Adult Students Questions & Answers
You've got questions. Of course you do!
On the following pages we’ve answered some of the most common questions adult students have about returning to school and attending Westchester Community College. This should be enough to get you started, but when you have MORE questions—and you will—give us a call at 914-606-6735 or email us at [email protected]. We’d like to help make your transition back to school easy.
I am nervous about going to college.
Are there counselors to help me?
It is not unusual for adults to be nervous about college. From your first phone call or visit to Westchester Community College, the staff and counselors in the Admissions Office are here to help make your transition to college a smooth one. Our dedicated admissions counselors will listen to your particular concerns and questions and will offer advice on how best to reach your goals. You will also learn about the College and its programs and services for adults. Counselors are available by phone or by individual appointment, or you may decide to attend an information session just for adults. We are here to help you make the academic decisions that are right for you.
How do I enroll?
The counselors and staff in the Admissions Office will provide you with all the details on how to apply to Westchester Community College. We will tell you what records you need and what forms to complete. We will be there each step of the way.
Will my credits from years ago transfer to Westchester Community College?
Many of the credits that you took at another college may transfer to Westchester Community College. Your transcripts will be reviewed by an evaluator in the Admissions Office to see which credits will transfer. Even if you took classes many years ago, you may still be able to earn credit for these courses.
Academic Support
Does Westchester Community College offer tutoring to help with classes?
The professional staff of our expanded Academic Support Center (ASC) offers you free tutoring and support in reading and math. An extensive series of academic workshops in test-taking, note taking and study skills are offered each semester to help you sharpen your academic skills. In addition to the ASC, tutoring centers for many other areas such as science and writing are available to you. Your faculty and counselor will direct you to these services.
Affordability
Will I be able to afford college?
Westchester Community College is one of 30 community colleges in the State University of New York. Community colleges were created to provide higher education at an affordable cost. Tax dollars help offset the higher costs charged by other colleges which gives you a quality education that is affordable. Westchester Community College offers the lowest tuition in Westchester county.
Financial Assistance
Does Westchester Community College give financial aid?
Yes, Westchester Community College participates in both federal and state financial aid programs. Most financial aid is based on income and students are required to complete an application form and provide documentation of family income. Financial aid workshops are held to take you through the application process step by step.
Are there scholarships available?
The Westchester Community College Foundation provides many scholarships to students. In addition to monies given to incoming and graduating students, many scholarships are offered for continuing students who have demonstrated success while attending Westchester Community College. Even if you were not a strong student before, you may one day be recognized for what you have done as an adult student!
Class Locations
Where is the main campus?
Westchester Community College’s main campus is located in Valhalla, NY on the former Hartford Estate. It is easily accessible by car and public transportation. Most classes are offered at the main campus. The beautiful 218-acre campus includes classroom buildings, a Student Center, a recently renovated Library and many other facilities. Maps & Directions.
Are Westchester Community College classes offered at any other locations?
Yes, Westchester Community College has extension sites located throughout the area to help you attend classes closer to home and work. Sites are located in Mahopac, Mount Vernon, New Rochelle, Ossining, Peekskill, Port Chester, Shrub Oak, White Plains, and Yonkers. You may take classes at the main campus or extension sites, or both. Whatever works best for you!
Course Flexibility
When does Westchester Community College offer classes?
Westchester Community College knows that you are busy, so classes are offered during the day, evenings and weekends. Click here for upcoming course schedules.
Can I attend part-time?
Yes, you can choose to attend full-time or part-time. Whichever the case, a counselor can help you decide how many classes to take each semester.
Does Westchester Community College offer classes online?
Westchester Community College’s distance learning program offers courses online and through video cassette. You’ll be able to do your coursework at times that really work for you.
Supportive Counseling & Student Services
Is there someone who will help me pick out the right courses?
Admissions counselors are available to assist you with your adjustment to college, direct you to appropriate academic services and help you in any way they can. Every enrolled student is given an academic advisor who will help them plan their course schedule each semester.
Is there special counseling for returning women?
Prospective women students are encouraged to attend a Taking the First Step Workshop or meet with a counselor to discuss their concerns about returning to school and how to apply and register for classes. A special orientation for women accepted to the College, a variety of workshops of interest to women, and academic and personal counseling are available.
Does Westchester Community College offer child care?
Westchester Community College has a Children’s Center on campus that is available to children from 6 weeks to 5 years and 9 months old. There is a fee for this center.
Career-Oriented & Transferable Courses
What if I am still uncertain of my career choice?
Many adults are not sure of their direction when they start college. Our career center will help you with both personal and career exploration, providing you the opportunity to look at your interests, values and skills, as well as possible careers. Once you decide, professionals are there to help you with resume writing, interview skills and the job search. A cooperative education program allows you to gain work experience in your field while also earning college credit.
Will credits from Westchester Community College transfer to another college?
Most colleges will accept Westchester Community College credits. Our transfer office will help you investigate other colleges and their requirements so you and your counselor can plan a transferable program for you.
Are there any social groups for adults to meet fellow students?
In addition to the almost 70 student clubs on campus, the Student Forum is a social organization for part-time and adult students, sponsoring trips, special Meet and Munch evenings and a variety of other activities for you to meet other adult students. College is not all work!
Special Programs for Adults
I need to update my career skills, but I am not interested in receiving college credit. Does Westchester Community College have something for me?
In addition to college credit courses, Westchester Community College offers many non-credit courses through our Continuing Education office. Continuing professional education and personal enrichment classes are available for adults not interested in pursuing a college degree. Many of these courses are offered in short time frames, with no tests to worry about.
Can Westchester Community College help me develop a foundation in basic computer skills?
A variety of non-credit classes in all facets of computers are available. Students can develop skills in word processing, spreadsheets, and other software packages, as well as the internet, programming and web page development.
Can I attend college if I need to improve my English?
The English as a Second Language Institute at Westchester Community College offers courses at all levels of instruction to help you develop stronger English skills in listening, speaking, grammar, reading and writing. The Institute can get you started on the way to improved English skills for your work or to prepare you to participate in college-level course work.