Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get started at Imperial Valley College?

You need to apply for admission, which you can do on the Imperial Valley College website. Just go to the home page and click Apply Online. That will lead you to the application information screen. After reading the instructions, click Begin Application for Imperial Valley College at the bottom of the page. You will be taken to a website called CCCApply, where you will apply. You will need to create a user profile before you can begin your application.

How much does it cost to take classes at IVC?

Students who qualify as California residents are currently charged $36 per unit, plus a mandatory health fee of $17 per semester, and a $1 student representation fee. Out of state residents and International students are currently charged $251 per unit, plus the $17 health fee and $1 student representation fee. Parking permits are $17 per semester. Textbooks are extra.

How can I get a catalog and schedule of classes?

The course catalog is a book published every two years that contains majors, programs, degrees and certificates (along with their course requirements), course descriptions, college policies and procedures, and student services offered at the campus. The 2010-2012 course catalog is available for viewing and/or downloading from the IVC website, and hard copies are available for purchase in the Campus Book Store for $2.00.

The schedule of courses is published each semester and lists the classes being offered at IVC for the upcoming term, along with the times, days, location and instructors for each class. The Fall 2011 schedule is available on the IVC website, and printed copies are available in the Registration Office until supplies run out. The Spring 2012 class schedule should be posted on the IVC website in mid-October , with printed copies available for pickup in the Registration office about ten days later.

How can I apply for financial aid?

The most direct way to apply for financial aid is to go to www.fafsa.ed.gov. Students can also contact our Financial Aid office at 760-355-6266 for more options.

How do I register for classes?

For students in good academic standing, there are two ways to register for classes. Students can use the Student Portal website or come into the Registration Office on campus. There are instructions for using the Student Portal on page 7 of the schedule of classes, and also on the Student Portal Main Menu page.

What kinds of classes do you have?

We have a 360 page catalog filled with degree and certificate programs and vocational training.

What job/skill/trade training programs do you have?

We have vocational training in many fields of study, including auto collision repair, office assistant, medical billing, and pharmacy tech. Most of these programs are offered at either our Career Technology Center or through the Imperial Valley College Training Institute.

When do classes start?

The Fall 2011 semester begins Monday, August 15th. The Spring 2012 semester begins Monday, January 9th.

When can I register for classes?

Fall registration for all students is available now until August 12th. Registration for Spring 2012 will begin in November. Continuing students will be assigned a registration date between November 3rd and November 21st. Registration notices will be sent through student email.

Do you have night classes?

Yes, we do. There is a list of our evening classes in the back of the schedule of classes.

Do you have online classes?

Yes, we do. There is a list of our online classes in the back of the schedule of classes.

Do you offer high school diplomas or GEDs?

No. High school equivalencies and GEDs must be obtained through an adult school.

Can I go to IVC if I don’t have a high school diploma or GED?

Yes. Students who are at least 18 years old at the start of the semester may attend without having earned a high school diploma or GED.

If I want to take classes at IVC and one of your other campuses, do I have to complete an application for each campus?

No. The application students complete for the Imperial Valley College is good for all campuses and centers in the District, even though students must declare a "home campus".

Do I have to see a counselor?

It is critical for students to take advantage of the services that counselors provide, including:

1. Help choosing the right major and defining an educational goal.
2. Developing a Student Educational Plan that will provide a clear path to follow toward your educational goal.
3. Help students to better prepare for academic success.

Academic planning is crucial during the early stages of a student’s educational career, so:

1. Plan early.
2. Give careful thought to your educational/career goals.
3. Make your academic success a high priority.

What do I need to do to see a counselor?

To ensure your counseling appointment is the most effective, first-time college students must complete all of the following before meeting with a counselor:

1. Apply for admission
2. Take the Math and English placement tests
3. Participate in the New Student Orientation – either online or on campus.

Imperial Valley College counselors are available on an appointment or drop-in basis. Appointments can be scheduled after the first three weeks of the semester and can be made one week in advance. To schedule an appointment, call the Counseling Department at 760-355-7598. Counselors are also available on a first-come, first-served, drop-in basis throughout the year. For hours of service, please contact the department at the telephone number above.

How do I set up and access my student email account?

Email is the official form of communication for all IVC students. A free student email account will be created for you within two (2) working days of your application being processed. If you don't receive an email from us when your new account is created, you can always go to this page on the Student Portal to check what your email address is: https://my.imperial.edu/student-email. The password for your email account is the same one you use for the Student Portal. If you'd like to check your email please visit: http://outlook.com and login with your email address and Student Portal password.

Who can I call for more information?

For additional information, students may call the 760-355-7598 from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.