Welcome to Diablo Valley College! If you’re a new student and don’t fit into one of our specific categories, this page is for you. Whether you’re starting fresh, exploring new opportunities, or planning your next steps, we’re here to guide you through the admissions process and help you succeed.
We’re so happy you’re here! Follow our general steps to enroll for all new students. We'll help you apply, get help paying for college, get an early registration date, and get registered for classes. If you have any questions along the way, our Welcome & Connect team can help.
Find Your Program
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On your application for admission, you'll get to choose an interest area and select the degree or certificate you want to complete at DVC. Not sure yet? No problem! Learn more about our five interest areas and programs via the button below.
Academic Interest Areas
Apply to DVC
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It’s free to apply, there are no required tests, and our acceptance rate for completed applications is 100%! Completed applications are accepted within 24 hours.
Apply Now Application Instructions
HOT TIP: Once your application for admission is accepted, you will be assigned a new college email address. We recommend forwarding your college emails to your personal email address. Doing this can help make sure you don't miss important messages about your financial aid, class schedule and more! Learn how to forward your emails.
Get Help Paying for College
Apply for financial aid and explore other ways to save as a college student. We encourage all DVC students to apply for financial aid. You may be surprised at what you're eligible for.
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- U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Students who are undocumented and qualify for AB-540 status should fill out the California Dream Act Application (CADAA).
We recommend applying early, since the review process can take time!
Apply for Financial Aid
Get an Earlier Class Registration Date
Completion of steps four through six (orientation, placement and educational planning) will qualify you for an earlier registration date. This means you'll have a better chance of getting the classes you want before they fill up.
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This is where you’ll learn everything you need to know about being a student at DVC, including our policies and programs, student services and how to use our online student portal.
Complete Your Orientation -
In as little as five minutes, you can get your math, English and/or English as a Second Language (ESL) placements. No exam necessary!
Complete Your Placements -
During this course, you’ll learn how to develop a plan to achieve your career goals and map out your first two semesters at DVC. Register for COUNS 095: Education Planning (COUNS 096 for athletes) in InSite. Visit our How To Center for help.
Complete Your Educational Plan
Get Your Class Schedule
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Now that you have a plan, it’s time to put it into action. Register for your first-semester classes in InSite. For step-by-step instructions, visit our How To Guides.
Register for Classes
Start Off Right
News
Celebrating the Class of 2025: Honoring Student Success at DVC
June 3, 2025
Read Celebrating the Class of 2025: Honoring Student Success at DVC
Dr. Monica Chahal Named New President of Diablo Valley College
May 20, 2025
Read Dr. Monica Chahal Named New President of Diablo Valley College
Turning Setbacks into Strength: How Mariano Went from Academic Probation to Honors
May 6, 2025
Read Turning Setbacks into Strength: How Mariano Went from Academic Probation to Honors