1Apply to TVCC

Students can apply online through TVCC's Online Application.  Applications submitted online are typically processed within 3-5 business days; however, be aware that during heavy registration times (July, August, and December) turnover may be higher.  It is best to apply as early as possible, preferably before the registration period for your starting semester has opened.  This allows students ample time to complete the admission process before completing course registration.

TVCC's Online Application

 

2Apply for Financial Aid

TVCC recommends all students visit the financial aid department.  Whether you qualify for aid through FAFSA, or are a candidate for scholarship, check with financial aid each semester to see what sort of tuition aid might be available to you.

The Financial Aid department can only guarantee processing for students who have submitted their aid requests and documentation by the priority deadline each semester.  The priority deadlines for aid processing are: 

Spring Session - Nov 1

Summer Sessions - Apr 1

Fall Session - July 1

 

3Submit your shot record

Texas state law requires all student sunder the age of 22 to submit documentation of their bacterial meningitis vaccination.  Students who apply via apply.tvcc.edu can submit their shot record through their admissions portal or email them to admissions@tvcc.edu.

 

4Submit your Transcripts

For full admission to TVCC, students must submit a high school or GED transcript, as well as any transcripts from previously attended institutions of higher learning.  Please inquire with your previous institutions as to how to go about sending your transcripts to TVCC.

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5Submit testing (if applicable)

Degree seeking students with TVCC should submit testing scores.  If you are unsure if you are required to test or if you are unsure if you have already tested, contact the registrar or advisement center.  If student testing is required, TVCC gives the TSI (Texas Success Initiative) exam on the Athens, Palestine, and Terrell campuses. Visit the Testing Center for information on the TSI exam schedule.  Students who apply via apply.tvcc.edu can submit their test scores or exemption documentation through their admissions portal or email them to admissions@tvcc.edu.

Already sure you'll need to test on campus?  Be sure to complete the Pre-Assessment Activity online; print and take your Pre-Assessment Certificate with you on testing day.

 

6Housing

Any student who wishes to reside in campus housing during a semester should reserve a dormitory as soon as possible.  Room reservation , background check, and meal plan selection forms can all be filled out electronically.  You must be a fully accepted TVCC student to apply for housing.  All dorms are first come first serve.

Housing Application

7Advising

All students new to TVCC must visit with an Academic Advisor prior to their first registration.  It is vital to our students' success that we discuss any degree plans, career goals, and your academic needs prior to enrollment in courses.  There are advisors available on each campus Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. during the Fall and Spring semesters; Summer semester hours are Monday - Thursday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m..  Students have several options to meet with an advisor; a trip to campus may not be necessary. 

Meet with an Advisor

 

8Register for Classes

Student registration may occur any time after meeting with an academic advisor; if registration is open, students may be registered during their advising session.  Students who have not met their advising requirement will not be able to complete registration.TVCC understands that many of our students live remotely, or may have work or other obligations.  The Advisement Centers offer several options to meet with an advisor.

 

9Log Into Your Cardinal Email and Student Portal

Now that you are accepted with TVCC, it is time to familiarize yourself with your Cardinal Email and your My Cardinal Connect student portal.  TVCC provides students with a unique student email account so that we may communicate with you securely; be aware that any communications from TVCC will go this email address.  Check your Cardinal Email regularly to stay up to date and informed.

The My Cardinal Connect student portal is your resource for most school related tasks, from viewing and accepting your financial aid awards, making tuition payments or installments, registering for classes, and one day applying for your graduation.  Once you have successfully logged in, it is best to take a look around and explore all of the resources and tools you have as a student right at your fingertips.

First Time Login Assistance

 

10Pay Tuition

Payment for tuition and fees is due a week or two before the semester start date; you can find due dates on the TVCC Calendar.  Be sure to double check your statement through your student portal to ensure any financial aid awarded to you is distributed.  There are instructions available for how to set up your tuition payment(s) through your portal.

If you have signed up for housing on campus, be sure to stay alert for these due dates as well.

 

11Get ID and Books

All students are required to carry their student ID on campus.  Student IDs are required for admittance into many school facilities, such as the library, Cardinal Success Center, or our testing centers.  TVCC student ID cards can be obtained at the following locations during normal business hours (Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.).

Athens - Campus Security, Math/Journalism Building

Palestine - Learning Resource Center

Terrell - Learning Resource Center

Terrell HSC - Please visit the Terrell campus Learning Resource Center

You can acquire a  list of your textbooks at the bookstore website; their are instructions available on how to find your textbooks.  To purchase your textbooks, visit the TVCC bookstore on the campus that is most convenient for you.  If you are enrolling in a campus-specific course, be sure to call ahead and ensure that your required textbooks are available.

 

12Attend Class

TVCC has several locations as well as an abundance of online courses available.  Good luck with your first semester!  Needing assistance getting started in your online courses?  Distance Learning has resources available for first time online students.

 

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Find the ApplyTexas application here.