GET IN TOUCH

Student Success

As a proud first-generation college student, SCC gave me the support I needed to pursue my dream of becoming a nurse.

Monica Navarro

SCC Class of 2024

Through TRIO, I found a supportive community, helpful tutoring, and a mentor who kept me motivated throughout my journey.

Tania Lopez-Villamil

Pre-Nursing Major at SCC

Why Santiago Canyon College

  • Ranked #1 Community College in Orange County, #6 in California, and #16 nationally
  • 170+ majors and areas of study with 225+ career certificates
  • Transfer pathways to UC and CSU universities
  • Flexible learning formats including online, hybrid, and in-person

How to Get Started

  1. Submit the interest form
  2. Connect with an SCC advisor to explore programs
  3. Apply and plan your first semester

Financial aid and scholarships may be available for qualified students.

Students can explore options including:

  • Grants
  • Scholarships
  • Work-study programs
  • Federal and state aid

As a first-gen student, I struggled with feeling like I didn’t belong or have enough support. But joining TRIO at SCC changed everything. I found the financial and academic support I needed and realized I was never alone. Now, as a student assistant, I have the chance to help others find their way too.

Eingyin Khaing

Biology Major at SCC

Being a first-gen student meant navigating college and life in a new country without a clear guide, but it also taught me strength and resilience. TRIO became my support system, giving me mentorship, academic tools, and a community where I truly felt seen. That first moment I walked into the TRIO office opened doors I didn’t know existed, and I carry that experience with me today.

Venuri Weerarathne

SCC Alumna and Business Economics Major at UC Irvine

Support for New Students

  • First-Year Support Center
  • Transfer Success Center
  • Career Services
  • Academic counseling and advising

Get the courses you need,
when and how you want them—with top-tier support and zero tuition costs for many students.

  • Free tuition & book scholarships.
  • Classes transfer to UC, CSU & private universities.
  • Online and on-campus options.
  • Ranked Best Community College in Orange County (Niche, 2026)

Application FAQs

Who may apply for admission?

Complete an application if:

  • You have never attended Santiago Canyon College or Santa Ana College.
  • You have previously attended Santiago Canyon College and/or Santa Ana College, but have missed two or more primary semesters (primary semesters consist of Fall semester or Spring semester).

You may apply for admission at SCC if you:

  • Have graduated from high school or
  • Have passed the CA High School Proficiency Certificate Exam or
  • Have passed the GED examination or
  • Have not graduated from high school but are 18 years or older and may profit from SCC instruction or
  • Are a high school student qualifying for Special Admit (formerly CAP) program

When can I apply?

Fall 2024 (Apply NOW) | Term Starts August 19, 2024

Intersession 2025 (Apply October 1, 2024) | Session Starts January 6, 2025

Spring 2025 (Apply October 1, 2024) | Term Starts February 10, 2025

Summer 2025 (Apply October 1, 2024) | Session Starts June 16, 2025

Fall 2025 (Apply October 1, 2024) | TBD

What are the next steps after I apply?

  • Applications are processed within 1-3 business days.
  • An e-mail will be sent with student's email address (single sign on), student ID number, and other student information. The student email address and Student ID Number for former students will always remain the same.
  • Once you have been assigned a student email address, you may then go online, change your password, and view your registration appointment date and time.

Santiago Canyon College gave me the foundation I needed to move forward academically and professionally. It was the right environment to grow, close to home, and it prepared me for success at Cal State Fullerton and beyond. Looking back, it was a key part of the journey that led me to a career in local government and eventually to serving as City Manager of Orange.

Jarad Hildenbrand

SCC Alumnus and City Manager of Orange

Being a first-gen student means stepping into new opportunities while navigating obstacles others may not fully understand. At SCC, I found the support and resources that helped me earn five associate degrees and later a bachelor’s in business economics from UC Irvine. With the right tools and encouragement, anything is possible.

Samantha Quezada

SCC Alumna and UC Irvine Graduate