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Welcome to Imperial Valley College!

Where we foster excellence in education that challenges students of every background to develop their intellect, character, and abilities; to assist students in achieving their educational and career goals; and to be responsive to the greater community.

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Program of Study

New Policy Effective Fall 2025 
Your financial aid works hardest when you stay focused on your goals. Imperial Valley College's updated Program of Study policy is designed to help you graduate faster, spend less, and make the most of every dollar of aid you receive. 

What You Need to Know Right Now 

One Active Program = Maximum Aid Impact 
Starting Fall 2025, you can have one active Program of Study at a time, which includes one degree and one related certificate. This focused approach ensures your financial aid goes toward courses that actually count toward your graduation. 

Your Financial Aid Has Limits (But We'll Help You Navigate Them) 
Federal and state grants like Pell Grant and Cal Grant are designed to help you earn your first Bachelor degree. Only courses required for your active Program of Study will be covered by these major funding sources. But here's the good news: the California College Promise Grant (CCPG) can still cover the fees of other classes you want to take for personal interest or exploration. 

Flexibility Within Structure 
You can change your Program of Study once per semester, but timing matters. Make your change before the financial aid freeze date (when your enrollment gets locked in for aid calculations) to ensure it affects your current semester's funding. 

Current Students: What This Means for You 

If you currently have multiple programs listed in your records, don't panic. We'll assign your primary program as your active Program of Study and send you a notification. Want to change it? Schedule a meeting with a counselor right away. 

Already have a degree and using aid for another one? You can finish your current program, but future changes will require an appeal—a formal request that explains your educational goals and why continued aid is necessary. 

Why This Actually Helps You Win 
This isn't about limiting your options—it's about maximizing your success: 
  • Skip the Costly Detours: No more accidentally spending aid on classes that don't move you toward graduation 
  • Graduate Sooner: Stay laser-focused on completing your degree requirements 
  • Transfer Efficiently: Meet university requirements without wasting time or money 
  • Keep Aid Coming: Maintain eligibility by staying on track with your program
     

Talk to a Counselor 
Our counselors will review your program, update your goals, and create an education plan that keeps you eligible for aid while meeting all your requirements. 

Submit an Appeal 
Want to pursue multiple degrees with financial aid? The appeal process lets you request approval outside normal rules. You'll need to explain your goals and demonstrate why additional aid is necessary.
Schedule a counseling appointment to review your Program of Study and ensure you're positioned for success. Taking this step now could save you thousands of dollars and months of extra coursework. 
 

Questions? We're Here to Help 

Financial Aid Office 
Building 1700 ( Campus Map ) 
 
Office Hours: 

Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm 

Financial Aid Lab hours: 
Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm 

Zoom Virtual Lab hours: 
Monday-Friday 2:00pm-4:00pm 

Counseling Center 

IVC - Building 100 ( Campus Map ) 

Office Hours:
Monday – Thursday, 8AM to 7PM 
Friday - 8AM to 5PM 
Phone: (760) 355-6543 
counseling@imperial.edu 


 Your degree is waiting—let's build the most direct path to get you there.