Frequently Asked Questions
What is my student I.D. number?
The College assigns a number to you, which is referred to as a Mt. SAC
Student Identification Number. This number is used to access college
services and records both online and in person. If you forget your Mt. SAC
Student Identification Number, you must come into the Admissions & Records
Office and provide picture identification. Admissions and Records will not
provide students with their student Identification number over the phone.
What is a prerequisite?
A prerequisite is a requirement or condition, which must be met or satisfied
before taking a particular course. All prerequisites for a course are listed in
the class schedule in the course description.
What is a corequisite?
A course which must be taken concurrently with another course
What does it mean when a course is Pre-Collegiate?
Courses designated “Pre-Collegiate” develop basic skills in reading, writing,
and computation. They will not count toward graduation from Mt. SAC or
transfer to a 4-year baccalaureate college or university.
What is a course reference number (CRN)?
The course reference number is used during the registration process refers
to the five digit number assigned to each section of a course. This number
can be found next to the class day, time, professor, and location information
in the schedule of classes.
What courses do I have to take my first semester?
There are no specific courses which must be completed your first
semester; however, it is recommended, not required, that you concentrate
on your English and math requirements – but if you can’t get into an
English or math class, consult with a counselor or educational advisor for
recommendations.
What do I take first, my major or my G.E. courses?
Major and General Education (G.E.) courses are designed to be taken
concurrently. Our suggestion is to work with a counselor or an educational
advisor who can help you organize requirements based on your major and
transfer plans.
How many units do I have to take?
Twelve units give you full-time student status – but if you register for fewer
than 12, that’s okay too but it may affect your financial aid. The College sets
a limit of 18 units for all students. Students wishing to enroll in more than
18 units in a fall or spring semester or 7 units in a winter or summer term
must see a counselor for approval. Three unit classes meet three hours per
week with six hours of study time required outside of class. That equals
nine hours total of in-class and study time! Full time students enrolled in
12 units spend 36 hours total of in-class and study time per week. Wow!
That’s almost a full time job!
When do I pay my registration fees?
All fees are due upon registration. You can pay by cash, credit card, money
order, personal checks, business checks, rehab vouchers, and cashier’s
check. Payments can be made online, by mail, in person or through the
drop box. Remember to pay before the “Drop for Non-payment” deadline.
These dates can be found in your student portal. Failure to pay will result in
being dropped from classes.
What do I do if I don’t have the money to pay the fees?
You can apply for a Board of Governors Fee Waiver (BOGW), which would
waive enrollment fees and will reduce the parking and health fees if
you qualify. You will still have to pay any other required fees. You may
apply for the waiver by completing the BOGW application, but we strongly
recommend you fill out the FAFSA because it is easier to qualify and you
might be eligible for other types of aid. You can come to the Financial
Aid Office and use the mini computer lab to complete the financial aid
applications; staff assistance will be made available should you have any
questions with the application/s.
Are Dreamers eligible to receive financial aid?
YES, Dreamers are now eligible to receive State and scholarship aid
to assist with the cost of attending college. The California Dream Act
application
/) needs to be completed, each
academic year. Through this form, you can qualify for the Board of
Governors Fee Waiver (BOGW), Cal Grant, and scholarships. Come by the
Financial Aid Office for assistance.
How do I transfer units from another college/university
to Mt. SAC?
You must first contact all accredited colleges, universities, and trade
schools you have attended, and ask that official transcripts be sent to the
Admissions and Records Office at Mt. SAC. Hand carried transcripts will be
accepted if the official transcripts are still sealed in the original envelope
of the Registrar. The college will only transfer units from other institutions
at the student’s request and only after receiving official transcripts from all
institutions attended.
It is the responsibility of the student to request the evaluation of official
transcripts from other colleges. Submit a completed Evaluation Request
form at the Admissions and Records Office.
How long will it take to earn an Associate degree?
The length of time it may take you to receive a degree depends on your
chosen area of study and the number of units you register for each
semester.
Can I transfer to a 4-year college or university without
an Associate degree?
Yes. However, by taking courses required to transfer, you may meet the
requirements for an Associate degree as well. Meet with a counselor or an
educational advisor in the Counseling Center to receive specific information.
What do I do if the class I want is closed?
If the class you want to enroll in is closed, attend the first day of class,
bring picture ID and provide proof of your registration appointment (this
can be printed at my.mtsac.edu once you’ve logged in), to the professor
and if space is available you will receive an “Add Authorization Code.”
Add Authorization Codes will be distributed according to your registration
appointment date. Use the code to add the class to your schedule on-line
or in person at the Admissions & Records Office. Be sure to use the code
before the expiration date.
What do I do if I still have questions?
Make an appointment with a counselor if you need additional assistance
choosing a major or career choice. To make an appointment, call (909)
274-4380.
