The placement exam measures your current level of ability in three disciplines that are key to success in college: English, math and reading. Courses in these areas have prerequisites.  The placemen exam establishes your placement level.  Additionally, counselors use the placement results and other information to assist students in developing a course schedule and educational plan.

It is important to obtain an accurate reflection of your skill level in the three disciplines. It is suggested that you review basic math principles. You can also review some sample test questions by going to the Assessment Center page on our website. Click here to review the Assessment Center page.

Note: if you have completed a college placement exam at another college you can submit a copy of your scores for evaluation by the Assessment Center. If you do not have a copy of your scores, you can sign a form to have your scores sent to our Assessment Center for evaluation.  You can contact the Assessment Center by calling
(530) 741-6864.   If you have already completed a course in English, reading or math at another college, bring a copy of your transcripts. Our counselor will determine the appropriate placement at the next level (if needed).

The orientation program covers four main topics:

• District policies and procedures that you need to know to accomplish your goals and avoid mistakes that may add one or more semesters of time;
• Support services available;
• Rights and responsibilities of students; and
• Optional activities that are available that enhance a student’s college experience.

The orientation is offered in two formats:

1. One-hour orientation workshops conducted by counselors, followed by small group breakout sessions wherein you work with a counselor to develop a schedule of classes for the semester. The advantage of the workshop is that the counselor can respond to questions you might have. Note: If you are a first-time college student you are strongly encouraged to select this option.
   
   If you want to reserve a space in an orientation workshop: click here for a schedule of upcoming orientation workshops. You must register in advance by calling the Counseling Department (530) 643-7766.
   
   
2. An online orientation which requires passing the orientation quiz. First-time college students are required to see a counselor. All other students are encouraged to meet with a counselor if they have questions about course selections.
   If you would prefer to complete the online orientation: click here to begin online orientation

You may be eligible for an exemption from the matriculation process by meeting two (2) or more of the criteria listed below:

• Have completed an associate or higher degree (verification required)
• Will be enrolling in performance classes only (e.g. music, drama, physical education activity classes)
• Enrolling in fewer than six units
• Not planning to earn a degree or certificate
• Enrolling in job-skill upgrade, self-improvement or general interest courses
• Enrolling in classes for which you have previous training, i.e., firefighter taking a fire science class
• Completed at least 24 units at another college within the past three years and were in good standing (verification required)
• You are planning on enrolling in any of the following specialized programs: Cosmetology; AJ Academy, Fire Academy
• Still attending high school and attempting to enroll in a college course(s) through the Concurrent Enrollment program.

If you think you might qualify for the matriculation exemption process, click here to access the Matriculation Exemption Request Form. 

Once we receive your exemption form (and required verification if needed), we will review your request for exemption.  If granted, you will be eligible for telephone or WebAdvisor registration during the registration periods.