Vail Valley at Edwards New Student Checklist

Tips for getting prepared for your first semester at CMC

STEP 1: Attend a Step 1 Session for New Students

Sessions are also offered to new students by appointment at CMC Vail Valley. Call 970-569-2900 to register for one!

  • Step 1 is required for students who are new to CMC and have less than 15 college credits or are planning on taking courses for transfer.
  • After attending a Step 1 session, you will have:
    • An understanding of admission requirements, registration details, and paperwork.
    • Information on where to find class information and how to register for courses.
    • Knowledge of what college placement is what it means.
    • An overview of CMC programs, degrees, and certificates.

Information about resources like financial aid, counseling & advising, and campus life.

Complete your application for admission. Do this before or after attending a Step 1 session.

Get started with Financial Aid.

STEP 2: College Placement

Get placed into college-level courses.

  • In order to take college-level courses at CMC, you are required to show proficiency at the college level in reading, English and math.
  • You can demonstrate college-level proficiency several ways:
    • ACT or SAT scores (if taken within 5 years), or
    • Successful completion of college-level math or English courses, or
    • Take the Accuplacer.

Meet with a college counselor.

  • Review results of assessment scores in order to plan coursework.
  • You can get help with planning your semester courses, tracking your progress toward graduation, and more!
  • Call to make an appointment: 970-569-2900.

Register for classes!

Textbooks are included with the Learning Materials Program. Learn more about CMC's Textbooks/Learning Materials Program.
STEP 3: Attend Orientation
New Student Orientation

  • New Student Orientation is for students who have not taken previous college courses, although all new students are welcome.
  • Sessions are offered the week before each semester begins.
  • Call 970-569-2900 with any questions and to sign up for a session.
  • At Orientation, you will get the opportunity to:
    • Use Basecamp to use student tools such as student email, WebAdvisor, and Canvas.
    • Become familiarized with the Vail Valley at Edwards campus and resources available on campus and college-wide.
    • Interact with campus faculty and staff, and meet peers and other students.

Online Learning Orientation

  • If you are in a distance learning course (web, teleweb, or IVS) this orientation is meant for you!
  • Find resources at the Online Learning homepage.
  • Two sessions are offered before each semester begins.
  • Call 970-569-2900 for dates and to RSVP to the distance learning orientation.

STEP 4: Student Success

Get tutoring help. Writing and math labs are held every week on campus.

Find out about Student Support Services (SSS).

  • SSS is a FREE, federally funded student-assistance program specifically designed to help participants with tutoring, financial aid assistance, career advice, and 4-year transfer information.
  • Contact Heather O'Malley at 970-569-2938 with any questions and to see if you qualify.