Admission Policies

Columbia College enrolls students who have both the desire and ability to succeed in a rigorous teaching and learning environment. The College invites applications from students who have demonstrated they are likely to complete the College’s broad-based general education curriculum and to successfully complete an undergraduate major. Many factors are considered in the admission decision, but previous academic achievement is the best predictor of success at Columbia College.

Columbia College does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of any status or condition protected by applicable federal or state law in the administration of its educational policies, admission, financial assistance, employment, educational programs, or activities.  Columbia College reserves the right to deny or rescind admission at its sole discretion.  Please note that Columbia College reserves the right to use photographs of its students in publications & media that promote the college.  

By submitting an application, applicants are giving their express written consent for Columbia College to contact them regarding our educational programs and services using email, telephone, or text - including the use of automated technology for calls and periodic texts to the wireless number provided.  Message and data rates may apply.  This consent is not required to purchase goods or services, and applicants may always call us directly at 573-875-7515 or 877-999-9876.

Columbia College’s mission is to provide quality education in a variety of flexible formats to fit the needs of all of our students.  As such, by submitting an application, applicants understand their program may require a combination of online, virtual, and in-seat coursework and may not be available at all locations.  

In compliance with the Clery Act, the College discloses crime statistics for crimes committed on campus, in certain off-campus buildings, or on property owned/controlled by the College during the last three years.  The Annual Security Report and Fire Safety Report can be obtained in paper copy by contacting the Campus Safety Office, and electronic versions can be obtained by visiting the following link: www.ccis.edu/campus-safety. 

Columbia College reserves the right to randomly check any and all applications for a criminal, suspension, or dismissal history. Applicants with a felony and/or misdemeanor conviction(s) must provide details regarding the crime(s). 

The College reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant and to deny and/or rescind admission to any applicant who provides false or misleading information to the College.

Admission Deadlines

Columbia College has a rolling admissions policy and allows applicants to submit applications anytime throughout the academic year. However, priority processing deadlines may mean that applicants who submit their materials after the stated dates may not be reviewed for admission or may have to postpone enrollment to a later start term. Admission priority processing deadlines are as follows; please visit the academic calendar to see dates for each academic year.

Applicants who are not admitted for the term in which they applied will be withdrawn. Additionally, admitted students, who do not enroll for the term they are admitted to, will need to update their application to a future start term, or their application will be withdrawn.

Main Campus Day Priority Deadlines

• Domestic applicants should submit completed applications (including required supporting materials) no later than two weeks prior to the start of the fall semester and no later than three weeks prior to the start of the spring semester.
• International freshman applicants should submit completed applications (including required supporting materials) no later than four weeks prior to the start of the fall or spring semesters.
• International transfer applicants should submit completed applications (including required supporting materials) no later than two weeks prior to the fall semester and no later than three weeks from the start of the spring semester.
• Applicants who do not meet admission criteria, will be required to go through the Application Review Committee and should submit all application materials no later than three weeks prior to the start of the fall semester and no later than four weeks prior to the start of the spring semester.

Online & Nationwide (Including Main Campus Evening)

There is no deadline for admission. Applicants can apply & be reviewed for admission at any time. Note: Applicants applying within two weeks of the start of a session may not have time to complete all admission requirements or get financial aid in place before the start of the session.

Admission Procedures

To be considered for admission to Columbia College, an applicant’s file must include the materials outlined below. All unofficial documents should be submitted electronically to Admissions@ccis.edu; faxed to 573-875-7506; or mailed to the Recruiting & Admissions Department, Columbia College, 1001 Rogers Street, Columbia, MO 65216. Documents supporting college readiness must be provided to the Recruiting & Admissions Department before admission review.

Unofficial transcripts should be submitted from the institution’s student portal and include the following: the applicant’s first name, last name, name of the institution, courses completed by semester/term, grades by semester/term, GPA by semester/term, cumulative GPA, and cumulative credits earned. Editable documents, linked documents, screenshots, etc., will not be accepted for admission review.

If an applicant makes an error on their application, additional documentation may be required in order to correct the error. Contact the Recruiting & Admissions Department for more information.

The moderately selective requirements for admission to the Main Campus Day Program are not applicable to the Columbia College Global (CCG) Locations. See www.ccis.edu/locations for a map of all Columbia College Locations.

Every applicant to any Columbia College program or Location must complete the following steps for admission review. Additional requirements may apply to specific student stages (i.e., non-degree, readmit, international, etc.). See specific applicant stage policies below for more information.

1. Submit a completed application at www.ccis.edu/apply
2. Provide proof of college readiness (Note: Admissions requirements may vary by Location. See policies below)

Columbia College welcomes home-schooled applicants at all locations. Home school applicants must complete all Admissions Procedures. Transcripts may be accepted from recognized home school programs. Contact the Recruiting & Admissions Department for more information.

Student Authentication

All Columbia College applicants are required to authenticate their identity as part of the enrollment process. 

In order to be used for identity authentication, government-issued photo identification (e.g., driver’s license, passport, permanent resident card, etc.) must be valid and current. Expired identification will not be accepted for authentication. The applicant’s full name, date of birth, and other directory information must match their application and student file (as applicable).

Some applicants may be exempt from authentication. However, proof of citizenship status (i.e., permanent resident card, naturalized citizen certificate, etc.) is still required for admission review, including applicants who are exempt from authentication. Military service members (active duty, guard, and reserve) applicants from all branches are exempt from the authentication policy as they are verified and approved by the US Military. However, veterans, spouses, and dependents of military members need to complete identity authentication as part of enrolling with Columbia College.

To complete authentication, students must show a government-issued photo identification to verify their identity. Applicants may complete authentication in one of the following ways:

1. Photo with ID: Take a photo (i.e. selfie) with their government-issued, photo ID, with their ID next to their face in the photograph. The detailed information on their ID must be legible. It is recommended that in addition to this photo, an image of the ID also be submitted for review. Photos can be submitted to Admissions@ccis.edu for verification.
   1. Photo Guidelines: Submit a color photo taken within the last month. Take a clear image of your face. No shadows or filters commonly used on social media should be used. Do not have any distracting or image-altering accessories (i.e. hats, sunglasses, etc.). Exhibit a neutral facial expression or natural smile. Ensure both eyes are open. Do not digitally alter the photo.
2. At Location: Students with access to a Columbia College nationwide location may show their government-issued photo ID to a full-time staff member at their location.
3. Notary Form: A notary public will confirm the student’s identity by making a copy of their government-issued photo ID and providing their signature (and notary stamp as applicable) on the Notary Public ID Authentication Form. This signed and completed form must be submitted to Admissions@ccis.edu for verification.

New applicants with recent changes to their legal name must provide a government-issued photo ID with updated name or provide documentation (i.e. marriage license) to verify their recent name change. Applicants seeking readmission to Columbia College (i.e. applicants with a student record) must also complete the Name Change Request Form with the Office of the Registrar in order to update their student record with Columbia College.

Admission Requirements

Online and Nationwide Admission Criteria

To be reviewed for admission to any of our nationwide locations, the Main Campus Evening program, or the Online program at Columbia College, applicants must complete the Admissions Procedures AND

• Provide proof of college readiness by presenting any one of the following:

• Evidence of high school completion via the High School Attestation Form or Home School Attestation Form.*
• Evidence of successful high school completion from an accredited & accepted institution by submission of an unofficial High School transcript 
  • Students who attended an unaccredited institution, may submit supporting documentation with their application to prove college readiness
• Evidence of successful completion (with score information) of the General Educational Development Test (GED), HiSET, or TASC or
• For residents in Florida, Texas, and Washington only: evidence of a minimum of 6 credit hours of satisfactory college work from an accredited & accepted institution by submission of an unofficial college transcript. (Non-credit courses, developmental courses, career and/or trade school credit do not satisfy this requirement).

Note: Based on information provided on the application, additional documents may be required for admission review. International student applicants may have additional required documents. See the International Student Admissions section for more information.

* Attestation forms apply to applicants residing in all US states, with the exception of Florida, Texas, and Washington. Applicants who attended an international high school are not eligible to use the attestation forms. Additionally, High School Dual Enrollment applicants are not eligible to use the attestation forms.

All official transcripts must be provided within 90 days of enrollment for further registration eligibility. Official transcripts can be submitted electronically to EvalTrans@ccis.edu or mailed to the Office of the Registrar, Columbia College, 1001 Rogers Street, Columbia, MO 65216.

Main Campus Day Program Admission Criteria

Columbia College is committed to a holistic review of applicants and, thus, has been and will continue to be test-optional for admission.* New freshmen applicants for the Main Campus Day Program who believe their test scores are an accurate reflection of their academic abilities are welcome to submit them for admissions consideration. If they choose not to, applicants will be reviewed on GPA, college prep curriculum and/or class rank.**

* Please Note: test scores may still be required for some academic scholarships.
** International applicants may still be required to submit test scores.
 

To be reviewed for admission to the Main Campus Day Program at Columbia College, students must complete the Admissions Procedures AND demonstrate the appropriate college readiness indicated by their applicant stage.

Admission is generally granted to applicants with a 60 HiSET score or 500 GED (after 2014)/2500 (prior to 2014). Applicants who do not present the minimum requirements for admission may be considered for admission through the Admissions Review Committee process (see Admissions Review Process). Students will be admitted as either New Freshman, Transfer Freshmen or Transfer. Please see sections below for specific requirements for each type of applicant.

New Freshmen

Students with less than twenty-four post-high school earned college credits are considered freshmen applicants. Admission is generally granted to high school applicants with no previous college credit (excludes high school dual enrollment/dual credit) who follow a college preparatory curriculum and meet the following requirements:

Applicants with no post-high school earned college credits must complete the Admissions Procedures AND meet the following criteria:

• 3.00 cumulative high school GPA on a 4.0 scale

OR

• 2.50 cumulative high school GPA on a 4.0 scale

AND

• 21 ACT; 1060 SAT* composite score; Rank in the top half of their graduating class; OR Meet core class requirements**

* 990 SAT composite score prior to March 2016

** If the ACT/SAT composite score does not meet minimum admission requirements and class rank is unavailable, academic consideration will be made for college prep work completed in high school. Applicants must demonstrate successful completion of the twelve units of college prep work identified below with a grade of C or higher in each course.

• Four units of English
• Three units of Mathematics (two years of algebra and one year of geometry)
• Three units of Science
• Two units of Social Studies

Note: Applicants who are not eligible for admission can appeal their admission decision and be reviewed by the Admission Review Committee.

Applicants who completed high school more than two years from the time of admission review are not required to submit ACT or SAT scores for admission consideration. However, these scores are used for freshman course advising and scholarship review.

Transfer Students

Students with more than twenty-four post-high school (excludes high school dual enrollment/dual credit), earned college credits are considered transfer applicants. Transfer applicants must complete the Admissions Procedures AND meet the following criteria:

• 2.0 cumulative GPA, which includes all credit attempted at all institutions attended.

*All official transcripts must be provided within 90 days of enrollment for further registration eligibility. Official transcripts can be submitted electronically to EvalTrans@ccis.edu or mailed to Office of the Registrar, Columbia College, 1001 Rogers Street, Columbia, MO 65216.

Transfer Freshmen

Applicants with less than twenty-four post-high school (excludes high school dual enrollment/dual credit), earned college credits must complete the Admissions Procedures AND meet the following criteria:

• New Freshmen requirements (GPA and ACT/SAT requirements only)

AND

• Transfer Student Requirements

Early-Out Admission Criteria

Main Campus Day Program students of exceptional ability may apply for admission to Columbia College following completion of their junior year of high school and after having earned 15 high school credits. Applicants for early-out admission must complete the Admissions Procedures for standard admission. Students must show an academic record that reflects readiness for college-level work. Consent of the high school principal and parents is required. Admission is contingent upon approval by the Admissions Review Committee.

Self-Report Procedures and expectations
Any admitted student who confirms their enrollment is required to submit a final, official high school transcript with graduation date sent directly from the high school and official test score(s) sent directly from the testing agency or included on the high school transcript. These official documents are carefully reviewed against the self-reported Academic Record.

Students must be accurate. 

• You should have a copy of your unofficial transcript and test score reports in hand when completing the Academic Record to ensure that information is entered fully and accurately.  

Students must be honest. 

• Do not adjust your grades in any manner. Do not average or convert them. You must enter your most current cumulative GPA (weighted or unweighted, whichever is highest) exactly as shown on your transcript and report your school’s grading scale.  

If the Academic Record is deemed inaccurate, Columbia College may change or rescind the admission and scholarship offers, regardless of whether the inaccuracy was intentional or accidental. 

Misrepresented or False Information Results in Cancelled Admissions and Scholarships

All Columbia College Applicants who have enrolled or plan to enroll will need to submit official final transcripts and test scores by July 1^st for the summer/fall term and December 20^th for the spring term. We will compare the official final transcript and test scores against the self-reported academic record.  

Academic integrity and student success are our highest priorities. Columbia College has the right to cancel enrollment and scholarships for any students who misrepresented their Academic Records. The Office of Admissions has sole discretion in determining if misrepresentation has occurred.

Honest Mistakes in Self-Reporting

We encourage applicants to reference a printed unofficial transcript, and unofficial test score reports to minimize any typos or errors.  Misrepresentation or inaccurate entry of information in the Academic Record may be grounds for a change in the admission decision and scholarship offers. These situations may include, but are not limited to, the following:  

• Pattern of inaccuracy: A student submits an Academic Record with a pattern of repeated inconsistencies.  
• Single significant error: A student misreports a test composite/total score or cumulative GPA that has a significant bearing on the admission decision. Our admissions committee will review final transcripts and test scores in comparison to self-reported information. Students may or may not be asked to provide an explanation for inconsistencies.  

Typos determined to be unintentional may still be grounds for a change in the admission decision and scholarship offer. Applicants whose admission or scholarship offer is changed or rescinded will be notified in writing. 

International Student Admissions

An international student is categorized as a foreign-born person who is not a citizen, national, or permanent resident of the United States, nor an individual who has been granted asylum or refugee status in the United States. Applicants who have applied for residency or citizenship must provide all application materials necessary to be considered for international admission until residency or citizenship has been granted. The College does not extend admission to undocumented persons. Students who are granted a stay under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) are exceptions.

International students seeking an I-20 Form from the College are eligible for undergraduate admission through the Main Day Campus or Denver Campus only. Housing contracts are only available for students applying to the traditional Main Day Campus in Columbia, MO. International students not seeking an I-20 from the College may apply for admission to any venue so long as the current visa status of the applicant allows for academic study while in the United States.

There are several visa types that are eligible for full-time study at the College. International applicants should contact the Recruiting & Admissions Department for enrollment eligibility information.

New International Freshmen

International applicants are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Applicants must complete a full sequence of university-preparatory studies that would qualify for admission to post-secondary studies in their home country. In general, students who present a minimum 2.5 cumulative grade point average from university preparatory studies are considered for admission. This requirement is equivalent to the twelve-year program of elementary, middle, and high school in the United States.

International Transfer Students

Columbia College welcomes international students with academic credit from other institutions. In general, students who present a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average from previous university-level coursework are considered for admission. University-level coursework completed at approved, accredited international institutions will be considered for transfer credit on a course-by-course basis. Academic performance at international institutions will be converted to a 4.0 scale for U.S. equivalency.

International Student Admission Criteria

To be reviewed for admission to Columbia College, the College must receive all documents no later than four weeks from the start of the fall semester and no later than five weeks from the start of the spring semester respectively. International students must complete the Admissions Procedures AND demonstrate the appropriate college readiness indicated by their student applicant stage or Location.

Additional documents must be provided in order to prove eligibility to receive an I-20 from  Columbia College (at the approved locations). International students must submit the following: 

•  SEVIS Supplement form.
•  Official bank documents to show evidence of adequate financial support (in U.S. dollars) for one year of study at the College.
• Copy of valid passport
• Copy of visa stamp, I-94 record, and I-20 from the last school attended if transferring to the College from an institution in the U.S.
• Completed Transfer Request Form

Please note: Once admitted, international admits will be unable to register for courses until these documents have been received & approved by the International Student Services Center. Depending on the applicant stage, specific documents will be required upon arrival.

Online & Nationwide Locations

To be reviewed for admission to any of the approved Locations (Denver and Eligin), international students must complete the Admissions Procedures AND

• Provide proof of English Proficiency (as outlined in the English Proficiency Requirements policies)

AND

• Provide proof of college readiness by presenting any one of the following:
  • Evidence of successful high school completion from an accredited & accepted institution by submission of an unofficial High School transcript* or
  • Evidence of successful completion of the General Educational Development Test (GED), HiSET, or TASC or
  • Evidence of a minimum of 6 credit hours of satisfactory college work from an accredited & accepted institution by submission of an unofficial college transcript.* (Non-credit courses, developmental courses, career and/or trade school credit do not satisfy this requirement).

*All official transcripts must be provided within 90 days of enrollment for further registration eligibility. Official transcripts can be submitted electronically to EvalTrans@ccis.edu or mailed to the Office of the Registrar, Columbia College,1001 Rogers Street, Columbia, MO 65216.

Main Campus Day Program

To be reviewed for admission to the Main Campus Day Program at Columbia College, international students must complete the Admissions Procedures AND

• Provide proof of English Proficiency (as outlined in the English Proficiency Requirements policies)

AND

• Meet New Freshmen, Transfer Freshman, & Transfer Student requirements for the Main Campus Day Program
  • Includes evidence of successful completion of secondary school (high school equivalency) records from an accredited & accepted institution by submission of an unofficial High School transcript* in their native language and an official English translation (if needed).

*All official transcripts must be provided within 90 days of enrollment for further registration eligibility. Official transcripts can be submitted electronically to EvalTrans@ccis.edu or mailed to the Office of the Registrar, Columbia College, 1001 Rogers Street, Columbia, MO 65216.

English Proficiency Requirements

All applicants whose native language is not English (regardless of citizenship) as provided on their application must provide proof of English proficiency. F1 visa applicants, regardless if English is their native language as listed on the application, must provide proof of English proficiency. Appropriate scores from the following exams demonstrate English language proficiency for admission review:

* Submitted score reports must be within two years of the desired enrollment date.

** Includes MyBest Scores, which is the sum of the highest section scores from all valid test dates for a super score.

*** If admitted to the Columbia Main Campus Day Program under the requirements for additional English Language Support, students will take one or two semesters of courses in our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program. Upon successfully completing this program, students will have no other requirements or conditions for continued study. 
 

Columbia College will also consider the following evidence of English language proficiency for applicants:

• A grade of C or higher from an English Composition I course completed at a regionally accredited U.S. institution and deemed equivalent by the Office of the Registrar at Columbia College.
• A score of 50* or higher for CLEP of an English composition course as deemed equivalent by the Office of the Registrar to the Columbia College ENGL 133W course. (*Minimum score subject to change based on recommendations by the American Council on Education.)
• Successful completion of high school in the United States from an accredited institution.
• Successful completion of an English language GED or HiSET exam.
• Successful completion of a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the United States from an accredited institution.
• Serving as an active duty, reserve, or National Guard military member in any branch of the US armed forces (Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, Army, or Navy). Veterans who have served honorably on active duty in the armed forces are also included in this provision.
• Successful completion of specified programs with approved partnerships.
• Readmission to Columbia College, who have previously met English Proficiency requirements.
   

Applicants from the following countries are required to submit SAT/ACT scores in lieu of English proficiency for the Main Campus Day Program: Australia, Canada (English-speaking provinces), Ireland, Malta, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Please note that credentials are reviewed carefully to confirm that applicants have the requisite English language proficiency to succeed academically at Columbia College. Therefore, the Recruiting & Admissions Department reserves the right to require additional documentation to verify English language proficiency. The College reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant and to deny and/or rescind admission to any applicant who provides false or misleading information to the College.

Admissions Review Process (Main Campus Day Program)

Main Campus Day Program applicants who do not meet the admissions criteria standards may be considered for admission through the Admissions Review Committee process. The Admissions Review Committee reserves the right to review any application for admission.

Applications may be reviewed to determine whether applicants are admitted to the College. The committee takes into account all academic coursework. 

An applicant who is denied admission to the Main Campus Day Program may apply to Main Campus Evening, Nationwide, or Online programs. Applicants may reapply to the Main Campus Day Program after successful completion of 6 credits with a C or higher at the Main Campus Evening, Nationwide, or Online program.

Appeal:

If an applicant wishes to appeal their denial to the Main Campus Day program, they must submit the Day Admissions Appeal Form with required documents on the website at http://www.ccis.edu/offices/admissions/forms/onbase/dayappeal . The letter of appeal and supporting documentation will be reviewed, and the admission decision will be final. Columbia College reserves the right to deny applicants to all locations.

Criminal History in Admissions

The College is committed to the safety and well-being of all members of the College community, including its students, staff, faculty, and visitors. To help ensure the safety and well-being of members of the College community, the College requires that all applicants for admission disclose certain criminal history to the College as part of the admissions process. Set forth below is information pertaining to criminal history disclosed by applicants during the admissions process and how the College will process and evaluate the same.

All applicants seeking admission to the College are required to answer “Yes” or “No” to the following question (or similar question) that is included in the application for admission: “Have you ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor?

If the applicant answers “Yes” to this question, the applicant will be contacted, in most cases within one week, by the College and informed of the initiation of the review process for affirmative answers to this question. An affirmative answer to this question is not an automatic disqualifier to admission, but will initiate a review process and will be evaluated as part of the College’s admissions process. During the review process, the applicant will provide additional information and details regarding his or her felony and/or misdemeanor history. The applicant will typically be required to provide an explanation of each felony and/or misdemeanor, with the option to include official documentation of the same, letters of recommendation, a release to obtain related documentation and information, and additional information the applicant would like considered by the College. The College’s Admissions Process Coordinators are responsible for compiling the information for the Conviction Review Committee (“CRC”) to review. If an applicant has previously applied to the College, updated documents will be required for review.

If convictions exceed more than one misdemeanor or any number of felonies, the Admissions Process Coordinators will forward the conviction information to the CRC.

The CRC will review the information provided by the applicant and make a determination as to whether or not to offer admission to the applicant, assuming all other application requirements are satisfied. The CRC is comprised of representatives across campus.

Factors considered by the CRC as part of the review process include, but are not limited to:

• Amount of time that has passed since the crime or offense
• Successful completion of sentence
• Severity of the crime or offense
• Nature of the crime or offense
• Other educational programs attended since the time of crime or offense
• Nature of the academic program in which the applicant seeks to enroll

Admission may be denied to an applicant based on prior criminal convictions, including but not limited to instances where admission creates a risk to the safety or welfare of the College community, to specific individuals or to the public, or where admission poses a potential risk to the property. All applicants, regardless of any prior admission to the College, will be subject to the CRC process for each admission to the College. After evaluating all information provided by the applicant as well as other information available to the CRC, the CRC will endeavor to make a determination within a reasonable amount of time, given the individual circumstances, as to whether or not the applicant will be allowed to continue the admission process to the College and the applicant will be informed of the same in writing.

Applicants who are denied admission by the CRC may appeal this determination by completing the appeal form at www.ccis.edu/appeal. Appeals will be reviewed, additional potentially relevant information may be obtained, and a decision will be made within a reasonable amount of time, given the individual circumstances. The applicant will be informed of the outcome of the appeal in writing. This decision is final and is not appealable.

The College reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant and to deny and/or rescind admission to any applicant consistent with College policies, including for applicants who provide false or misleading information to the College.

Members of the CRC will receive training and education on this subject annually, and this policy will also be evaluated periodically.

For privacy, consistency, and other reasons, admissions decisions involving criminal history shall be made by the centralized CRC and not at individual College locations. All campus locations are expected to abide by this policy and process.

Readmission

Official transcripts from each college attended after Columbia College will be required for readmission consideration for Main Campus Day Program readmission. Resubmission of original official transcripts may be required if the absence prior to re-enrollment exceeds five years. Any remaining unsubmitted transcripts or admission documents required during previous Columbia College attendance will be required prior to readmission. (This includes the requirement to provide official transcripts within 90 days of initial enrollment).

Academic and financial status restrictions are checked upon readmission application review. Students with outstanding payments at Columbia College may not be readmitted until financial obligations are resolved. (Students may contact the Center for Student Success directly at 573-875-7252 to determine if there is a balance due.) Students serving a suspension or not in good academic standing may be prevented from re-admission until appeal processes have been completed.

The College reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant and to deny and/or rescind admission to any applicant who provides false or misleading information to the College, including conflicting information across multiple applications and/or cumulative application materials.

Readmission After Suspension

Students with an active degree program may be eligible to re-enroll following a suspension of one semester. Students wishing to appeal an Academic Suspension can complete the Suspension/Dismissal Appeal Form, located in myPortal.

Students without an active degree program may apply for readmission to Columbia College following a suspension of one semester. Application deadlines will be adhered to regardless of status, including full-time, part-time, or non-degree seeking.

To appeal the suspension, students must complete the following:

1. Submit a readmission application.
2. Submit all unofficial transcripts to Admissions@ccis.edu, including colleges attended since leaving Columbia College.
3. Submit any other missing required documents not provided during previous attendance.
4. Reconcile any balance owed to Columbia College through the Center for Student Success.
5. If required, provide information regarding their suspension appeal request, which will be reviewed by the College administration, and the admission decision will be final.

Readmission After Dismissal

Students may apply for readmission to Columbia College after three years following an academic dismissal. Application deadlines will be firmly adhered to regardless of status; full-time, part-time, or non-degree seeking.

To appeal the dismissal, students must complete the following:

1. Submit a readmission application.
2. Submit all unofficial transcripts to Admissions@ccis.edu, including colleges attended since leaving Columbia College.
3. Submit any other missing required documents not provided during previous attendance.
4. Reconcile any balance owed to Columbia College through the Center for Student Success.
5. Submit the Suspension/Dismissal Appeal form. The form should include an assessment of the lack of previous academic progress, an outline of accomplishments since dismissal, and a specific plan of action for success should readmission be approved.

Appeal information will be reviewed by the College administration, and the admission decision will be final.

Students who have been permanently dismissed from Columbia College are not eligible for readmission.

Changing Locations (Location Transfer)

Students attending a Nationwide Location, Online, or the Main Campus Evening can cross-enroll or update/change their location without needing to reapply. Students changing to the Main Campus Day program must reapply. Once admitted, students are encouraged to meet with an advisor at their current location prior to changing locations. By meeting with an advisor, students will be able to make an informed decision prior to changing locations and taking into consideration possible impacts to:

• Institutional aid
• Degree program availability
• Course availability
• Degree completion

Non-Degree Seeking Students

The non-degree-seeking status is designed for part-time students who do not wish to seek an academic degree at Columbia College. Students who wish to apply for non-degree seeking status must complete the non-degree seeking application for admission. Acceptance as a non-degree-seeking student is not automatic. Enrollment as a non-degree-seeking student neither guarantees automatic admission to degree-seeking status nor does it necessarily impact an admission decision. Students enrolling at Columbia College under this non-degree status may be considered for degree-seeking status in a subsequent semester by completing the full degree-seeking application process. Non-degree-seeking students cannot change/update to degree-seeking in the middle of an academic semester.

Non-degree-seeking students are required to remain in good academic standing (not on academic or disciplinary probation). Non-degree-seeking students who do not enroll in one or more consecutive semesters (Main Campus Day Program) or three consecutive semesters (Main Campus Evening and Nationwide/Online locations), must reapply for non-degree admission. Non-degree-seeking students are not eligible for financial aid.

International students who wish to enroll part-time at Columbia College may be considered for admission as a non-degree student. Students must be degree-seeking to be eligible for a SEVIS I-20 Form from the College at applicable locations. Non-degree-seeking international students must provide proof of English proficiency.

Enrollment for non-degree-seeking students is on a space-available basis only. Course selections may be limited. Many courses include prerequisite/corequisite requirements. (See course descriptions for details regarding specific courses). Non-degree-seeking students must provide proof that course prerequisites have been met prior to enrolling in the respective course(s). Failure to meet these preliminary requirements may result in being dropped from the course(s). Classification (Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior) will be determined only by the credits students have completed at Columbia College.

Main Campus Day Non-Degree students only:

• Non-degree-seeking students who enroll in twelve or more hours are considered full-time students (and thus will be charged the full-time tuition rate)
• Enrolling as a non-degree-seeking student does not negate the residence hall requirement (applicable only to enrollment as a full-time student)

Certificate Seeking Students

Columbia College offers a variety of certificate programs, and eligibility to enroll varies by program. Please see specific certificate sections for enrollment criteria. Item to Note: Some certificate programs are non-degree seeking status. The non-degree-seeking status is designed for part-time students who do not seek an academic degree at Columbia College. Students who wish to apply for non-degree seeking status must complete the non-degree seeking application for admission. Acceptance as a non-degree certificate-seeking student is not automatic. Additional and separate criteria may apply to different certificate programs for admission review. Please see specific certificate sections for admission criteria.

Enrollment as a certificate, non-degree-seeking student neither guarantees automatic admission to degree-seeking status nor does it necessarily impact an admission decision. Students enrolling at Columbia College under this non-degree certificate status may be considered for degree-seeking status in a subsequent semester by completing the full degree-seeking application process. Non-degree-seeking students cannot change/update to degree-seeking in the middle of an academic semester.

Non-degree-seeking certificate students are not eligible for financial aid.

High School Dual Enrollment

High school students (freshman through senior) have the opportunity to take college courses for credit as a non-degree student while completing high school*. Dual enrollment means that high school students are enrolled in high school and college courses concurrently; the college-level courses are taken through Columbia College.

* Note: High school dual enrollment is not available for applicants residing in California or applicants residing outside the US.

Students still currently enrolled in high school who wish to earn credit at Columbia College must:

1. Submit the undergraduate application for admission. See admissions priority deadlines for more information on application deadlines by location. 
2. Request an unofficial copy of the high school transcript to be sent to the Recruiting & Admissions Department.
3. Meet specific academic qualifications by high school level: 
   • 9th Graders: Cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher and an ACT/SAT at or above the 90th percentile
   • 10th Graders: Cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher
   • 11th & 12th Graders: Cumulative high school GPA of 2.5 or higher
4. Provide written support from the high school principal or guidance counselor and a parent or legal guardian by completing the Columbia College Dual Enrollment form (contact the Recruiting & Admissions Department for this form or print it from the Dual Enrollment page).

The Admissions Review Committee reserves the right to review any application for admission under the dual enrollment status. The College reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant and to deny and/or rescind admission to any applicant who provides false or misleading information to the College.

High School Dual Credit

High school students (freshman through senior) have the opportunity to take college courses for credit while completing high school. Dual credit means that high school students are enrolled in high school courses that will receive college credit based on a partnership between Columbia College and that particular high school. Courses will be taken at the high school. Dual Credit is only available to partner high schools. Please contact the Academic Affairs or Recruiting & Admissions Departments for more information about partnerships.

Students still currently enrolled in high school who wish to earn credit through a high school dual credit partnership with Columbia College must complete the following steps.

Items required in 1 - 4 will be collected by the high school representative and submitted to Columbia College by the agreed deadline.

1. Submit the dual credit application. This will be provided by the high school administration during the enrollment period. 
2. Request an unofficial copy of the high school transcript.
3. Provide a copy of your high school ID card/driver’s license.
4. Submit payment through the high school administration.

To be eligible for high school dual credit, applicants must meet the following specific academic qualifications by high school level: 

• 9th Graders: Cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher and an ACT/SAT at or above the 90th percentile
• 10th Graders: Cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher
• 11th & 12th Graders: Cumulative high school GPA of 2.5 or higher

The Admissions Review Committee reserves the right to review any application for admission under the dual credit status. The College reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant and to deny and/or rescind admission to any applicant who provides false or misleading information to the College.

Additional Academic Information

Additional Academic Documents

Although not required for admission consideration, additional academic information that may supplement an application file includes, but may not be limited to: Advanced Placement; International Baccalaureate; Excelsior (formerly Regents); ACE accredited corporate courses; military credit (DSST, DD214, JST); Law Enforcement Training Institute; RN certification and LPN certification. For additional information about the transfer of alternative credit, contact the Office of the Registrar.

Course Prerequisites

Many courses include prerequisite/corequisite requirements. (See course descriptions for details regarding specific courses). It is the student’s responsibility to fulfill prerequisite requirements before enrolling in the respective course(s). Failure to meet these preliminary requirements may result in being dropped from the course(s).

Columbia College Alumni Association Lifelong Learning Grant Applicants

Students who have an associate or baccalaureate degree from Columbia College may be eligible to receive the CCAA Lifelong Learning Grant. Eligible students may enroll in one course free of charge if five years have elapsed since receiving their degree; they owe no fees to Columbia College and are not in default on federal aid loans.

Students may enroll for credit as auditors in courses being offered during the regularly scheduled semesters or sessions, provided space is available and course prerequisites are met. This grant cannot be used for graduate-level or online courses. Students are required to pay for textbooks and lab fees associated with the courses. Students are permitted to enroll in one free course in each subsequent five-year period but may not accumulate free courses.

Students must apply for admission to be eligible to register for a course. No applicant fee is required. CCAA Lifelong Learning applicants must also submit a Columbia College financial assistance application to the Center for Student Success.

Transcripts/Credit Documents Requirement

Applicants must inform the College of all institutions of higher learning attended and whether or not academic credit was earned at these institutions. Falsification of application information, including failure to identify all post-secondary institutions attended, may result in denial of admission or dismissal if discovered after enrollment.

An official transcript and official English language translation from each college and university attended must be submitted to the College before the transfer of credit can be accomplished. An official transcript is marked as such and sent directly from the institution attended to the Columbia College Office of the Registrar. A transcript marked official and hand-delivered in a sealed envelope of the institution by the applicant will be accepted as official. Transcripts marked unofficial or student copies will not be considered official even if delivered in a sealed institution envelope. Faxed transcripts are not considered official. Credit will not be evaluated nor considered acceptable for admission to one institution from another institution’s transcript. Only grades of ‘C’ or higher are accepted in transfer. The following is a list of examinations and test scores that must be submitted for an official evaluation: CLEP, DANTES (DSST), AP, and IB.

Applicants who are unable to obtain transcripts because the previous institution has closed, had a fire or other records catastrophe may include a letter from the institution or the Department of Education for the state, or the Ministry of Education where the school is located indicating that the transcript is not available. If the letter is provided along with the application and other transfer documents, then there will be no delay in the evaluation process.

International bachelor’s degrees awarded by institutions that are chartered and recognized by their centralized government educational body, or their national ministry of education, will be accepted as meeting the qualifications for a general education waiver if these criteria are met:

• Take ENGL 133W   First-Year Seminar with a grade of “C” or better

• Take an additional 30 semester hours with at least three hours from each of the following groups of course codes:

  • Group 1: ANTH, ECON, GEOG, POSC, PSYC, SOCI
  • Group 2: ARTS, COMM, ENGL, HIST, MUSI, RELI
  • Group 3: ASTR, BIOL, CHEM, ENVS, GEOL, PHYS
  • Group 4: [MATH Equivalent to Beginning Algebra or higher]

International students must meet all of the above criteria in order to be eligible for a general education waiver. Once the criteria are met, a request for evaluation must be submitted by your advisor to the Office of the Registrar.

The College evaluates advanced secondary school education from other countries, such as the British Advanced Level Examinations, the French Baccalaureate, the German Abitur, and the Canadian CEGEPs. Students who successfully have completed advanced secondary school education may receive advanced standing or transfer credit at the College. Such credit is evaluated on a course-by-course basis. Students may be asked to submit course descriptions and/or course syllabi for evaluation purposes.

Once a document has been submitted, it becomes the property of Columbia College. Neither the original nor a copy will be given to the applicant.