Get Started
Get Started at Cypress College!
Your Cypress College journey starts here.
Start for these upcoming terms:
- Fall 2026 – open now
- Winter/Spring 2027 – open now
- Summer 2027 – open now
- Fall 2027 – open now
What’s New
Cypress College is transitioning to CCCStart, the California Community Colleges’ new student entry experience. CCCStart uses fewer, smarter questions and adjusts based on your circumstances.
We use “Start” instead of “Apply” because Cypress College is an open-access college. You are not waiting to be accepted—you are beginning your enrollment process.
Already attending Cypress College? You do not need to start again each semester. You may need to return as a returning student if you have not attended or registered for a full academic year.
Before You Start
A few minutes of preparation can make the process easier.
1. Choose a Program or Major
You will be asked what you want to study. Explore your options before you begin, or choose an exploratory option if you are still deciding.
2. Have Your Information Ready
- A personal email address
- Contact and residency information
- Your educational history
- Social Security Number, if applicable
You can save your progress and return later.
3. Plan for Identity Verification
Students age 18 and older must verify their identity before their submission can be processed. Use the CA DMV Wallet, ID.me, or visit Cypress College Admissions and Records in person.
Start at Cypress College
Use one secure starting point to begin your enrollment journey.
Identity verification is required for students age 18 and older. You may verify later, but your submission cannot be processed until verification is complete.
Get Started with CCCStart
Answer the questions relevant to you, select Cypress College, and submit your information securely.
Get Started at Cypress College
Free! Mobile-friendly! Save and return later!
Graduating high school before your first term? Select High School Graduate when providing your educational information.
Choose Your Student Journey
Select the journey that best describes you.
Most Students
U.S. citizens, permanent residents, most visa holders, undocumented students, first-time, returning, transferring, veterans, adult learners, or personal-enrichment students.
What to do: Start with CCCStart and select Cypress College. Students age 18+ must complete identity verification.
Current High School Students
Students in grades K–12 who want to take Cypress College courses before graduating.
What to do: Start at Cypress College first, then complete the Special Admit process.
International Students (F-1 or F-2 Visa)
F-1 visa holders transferring or attending part-time, F-2 visa holders, or students changing status.
What to do: Follow instructions from the Cypress College International Student Program.
Are you a Health Science student? If so, you must also submit a Health Science Application.
How to Get Started
Step 1 — Explore: Review programs and choose a major or educational goal.
Step 2 — Start: Submit your information through CCCStart and select Cypress College.
Step 3 — Verify: Complete identity verification if you are 18 years old or older.
Step 4 — Enroll: Access myGateway, complete priority steps, and register for classes.
After You Submit: Next Steps
- Verify Your Identity
If you chose to verify later, complete verification now. Use CA DMV Wallet, ID.me, or visit Admissions & Records. - Check Your Email (Within 3–5 Business Days)
You will receive your student ID number, registration appointment, and myGateway instructions. - Complete Orientation & Assessment
Become eligible for priority registration. - Meet with a Counselor
Create your Student Educational Program Plan (SEPP). - Check Your Registration Date
Find your appointment in myGateway. - Register for Classes
Add classes and pay fees. Complete financial aid steps early. - Get Ready for Day One
Review course materials, parking, transportation, and campus services.
Not Sure What You Want to Study?
Explore Cypress College Pathways, browse program maps, or visit the Career Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CCCStart?
CCCStart is California Community Colleges’ new student entry platform. It is designed to make getting started simpler, more personalized, and more secure by asking fewer questions and showing only the questions relevant to your circumstances.
Is CCCStart replacing CCCApply?
Yes. California community college districts are moving from CCCApply to CCCStart in phases. During the statewide transition, some colleges will use CCCStart while others continue using CCCApply.
Do I need a new OpenCCC account?
No. Your existing OpenCCC account works with both CCCStart and CCCApply. If you do not have an account, you will be prompted to create one.
I started in CCCApply but didn’t finish—what should I do?
After Cypress College transitions to CCCStart, an unfinished CCCApply submission will not carry into the new platform. Start again through the Cypress College link on this page. Your basic OpenCCC account information will still be available.
Do I need to start again?
Not every semester. You remain a continuing student as long as you enroll in at least one course during the academic year, Fall through Summer.
Start again as a returning student if you have not attended or registered for a full academic year, or if you submitted your information before but never attended.
Does it cost anything?
No. Getting started at Cypress College is free.
How long does it take?
The time varies because CCCStart adjusts the questions based on your circumstances. Have your email address, residency information, educational history, and Social Security Number, if applicable, ready before you begin.
Can I save my progress?
Yes. You can save your progress and return later to complete your submission.
Do I have to verify my identity?
Yes. Students age 18 and older must verify their identity before their submission can be processed. Use the CA DMV Wallet, ID.me, or visit Admissions & Records in Building 2000.
You may choose “Verify Later” and submit your information first. After verification, processing takes 3 to 5 business days. You will then receive your student ID number and registration appointment information.
Students under 18 at the time they start are not required to verify
What if I’m under 18?
Current K–12 students have additional requirements. Visit the U.S. High School Students page for the steps and forms for your grade level.
If you are under 18 at the time you start, you are not required to verify your identity.
I attended another college. Will my credits transfer?
Possibly. After you receive your Cypress College student ID, request official transcripts from your previous institutions to be sent to Cypress College. Transcript evaluation determines how eligible coursework applies to your program.
Who can help if I have trouble? (Technical Support)
For technical issues with CCCStart or OpenCCC: Contact support at (877) 247-4836, email support@openccc.net, or visit ccchelp.info (opens in new tab).
For Cypress College questions or submission status: Visit our Admissions and Records office. You can also call (714) 484-7346 or email admissions@cypresscollege.edu.