How do I apply to LA Community College?

I'm thinking about going to a community college in Los Angeles. Can someone explain the application process for LA Community College? Is it hard to apply, and what should I have prepared?

Sure, I'd be happy to describe the application process for Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD), which oversees all community colleges in LA, including Los Angeles City College. Just to clarify, I'll assume your reference to LA Community College is indicative of a broader interest in Los Angeles-area community colleges as a whole.

1. Create an Account: The first step in the application process is creating an LACCD Student Portal account. This account will be your central hub for applying, registering for classes, and accessing other college services.

2. Complete the Application: The application is located within your LACCD student portal. There, you'll find the California Community College (CCCApply) standard application, which is used for all public community colleges in California. The application will ask you for information like your biographical data, educational background, and the desired major/program of interest.

3. Submit Your FAFSA or California Dream Act Application: If you're seeking financial aid to help cover your tuition and related expenses, then you would submit the FAFSA if you're eligible, or if not, the California Dream Act Application. Even if you don't think you'll qualify, it's still beneficial to complete these applications as they can influence other scholarship or grant opportunities.

4. Complete the Orientation: After submitting your application, you'll need to complete the online orientation available through your student portal. This will provide you with essential information about being a student in the LACCD, including policies, procedures, and available student services.

5. Assess Your Course Placement: Once you've completed your orientation, it's time to assess your course placements. LACCD determines placement in Math and English courses based on high school coursework, grades, and GPA.

6. Educational Planning/ Counseling: Meet with a college counselor to develop a personalized education plan, which maps out the courses you need to take to graduate, transfer, or reach your academic goals.

As for preparedness, having information on hand about your educational history, including details about any high school or college coursework, will be helpful. Also, while the application isn't typically considered "hard", it's important to put time and care into ensuring all information is accurate and complete. Take your time, don't rush, and reach out to the admissions office if you have trouble or need clarification.

Good luck with your application!