Admissions FAQs

Where can I get help with the application process?
We recommend that prospective students make an initial appointment with an Enrollment Services Coordinator to review the application process and answer any questions about enrolling to the college.

What kind of student am I?
RACC uses the following definitions for students. When you complete the application, select the one that seems most accurate:

  • Early Admissions: high school students who are academically ready for college and want to take college course work during their junior and/or senior year.
  • New (or First-Time) Students: students who have never taken college courses.
  • International Students: students entering or currently residing in the US under an F-1 visa.
  • Returning Students: students who were previously enrolled at RACC but have been inactive for at least one year (365 days).
  • Transfer Students: students with previously earned college credit from another college or university.
  • Transient Students: students who wish to enroll at RACC for a specific course of courses while maintaining active enrollment at another college or university.

How much is the application fee?
There is NO fee for applying to RACC.

If I am taking only one course must I complete an application?
Yes. The application provides us with the necessary information to establish a permanent record for you.

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Do I have to be accepted to apply for Financial Aid?
No. The sooner you complete your financial aid paperwork, the better, especially if your application date is close to the start of the next semester. You can file your FAFSA as soon as you apply, even before we officially process your application.

Am I required to submit copies of transcripts?
If you are applying as a degree candidate then you are required to submit an official copy of your high school or GED transcript and official copies of post-secondary colleges or universities you attended.

If you are applying as a non-degree candidate, transcripts are not required for admission purposes. However, if you attended a college or university, an "unofficial" copy should be brought with you at the time of registration.

How long will it take for my acceptance?
Because the college has an open admission policy, all students are accepted to the college. A formal acceptance letter is mailed within two weeks of receipt of your application. Acceptance to selective programs of study such as Registered Nursing and Practical Nursing, are based on completion of application materials and review by a nursing selection committee.

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I'm accepted! What's next?
Once you receive your acceptance letter, and you have submitted all of your transcripts from previous institutions, your next step is to schedule placement testing and register for classes.

How do I schedule my classes for my first semester?
Immediately following the placement test, you will attend the group advising session in which an Enrollment Services Coordinator will assist you in the registration process.

If you are not required to take the placement test because of prior college credit, you will schedule an individual appointment with an Enrollment Services Coordinator. During this appointment, you will register for classes.

Do I have to take the college placement test?
The placement test is required for all incoming students who have not had freshman college English and Math and received a "C" grade or higher. Students must provide proof of completion of both courses either prior to or at the time of registration in order to be waived from taking the placement test.

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What do I need to bring with me on the day of the placement test?
Please bring a valid photo ID as well as a non-scientific calculator. We will provide all other necessary materials.

What subjects does the placement test include?
You will be tested in the areas of Reading, Writing and Math. The Reading and Math portions of the placement test are untimed and conducted on the computer, while the writing portion of the placement test consists of a timed 30-minute handwritten essay.

How long does the placement test take?
Please plan to be here approximately six hours on the day of the test. Students generally spend about 2.5 hours on the test, but some students can take as long as four. After the test, there is a required session you will attend, during which you will hear from an Enrollment Services Coordinator and register for classes.

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How much does the placement test cost?
There is no charge for the college placement test.

Are retests permitted?
There are no retests permitted.

I am a transient student enrolled at another college. What do I need to provide in order to register?
You will need to bring with you one of the following at the time you register: An unofficial copy of your transcript or grade report that has a freshman English and Math course with a C grade or higher; or, a course approval form from your college indicating that a representative from your college/university has approved your course for transfer.

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Must I attend orientation?
All new students (with the exception of applicants applying for the summer term) are required to attend orientation. Orientation is a very important part of your college experience. At orientation you will be provided with an overview of services, student ID Card and parking permit.

Will the course(s) I take at Reading Area Community College transfer?
Reading Area Community College is a fully accredited institution of higher learning. As a general rule, RACC credits do transfer. It is the responsibility of the student to check transferability and how courses may or may not fit into their future program of study or curriculum. If a course transfers but is not part of a student's program of study, the course may not count toward credits needed for graduation. To view Course Equivalency Guides and obtain more information on transfer out of RACC, visit the Transfer Center.

What are the office hours of Enrollment Services?
Monday 8:00am-5:00 pm
Tuesday 8:00am- 7:30 pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 7:30pm
Thursday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm
The office is located in Berks Hall, Room 111.

Can I ask current students questions about the College?
Raven Ambassadors are here to give you answers! Send them an email or stop by Berks Hall, Room 111 to talk.

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