What is 'priority registration' in college for military spouses?

I just stumbled upon this term 'priority registration' for military spouses in college. Can anyone break it down?

Priority registration is a form of assistance offered by many colleges and universities to specific groups of students, such as military spouses, veterans, and dependents. The aim is to provide these students with a positive college experience that takes into account their unique circumstances.

Priority registration allows these students to enroll in classes ahead of the general student population for each upcoming semester. This benefit helps them to secure a spot in required courses or courses that might fill up quickly during general registration. This can be particularly useful if they are balancing school with other responsibilities, such as child care or work commitments, as they can choose class times that best fit their schedule.

However, the availability and specifics of priority registration can vary by institution, so it's always a good idea to check with the school's registrar's office for their particular policy. In some cases, students might need to prove their eligibility for priority registration, such as with a valid military ID or dependent's ID, and may need to apply for the privilege each semester. Some schools may automatically enroll eligible students in priority registration.

For example, at California State University, Long Beach, current or former military service members, including their spouses and dependents, are eligible for priority registration. They need to complete an application form and submit documentation verifying their status. Once approved, they are able to register for classes even before the regular registration period opens.

Therefore, if you're considering taking advantage of priority registration, contact the registrar's office at the college or university you're interested in to learn more about their processes.