Admissions Procedure
Last Revision Date 7/1/2026
Related Policy Admissions Policy
Responsible Official: Vice President for Student Experience
Delegated Authority
Jen Sealy, Director of Admissions and Recruitment
Collaborators
- Cindy Vinson, Bilingual Enrollment Recruiter- Transition
- Katie Grocki, Registrar
- Melissa Ensminger, Associate Registrar for Transfer Services
- Sarah Welker, Director for Dual Enrollment and High School Partnerships
- Abby Sines, Coordinator for Selective Admissions for Health Sciences
- Nancy Gunn, CEWD Registration Associate
- Amber Tobery, Articulation and Transfer Success Coordinator
- Lauren Weldon, Remote Learning Program Coordinator MACEM & Campus Police and Public Safety
- Jason Deater, Assistant Dean, Legal & Campus Police and Public Safety Career Community
- Noah Gibson, Assistant Professor, Health and Exercise Science
- Bruce Thompson, Professor, History and Honors College Coordinator
- Jerri Seremeth, Assistant Professor and Faculty Lead, ASL
Definitions for the Purpose of this Procedure
- Application Categories for Credit Students
Individuals applying to Frederick Community College (FCC) for one or more credit courses must select an application category at the time of admission.
- "Courses of Interest (Non-FCC Degree Seeking)" refers to three different categories of students at the College that are not eligible
for Federal Financial Aid. The three categories of Courses of Interest include:
- "Personal Enrichment" refers to a Courses of Interest student who is taking courses listed as credit in the FCC catalog to enhance their knowledge and for personal enjoyment and exploration of the subject matter.
- "Professional Development" refers to a Courses of Interest student who is taking courses listed in the FCC catalog to enhance their professional knowledge set.
- "Visiting Student" from another College refers to a Courses of Interest student who is taking courses with the intention to transfer the credits back to their home institution. To ensure transferability, a student should have written authorization from their home institution.
- "Dual Enrollment" refers to a current high school student who seeks to earn college credit while in
high school. Dual Enrollment students are not eligible for Federal Financial Aid.
- "High School Based" refers to a high school student who takes an FCC course that is taught at their local high school.
- "Open Campus" refers to a high school student who takes a College course(s) on College premises or through FCC Online. The course(s) may be during or outside the regular school day.
- "Career Pathways" refers to a high school student who takes select FCC courses in a specific career track at their local high school or at FCC, earning both a high school diploma and an industry certification or credential simultaneously.
- "Early College" refers to a high school student who is admitted to the Early College program and attends FCC full-time during their junior and senior years - earning both an associate degree and completing their high school requirements.
- "Gifted and Talented" refers to a student under the age of 16 years, who has been identified as having exceptional academic or fine arts talent in selected FCC courses. The student must be at least 12 years of age and have completed the seventh grade or equivalent education. Gifted & Talented students are not eligible for Federal Financial Aid.
- "New" refers to a student who is attending College for the first time, who never applied or registered for a credit course at FCC, except as a Dual Enrollment student, and has not earned credits from another institution of higher learning after high school graduation or equivalency.
- "Readmit" refers to a student who has attended credit courses at FCC previously, but not within the last two years (two fall and two spring semesters — exclusive of the summer sessions), who seeks to reenroll.
- "Transfer" refers to a student who has attended another institution of higher learning after high school graduation or equivalency, and who seeks to receive credit for prior coursework completed at previous institutions.
- "Courses of Interest (Non-FCC Degree Seeking)" refers to three different categories of students at the College that are not eligible
for Federal Financial Aid. The three categories of Courses of Interest include:
- Admission Status
For admissions processing and enrollment tracking, FCC uses the following admission statuses:
- "Prospective Student" refers to an individual who has become a part of the College recruitment database. Prospective students are in Slate and PeopleSoft, and not all prospective students are assigned an FCC ID number.
- "Applicant" refers to an individual who has submitted a College application for credit enrollment and has an assigned FCC student identification number.
- "Registrant" refers to an individual who has submitted a College application for credit enrollment and has an assigned FCC student identification number, or a student profile for continuing education, and who has registered for a course or courses.
- "Student" refers to an individual who is registered at the College, either full or part-time, in a credit or continuing education class or classes who has either paid or made arrangement for payment of tuition and/or fees.
- "Enrolled Student" refers to an individual who is registered at the College, either full or part-time, in a credit or continuing education class or classes, who has either paid or made arrangements for payment of tuition and/or fees, and whose participation in a class has been verified.
- Student Status
- "Full-time Student" refers to a student who enrolls in coursework of twelve (12) credit hours or more during a semester or summer term. These hours may include developmental course(s) hours.
- "Part-time Student" refers to a student who enrolls in coursework of less than twelve (12) credit hours during a semester or summer term.
- Program Types
- "Degree Programs" refer to Career and Transfer programs that lead to an associate degree. Degree Programs are generally 60 credits, unless otherwise specified.
- "Certificate Programs" refer to a sequence of specific credit courses resulting in a formal award of completion that require the completion of at least 12 credits.
- "Letter of Recognition (LOR)" refers to an award for the completion of a series of specific credit courses that require the successful completion of at least 6 credits.
- "Workforce Training Certificate" refers to a non-credit course or series of courses that qualifies individuals for identifiable occupations, or that provides a comprehensive body of knowledge leading to career advancement. These specialized courses may not be substituted.
- "Digital Badge" refers to a visual representation of a skill, learning achievement, competency, or experience. Badges can be relevant to an academic objective, professional goal, area of interest, or national credential. Embedded in each badge is information about when and where the badge was earned, criteria for earning the badge, and verification that the earner met all requirements.
- "Industry-Based Certifications" refers to an independent third-party credential that is industry-accepted and results from a process whereby an individual's knowledge and/or skill in a particular area is verified against a set of predetermined standards. Many credit and continuing education courses and programs prepare students for industry certifications that support or enable employment. Students who hold industry-based certifications may be eligible to have credit awarded through a College articulation agreement.
- "Selective Admission Programs" refer to programs with specified admissions requirements and may have limited capacity to the number of students admitted to the program.
- "Special Admissions Programs" refer to programs that have conditions which must be met in order for the individual applying for admission to be categorized and admitted to the program.
- "Workforce Development Programs" refer to short term non-credit instruction for entering an occupation, gaining industry-based certification, or engaging in professional development.
- "Personal Enrichment Programs" refer to instructional programs that are designed to support lifelong learning and personal interest. Special programs are designed for people in retirement, for youth, and for adults with intellectual disabilities.
- "Youth Programs" refer to Kids on Campus (KOC) & Teens on Campus (TOC). These programs are open to any youth between ages four through 17 years of age. There are some prerequisites.
- "Adult Basic Education Program" refers to programs including basic reading and math skills, as well as High School completion programs for adults. High School completion students must have been officially withdrawn from the secondary school system. The High School Diploma credential is awarded by the State of Maryland for successful completion of the General Educational Development (GED) exam.
- "English as a Second Language (ESL) Program" refers to a program open to students who are non-native English speakers seeking
to improve their language skills. There are three levels of ESL that include both
credit and continuing education options. (American Sign Language/Deaf students not
included.)
- "Basic ESL" refers to free classes for students who need to learn basic English for life and work. Students must be 16 years or older.
- "Targeted ESL" refers to fee-based classes for students who have intermediate or higher-level English proficiency. Courses focus on specific English skill development, to include oral, reading, writing, and grammar. Courses are designed to transition students from basic English to higher level English.
- "Academic ESL" refers to tuition-based classes for students with high intermediate proficiency in English. Courses focus on developing academic English proficiency to prepare students for the rigor of degree programs and/or professional communication.
Procedure
- Enrollment Process for Credit Students
- Requirements
FCC complies with the Maryland College and Career Readiness Act and the College Academic Assessment and Placement Policy and Procedures. Unless otherwise exempt, students must complete placement assessments prior to enrolling in applicable courses.
- Enrollment Steps
- Application for Admission
Students must complete and submit an application for admission. Current dual enrolled seniors should complete the DE Graduate FCC Enrollment Form to matriculate the fall following high school graduation to matriculate the fall following high school graduation. Applicants are also required to successfully complete the institution's identity verification process prior to admission being finalized. - Residency Determination
Residency for tuition purposes is determined at the time of application in accordance with the Determination of Residency for Tuition Purposes Policy and Procedures. - Submission of Official Documentation
Students may be required to submit transcripts, test scores, credential evaluations, or other documentation to support admission, placement, or credit evaluation. - Placement Assessment
Placement testing or approved exemptions are used to determine course eligibility and readiness in accordance with the Academic Assessment and Placement Policy and Procedures. - MyFCC Account Activation
Students must activate their MyFCC email account and password self-service. - Academic Advising
Students are encouraged to meet with an academic advisor through an orientation program or an individual advising appointment to review placement results, select a program of study, and plan course registration. - Course Registration
Students register for courses through the College's registration system, PeopleSoft Campus Solutions. - Financial Aid Application
All eligible students regardless of financial resources should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students who are ineligible for Federal Student Aid (FSA) due to immigration status may be eligible to complete the MHEC One App. The FCC Federal School code is 002071. Most Maryland State Scholarships require students to complete their applications before March 1st. All students are encouraged to apply for FCC Foundation scholarships through the College online scholarship application system. - Payment
Students must make payment arrangements within established deadlines to avoid being dropped for non-payment. - Class Attendance
Students are expected to attend classes as scheduled. Non-attendance may affect enrollment status and eligibility for aid or benefits.
- Application for Admission
The College reserves the right to refuse readmission to a former student who has unsettled financial obligations at the College or who has not complied with previous disciplinary requirements.
- Requirements
- Enrollment Process for Continuing Education Students
- Requirements
To be a Continuing Education Student at FCC, students must complete a Continuing Education Student Profile using Lumens. All Continuing Education accounts must be created in the student's name and date of birth, not the person creating the account. Becoming a Continuing Education student does not admit the student for credit instruction. Some programs are designed for specific age ranges and have restricted access for registration based on birth date. Some courses require prerequisites or pre-testing and are noted in the Continuing Education schedule of classes.
- Enrollment Steps
- Open Enrollment Courses — Most courses are eligible for online registration through the Continuing Education & Workforce Development online registration system. Students may also register in person to submit the registration form needed. Payment for tuition and fees is due at the time of registration. If a student is receiving a scholarship or the class is paid for by a third party, supporting documents must be included when registering. Courses which have prerequisites require placement testing or testing exemptions and are noted in the Continuing Education schedule of classes. These courses or programs require that a student submit the documents needed for registration in person or electronically.
- Contract Courses — Students receiving instruction under contract with an employer or other external partner will be enrolled as Continuing Education students. Students will be required to complete an online registration through Lumens or complete a registration form prior to the beginning of class. Some contract courses have prerequisites. There are no fees or tuition charged to the student for contract courses.
- Adult Education and ESL — Students seeking ESL or Adult Basic Education classes may need to attend an orientation and must complete program assessments (not via the FCC Testing Center) to be placed in the appropriate class level.
- Requirements
- Additional Requirements for Specific Students
- Transfer Students
A student may be enrolled with advanced standing. The transfer of a course will be considered based on its transferability and in compliance with the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR).
FCC adheres to the general education and transfer policies of the Maryland Higher Education Commission. Students transferring from a Department of Education approved institution will have all applicable coursework with a grade of "D" or higher accepted in transfer, with the exception of ENGL101 which requires a grade of "C" or better. Please note that some FCC programs of study require a grade of "C" or better in all (or some) courses.
All transferable coursework will be added to a student's record within 20 business days. A maximum of 75% of the credits needed in an associate or certificate program may be fulfilled with transfer credit.
The following sources may be considered as accepted forms of transfer:
- College-level coursework at accredited institutions are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education;
- Credential assessment or credit by examination (e.g., CLEP, Advanced Placement, DSST (Formerly Dantes), International Baccalaureate);
- Military courses and/or experience with American Council on Education credit recommendations.
- Educational Programs at non-Collegiate organizations with American Council on Education credit recommendations.
- Credit earned through high school articulation agreements with Carroll, Frederick, and Washington counties.
- Credit earned through other articulation agreements at the College;
- Prior learning credits earned through portfolio assessment and/or institutional departmental exams once enrolled.
To be considered for advanced standing, a student must:- Complete the College admissions procedures.
- Arrange for the previous institution(s) attended to send an official transcript or provide an official copy in an unopened, sealed envelope (More details: visit Incoming Transfer Students).
- Arrange an appointment with a College academic advisor to plan their program of study.
- Complete at least 25% of degree, certificate, or letter of recognition credits at FCC.
All transcripts received are the property of the College and cannot be released to the student. Transcripts will not be duplicated, returned to the applicant, or forwarded to any other college, university, individual, or agency. A student who experiences extreme hardship in obtaining official copies of their transcripts may petition the College Registrar for assistance by completing a third-party release form. These documents will be available only to an individual involved in the admissions and/or advising process. Transfer students with no placement test exemptions will take the standard entry assessments.International students considering transfer must follow the procedures for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Students and Students with Other Visas, in addition to the requirements set forth in this section.
- Students Seeking Credit for Prior Learning
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) evaluation is conducted of a student's work experiences, workplace training, professional licensure and certifications, military training and service, volunteer activities, life experiences, credits earned by standardized testing, and volunteering and community service activities which can be used to demonstrate college-level learning. Credit for Prior Learning is not awarded for experience alone, but for a combination of experience and college-level learning mastered through a variety of experiences. PLA consists of several pathways designed to allow students to have their college level learning completely assessed.
For students to be eligible to earn prior learning credit, the student must be an FCC student and declare a major in a degree or certificate program.
PLA Guidelines:
- Students may earn up to 75% of the credits required for a program of study through all Prior Learning Assessments pathways.
- Students must earn at least 25% of the credits required for a program at FCC.
- A maximum of 15 credits can be earned through 'Portfolio Assessment' and 'Institutional Department Exams.'
- Non-immigrant (F-1) Students
The College is authorized under federal law to consider applications for enrollment of non-immigrant alien students in the F-1 visa status. All applicants who reside outside the United States and do not possess a visa to study in the US must apply for an I-20 form to obtain a student visa (F-1) before enrolling at Frederick Community College with the exception of students participating in the FEMA Credit Conversion Program and related academic credentials, specifically a degree, certificate, or letter of recognition for the Emergency Management Online (FEMA Independent Study) program. A prospective student must meet academic and College admission requirements, and the requirements for the certificate of eligibility (I-20 Form) prior to applying for the F-1 Student Visa or requesting a change of status to F-1. International students studying at FCC must pursue a full course of study of 12 credits per fall and spring semester toward an approved associate degree.
International students who do not possess a visa and do not apply for an I-20 form are ineligible to complete a Change of Major or pursue academic credentials outside of the ones related to the Credit Conversion Program. There are some programs that are not eligible to F-1 students; refer to the International Student webpage for a list of programs that are not approved.
- Students with Other Visas
International students with other types of visas are also eligible to attend the College. Tuition rate will be determined based on the visa type noted on the student's application, which is certified by signature. Per federal regulations, individuals in B-1 or B-2 visa status are prohibited from enrolling in programs of study that lead to a degree or academic certificate.
- Credit-seeking English as a Second Language (ESL) Students
A credit-seeking ESL student must:
- Complete and submit an application for admission.
- Take the Accuplacer ESL exam in the Testing Center (allow three hours for testing) and obtain a copy of the Accuplacer ESL exam results.
- Obtain minimum placement scores on the Accuplacer ESL exam to enroll in Academic ESL
courses. Students whose scores fall below the established minimum will be limited
to enrollment in Basic or Targeted ESL Continuing Education courses until such time
that they are able to demonstrate proficiency required for enrollment in Academic
ESL courses.
- If the minimum score for Academic placement is achieved, students should arrange to meet with an academic advisor.
- If the minimum score for Academic ESL placement has not been met, students must arrange to meet with the ESL program manager. The ESL program manager will assist students in determining which Continuing Education ESL program is appropriate for them and help them complete the registration process.
- A student is required to make payment arrangements and/or pay their bill within the established timeframe.
Note: The ESL program manager can assist credit and continuing education students with academic decision-making at any time. If a student is not sure which courses to take or has questions about their study plan, meeting with the ESL program manager is recommended. - Students Participating in the FEMA Credit Conversion Program and Related Academic
Credentials
Individuals who live outside the United States and do not possess a visa do not need to apply for an I-20 form to participate in the FEMA Credit Conversion Program and related academic credentials, specifically a degree, certificate, or letter of recognition for the Emergency Management Online (FEMA Independent Study) program. These students must arrange to meet with the Emergency Management program manager before applying through the FCC credit application. If approved, the program manager will assist these students in completing the registration process.
- Students without a High School Diploma
Persons without a high school diploma who are 18 years old or older, and who demonstrate college readiness through placement testing are eligible for admission and to register for credit and continuing education courses. Students without a high school diploma have limited access to financial aid. Students may meet with a financial aid representative to discuss their college financing options. Students should also visit the Office of Adult Education to get information about how to earn a high school diploma while concurrently studying at FCC.
- Registered Sex Offender
FCC requires registered sex offenders (RSOs) to self-disclose their status and receive approval from the College to register for courses. In accordance with Maryland law, RSOs are required to register with the designated law enforcement agency in the jurisdiction where school enrollment is sought.
Per the FCC Admissions Policy, admission to the College may be denied or revoked for those persons whom the College considers to be a potential danger to the safety, security, and educational environment of the College. Such decisions will be made on a case by-case basis with individuals being afforded notification and explanation of the decision and an opportunity to respond.
The Maryland Department of Campus Police and Public Safety and Correctional Services maintain the Maryland Sex Offender Registry, which provides information about RSOs to the public. The Registry is located on the web at http://www.dpscs.state.md.us/.
- Transfer Students
- Selective Admissions Programs
Admittance into selective admission programs is on a competitive basis, and there are program-specific entrance requirements beyond those required for admission to the College. Program-specific courses are open only to students officially accepted into the Program. Admission to FCC does not guarantee entry into a Selective Admission program.
- Health Science Selective Admission Programs
The Health Sciences programs listed below have limited enrollment capacity and rigorous academic standards.
All applicants must meet the following additional requirements:
- Be eligible for admission to FCC (submit separate FCC admission application).
- Meet prerequisite requirements for the specific program.
- Meet minimum grade point average if required by the program.
- Meet all legal requirements and/or standards imposed by accrediting bodies, recognized professional societies, and by the institution or agency where the clinical practice training is to occur (e.g., drug screening, background check, and fingerprinting).
- Understand that participation in certain clinical courses (e.g., those courses involving hospital practice) may require the passing of appropriate health examinations (e.g., TB test).
Please refer to the individual program pages for the specific application due dates and application requirement for each selective admission program. For specific admissions questions please contact the Selective Admissions Coordinator at healthsciencesadmission@frederick.edu. - Non-Health Selective Admission Program — ASL Interpreter Preparatory Program (IPP)
Enrollment in the associate of Arts and Science in ASL Interpreter Preparatory Program and certificate is limited to those accepted into the program (max of 16 students per cohort).
All applicants must meet the following requirement:
- Complete and submit a College application and provide proof of residency.
- Complete and submit a separate application for the IPP to the ASL/IPP Faculty Lead by August 1st (for fall admissions) and January 1st (for spring admissions).
- Submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities, and other forms of prior learning.
- Complete FCC assessment testing unless otherwise exempted.
- Arrange for an appointment with the ASL/IPP Faculty Lead (required).
Interpreting program requires students to take the National Certification written exam before being approved to be placed on internships. In order to apply and be included in the pool of applicants for admission to the internship portion, students must have a 3.0 or higher. Students must have a 'B' or better in core coursework by the end of the semester in which they are applying. All applications will be reviewed and applicants will be selected for interviews if all pre-program requirements are met.
- Health Science Selective Admission Programs
- Special Admission Programs
The following programs have conditions which must be met in order for the individual applying for admission to be categorized and admitted to the programs.
- Police Science Program
The Maryland State Police (MSP) Associate of Applied Science Degree in Police Science is presented to trooper candidates through a partnership between FCC and the MSP. This program has been created to assist MSP in its effort to develop a highly professional police force. The Police Science program for MSP is open to any trooper candidate employed by the Maryland Department of State Police and accepted into the MSP Academy. This program integrates general education coursework with major components of the criminal justice process learned while attending the MSP Academy.
All of the tuition, fees, and books are paid in full by the MSP. Veterans are eligible for VA benefits while enrolled in the Academy and during the time they take FCC general education courses.
The Associate of Applied Science Police Science Program available on-campus is open to students separate from the Maryland State Police program. To be considered for admission into the on-campus Police Science Program, a student must:
- Be a sworn and currently employed Maryland law enforcement official who has graduated from a Maryland police academy that has been certified by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commissions (MPCTC) (or officials who have completed Comparative Compliance Training for Maryland).
- Be enrolled in the Police Science Degree Program at FCC.
- Present a current copy of their Certification and Training Standards Compliance Card from the MPCTC and Police ID card. Additional information about this program may be located at: http://mdsp.maryland.gov/Careers/Pages/StateTrooper.aspx.
- Tactical Strength and Conditioning certificate (TSAC) program
Designed for professionals working in police, fire and rescue, military careers, and fitness careers. This program has been created to train individuals in tactical careers to assess fitness, design and implement training programs, and improve health, wellness, and performance in police, fire and rescue, and military populations. To be considered for admission to the TSAC program applicants must fulfill one of the below requirements:
- Be currently working in police, fire and rescue, or military positions
- Be retired from police, fire and rescue, or military positions
- Military veteran
- Individuals working in the fitness industry that want to further knowledge in Tactical Strength and Conditioning
Additional information about this program can be found here: Tactical Strength and Conditioning Certificate.
- Honors College
Honors College is an academic enrichment program that can be incorporated into most transfer degree programs at FCC. All honors learning is designed to go deeper, broader, or more complex, and the program strives to develop emerging scholars and leaders.
To help you thrive, the Honors College offers HONR 101 as a first-year experience course to help students make the transition to college and honors learning. Second-year honors peer mentors are embedded in the course as another source of help and support.
Students automatically qualify for the Honors College with the following test scores: SAT = 1100 overall (out of 1600) with at least 550 on verbal, or ACT = Reading 23+, or FCC placement exams = Honors level reading (268) and proficient college-level writing. Applicants with strong academic records (3.5GPA) or faculty recommendations are encouraged to apply. We also offer an Open Campus membership for high school or home school students with a 3.5GPA or higher. Students who started college poorly, but whose recent work is strong can request an exception. To apply, complete the Honors College Application on the FCC web site or contact the Honors Coordinator (H244, Student Center) at bthompson@frederick.edu.
Students who graduate from the Honors College, complete an honors independent study project, present at a conference, or earn service or leadership certificates, gain a competitive advantage when applying for admission to selective four-year colleges and transfer scholarships.
- Advanced Credit/Dual Enrollment Programs
Students may enroll in FCC courses while concurrently enrolled in high school or home schooled. Students dually enrolled are subject to the same assessment and placement policies and procedures as other students. All Open Campus and High School Based students must also meet with a counselor at their high school prior to registration. Dual Enrollment courses can be used for high school graduation credit as well as college credit if granted permission to do so by the school system. Students must contact their high school counseling office for further information.
- Gifted and Talented Students Under 16 Years of Age
The Gifted and Talented program provides an opportunity for students under age 16 who have been identified as having exceptional academic or fine arts talent to enroll in selected FCC courses. Students must be at least 12 years of age and have completed the seventh grade or equivalent education. Students must demonstrate exceptional academic or fine arts talent, and be deemed able to adhere to College standards of behavior.
- Home School Students
Students who are home schooled and are 16 or older follow the enrollment process of this Procedures document. Home schooled students under the age of 16 must follow the Special Admission procedures for Gifted and Talented students unless enrolling in a Continuing Education Home School Enrichment course designed for specific age groups.
- Police Science Program
- Mid-Maryland Allied Healthcare Education Consortium
The Mid-Maryland Allied Healthcare Education Consortium (MMAHEC) is a state-approved consortium designed to increase the number of allied health professionals in critical shortage areas. The agreement is to share specific allied health programs between FCC, Howard Community College, and Carroll Community College. Regardless of county of residence, students completing credit programs in the MMAHEC must apply to and be registered in the college granting the program's certificate or degree. Students must be residents of Howard, Carroll, or Frederick counties to be eligible for these programs. Programs offered through the MMAHEC require that the student apply for and register at the institution that grants the degree or certificate.