June 22, 2010

Fall classes begin the week of Aug. 23 at Allan Hancock College. Registration begins June 28. New students planning to attend Allan Hancock College this fall should consider attending a START session now. START (Student Testing, Advising, Retention and Transition) offers a basic skills assessment, an orientation to the college, and advising by academic counselors regarding course selection. Many new students and some continuing and returning students are required to take the START assessment. START’s purpose is to assist those students who are planning to obtain a degree or certificate, those planning to transfer to a university, or those unsure of their educational goals. Assessment test results do not determine admission to the college. Anyone who is 18 years or older and able to benefit from instruction is eligible to attend Allan Hancock College. High school graduates under age 18 are also eligible for enrollment, as are high school students who may enroll in college classes through Hancock’s College Now! program. All students will need to complete the online admissions application to receive their AHC student ID number that is needed for the START test.

START sessions are available at the Santa Maria campus and the Lompoc Valley Center on a walk-in basis during specified days and times. No appointments are necessary. To view the START testing schedule, visit the Testing Center Web site at www.hancockcollege.edu (Quick Link “Testing”). Or, call the campus of your choice for more information: Santa Maria—922-6966 ext. 3364, or the Lompoc Valley Center—735-3366 ext. 5090. The toll free number in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties is 1-866 DIAL AHC (342-5242), plus the extension.

Students with certain qualifications, including students taking classes for life-long learning or those with degrees, are exempt from assessment. On the Testing Center webpage, click “START Placement Information” and then “Frequently Asked Questions” for a complete list of exemptions to assessment.

“The simple, computerized START test is a real boost to students,” said Sharon Alldredge, Allan Hancock College assessment coordinator. “It gives students flexibility for scheduling the test and allows them to pace themselves while actually taking it. No computer experience is necessary.”

Alldredge added, “Those who choose to complete START now are not obligated to register later. It merely makes the registration process easier and faster should they choose to do so.”

All new students attending Allan Hancock College for the first time are also required to attend a New Student Orientation. Several one-hour orientations are scheduled at both the Santa Maria campus and the Lompoc Valley Center, beginning July 28. “Mega Orientations” lasting several hours are also being offered at both locations: in Santa Maria July 19 and again Aug. 10, and at the Lompoc Valley Center Aug. 11. Mega Orientations offer added benefits, including an opportunity to meet key faculty and staff, tour the campus and receive a free academic planner and prizes. Contact the counseling office at 922-6966 ext. 3293 or at counseling@hancockcollege.edu for more details and to sign up.

All classes are $26 per unit for California residents; other minimal fees apply.

Fees for qualified low-income students may be waived. In addition, there are many financial aid programs to help students meet college costs. Call the financial aid office at 922-6966 or 1-866-DIAL AHC ext. 3216 for details.

For more registration information, call 922-6966 or toll free 1-866 DIAL AHC (342-5242) ext. 3248.

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