Your progress still matters.
You do, too.
Life gets busy. Work, family, and priorities change. Santa Monica College provides flexibility and support to help you take the next step toward your goals.
Stepping Away Happens.
Coming Back is Common.
"My journey to this [commencement] stage didn't follow a straight line. I left. I doubted myself. I became a mother. And for a long time, I thought that was the end of my college story. But I learned this truth: detours are not failures. Sometime the long way home is the way home."
Victoria Salazar
2025 Student Commencement Speaker
Returning Adult Student
Choose a Path That Fits Your Goals
Why Choose SMC
$46
Cost per unit/credit
200+
Degrees and Certificates
<12mo.
Earn a certificate in under 12 months
Let's Build on Your Progress
Apply anytime
Apply when you're ready
Previously earned credits still apply
Your completed classes still count. A counselor will show how your coursework applies so you can move forward from where you left off.
Counselors help identify the fastest path to your goal
Your situation is unique. Counselors work with you to create a clear, personalized plan – so you can move forward with confidence.
Flexible formats: online, hybrid, day, evening, and weekend classes
We understand that adult students have full lives. Flexible formats help you continue moving forward without putting everything else on hold.
Support That Helps You
Academic & Planning Support
- One-on-one academic counseling
- Personalized education plans
- Credit review and transfer guidance
Financial Support
- $50 Million in financial aid and scholarships
- Grants, fee waivers, loans, work study available
- FAFSA/California Dream Act assistance
Career & Workforce Support
- Career counseling, internships, and job pathways
- Short-term credit and noncredit career programs
- Transfer support to four-year universities
Student Services
- Online and in-person services to save time
- Technology and learning support
- Referrals for basic needs and campus resources
How to Attend SMC – Step by Step
Apply Online
Takes about 20 minutes
Meet With a Counselor
Review past coursework and plan next steps
Choose Classes That Fit Your Schedule
Online, hybrid, evening, short-term, and more
Enroll & Get Ready to Start
Many returning students complete steps 1–3 within a week with support.