viewing Personal Information:

Does the system allow me to use social security numbers to retrieve PASSPORT identification numbers?
The initial log in to PASSPORT asks for the social security number and it is asked to retrieve/create PASSPORT ID numbers.

How do I retrieve my password, user identification?
If you are a new student, you will receive an email from Peralta with your user ID after you have completed the application process.  If you are a continuing student and have forgotten your user ID and password, you will need click the “Reset My Password” link to recreate your password by entering your SSN & DOB.

What information can be changed by a student?
Mailing address, phone number, personal email address, and payment information. 

Will a student be able to see what date information was entered into the system and by whom and where?
No.

Will a student be notified about holds, wrong addresses, with explanation and how to clear/correct the hold?
Yes and information will be provided on who to contact.

Can a student find out their assessment scores on-line with recommendations?
No.

View Billing Information:

Will students be able to make payments?
Yes.

Will students be told about payment deadlines?
Yes.

Will additional fees be displayed and explained?
Yes.

Will financial aid information be displayed with the fee charge?
No.  Financial aid information will be available through a link from the Student Center Page. 

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Admissions and Records Frequently Asked Questions

Who can attend The Peralta Colleges?
All persons 18 years of age or older who can profit from instruction are eligible for admission as a California resident or nonresident. Anyone under 18 years of age who is a high school graduate or has been awarded a GED or California High School Proficiency Certificate may also enroll.  Click here for more information.

Note: If you are an international student on an F1 visa, please contact the International Student Department by calling (510) 587-7834, fax (510) 663-0937 or Email:  Globaled@Peralta.edu

How much does it cost to apply for admission?
The Peralta Colleges do not charge an application fee.

Do I have to apply each semester?
No. Students who are enrolled for the current term are considered continuing students and even have priority registration privileges for the following registration period.

How do I apply to the Peralta Colleges?
If you are a new student, complete the online admissions application.

• Go to www.peralta.edu
• Click on the Enroll Now button
• Choose The Peralta Colleges Application for Admission
• Answer the questions and submit the application.

If you have taken classes at The Peralta Colleges, but have not attended for two semesters or more, you are considered a returning student and you will need to reapply.

When do I need to turn in my application?
The online application is generally available up to two months prior to the beginning of a semester.

I am an international student. Can I attend The Peralta Colleges?
Applicants who wish to apply to The Peralta Colleges as an international student on an F-1 visa, please contact the International Students Department by calling (510) 587-7834, fax (510) 663-0937 or Email:  glogaled@peralta.edu. 

What if I don't have a Social Security Number?
You will need to contact the Admissions & Records Office at (510) 466-7368.  If you are an undocumented student, you can call for more information about how to apply and whether you qualify for in-state fees under AB540.

What happens after I apply?
If you provided an email address on your application you will receive an email explaining your next steps to complete your registration process.   Please click here if you did not provide an email address and you would like to know the next steps for enrollment.

How do I choose my classes?
If you are a new matriculating student and have completed assessment and orientation you will also need to speak to a counselor.  If you want to know what classes you need to graduate or transfer, see a counselor in the Counseling Center, or check the certificate and degree requirements in the College Catalog.  If you are a continuing student, go to www.peralta.edu to view the current class schedule(s).

How do I sign up (register) for classes?
On your registration date you will be able to register online or on the phone by calling (510) 208-7225. Choose your classes from the online or printed schedule. Login to Peralta College’s Student Internet Service by entering you Social Security Number and PIN (Your PIN is the month and day of your birth. For example, if you were born on July 14, 1982, your PIN would be 0714) select your desired term of enrollment, and choose one of the options listed.  (Our servers are secure.)

Where are the classes listed?
Classes are listed in the Schedule of Classes. Choose the correct term (fall, winter, spring, summer) and search for classes by discipline. Printed copies of the class schedule are also available on campus at various Student Services Departments.

Where is information about courses, majors, and programs?
You can find out more about The Peralta Colleges degrees and certificates, or review the The Peralta Colleges catalogs. Transfer students should check www.assist.org for appropriate transfer courses; a counselor/advisor can also help with this information.

I'm interested in career information. Where do I find out more?
The Peralta Student Services Website lists information for each campus Career Center, which has career descriptions, job placement information, and much more.

How much do classes cost at The Peralta Colleges?
Students who are California residents are charged a $20 per unit enrollment fee, a $2 campus use fee per semester and miscellaneous fees. Other fees apply to nonresidents and international students.

When do I need to pay my fees? 
Fees are due at the time of enrollment into classes.   Payment may be made: online, by phone, mail or in person.

High school/pre-high school students admitted on a part- time basis upon recommendation of their principal are exempt from paying the enrollment fee. 

All fee based course payments are due prior to enrollment.  For those students who may need assistance to pay the fees, contact the Financial Aid Office at one of the Peralta Colleges for information.  

There are several ways to pay your fees at The Peralta Colleges depending on your personal convenience and physical access to the college.

Where do I go to get help paying for college?
Financial Aid is here to help eligible students. Visit the Financial Aid Web site or office on campus for more information. Note: International students are not eligible for State and Federal aid, but are eligible for scholarships.

When is the last day to drop a class or receive and/or qualify for a refund?
See the Academic Calendar for important dates and review the Refund Policies and Procedures. International students should be aware of specific deadlines for the international program.

Do I have a counselor?
Specific counselors are not assigned to The Peralta Colleges students. You may, however, make an appointment or drop by during drop in sessions to meet with a counselor.

Who helps me with my graduation or transfer?
When you first begin attending The Peralta Colleges, you should meet with a counselor to develop an Educational Plan. The Educational Plan lists all the classes you need to meet graduation or transfer requirements.

What is an Educational Plan and how do I receive one?
An Educational Plan is an overview of your major and educational goals, and the specific classes needed to meet that goal. To create an Educational Plan, set up an appointment with a counselor.

How do I obtain my grades?
Grades are available on the Peralta College’s Student Internet Service or by calling the Touch-Tone Enrollment System at (510) 208-7225.

How do I obtain a copy of my transcript?
You can order a transcript by mail or in person at the Admissions & Records Office. You cannot order a transcript by telephone.

How do I obtain enrollment verification for insurance or my employer?
You can come to the Admissions & Records Office to request an enrollment verification form.  Please allow 7-10 working days for the A&R Office to process the form.

I'm the first person in my family to go to college. Is there a service to help me?
Yes! You may qualify for Financial Aid, EOPS, and other special services. Drop by the Financial Aid office and also check out the other services available.

How do I buy a parking permit?
You can go to the cashier on campus at College of Alameda, Laney College & Merritt College to a parking permit.  For Berkeley City College there are metered parking spots along Center St., Milvia St. and they have an available parking garage next door.

Where do I buy my books?
You can buy your textbooks and a variety of other items at the campus bookstore.  You may also be able buy your books online at commercial websites such as www.Amazon.com  or at www.effollet.com.

If I get sick at school or have health questions, where do I go?
Read more about health issues and The Peralta College’s health services at www.alameda.peralta.edu/healthservices. If you have to miss a class, notify your instructor by phone or e-mail.

What are your residency requirements?
In determining tuition/enrollment fees, students fall under the following two categories:

• Residents: Those who have legally resided in California for at least one year and one day prior to the first day of classes.

• Non-Residents (Out-of-State & International students): Those who do not meet the California resident requirements as outlined above.

What is valid proof of residency?

• California ID or Driver’s License
• California Income Tax return from the previous year
• Rental/Lease Agreement or proof of home ownership
• Bank Statement

Can I download forms from the web?
You can download commonly used Admissions & Records forms, such as High School Concurrent Enrollment Forms, petitions, and the transcript request form from the Admissions & Records Forms website.

How do I find out about Distance Education, Online, Telecourses?
Visit the Distance Education website.

How can I find directions to the campus?
See our Campus Map and Directions page.

Do you offer on-campus housing?
We do not provide dormitories or other types of college-sponsored housing.

Do you provide day care services?
The Peralta Colleges offer full day care to students, faculty & staff, serving children ages three months to five years. Click here for more information.

Do I need to take an assessment test to be accepted? If so, how do I schedule a time to take the assessment test?
Although tests are not needed to be admitted, all new matriculating college students must take an assessment test in math, English, and/or science if they are planning to earn an AA/AS, certificates, and/or transfer. (International students are also required to complete assessment.  Please contact the International Students Department by calling (510) 587-7834, fax (510) 663-0937 or Email:  glogaled@peralta.edu for more information.) Test scores are used to see which class level is best for you.  Check with the Assessment Center for available dates and times.

What if I have taken similar assessment tests at other community colleges? Can I transfer other assessment tests scores as a substitute?
Yes, if you have taken an assessment test at another community college outside of the Peralta Community College District, within the last three years.   You will need to submit to the Assessment Center the test results as well as the list of recommended courses.  Acceptable Advanced Placement (AP) scores may waive specific tests.  We do not accept SAT scores. For more information, please contact the Assessment Center.

What are the assessments like, and how can I prepare for them?
The math and English assessments are multiple-choice tests.  Your score (the number of correct answers) will correspond to a math and/or English class at the college. You will discuss your results with a counselor (see #3 below).

Most students do not study or prepare for these tests; the assessment results should reflect your current skill level and ability. However, some students want to review math material they have studied in the past, but may have forgotten, and some students feel out of practice taking tests and find it helpful to refresh their test-taking skills. Helpful resources might be books designed to help people prepare for the CBEST, SAT, ACT, or other multiple-choice standardized test—such study guides can be found in public libraries or commercial bookstores.

Who takes the assessment tests? Who attends the orientations?
The assessment tests and orientations are required for all new matriculating students, are available to all students, but required for students with a goal of obtaining a bachelor's degree (with or without an associate degree); earning an associate degree, vocational degree, or vocational certificate; improving basic skills in English and math; or “undecided” on an educational goal.
     
Some students are exempt from the assessment tests and orientation because they already earned a degree from an accredited institution, have successfully completed recent English and/or math courses at another college, or have an educational goal that does not require assessment. Please see a full description of this information in the class schedule or college catalog, or ask counseling or assessment staff for details.

What comes after the assessment and orientation?
You will review your assessment results with a college academic counselor to confirm that the recommended courses are best for you. The assessment results, along with other information you provide, will be used to evaluate these recommendations. All students should read descriptions of their recommended classes, and be prepared to discuss the courses they would like to take in the upcoming term when meeting with a counselor. During the orientation session, we will review the next steps in the enrollment process, and students will receive program-planning materials.

Do I have to take the classes that are recommended?
Not always. At times a student and counselor will agree that another course is more useful or appropriate for the student. In some cases students may want to challenge a pre-requisite course (the required successful completion of a course before enrolling in another course); you may ask a counselor about the process to challenge a pre-requisite class.

What if I don't want to take the assessment or attend the orientation?
If you do not qualify for exemption, and want to waive or refuse the assessment and/or orientation, please ask a counselor about the process for filing a petition for waiver or refusal. You may file this petition and provide the required supporting documentation.

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