Returing Students FAQ

You’ll need to submit a new admission application online. After that, you’ll receive instructions to access your student account. From there, you can connect with a counselor, review your progress, and enroll in classes.

Yes. If you’ve been away from SMC for more then one year, you’ll need to submit a new application to reactivate your student record.

No. Applications are open year-round. You can apply whenever you’re ready and choose the term that works best for you. Check our upcoming start dates.

Many returning students complete the first steps—applying and connecting with a counselor—within a few days to a week.

Yes. Your completed coursework remains on your record. A counselor can review your transcript and show you how your past classes apply to your current goals. If you have transcripts from another college, bring unofficial transcripts when you meet with a counselor. You will then request official transcripts from your previous college and send them directly to the SMC Admissions and Records Office.

No. You’ll continue from where you left off. Most returning students are able to build on their previous progress.

That’s okay. Many returning students choose a different path. A counselor can help you explore options and create a plan based on your current goals.

Yes. Many SMC students balance school with work. Flexible options—including online, evening, and weekend classes—can help you build a schedule that fits your life.

No. You can take as many or as few classes as you’re comfortable with. Many returning students start with one class and build from there.

Yes. Nearly half of SMC’s class offerings are online and hybrid, allowing you to complete some or all of your coursework remotely.

Yes. Counselors are available to help you review your credits, understand your options, and create a clear plan forward. Once an active student, you can also use Stellic, a degree management and education planning tool to plan your requirements.

SMC offers a range of support, including counseling, financial aid guidance, tutoring, career services, online student services, basic needs, and much more.

That’s completely normal. Many returning students feel this way. Support services like tutoring and counseling are available to help you build confidence and succeed.

SMC is affordable. Costs vary depending on the type of classes you enroll in. Noncredit classes are all free ! Credit classes are $46 per unit for California residents (most SMC classes are 3-5 units). Financial aid is available.

Yes. Returning students can reapply for financial aid by submitting the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application. Depending on income, and other factors, a fee waiver may be available to you. If you already received a degree, some types of aid may still be available.

If you have a balance or hold on your account, staff can help you understand your options and what steps are needed to move forward.

After applying, you’ll receive instructions to access your student account. From there, you can connect with a counselor, review your progress, and enroll in classes.

You can choose the term that works best for you. SMC offers multiple terms throughout the year, including shorter sessions, and late-start classes.

It’s not required, but it’s strongly recommended. A counselor can help you save time by ensuring you take the right classes.

Yes. Many students step away from college for work, family, or other reasons—and later return to continue their education, to re-skill, or take classes for personal development. May of our returning students have been away a few years, and many 10-20 years, or more.

No. Students of all ages attend SMC. Returning to college at a different stage of life is both common and welcomed. Some of our older graduates—every year—are well into their 70s and 80s. At SMC, there’s a place for everyone.

That’s okay. You can start by talking with a counselor or exploring your options. There’s no pressure—just support when you’re ready.