Admissions & Enrollment

Philosophy

Cecil College is an inclusive, open access institution committed to academic excellence. A supportive learning environment is offered to the diverse student body as they build the skills and knowledge to achieve academic success.

Student success at Cecil College begins with Admissions. The department assists prospective students with the formal procedures required to become a Cecil student. Information and actions regarding admissions steps, student support services, and academic resources are provided. A primary role of Admissions is to educate students at the beginning of their educational pathway, so they arrive in the classroom ready to focus on academics.

If you have a disability that may impact your accessibility and/or academics at Cecil College that may require accommodations, please contact Accessibility Services; accessibilityservices@cecil.edu; (443) 674-1993; Technology Center Room 103A.

Admissions information and resources are available at MyCecil and here on cecil.edu. Contact admissions@cecil.edu with admissions questions.

Open Admissions Information

Credit Students

Applicants who meet one of the following criteria are admitted to Cecil College:

• have graduated from an accredited high school;
• have earned a diploma in General Educational Development (GED);
• have completed the seventh grade and have attained Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores as defined in this catalog or an equivalent score on a nationally-accepted college entrance examination;
• have met the criteria to participate in early admissions programs (see Selective Admissions);
• have not completed an accredited high school program nor received an acceptable diploma or certificate.

Note: Non-graduates of high school are admitted and enrolled according to open admission policies and procedures. Non-high school graduates must meet with an advisor prior to registration. Cecil College strongly encourages non-high school graduates to complete their high school graduation requirements or obtain a GED. GED preparation courses are offered through Continuing Education & Workforce Development. Call (443) 907-1391 for more information.

Open admission to Cecil College does not grant enrollment in all courses and programs offered. At the present time, some programs have selective admissions requirements. In addition, pre-requisites must be successfully completed. For additional information, refer to Selective Admissions.

Non-Credit Students

Non-credit (continuing education) courses are open to individuals age 16 or older, unless otherwise stated in a course or program description. An admissions application is not required for non-credit enrollment. Students complete a registration form at the time of enrollment. Additional documentation and steps may be required for enrollment in a non-credit course or program. Contact the program area for more information.

Open Admissions Procedures

Credit Students

1. Complete the admissions application and visit the Admissions Office. Apply on-line at MyCecil. Hard copy applications are available at the North East and Elkton locations and in the credit course schedule. Applications are accepted year-round.
2. Apply for financial aid. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Apply for Cecil College Foundation Scholarships.
3. Take skills assessments. Complete math, reading, and writing assessments on the North East Campus, Engineering and Math Building, Room 310. Waivers may apply; for additional information, refer to Skills Assessments, Placement and Waivers.
4. Submit test scores, transcripts, and other documentation to Cecil College, Records and Registration, One Seahawk Dr., North East, MD 21901 or registration@cecil.edu. 

• All students should submit official test scores (PSAT, SAT, AP, ACT) and transcripts from any college attended.
• High school graduates should submit an official copy of a secondary school transcript.
• GED students should submit a copy of GED test results.

5. Meet with an advisor for degree planning, academic support, and transfer information by calling (410) 287-1000 to set up an appointment.
6. Register for classes at North East, Elkton Station, or online at MyCecil.
7. Make payment arrangements. Log onto MyCecil and click on the Finance tab for payment information, or contact the Cashier’s Office at (410) 287-1020.

Non-Credit Students

1. Complete and submit a registration form, available from the Records and Registration Office or in the Schedule of Classes.
2. Submit additional documentation, as needed.

Social Security Numbers

• Why We Need Your Social Security Number
  • Cecil College is obligated to request the Social Security Number (SSN) from individuals who request admission to our institution. This information helps us to manage identity records for the campus community, match documentation, reduce the incidence of duplicated records, and protect data from being exposed to unauthorized individuals.
  • Disclosure of your Social Security Number is requested for the student records system and for compliance with federal and state reporting requirements. Federal law requires that you provide your Social Security Number if you are applying for financial aid.
• How We Use Your Social Security Number
  • You must provide your Social Security Number upon submitting your admissions application (for credit students) and registration form (for non-credit students). Your Social Security Number will be used to create a unique student ID number for you in our student information system. Providing a valid Social Security Number is the best way to ensure that your records are properly maintained. Your Social Security Number will never be used as your student ID number.
  • When you enroll, transfer credit, request a transcript, or have any information sent to us from other institutions, the primary means for connecting all of this documentation to your file is your Social Security Number.  
• How We Protect Your Social Security Information
  • The Social Security Number is part of your confidential record and will be treated as confidential information.  The Social Security Number will only be used to match documents to your account and to process financial aid (if applicable). Only College Staff whose responsibilities require them to have access to incoming documents, such as admissions applications, transcripts, or the FAFSA, will have access to the full Social Security Number.
  • In addition, Social Security Numbers are encrypted in the database so that only College Staff with full access to our system can view your Social Security Number. We also follow procedural practices that enhance the security of Social Security Numbers, such as the secure disposal of documents containing Social Security Numbers.

Readmission to Cecil College

Students who have previously attended Cecil College must follow the readmission process when they have not been enrolled at Cecil College for six consecutive terms including summer sessions (two calendar years). Readmitted students will be responsible for the current requirements of the program they are entering. Readmitted students will have a new contract year to reflect the current graduation requirements of the program.

Selective Admissions

Early College Academy (ECA)

Early College Academy enrolls high school students in college courses across grades 9-12. Successful students will complete secondary schooling with a high school diploma and an Associate’s degree from Cecil College. Each Student entering the ECA must meet the selective admissions criteria established for individual programs.

Accelerated Studies for the Adult Professional (ASAP)

Students who enroll in ASAP must be college-ready at the time of admission into the Leadership and Management or Social Work option. For accelerated studies, college-ready is defined as placing into College Composition (EGL 101 ) and Introduction/Intermediate Algebra (MAT 097 ) on the skills assessments. Additional information on ASAP programs can be obtained from the Admissions Office or designated academic advisors.

Skills Assessments, Placement, and Waivers

As part of the admissions process and to facilitate student success, all students entering Cecil College are evaluated for college readiness in Math and English. The purpose of the skills assessments is to place students at a level where they will succeed. The assessments measure academic skills in mathematics and writing. If a student has test scores and/or transcripts for any of the options below, they are encouraged to follow the instructions for each section so their records can be evaluated for exemption from developmental course work.

Skills assessments do not determine eligibility for admission to Cecil College. No student is denied admission to the College as a result of performance on the skills assessments; however, students whose scores indicate a need for skill development are required to successfully complete developmental courses before enrolling in college-level courses. Students have better success at Cecil College if their basic skills are strong enough to meet the rigors of college-level coursework.

Any student (full- or part-time) who has not earned a high school diploma or GED (General Educational Development) diploma must take all the skills assessments.

Skills assessments are administered by Testing Services at the North East Campus in room 310 of the Engineering and Math Building. Hours for Testing Services are available on MyCecil.

Student performance is closely monitored in the first sessions of developmental classes, and faculty may initiate a change in student placement. Students are encouraged to complete developmental courses early in their educational pathway to facilitate the timely completion of a degree or certificate.

Some courses are exempt from skills assessment requirements. Students may enroll in these courses without taking the skills assessments. Students in these classes are expected to read and write at college level.

If you will need disability related accommodations for the skills assessment(s), please contact accessibilityservices@cecil.edu or 443-674-1993 BEFORE you attempt the assessments to determine if you qualify for accommodations. For more information about how to obtain accommodations, please visit the Accessibility Services webpage.

Skills Assessment

All students entering Cecil College are evaluated for placement purposes. Skills assessments are used to determine at what level a student begins their academic coursework. Mathematics and writing are assessed. A student may need to take one, or both, of the assessments. Each individual assessment usually takes approximately an hour. We encourage students to study and complete sample ALEKS questions for math prior to taking ALEKS and review the English Placement Essay Writing Tips prior to taking the writing assessment.

Skills Assessment Waivers

In certain circumstances, students may qualify for a skills assessment exemption. Official documentation must be provided for skills assessment waivers to be applied. Exemptions may be granted when (please click links below for more information):

Secondary School-Age Opportunities

On-Site Program

Jointly sponsored by Cecil County Public Schools (CCPS) and Cecil College, the On-Site program allows academically prepared students age 16 and over to take college-level courses at their home high school during the regular school day. Cecil College offers a College-Bound Scholarship for these courses to qualified students. Other regional organizations, as approved by the College President, may participate in this program. All students must meet Cecil College admissions standards.

Gifted and Talented Program

Students under age 16, who have completed 7th grade or the equivalent and are designated as gifted and talented, can enroll in Cecil credit courses through the Gifted and Talented program. Gifted and talented is defined as testing at college level in discipline(s) specific to the course(s) being taken. Cecil College courses taken are not available on-site at the high schools. Students and their parent/guardian are required to meet with the Director of Admissions to complete all approval forms and processes. All students must meet Cecil College admissions standards. Cecil college offers a College-Bound Scholarship to qualified students.

Concurrent Enrollment

Qualified students may enroll in Cecil College courses concurrent with their high school studies. Cecil College offers a College-Bound Scholarship to qualified students. All students must meet Cecil College admissions standards.

Dual Enrollment Program

Any student of Cecil County Public Schools enrolled at Cecil College is considered dually enrolled. Students of other school districts or home schools may be eligible for dual enrollment. Contact the Admissions Office for further information at (410) 287-1006.

Senior Waiver Program

Cecil County Public Schools (CCPS) students may waive all or part of their senior year, enroll in courses at Cecil College, and still graduate with their high school class. Students are approved through CCPS for this program. CCPS has authorizations and processes that must be followed with high school guidance counselors. Cecil College offers a College-Bound Scholarship for the Senior Wavier Program. All students must meet Cecil College admissions standards.

Health Professions Programs

Admission to the health professions programs (Associate of Science in Nursing (RN), Practical Nurse Certificate (LPN), Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) and Paramedic require an admission procedure separate and in addition to the general admission to Cecil College. The health professions programs have limited enrollment and require specific admissions criteria which are explained in detail in this section.

Paramedic Certificate and Degree Program

The National Registry Paramedic Program  at Cecil College is offered in conjunction with the Cecil County Department of Emergency Services (DES). Students who are interested in the paramedic program should contact the College and speak to the department of Nursing and Health Professions, an academic advisor, or contact Cecil County DES at (410) 392-2024. Upon completing and submitting a Cecil College admissions application, all students must take the College skills assessments in math, reading and writing. Prior to entry into this program, the student is required to submit/complete the following:

• Successful completion of National Registry Paramedic entry exam. The entry exam will be held during the first and second weeks of March. The student must pre-register for the entry exam with Robert F. Muller (443-309-0562) prior to March 1 to be eligible to take the exam. The student will be required to pay a testing fee of $20.00 payable to Cecil College prior to March 1. The exam will be available during normal business hours through Testing Services in the Academic Success Center.
• Completion of Cecil College assessments in mathematics, writing and reading.
• Verification of current Maryland EMT - Basic certification or equivalent.
• Verification of affiliation with a volunteer or career Maryland Advanced Life Support Company.

In accordance with the policies of many health care agencies and clinical facilities, Cecil College’s paramedic program requires all paramedic students to provide up-to-date health records/immunizations and submit to criminal background checks and drug screens. This background check and drug screen process will be completed prior to the start of the paramedic program in the fall semester and may be repeated during paramedic program progress as deemed necessary. All students must be successfully cleared via a background check and drug screen to be admitted to the clinical facilities. If a student is not successfully cleared, he or she may not enter a clinical setting and therefore will be unable to meet the paramedic program requirements.

In addition, students who wish to continue their education and work towards an Associate of Applied Science degree and who have current, unencumbered paramedic certification may be able to receive credits for the paramedic courses through credential assessment.

Practical Nursing Certificate Program

The Licensed Practical Nursing Program  at Cecil College has limited enrollment and requires specific minimum criteria to be considered for admission:

1. A cumulative minimum GPA of 2.5 of Cecil or transfer coursework applicable to the nursing program.
2. Satisfactory completion of required developmental courses as determined by skills assessments in reading, writing, and mathematics. Skills assessment in mathematics must reflect placement beyond MAT097 (Introductory and Intermediate Algebra), or the student must complete MAT097 with a grade of “C” or better.
3. Satisfactory completion of EGL 101  (College Composition) with a grade of “C” or better.
4. Satisfactory completion of BIO 208 /BIO 218  (Anatomy and Physiology I and Lab) with a grade of “C” or better from an accredited college/university within four years of entrance into the LPN Program. It is recommended that students take BIO 101 /BIO 111  if they have not completed a college-level science course within the past three years.
5. All students applying for acceptance into Cecil College’s Nursing Programs are required to take the KAPLAN Admissions Test at Cecil College. The KAPLAN Admissions Test must have been taken after January 2018. This computerized, timed test includes the following areas: Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English. KAPLAN results cannot be sent to Cecil College; the Individual Performance Profile from the KAPLAN must be printed and submitted along with the Nursing Admissions Application. KAPLAN information may be found at www.kaptest.com.
6. BIO 209 /BIO 219  (Anatomy and Physiology II and Lab) are also LPN program requirements and must be completed with a “C” or better prior to the final LPN summer semester.

Note: Entrance into the program is competitive. If the application is incomplete and/or eligibility criteria are not met, the application cannot be processed.

In accordance with the polices of many clinical facilities and the recommendations of National Council of State Boards of Nursing and the Maryland Board of Nursing, Cecil College’s nursing program requires all nursing students to provide up-to-date health records/immunizations and submit to criminal background checks and drug screenings. This background check and screening will be completed prior to admission to the program and may be repeated during nursing program progression as deemed necessary. All students must be successfully cleared via a background check and drug screening to be admitted to the clinical facilities. If a student is not successfully cleared, he or she may not enter a clinical setting and therefore will be unable to meet the nursing program requirements.

Program applicants are advised that the Maryland Board of Nursing, as well as any other state board of nursing, may deny licensure to any individual it deems to be unsuitable for the practice of nursing. Examples include, but are not limited to, falsifying application information, habitual intoxication and/or narcotic addiction, convictions or nolo contendere pleas for felonies or crimes of moral turpitude, whether or not appeals or other proceedings are pending or in progress (Maryland’s Nurse Practice Act: January 2015).

LPN Program Selection Policies and Procedures

1. All applicants for the LPN Program must first complete the general admissions application to Cecil College and visit the Admissions Office prior to meeting with the pre- nursing advisor in the Division of Student Services and Institutional Effectiveness, or before transferring courses from other institutions, or before formally applying for acceptance into the LPN program. Students may call the Information Center at (410) 287- 1000 to make an appointment with the pre-nursing advisor.
2. Review of college transcripts may reveal that a prospective student has already fulfilled requirements for admission into the LPN Program. If not, the prospective student must take the relevant skills assessment in mathematics, reading and/or writing. The appropriate developmental and general education courses must be successfully completed before the student will be eligible for entry into the LPN Program. Official transcripts from other institutions should be sent directly to the Registrar in order for coursework to be evaluated, allowing four to six weeks for processing. High school transcripts/diplomas or proof of high school equivalency may also be requested.
3. Deadline for applying for entrance into the LPN Program for the upcoming fall semester is in early March. Beginning the second week in January, the student may go to MyCecil on the Nursing and Health Professions page and download a copy of the Nursing Program Admissions packet. Included in this packet is information detailing the Nursing Program application process as well as the application deadlines. The student may also contact the Cecil College Admissions Office or the Nursing and Health Professions Office at (410) 287-1008 with any questions.
4. All prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to attend a Nursing Program Applicant Information Session. Information sessions will be held in late fall and early winter with specific dates and times to be advertised.
5. Prospective LPN students should submit completed application packets to the Nursing Program department office. All application information must be submitted to the Nursing Program department office. No partial applications will be accepted or reviewed for admission.
6. The main criteria for acceptance into the LPN Program are student readiness, cumulative grade point average(s), KAPLAN Admissions Test, and successful completion of appropriate coursework. Cecil college feels a strong responsibility to serve its county residents. Therefore, Cecil County residents are given additional consideration with regard to acceptance.
7. Applications are reviewed in March/April by the department of Nursing and Health Professions, and applicants are notified in April of their acceptance status.
8. The LPN Program is a one-year certificate program that commences in the fall semester, continues through the spring semester, and concludes in the latter part of July during the summer session.

LPN to ADN (Associate Degree Nursing) Admissions

The LPN to RN sequence is an option for advanced placement in the associate degree Nursing Program for licensed practical nurses who meet specified criteria. Admission to the LPN to ADN program is competitive and based on space available. Interested students are encouraged to call the College Information Center at (410) 287-1000 to make an appointment with the pre-nursing advisor.

1. Meet all admission requirements for the associate degree Nursing Program.
2. Complete pre-requisite requirements prior to the semester requesting admission, earning a grade of “C” or better. Note: successful completion of BIO 209 /BIO 219  and BIO 200 /BIO 210  is required before entering NUR 201 /NUR 211 .
3. Successfully complete LPN Transition coursework. The Licensed Practical Nurse must be officially registered and enrolled at Cecil College and have successfully completed the transition course(s) before college credits associated with the transfer will be awarded. The total number of credits awarded through articulation may not exceed the total number of credits earned by the first year associate degree nursing students.
4. Provide verification of unencumbered and current Maryland Practical Nurse licensure (a fee may be assessed by the institution).
5. All students applying for acceptance into Cecil College’s Nursing Programs are required to take the KAPLAN Admissions Test at Cecil College. The KAPLAN Admissions Test must have been taken after January 2018. This computerized, timed test includes the following areas: Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English. KAPLAN results cannot be sent to Cecil College; the Individual Performance Profile from the KAPLAN must be printed and submitted along with the Nursing Admissions Application. KAPLAN information may be found at www.kaptest.com.

LPN to ADN Program Selection Policies and Procedures

These selection policies and procedures mimic the Associate of Science in Nursing admission policies and procedures (please see below).

Associate of Science in Nursing

The Registered Nurse (RN) Program  at Cecil College has limited enrollment and requires specific minimum criteria to be considered for admission:

1. A cumulative minimum GPA of 2.5 of Cecil or transfer coursework applicable to the nursing program.
2. Satisfactory completion of required developmental courses as determined by skills assessments in reading, writing and mathematics. Skills assessment in mathematics must reflect placement beyond MAT 097  (Introductory and Intermediate Algebra), or the student must complete MAT097 with a grade of “C” or better.
3. Satisfactory completion of BIO 208 /BIO 218  (Anatomy and Physiology I and Lab) with a grade of “C” or better from an accredited college/university within four years of entrance into the RN Program.
4. All students applying for acceptance into Cecil College’s Nursing Programs are required to take the KAPLAN Admissions Test at Cecil College. The KAPLAN Admissions Test must have been taken after January 2018. This computerized, timed test includes the following areas: Reading, Mathematics, Science, and English. KAPLAN results cannot be sent to Cecil College; the Individual Performance Profile from the KAPLAN must be printed and submitted along with the Nursing Admissions Application. KAPLAN information may be found at www.kaptest.com.
5. BIO 209 /BIO 219  (Anatomy and Physiology II and Lab) and BIO 200 /BIO 210  (Microbiology and Lab) are RN Program requirements that must be completed with a “C” or better prior to the third semester of the RN Program.

Note: Entrance into the program is competitive. If the application is incomplete and/or eligibility criteria are not met, the application cannot be processed.

In accordance with the polices of many clinical facilities and the recommendations of National Council of State Boards of Nursing, and the Maryland Board of Nursing, Cecil College’s nursing program requires all nursing students to provide up-to-date health records/immunizations and submit to criminal background checks and drug screenings. This background check and screening will be completed prior to admission to the program and may be repeated during nursing program progression as deemed necessary. All students must be successfully cleared via a background check and drug screening to be admitted to the clinical facilities. If a student is not successfully cleared, he or she may not enter a clinical setting and therefore will be unable to meet the nursing program requirements.

Program applicants are advised that the Maryland Board of Nursing, as well as any other state board of nursing, may deny licensure to any individual it deems to be unsuitable for the practice of nursing. Examples include, but are not limited to, falsifying application information, habitual intoxication and/or narcotic addiction, convictions or nolo contendere pleas for felonies or crimes of moral turpitude, whether or not appeals or other proceedings are pending or in progress (Maryland’s Nurse Practice Act: January 2015).

RN Program Selection Policies and Procedures

Course  Sequence for 12-month accelerated RN program option

Summer I (9 Credits)

• NUR 101 - Concepts and Processes in Nursing Credits: 2
• NUR 104 - Nursing Fundamentals Theory Credits: 5
• NUR 114 - Clinical Lab I: Nursing Fundamentals Credits: 2

Fall I (8 Credits)

• NUR 105 - Care of Adult and Aging Clients Credits: 4
• NUR 115 - Clinical Lab II: Medical/Surgical Settings Credits: 4

Spring I (8 Credits)

• NUR 201 - Care of Childbearing/Childrearing Families Credits: 4
• NUR 211 - Clinical Lab III-Care of Childbearing/Childrearing Families Credits: 4

Summer I (11 Credits)

• NUR 204 - Care of Clients with Complex Stressors Credits: 4
• NUR 208 - Professional Issues in Nursing Credits: 3
• NUR 214 - Clinical Lab IV: Medical/Surgical/Psychiatric Credits: 4

Associate of Applied Science, Physical Therapist Assistant

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program  at Cecil College has limited enrollment and requires specific criteria to be considered for admission:

1. Minimum calculated GPA of 2.5 or higher in program pre-requisites and program required general education courses.
2. Completion of minimum program pre-requisites with a “C” or better
   1. EGL 101  - College Composition
   2. MAT 097  - Intermediate Algebra or placement beyond MAT 097
   3. BIO 208 /BIO 218  - Anatomy and Physiology I Lecture & Lab
3. TEAS Test (Test of Essential Academic Skills) 
   1. The minimum score requirement for the TEAS Test (Test of Essential Academic Skills) is the following:
      • Total Score: 59%
      • Reading Score: 59%
      • Science Score: 59%

Note: Entrance into the program is competitive. If the application is incomplete and/or eligibility criteria are not met, the application cannot be processed. BIO 209 /BIO 219  (Anatomy and Physiology II and Lab) is a PTA Program requirement that must be completed with a “C” or better prior to the student being eligible for clinical education.

In accordance with the policies of many clinical facilities and the recommendations of the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy and the Maryland State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, Cecil College’s PTA program requires all PTA students to provide up-to- date health records/immunizations, submit to criminal background check and drug screening. All must be successfully completed prior to student taking their seat in the PTA program and may be repeated during program progression, as deemed necessary.

PTA Program Selection Policies and Procedures

1. Students who are interested in the PTA program may reach program administration at pta@cecil.edu or 443-674-1557, for information and guidance. All applicants for the PTA Program must complete the general admissions application to Cecil College and work with the Admissions Office. These steps should be completed prior to meeting with a health professions advisor, transferring courses from other institutions, or formally applying for acceptance into the PTA Program. Students may call the Academic Advising Office at (443) 674-1872 to make an appointment with a health professions advisor.
2. Review of college transcripts may reveal that a prospective student has already fulfilled requirements for admission into the PTA Program. If not, the prospective student must take the relevant skills assessment in mathematics, reading and/or writing. The appropriate developmental and general education courses must be successfully completed before the student will be eligible for entry into the PTA Program. Official transcripts from other institutions should be sent directly to the Registrar in order for coursework to be evaluated, allowing four to six weeks for processing. High school transcripts/diplomas or proof of high school equivalency may also be requested.
3. The PTA Program admits and enrolls students once a year, application period is July to October. The secure online PTA Admission Application, which includes information on the application process and deadlines, is available on cecil.edu and MyCecil on the Physical Therapist Assistant page. Please use the secure link to complete your application, sign, and upload the required documents. Once you have completed and submitted the application, it will be automatically sent to pta@cecil.edu. Please note: application must be submitted with all required supporting documentation by the deadline to be considered. Students may contact Cecil College Admission Office or the PTA Program Office at pta@cecil.edu or (443)674-1557 for more information.
4. All prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to attend a PTA Program Applicant Information Session and view the Applicant Information Session video. Information sessions will be held in late spring and summer with specific dates and times to be advertised.
5. Prospective students who are applying to the PTA program have consideration given to GPA, TEAS scores, possession of a prior degree, essay submission, Cecil County residency and documented volunteer service hours in a physical therapy setting.
6. Applications are reviewed in October by the PTA department, notifications of conditional acceptance and/or denial are emailed to students via their chawk.cecil.edu address in early November.
7. The PTA Program is a two-year, five semester Associate of Applied Science degree program that commences in the spring semester.

Admission of International Students/Non-U.S. Citizens

Cecil College is committed to the collective and individual educational needs of its community, including individuals who have been granted permanent residence or similar status by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These students include permanent immigrants to the United States and citizens of other countries who are temporarily visiting, working, or studying in Cecil County.

The College recognizes the value of enrolling non-resident international students who could also benefit from the educational offerings of the institution. Non-U.S. citizens wishing to study in the U.S., as well as non-residents will be called international students, with differences in admissions procedures noted below. All international students must submit their Admissions Application and proof of visa status to the Registrar.

In all cases, the College requires students whose native language is not English to be tested for English language ability.

For students whose ability in English is not yet sufficient to succeed in college credit courses, the College provides a preparatory program in English as a Second Language (ESL) through the non-credit division.

Permanent Resident Status

A student with an Alien Registration Receipt Card who has been given permanent residence in the United States as an immigrant, refugee, or alien may enroll at the College for full- or part-time study. Tuition costs are determined by location of residence. Verification of permanent residence status is required at the time of application to the College. Any student without appropriate identification as a permanent resident is required to pay out-of-state tuition rates.

To apply to the College with permanent residence status, a student must submit:

• an application for admission signed by the student;
• SAT or ACT scores if available (the College’s skills assessments may be required for enrollment in certain courses);
• transcripts from secondary and postsecondary schools attended (translated into English); and
• proof of permanent resident status: temporary evidence or actual Alien Registration Receipt Card (I-551 or I-151).

Dream Act Status

The Maryland Dream Act (Maryland Senate Bill 167) allows certain high school graduates who are undocumented immigrants to enroll and qualify for the lowest tuition rate. Verification of status is required at the time of application to the College.

To apply to the College with Dream Act status, a student must have:

• attended a Maryland high school for at least three years, starting no earlier than the 2005-2006 school year;
• graduated from a Maryland high school or received a GED, no earlier than the 2007-2008 school year;
• registered at a Maryland community college within four years of high school graduation or receiving a GED;
• filed Maryland income tax returns (the student or parent / legal guardian); applied to become a permanent resident within 30 days of eligibility to do so; and registered with the Selective Service (males 18 and older).

Admission of International Students with a Student Visa (F-1)

Non-immigrant international students who apply to Cecil College must meet special admission requirements.

Students who apply to come to the United States for the purpose of studying at Cecil College may be issued an I-20 Certificate of Eligibility form by the College after the following documents have been reviewed and approved:

• an application for admission signed by the student;
• evidence of proficiency in English based on one of the following: (1) an official TOEFL score; (2) documentation of satisfactory completion of an intensive curriculum of English instruction, such as the College’s ESL program;
• English translations of official secondary school, college, or university transcripts; and
• Certification of Finances form, official bank statements (translated to English currency) and statement of support of the international student and the sponsor. The documentation should also indicate how the student will be supported for the remaining years in the program.

After arriving at Cecil College, students must take the College’s writing, reading and mathematics assessments and meet with the Registrar before registering for courses. Final placement into courses is determined by performance on the skills assessments.

Application for a Student Visa

The College issues an I-20 Certificate of Eligibility form to students who qualify for admission. Students present this form with other documentation to a U.S. Consular Office in the country where they are applying for a student (F-1) visa. The USCIS makes the final decision on admission into the United States and permitted length of stay.

F-1 Transfer Students

Students with an F-1 visa seeking to transfer to Cecil College from another U.S. institution must submit the following documents and meet the following criteria:

• release from the previous institution’s SEVIS;
• an application of admission to Cecil College signed by the student;
• official transcripts from secondary and postsecondary schools attended (translated into English);
• evidence of proficiency in English based on one of the following: (1) an official TOEFL score report; or (2) documentation of satisfactory completion of an intensive curriculum of English instruction such as the College’s ESL program; or (3) eligibility determined by the College’s English assessment test; and
• Certification of Finances form, official bank statements (translated to English currency) and statement of support of the international student and the sponsor. The documentation should also indicate how the student will be supported for the remaining years in the program.

International Student Application Deadlines

To meet federal requirements and allow adequate processing of applications for international students with F-1 visas, students must submit appropriate documents by the following dates:

Students with Other Types of Visas

Prospective students with a temporary visa status such as J or B (visitors, business, exchange, etc.) should contact the Registrar to have their applications approved before registering for classes. Nonimmigrant students other than F-1 students may take Cecil courses as long as the semester or term begins and ends within the duration of stay indicated on the I-94 in their passport. They will pay out-of-state tuition rates. Refunds will not be issued after the term’s scheduled drop/refund dates.

Additional Information

Non-immigrant students are subject to out-of-state tuition rates. Students with an F-1 visa must enroll for a full-time course of study, which is a minimum of 12 credits each term or semester. Questions regarding the most current regulations for admission of international students should be directed to the Registrar at (410) 287-1000.

Transferring to Cecil College

For students to be admitted with transfer credit at Cecil College, the sending institution must be accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency of the United States Department of Education. The College will award credits for prior learning through methods reviewed and approved by the American Council on Education. Applicants desiring to transfer from another college to Cecil College must follow the standard admission procedures and submit official transcripts of all previous college records.

Veterans may receive transfer credits for military training experiences. Veterans should submit a copy of the American Council on Educators (ACE) evaluation and recommendations for military occupational specialties.

Registration

Registration refers to the process of enrolling in courses. Students may take advantage of mail-in, fax-in, on-site, or online registration at MyCecil as outlined in the credit course schedule.

Early registration is recommended to decrease the chances of exclusion from filled classes and to afford students the maximum benefit from academic advising. Payment is required at the time of registration.

The Advising/Registration Center is located within the Division of Student Services and Enrollment Management and is an accessible outlet for College information and support services.

A student who has a disability that may impact accessibility and/or academics at Cecil College, and may require accommodations, may contact Accessibility Services at accessibilityservices@cecil.edu or (443) 674-1993. 

Priority Enrollment

Cecil College grants priority enrollment to currently serving members, dependents, and veterans of the armed forces of the United States. Eligible students may meet with an advisor for enrollment purposes beginning three days prior to general registration.

Add, Drop, Withdraw and Audit

Add a Course

Students may add a course(s) during the first week of the 15-week fall and spring semesters. Students may add a course that is offered in an alternative learning format up to the first day of the class unless they have written permission of the instructor. Students may go to MyCecil to add the course or submit an Add Form to the Registration Office.

Drop a Course

Students may drop a course, which means that all entries for the course are dropped completely from students’ transcripts. Students may go to MyCecil prior to the published date in the credit course schedule to drop the course, or submit a Drop Form to the Registration Office. Students will receive a refund of tuition and course fees for courses that are dropped by the deadline date. It is important for students to remember that all courses in which they are enrolled after the drop date will be entered permanently into their academic record.

Withdrawal from a Course

After the final drop date, and through the withdrawal date published in the credit course schedule , students may withdraw from a course. An entry of “W,” signifying withdrawal, is entered into their record. Withdrawals are not calculated into students’ grade point averages. To withdraw, students must file a Withdrawal Form at the Registration Office. Refunds are not granted for withdrawals.

Audit a Course

Students who wish to be under no obligation for regular attendance, preparation, recitation, or examination, and who do not wish to receive any credit, may register for a course as auditors. Students may change their enrollment status from credit to audit through the withdrawal dates published in the credit course schedule. Students may change from audit status to letter grade status through the add period only.

Since no credits are attempted or earned and no quality points are given, the course will not be included in the calculation of the grade point average. Audited courses are not eligible for calculation toward students’ full-time or part-time enrollment status or toward financial aid. A grade of “K” will be entered on the academic transcript. Students will not receive academic credit for a course taken as an auditor. Regular tuition and fees apply to audited courses.