New to College
Steps to Getting Started

New to College

Welcome to the OCC community! We are so pleased you have chosen to make OCC the school where you will pursue your educational journey. We offer tremendous academic and social experiences, and we have a dedicated faculty and professional staff willing to help you maximize your time at any of our five campuses.

Get free tuition to earn your degree or certificate.

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Become a Student at OCC

The following steps will guide you through the process of becoming a student at OCC.

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Step 1: Apply Online

Complete our free, online application. You will receive a confirmation email from our Admissions team when your application is received and another one when it is processed. Please allow two (2) business days for processing.

Note: After submitting your application, refresh your Admission Profile. You will see a tab called Supplemental Items & Documents. This area will allow you to upload optional and/or required documents, such as transcripts or SAT/ACT scores.

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Step 2: Set up MyOCC Account

MyOCC is where you will access your student email account, complete pre-registration steps, register for classes, find payment information, and more.

After your application is processed, you will receive two emails with the information needed to set up your MyOCC account. First, admissions will email your OCC Student ID number and the link to find your username. Then, Online Services will email your Temporary Password.

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Step 3:  New Student Orientation

You must complete the online New Student Orientation before you register for classes. To access orientation, log into MyOCC and select New Student Orientation under Pre-Registration Steps.

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Step 4: Online Learning Readiness Course

The Online Learning Readiness Course is required before you can register for online or hybrid classes. Log into MyOCC and select Online Learning Readiness Course (DIST 1000) under Pre-Registration Steps.

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Step 5: Complete the FAFSA (if applicable)

OCC encourages you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) (if you are eligible) to determine if you qualify for scholarship, grant and loan programs through the Federal government and State of Michigan. Once completed, the status of your application and award package can be found in MyOCC under Financial Aid.

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Step 6: English, ESL and Math Placement

You must have an English or ESL placement to register for classes.

  • You can complete the OCC English self-placement, submit qualifying high school transcripts, SAT/ACT scores or documentation for one of the other exemptions.
  • If you are an ESL student, complete the OCC Duolingo English Test or provide documentation for one of the other exemptions.

To take a math class or class with a math prerequisite, you must submit qualifying high school transcripts, recent SAT scores, documentation for one of the other exemptions, or complete the ALEKS math placement.

*Note: ALEKS math placement scores are valid for one (1) year.

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Step 7: Meet with Counseling

OCC requires new students meet with counseling prior to registration. Call (248) 341-2270 to schedule your first appointment.

You must complete your admission application, set up your MyOCC account, New Student Orientation, and placement before your meeting.

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Step 8: Register for Classes

Log into your MyOCC account and select Student Planning. Then select Plan your Degree & Register for Classes to search for classes and add them to your plan. After classes have been added to your plan, you can register for them.

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Step 9: Payment

If you are using your financial aid award, funds will be applied directly to your student account. You can review your award, check your balance and make payments in the MyOCC Finance and Financial Aid sections.

You can pay any balance you owe via:

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Step 10: Get The One Card

The One Card is your official OCC Student ID, library and copy/print card. Your first card is free and will be mailed to the address on file with the college.

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Step 11: Buy Your Books

Visit the OCC Bookstore in-person at Auburn Hills, Royal Oak or Orchard Ridge to purchase your books, supplies and OCC gear. You can also shop online and have your order shipped directly to your home.