New Student

I am a first-time college student. I have never attended another college, nor taken any college courses. I wish to complete a degree/program at Riverland.  

 Step 1:  Apply Online

• Start by filling out the online application form. It’s simple and free!

  Step 2: Send Your High School Transcripts

• Submitting your high school transcript or GED is not required, but it's highly recommended.
• Contact your high school guidance office to send an official transcript to Riverland.
• If you have a GED, submit a copy of your certificate.
• If you’re having trouble getting your transcript or test scores, email admissions@riverland.edu for help.

  Step 3: Complete or Submit Test Scores

• Submit your standardized test scores (ACT, SAT, MCA, etc.) with your high school transcript for course placement.
• If you don't have test scores or want to improve your placement, you can take the Accuplacer test.
• Sign up for the Accuplacer at www.riverland.edu/admissions/course-placement-testing.

  Step 4: Apply for Financial Aid

• There is no fee to complete the FAFSA.
• Completing the FAFSA doesn’t commit you to attending any school.
• You and your parents are not committed to taking a student loan by filling out the FAFSA.

  Step 5:  Online Orientation

• Complete the Online Orientation before your advising and registration appointment.
• Find the link to the orientation in your acceptance letter.
• Finish the orientation to move forward with the next steps.

  Step 6:  Advising & Registration Appointment

• After Online Orientation, you'll set up an Advising & Registration Appointment with your assigned advisor.
• Before your appointment, make sure Riverland has at least one of the following:
  • High school transcript (if you graduated in the last 10 years)
  • ACT, SAT, MCA, or Accuplacer scores (from the last 5 years)
  • Transcripts from any college-level courses
• At your appointment, you'll create an academic plan and register for classes.
• Questions? Email advisors@riverland.edu

  Step 7:  Apply for Riverland Scholarships

• Scholarships are designed to help students achieve their educational goals.
• Scholarships can cover tuition and fees and do not need to be repaid.

  Step 8:  Buy Your Books!

• All registered students can charge required textbooks and supplies to their college bill through the Bookstore.
• Financial aid charging allows up to $800 in charges at the Bookstore, added to tuition and fees.
• Charging periods:
  • Fall/Spring: Starts two weeks before classes.
  • Summer: Starts two weeks before the first session.