New Student

I am a first-time college student. I have never attended another college, nor taken any college courses. I wish to complete a degree/program at Riverland.  

 Step 1:  Apply Online

• Start by filling out the online application form. It’s simple and free!

  Step 2: Send Your High School Transcripts

• Submitting your high school transcript or GED is not required, but it's highly recommended.
• Contact your high school guidance office to send an official transcript to Riverland.
• If you have a GED, submit a copy of your certificate.
• If you’re having trouble getting your transcript or test scores, email admissions@riverland.edu for help.

  Step 3: Complete or Submit Test Scores

• Submit your standardized test scores (ACT, SAT, MCA, etc.) with your high school transcript for course placement.
• If you don't have test scores or want to improve your placement, you can take the Accuplacer test.
• Sign up for the Accuplacer at www.riverland.edu/admissions/course-placement-testing.

  Step 4: Apply for Financial Aid

• There is no fee to complete the FAFSA.
• Completing the FAFSA doesn’t commit you to attending any school.
• You and your parents are not committed to taking a student loan by filling out the FAFSA.

  Step 5:  Review Course Placement

• Log into eServices, click on “Courses & Registration”, then select “Course Placement” to view your current Math and Reading placements.
• If no placement is listed or if you are not satisfied with your placement, you have several options to improve it before registering for classes:
  • Submit a recent high school transcript or updated test scores.
  • Take or re-take the Accuplacer test at Riverland.
  • Submit scores from a different standardized test (ACT, SAT, MCA, or GED).
  • Contact your assigned advisor to discuss if Guided Self-Placement is an option for you.

  Step 6:  Online Orientation

• After you are accepted to Riverland, you will receive an email titled “Access to Online Orientation” with a link to Brightspace.
• Log in to Brightspace using your StarID and password.
• Complete all components of the Online Orientation, including the checkpoint quizzes, assignments, and the final Orientation quiz.

  Step 7:  Advising & Registration Appointment

• Once you complete Online Orientation, you will receive an email with a link to schedule an Advising & Registration Appointment with your assigned advisor.
• Before your appointment, ensure Riverland has received:
  • Your High School transcript (if you graduated within the last 10 years),
  • Transcripts from any previously attended colleges, and
  • Your ACT, SAT, MCA, and/or Accuplacer scores (taken within the last 5 years).
• At your appointment, you’ll work with your advisor to create an academic plan and register for your classes.
• Questions? Email us at advisors@riverland.edu

  Step 8:  Apply for Riverland Scholarships

• Scholarships are designed to help students achieve their educational goals.
• Scholarships can cover tuition and fees and do not need to be repaid.

  Step 9:  Buy Your Books!

• All registered students can charge required textbooks and supplies to their college bill through the Bookstore.
• Financial aid charging allows up to $800 in charges at the Bookstore, added to tuition and fees.
• Charging periods:
  • Fall/Spring: Starts two weeks before classes.
  • Summer: Starts two weeks before the first session.