New Students at De Anza College for the first time are likely to be freaking out at this point. You have tons of questions to be answered, but unsure of whom to ask. To be lost and clueless at a new school is only natural, but this guide might help give you an idea of what you should do or expect for your stay at De Anza College.
What should be my priorities?
In case you have not taken the placement test for English and math, do so! Financial aid applications should be submitted via Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. Keep in mind students have to apply for financial aid every year, and different types of grants / aids have different deadlines. The financial aid office can provide you assistance in filling out the forms and answering any of your inquiries.
I am not sure if my classes will be dropped for late payment. Whom should I consult?
The cashier’s office. They offer installment plans in case you are unable to make a one time payment. If you have applied for financial aid (but have yet to receive the results), make sure you are not dropped from your classes by talking to the personnel at the cashier’s office.
I haven’t registered for a particular class but I want to take it anyway. What can I do?
Show up in the first day of the class you want and see if the instructor will give you an add-code. The likeliness of you getting into the class depends on the class size. The bigger the class, the more chance of you getting an add-code for it.
When and where should I get my books?
It’s according to classes actually. For instance, if it’s a book for science class or mathematics, get your book as soon as possible because quarters systems are fast paced. However, some classes may not use a required book altogether so you could check it out at the library.
De Anza bookstore offers all books required for classes. You could also rent a book, if you are looking for a cheaper option. If money is tight, try amazon.com or other online stores to find marked down, used books.
When should I drop classes?
If you are paying out-of-state / international fees, drop no later than Oct. 6 for a full refund. You have to personally submit a request to the cashier’s office for a refund. Until you do so, your My Portal account will display a negative account balance, which means the school owes you money.
I am struggling with my classes. Where can I seek help?
The Student Success Center offers free tutor services throughout the quarter. Depending on your subject, you can visit different tutorial centers. The Writing & Reading Center and Academic Skills Center is located in Library 107, Listening & Speaking Lab in Building L4, Room 47 and also the Mathematics Tutor Center in the S quad. Workshops are held at the tutorial centers too ranging from Procrastination management to Language skills. In addition, you may also seek help on academic and non-academic issues from De Anza College’s counselors anytime. The Health Services provides counseling at times with personal issues.
I can’t handle the workload of these classes. Should I drop with a record of grade?
It depends on your situation. If you think that you are going to pass the class with a C or less, you might as well drop the class with a W and take the class again. Especially with the current state of the economy and education, you pretty much have to be the crème del a crème to have a chance to transfer to a four year university. Top tier colleges prefer as few W’s as possible and may, in some cases, ask for explanations, so be mindful. Plan your classes accordingly. Mix and match classes to even out the workload and reduce stress.
When do I start picking classes for next quarter?
Registration will be available to continuing students later in Fall Quarter. The more credits you take, the earlier your registration date. Check Myportal frequently for updates because you don’t want to register late.
When and where can I learn of my grades?
Normally, it takes De Anza a couple of weeks to process and notify you of your grades. Sometimes, they come early, and other times, they come late. You should be able to find them once they are posted on  your Myportal.