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Become a Student

Whether you're pursuing an associate degree, taking courses to transfer to a four-year institution or are seeking short-term job skill training, we welcome you to CT State!

As a student, you'll have access to the many academic programs and support services offered across our campuses and will be supported by a network of dedicated faculty and staff who are invested in your success. 

Questions?

Book an appointment with a recruitment and outreach specialist to get answers to all your enrollment questions and help starting your application for admission!

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Get Started

It's easy to become a student. Follow the steps below to get started on your educational journey.

Please note that these instructions are for credit-seeking students only. Workforce Development and Continuing Education programs follow a different application and registration process.

Explore Our Programs

We offer over 300 degrees and certificates, ranging from the arts to STEM and everything in between! Our program finder allows you to filter results by campus, time to completion, mode of study and career field so you can be sure to find the educational path that's right for you.

Identify Your Home Campus

Learn more about our different campuses and choose your home campus. Students are able to take courses at any location but your home campus will determine how you access support services and campus activities, such as advising, disability support, student governance and clubs, commencement and more so it's important to choose a campus that's convenient for you.

Apply to CT State

Before you can register for classes, you'll need to apply and be accepted to the college. The process to apply is the same across the campuses, and once admitted, you'll be able to take courses at any locations. However, the steps to apply may vary depending so it's important to identify your student type and follow those specific instructions.

What Type of Student Am I?

Apply for Financial Aid

You may qualify for financial aid to help cover the cost of tuition, fees and books. Though this step is optional, all students are encouraged to apply for financial aid. For many students, a CT State education may be free. The first step to finding out if you qualify for free tuition is to complete the financial aid applications (FAFSA) at fafsa.gov.

Complete Online Orientation

The myCTState Online Orientation will introduce you to academic resources, campus services and student support to help you acclimate to the college environment and get the most out of your time at CT State.

Meet With an Advisor

Your Guided Pathways advisor will help you select the courses you need to meet program requirements and your career goals.

Register for Classes

Registering for classes at CT State is easy! Just follow the steps for new or continuing students.

Attend Your Home Campus In-Person New Student Orientation

All new, transfer and readmit students should complete New Student Orientation to prepare for the start of classes and get to know their home campus.

Pay for Courses

After registering for classes, you'll need to pay for any remaining balance not covered by financial aid or scholarships/grants.

What Type of Student Am I?

The steps to apply to the college vary depending on your student type. Find your student type below to learn how to apply.

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New Student

I've never attended another college or university after receiving my high school diploma.

Learn How to Apply as a New Student
Apply Now
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Transfer Student

I've attended another college or university, outside of the 12 community college campuses in CT, after receiving my high school diploma.

Learn How to Apply as a Transfer Student
Apply Now
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Readmit Student

I've attended one of the 12 community colleges in the past but have not been enrolled for two or more years.

Learn How to Apply as a Readmit Student
Apply Now
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High School Student

I'm a current high school student and want to take college classes while still enrolled in high school.

Learn How to Apply as a High School Student
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Senior Citizen

I'm a CT resident, aged 62 or older, interested in enrolling in credit courses for personal interest or development.

Learn More About Taking Courses as a Senior Citizen
International Students

International Student

I'm not a citizen or permanent resident of the United States and will require an F-1 student visa to reside and study in the US (includes transferring F-1 visa students and non-immigrant visa holders wishing to switch to F-1 visa status). 

Learn How to Apply as an International Student
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Selective Admission Health Career Programs

I’m interested in becoming a student in one of the selective admission areas within nursing and health careers. 

Learn How to Apply for Selective Admissions Programs
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Workforce Development and Continuing Education

I’m interested in enrolling in a short-term licensure, certificate or continuing education program to enhance my career or personal development. 

Learn About WDCE Programs
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Other Special Admissions
Groups

I'm part of another group that may have different considerations when applying, such as a homeschool student, a second degree or part of the New England Regional Student Program.

Email Us for More Info

Questions?

Book an appointment with a recruitment and outreach specialist to get answers to all your enrollment questions and help starting your application for admission!

Chat now
Get In-Person Help
Last updated: October 7, 2026 | 1:49 pm