Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

What type of goal may I pursue at Imperial Valley College?

Prepare to transfer to a university; obtain a Certificate in a vocational program; obtain an Associate in Arts or Sciences degree; take a course to enhance a skill; take courses for personal interest.

What do I do if I am undecided about my goals?

Register for PD 100 Personal and Career Development at Imperial Valley College. Self-awareness will be appraised by testing and discussing interests, aptitudes, limitations, needs and life goals. This course is a three unit course that will transfer to a California State University (CSU).

Discuss your educational and career plans as soon as possible with a counselor. You may also make use of the resources in the Career Center located in the Counseling Center. For course selection, use the checklists for the Associate in Arts/Sciences degree, the California State University General Education requirements, or the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC).

How do I find out about a vocational certificate and, if I get one can I return to get a degree?

Requirements for vocational certificates are listed in the IVC General Catalog. If desired, a student may choose to acquire a certificate first and then complete the general education and other requirements toward an Associate Degree. Not all certificates can lead to an Associate Degree so students should consult with a counselor regarding certificate program options.

How do I earn a degree from Imperial Valley College? If I have a degree, am I automatically ready to transfer to a university?

The requirements for an Associates degree are listed in the IVC college catalog. You may not have met all of the requirements for transfer after receiving your Associate in Arts degree. Consult the college catalog of the school of your choice. More information is available in the Transfer Center or my making an appointment with an IVC counselor. Appointments with representatives from several universities (UCSD, SDSU/IV Campus, Alliant, etc.) are available in the IVC Transfer Center.

How long may I take to complete a college program? May I continue to attend IVC after completing my degree or certificate?

Students receiving financial aid or veterans benefits may have some time restrictions, otherwise there is no restriction to the length of time it takes to complete a program or to the number of units you may earn. (However, if you transfer to a 4-year school, only 70 transferable units may be applied toward a Bachelor’s degree.)

Where can I find out about academic policies such as attendance, grading, dropping and adding courses, repeating a course, probation, etc.?

The IVC catalog explains all policies. You can purchase a catalog in the IVC Bookstore.

You are responsible for becoming familiar with the catalog and the schedule of classes. Rules listed in the catalog that was in effect the year you began continuous enrollment at IVC are applicable throughout your stay at IVC as long as you maintain continuous enrollment status.