Frequently Asked Questions

Prospective students usually have many questions as they begin to explore college. This page contains some answers to questions you may have as you navigate what can be a confusing process.

How Do I Begin As a Part-Time Student?
Most part-time, adult students begin simply by registering for a course. Many are undecided about which degree program to follow. It is all right to be undecided; in fact, sometimes it is desirable. Most courses do not have entry requirements and a number of courses can be used toward every degree program.

If you would like to speak with an advisor before you register, visit the Academic, Career & Transfer Center, Room 301 in the Student Services Center.

See current office hours here.
Phone: (845) 431-8600 

While we will advise students on a first-come, first-served basis during office hours, we prefer that you make an appointment.

What Is a Matriculated Student?
Matriculated students are those who have applied to the College, declared a major, and have been accepted for admission. Matriculated students are eligible to apply for financial aid. Those students interested in becoming a matriculated student should explore the DCC Admissions web page.

Who are Non-Matriculated Students?
Non-matriculated students are those who have not yet been accepted for admission to the college, have not declared a major, or have been suspended from a program because of failure to maintain good academic standing. Courses taken by a non-matriculated student may later count toward a degree, assuming that the program has not changed.

How Do I Apply for Admission to DCC?
Enrollment in credit courses at Dutchess Community College is open to all persons whose academic abilities and personal qualifications suggest that they may benefit from college study. If you wish to be admitted to DCC as a matriculated student, pick up an application from your high school guidance counselor, apply online at sunydutchess.edu/admissions, or call the Office of Admissions at (845) 431-8010. 

You are considered a full-time student if you are taking 12 or more credits and a part-time student if you are taking 11 or less credits.

How Do I Apply for Financial Aid?
You should begin the application process at least eight weeks before the beginning of classes. To be eligible for financial aid, you must be accepted to DCC as a matriculated student in an eligible degree program. For more information, refer to the financial aid web page where they have a FAQ section, or call Student Financial Services at (845) 431-8060 and request a “Financing Your Education” brochure. Both full- and part-time students are eligible for financial aid, although aid is limited for part-time students.

Does DCC Offer Scholarships?
The College offers numerous scholarships to qualified students, including one that offers full tuition for four semesters to anyone who graduates in the top ten percent of their graduating class in Dutchess County. Call the Student FInancial Services Office at (845) 431-8060, or you can go to the Scholarship page on our website.

What Is Placement Testing?
Dutchess Community College offers admission to those applicants who hold a high school diploma or GED that is accredited by an agency recognized by New York State. To ensure that entering students have the greatest chance for academic success at DCC, some new students are required to take basic skill placement tests. The results are intended to help academic coaches recommend specific coursework for each student's upcoming semester. Click here to find out more about placement testing and to find out when the tests are offered.

How Are My Courses Scheduled?
If you are a full- or part-time applicant, once the application process is complete, you will be eligible to register. You can contact the Academic, Career & Transfer Center to set up an appointment, or visit the office during advisement hours. At your appointment, you will meet with an advisor who will assist you with your course selection. Your schedule will be entered into the computer system at the end of your appointment. Part-time non-matriculated students interested in receiving advisement may contact the Office of the Registrar. You can also schedule classes by making an appointment with an advisor, by visiting the Advisement Center, by phone or mail through the Office of the Registrar, or at In-Person Registration.

What Is Academic Advising?
Academic Advisement allows you an opportunity to meet with an advisor to discuss your interests, educational and career goals, and coursework for the upcoming semester.

How Will I Know That My Registration is Complete?
Once the registration process has been completed, the College will issue you a schedule that lists class times, room assignments, and instructor names.

When Is My Tuition Payment Due?
Students who have scheduled their classes and have met all immunization requirements may then process their tuition payment. Students are sent electronic bills. They will receive notice through the student's myDCC mail that an e-bill is available. Please check your email.

NOTE: 

Students must pay in full by certain deadlines or they will automatically be dropped from classes. Financial aid and other monetary awards will be deducted from balances due. Information about payment due dates here.

Payment consists of the certificate of residence, as required, and tuition payment. Payment may be in the form of cash, check, MasterCard, VISA, or other approved deferrals.

For more information regarding the billing process please contact Student Financial Services at (845) 431-8060.

Are There Any Health Requirements to Being a Student at DCC?
To protect the health and well-being of the campus community, New York State Law requires students born on or after January 1, 1957 to have health and immunization information on file with the College Health Service. Any matriculated or non-matriculated student taking more than five credit hours is required to provide proof of immunity to measles, mumps and rubella. Proof of immunity to these three diseases must be on file before you are allowed to register. Proof can be obtained through valid immunizations and positive blood tests. A physician can verify a history of measles or mumps.