Admission is based on the availability of space and qualifications of the applicant. SUNY Westchester Community College adheres to the policy that no person on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, or handicap is excluded from, or is subject to, discrimination in any program or activity. Information collected on the application (Section 355(2) (i) Education Law) will be used to evaluate an individual’s request for admission. Except as required by applicable law or as set forth by any college policy, SUNY Westchester Community College reserves the right to make discretionary admissions decisions and to admit or deny candidates for any lawful reason. Failure to provide information could prevent an individual’s application from being processed.

Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

Possess a local or Regent’s high school diploma (an I.E.P. [Individual Education Plan] certificate of completion is not a recognized diploma)
Possess a high school equivalency diploma (GED)
Be admitted under the Home-Schooled Student requirements
Be admitted through the New York State 24 College Credit GED Program

NOTE: As per College Policy, applications are processed using self-reported data. Documents (i.e. transcripts) are not required to proceed with application processing and enrollment. Also, if application fee is not submitted at the time of application, the application will be processed without the application fee. Fee is added to Bursars office tuition bill.Complete admissions requirements are available at the Admissions Information Checklist

1.1.2 Admission Review Process For Individuals With Prior Conduct History

Updated: September 2024

Policy Statement

Westchester Community College strives to balance its open access mission with its commitment to maintain the safety and overall well-being of its community. Applicants for admission who have a disciplinary record that resulted in a suspension, expulsion or dismissal from any prior educational institution (i.e. high school, other college, vocational school, etc.) are subject to additional review as part of the admissions process for Westchester Community College. Consistent with the SUNY policy titled Admission of Persons with Disciplinary Dismissals, Westchester Community College will review applicants who affirm that they have been suspended or expelled from a college or other educational institution for disciplinary reasons. Westchester Community College reserves the right to make discretionary admissions decisions and to admit or deny applicants for any lawful reason.

Definitions

Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities: The College’s chief student conduct officer or their designee.
Exceptional Admissions Committee (EAC): A group of professionals employed by the College with knowledge or expertise to help review cases involving applicants who were previously dismissed, suspended, or expelled from previously attended institutions. Examples of members of the EAC may include, but is not limited to:
- Director of Student Rights & Responsibilities (Chair)
- Director of Security
- Director of Mental Health & Counseling Services
- Chief Diversity Officer
- CARE Team Case Manager

Procedures

Upon receipt of an application that indicates an applicant has been suspended, expelled, or dismissed from a previous educational institution[1], the College will:
1. Place a hold on the applicant’s account, preventing further registration action, via the Admissions Office.
2. The student will need to complete the Applicant Dismissed From Prior Educational Institution Form. This form will ask the applicant to provide the following:
  1. Basic Demographic Information of Applicant
  2. Name(s) & dates of attendance of institution(s) they were previously suspended, expelled or dismissed from
  3. Personal statement that includes: (a) a narrative of the incident that led to the suspension, expulsion or dismissal; (b) what the applicant learned from the experience; (c) what, if any, actions has the applicant taken to ensure they will not engage in the same behavior that lead to their suspension, expulsion or dismissal; and (d) why they want to attend Westchester Community College.
  4. Copies of the applicant’s conduct documents from their previous institutions that: (a) identifies any charges brought against them; (b) identifies the outcome of conduct meetings, including outcomes to charges, sanctions imposed, and any rationales provided for these decisions; and (c) any other documentation the previous institution sent the applicant about the incident in question or the conduct meeting*.
  5. Any other evidence the student wishes the college to review.

*These documents are required for individuals with conduct history resulting in a suspension, expulsion or dismissal from a previously attended institution of higher education. These records are optional, but strongly encouraged for students with conduct history resulting in a suspension, expulsion or dismissal from a previously attended secondary school.

A completed Applicant Dismissed From Prior Educational Institution Form will be forwarded to the Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities.

In all instances, the Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities reserves the right to call the Exceptional Admissions Committee (EAC) to consult with them on all aspects of a case.
The Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities may request additional information from the applicant and may require an interview with the applicant, which may include members of the EAC.

Evidence Review and Outcome. The Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities will review appropriate information to determine if the applicant will be admitted to the college. Based on the outcome of this review, the Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities, with consultation from the EAC as deemed appropriate by the Director of the Student Rights and Responsibilities, may take any of the following actions:
1. Admit the applicant to Westchester Community College.
2. Admit the applicant to Westchester Community College with conditions.
3. Deny the applicant admission to Westchester Community College.

The decision of the Director of Student Rights & Responsibilities may be appealed to the Dean of Student Life. See F. Appeal for more information.

Notification of Outcome. The Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities will notify the applicant as to the outcome of their application for admission. Student Life will be responsible for lifting any holds for students admitted to the institution. Student Life will be responsible for monitoring and working with newly admitted students who are admitted with conditions.
Appeal. A student may file a written appeal to the Dean of Student Life or designee within five (5) calendar days of receipt of the letter from the Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities.

A student may only file an appeal for the following considerations:
1. New Information: is there new information not previously available to the student that may change the outcome of the decision?
2. Procedural Errors: Were there any procedural irregularities that materially affected the outcome?
3. Unreasonable Decision: Given the proper facts, criteria, and procedures, was the decision a reasonable one?
4. After reviewing the matter fully, the Dean of Student Life or designee will issue a written decision affirming or reversing the decision. The Dean of Student Life will notify the student of their decision. The decision of the Dean of Student Life or designee shall be final.

[1] Question 29 on the admissions application asks, “Have you ever been suspended, expelled, or dismissed from a previous educational institution (college, university, high school, vocational school, etc.) for disciplinary (conduct) reasons? “

1.2 Tuition and Fee Refunds

1.2.1 Refund Policy for Undergraduate Academic Courses

In the event the college cancels a course, 100% of tuition and refundable fees will be refunded. Please see the list of non-refundable fees below.
Depending on the length of the session and when the course is dropped by a student, the student will be refunded a percentage of tuition only (not fees), according to the schedule below.
As of the first day of any session (whether it be on the main campus, online or at an extension site), students who fail to make payment or other arrangements to cover their full account will be responsible for the charges incurred according to the refund schedule. If you do not plan on attending Westchester Community College, you must drop your classes prior to the first day of the semester in which you are registered in order to qualify for a 100% refund of tuition and refundable fees. If you do not, all tuition and fees are your responsibility.
Refunds are issued on the basis of credits registered for, and not the full time tuition. You will never be charged more than full time tuition

Refund Policy – 14- and 15-Week Semesters (Fall/Spring Semesters Including Distance Learning courses & 14-week Extension Sites)

When Course Is Dropped	Refund Amount
Before official start of the semester	100%
During the first week	75% (Tuition Only)
During the second week	50% (Tuition Only)
During the third week	25% (Tuition Only)
After the third week	No Refund

Please see list of non-refundable fees below

Refund Policy – Courses held for LESS than 14 weeks (Including Distance Learning & Summer courses, Winter Session)

When Course Is Dropped	Refund Amount
Before the official start date of the session (NOT the first class meeting)	100% *
First five calendar days of session	25% (Tuition Only)

1.2.2 Non-Refundable Fees

Registration fees, administrative payment plan fees, application fees, assessment fees, add/drop fees, late registration fees, and return check fees are non-refundable. After the semester’s start date the FSA fees, FSA equipment fees, FSA cultural arts fees, paramedic fees, lab fees, and malpractice insurance fees are non-refundable.

1.2.3 Return of Title IV Funds Policy When Withdrawing from Classes

If a student withdraws from all classes before completing more than 60% of the semester, they may be required to return a portion of the federal financial aid received.

Federal law requires the Financial Aid Office to recalculate aid eligibility when a student withdraws, drops out, is dismissed, or takes a leave of absence prior to completing 60% of the payment period or semester. All Title IV federal financial aid programs must be reviewed in these cases.

The return calculation determines the percentage of “earned” versus “unearned” aid. This percentage is based on the number of days the student attended divided by the total number of days in the payment period.

If more than 60% of the semester has been completed, the student is considered to have earned 100% of the aid and no funds are returned.
If less than 60% has been completed, the unearned portion of aid must be returned to the federal programs.

Please note: Federal regulations do not allow exceptions to this rule, regardless of personal or medical circumstances.

Federal funds are returned in the following order:

Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans
Subsidized Federal Stafford Loans
PLUS Loans
Federal Pell Grants
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
Other Title IV assistance

Additional Important Information:

Students who are no longer enrolled in at least six (6) credit hours at the time loan funds are scheduled to be disbursed are ineligible for those funds. The loan will be cancelled and funds returned to the U.S. Department of Education.
Returning Title IV funds may result in a balance owed to the college. Students should contact the Bursar’s Office to make payment arrangements if a balance is due.
While federal regulations cannot be appealed, students may submit a written appeal to the Tuition Refund Committee if they believe extenuating circumstances may qualify them for an exception to the institutional refund policy.

For questions about the Return of Title IV funds, please contact the Financial Aid Office.

1.2.4 Tuition Refunds for Active Military Duty

Policy
The tuition/refund/credit policy (modeled on the ad hoc policy adopted in 1990-1991 during Operation Desert Storm) was adopted by the Cabinet on February 26, 1996. It is to be applied to Westchester Community College students in present and future situations of activation to military duty (extended active duty).

Procedure for Tuition Refund for Active Military Duty

Any student called to extended active duty should bring documentation of that order to the College and make an appointment with the counselor in charge of veteran’s affairs.
Upon verification of the legitimacy of the orders, the counselor will arrange for the student to meet with each of his/her teachers.
The student will be free to exercise any or all of the options outlined below on a course-by- course basis. (The choice will depend upon the time in the semester the call up occurs, the expected duration of the military assignment, the amount of prior notice given to the student by the military, and the nature of the subject matter of the course.) The following option(s) can be followed:Withdrawal from the course with a full refund and no permanent citation on the transcript (i.e., equivalent to “never attended”).

Withdrawal from the course with a full refund and no permanent citation on the transcript (i.e., equivalent to “never attended”).
Withdrawal as above, but no refund. Rather, the student would be given a letter permitting him/her to repeat the course at some future time at no cost.
Student and teacher agree that so much work has been completed that an “I” (incomplete) could be assigned. The deadline for making up the remaining work should be extended beyond the current rule (end of next regular semester) to the end of the next regular semester after the student is released from active duty. Here no refund is involved.
In some cases it might be possible for the student to take work with him/her on active duty and upon completion of these assignments be awarded a grade. This option would only be available if both the student and the faculty member agreed that this was possible. In this case no refund is involved.

What this policy does not do is award college credit for incomplete work. This would be a disadvantage to both the student and the College. Rather, it facilitates the completion of the work by making accommodations in the rules. If at any time a student who has selected any option, other than “A” or “B”, finds that he/she is not able to complete the work after all, a refund would be issued upon a written request from the student.

1.2.5 Appealing a Refund

A student who wishes to appeal a refund should visit the Tuition Refund Appeal page or the Medical Appeal page for more information.

1.3 Financial Aid

1.3.1 Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Requirements

Federal regulations require students to meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards to qualify for federal, state, and institutional financial aid. SUNY WCC evaluates SAP at the end of each semester, using three required measures:

Qualitative Requirement (Cumulative GPA)

Students must maintain a 2.00 cumulative GPA once they have attempted 48 or more cumulative credits.
Developmental and transfer credits are included in the cumulative attempted credits.

Quantitative Requirement (Completion Rate)

Students must successfully complete a minimum percentage of the courses they attempt.
The completion rate is determined by dividing earned credits by attempted credits.

Maximum Time Frame

A student must declare an academic program and must be taking courses that apply to that degree or certificate.
Students must complete their degree or certificate program within 150% of the published length of the program in credit hours.
- Example: If a program requires 60 credits, financial aid eligibility ends once the student attempts 90 credits (60 × 1.5).
All attempted credits are counted toward this limit, including transfer credits accepted by WCC.
Developmental credits are excluded.
Students who change academic programs will have all prior credits counted toward the maximum time frame of the new program.

Additional Information

Students who do not meet SAP requirements may have their financial aid suspended.
SAP standards apply to all Title IV federal aid programs.
Students may appeal if they have extenuating circumstances that prevented them from meeting SAP requirements.

1.3.2. Aid For Part-Time Study (APTS) Progress Standards

APTS students are allowed up to a maximum of 48 points of eligibility. These points include any points earned as a TAP recipient or for any other state grant. Each APTS award uses 3 points and each TAP award uses 6 points.

State Aid Points	3	6	9	12	15	18	21	24	27	30	36	39	42	45	48
Minimum Degree Credits Earned	0	3	3	9	9	18	18	30	30	45	45	60	75	75	75

APTS recipients must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 at all times to be eligible. Financial aid rules and regulations are subject to change. Students are strongly urged to meet with a Financial Aid Counselor to discuss any concerns regarding eligibility for aid.

1.3.3 Financial Aid Code of Conduct and Ethical Principles

SUNY Westchester Community College observes the code of conduct laws enacted by the Higher Education Opportunity Act (Public Law 110-315) (Sunshine Act) enacted August 14, 2008, the Agreement on Code of Conduct between SUNY State Operated Campuses and New York State Attorney General, April 3, 2007, and the State of New York SLATE Act. This code of conduct and ethical principles is based on the principle that the primary goal of the Office of Student Financial Assistance professionals is to help students achieve their educational potential by providing appropriate financial resources. To this end, the financial aid professionals shall:

Be committed to removing possible financial barriers for those wishing to pursue postsecondary education.
Support efforts to encourage students, as early as the elementary grades, to aspire to and plan for education beyond high school.
Make every effort to assist students in receiving financial aid to help meet their financial need.
Advocate in the students’ interest at the institutional, state and federal level.
Provide services that do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age or economic status.
Respect the dignity and protect the privacy of students, and ensure the confidentiality of student records and personal circumstances.

The code of conduct outlined below pertains to all staff in the Office of Student Financial Assistance as well as the Vice President of the college to whom the office reports. All relevant employees will agree to the following to ensure transparency in the administration of the student financial aid programs and avoid conflicts of interest. Do not undertake any employment, compensated or not which is in conflict with proper discharge of their duties or might impair their objectivity or independence of judgment in the exercise of their duties at this institution.

Do not use their positions or information received to solicit or secure financial gain, unwarranted privileges by accepting cash payments, stocks, club memberships, gifts, entertainment, expense-paid trips, or other forms of inappropriate remuneration from any business entity involved in any aspect of student financial aid.
Adhere to all institutional policies as well as other local, state or federal requirements that are applicable to their conduct or job performance.
Provide accurate, unbiased and transparent information which in no way reflects any preference arising from actual or potential personal gain and ensure that students and parents fully understand their rights, obligations and alternatives.
Ensure that students and parents understand that SUNY Westchester Community College does not participate in a preferred lender list which directs students to a preferred lender. To this end students must be made to understand that, as long as SUNY Westchester Community College participates in the FFELP Loan programs:

Financial Aid professionals at SUNY Westchester Community College are prohibited from recommending any lender.
Students are free to select a lender and guarantor of their choice.
Students and parents should be made to understand the process of selecting a lender and applying for a loan.

The school will promptly certify any loan from any lender selected by a borrower.
Clearly inform students that, although they are directed to NYSHESC to choose a lender and complete the Master Promissory Note, they are free to choose a lender not on the HESC website. Similarly, they must be told that they are free to use a guarantor other than HESC.
The college does not have a preferred lender list for alternative loans. Financial Assistance personnel will not make any recommendations to the student as to the choice of a lender.
Do not permit an employee or agent of a lender or guarantor to staff the offices, represent his/herself as an employee of the institution or conduct Loan Entrance workshops.
The Office of Student Financial Assistance will promptly process any alternative loan submitted for certification according to the regulations of the lender. However, prior to certifying an alternative loan, the College will inform students of the availability of the cheaper federal loan programs and advise students to complete the FAFSA to assess their eligibility for the federal loans. Financial aid professionals are free to provide students with information to assist them in making a comparison of benefits for the students to make an informed choice of a lender.

NOTE: Items 4 to 7 will no longer be applicable once SUNY Westchester Community College stops participating in the FFELP loan program and switches to the Federal Direct Unsubsidized and Subsidized Loan Program and the Federal Direct Parent Loan Program.

1.4 Immunization Requirements Policy

NY State Public Health Law Section 2165 mandates that all students born on or after January 1, 1957 who wish to register for more than five (5) credits with an in-person component in any single semester provide documentation of proof of immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). Proof of immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella includes one of the following:

Proof of two doses of the MMR live vaccine, with the first dose given no more than 4 days prior to the first birthday, and the second at least 28 days after the first dose;
Proof of two doses of the live measles vaccine, with the first dose given no more than 4 days prior to the first birthday and the second at least 28 days after the first dose, AND (2) one dose of the live mumps vaccine received no more than 4 days prior to the first birthday, AND (3) one dose of live rubella vaccine received no more than 4 days prior to the first birthday;
Serological proof of MMR immunity (titer).

Exemptions to Measles, Mumps and Rubella Vaccination Requirement

There are currently two exemptions to the measles, mumps, and rubella immunization requirement that a student may submit an appeal for:

Medical Exemption: A medical exemption can be granted for students who provide documentation (using the WCC MMR Medical Exemption Form) that is written by a physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner, stating that the student has a health condition, which is a valid contraindication of receiving a specific vaccine. A permanent or temporary exemption may then be granted by the College.
Religious Exemption: A student may be exempt from vaccination if, in the opinion of the WCC Health Services Coordinator or Staff Nurses, the student (parent or guardian of students under 18 years of age) holds genuine and sincere religious beliefs, which are contrary to the practice of measles, mumps and rubella immunizations. Using the WCC MMR Religious Exemption Form , the statement must indicate why the vaccination for all or three of diseases is contrary to the religious belief. Request for exemptions must be in writing and signed by the student or parent if the student is under age 18. General philosophical or moral objections to such vaccine shall not suffice as the basis for a religious exemption.

In order for the College to consider a request for a religious or medical exemption to the MMR Vaccine Requirement, the student MUST submit the appropriate WCC form. Only WCC forms completed in their entirety will be accepted and reviewed.

It may take the college up to ten (10) business days to review a request for an exemption and notify the student of the outcome.

Should a measles, mumps or rubella outbreak occur on campus, students who are approved for an exemption to the vaccine requirement may be required to remain off-campus until the Westchester County Department of Health deems it safe to return.

Meningococcal Meningitis Immunization Requirement

NY State Public Health Law Section 2167 requires that Westchester Community College distributes written information about meningococcal meningitis and meningitis immunization to all students (or parents/guardians for students under the age of 18 years). This information will be located on the College’s website on the Student Immunization Requirement webpage.

The law also requires all students regardless of age, registering for more than 5 credits, have one of the following on file with the College:

Proof of immunization in the past five years for meningococcal meningitis disease
A signed acknowledgement of meningococcal disease risks and a refusal of the meningitis immunization.

Registration Hold

At SUNY Westchester Community College, all students are required to demonstrate their compliance with the immunization requirement prior to registering for classes. A registration hold is placed on all student’s accounts that will not permit a student to register for six or more credits with an in-person component until acceptable proof of immunization is submitted and accepted by the college.

MMR Compliance: Prior to the registration hold being lifted, one of the following must be on file with the College’s Health Services Office:

Proof of immunity to Measles, Mumps and Rubella diseases before registering.
An approved medical exemption.
An approved religious exemption.

Meningococcal Meningitis Compliance: Prior to the registration hold being lifted, one of the following must be on file with the College’s Health Services Office:

Proof of immunization in the past five years for meningococcal meningitis disease
A signed acknowledgement of meningococcal disease risks and a refusal of the meningitis immunization.

Procedures

Students should submit documents showing proof of immunization at the same time they submit their application for admissions into Westchester Community College. Students must provide copies of their immunization records from doctors, schools, or serology lab reports. Students may also have a physician complete the Measles, Mumps, & Rubella (MMR), and Meningitis Immunization Requirement Form.

Students appealing the requirement must send completed Measles, Mumps, & Rubella (MMR) Medical Exemption Forms or Measles, Mumps, & Rubella (MMR) Religious Exemption Forms to the Health Services Office.

There are three ways a student can submit their Immunization Forms to the WCC Health Services Office:

Upload completed digital copies of their immunization forms and supporting documentation by visiting the Health Services Drop Box on the Health Services website.
Send completed, hard-copy, original versions of required immunization forms to the Health Services Office, located in Student Center Room 181. Students may hand deliver these forms or mail them to:

WCC Health Services Office
Student Center 181
75 Grasslands Road
Valhalla, NY, 10595

Fax completed, hard-copy forms to the Health Services Office at 914-606-6423

1.5 Accessibility Services Policy

In accordance with Section 504 of the United States Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), SUNY Westchester Community College does not discriminate on the basis of disability in educational programs, activities, and employment. SUNY WCC may be required to accommodate an otherwise qualified individual with a disability by making a reasonable modification in its services, programs, or activities. For additional information visit the Accessibility Services Guidelines & Procedures.

1.6 Prior Learning Assessment

1.6.1 Credit for Work Completed Elsewhere

Matriculated students may obtain credit for college level work completed in addition to their regular college courses. A few basic rules apply. The college can grant credit only for specific equivalent coursework in the student’s curriculum, and the number of credits for each specific course cannot exceed the credit value of that course.

A student may be granted a maximum of 50 percent of the required credits for a degree or certificate at Westchester Community College through one or more of the following methods:

Advanced Standing: Transfer credit can be granted in equivalent courses completed at other accredited institutions of collegiate rank.

Courses transferred as specific courses (not electives) must be determined to be the equivalent of the Westchester Community College courses they will replace.
Within the requirements for the various curricula, there may be specific courses that must be taken at Westchester Community College.
The post-secondary institutions from which credits are received must be regionally/nationally accredited at the time the courses were taken.
Transfer of international credits is at the discretion of the college. International credits must be evaluated by an outside accrediting agency prior to submission.
Any course deemed equivalent to a college-level course at Westchester Community College in which the student has received a grade of “C” (i.e., 2.0) or better will be accepted for transfer credit.
Courses in which grades of “P” (Pass) and “S” (Satisfactory) will also be accepted for transfer credit, provided the standard for achieving those grades is 2.0 or better.
In some curricula, arrangements have been made with certain high schools and other educational institutions for consideration of advanced standing of work completed at those schools.
A student cannot earn duplicate credit by transfer for courses already successfully completed at WCC.

Examination: Through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Advanced Placement (AP), a student may successfully complete examinations in a variety of subject areas and can be granted college credit.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP): Visit CLEP Exams and Equivalent Courses . See the CLEP page at College Board for testing sites in New York State.
Advanced Placement (AP): Visit Advanced Placement Exams . AP courses and examinations are given at most high schools.
A student cannot earn duplicate credit for examination programs and college studies covering the same material.

Students who wish to have CLEP or AP scores evaluated to satisfy Westchester Community College degree requirements should submit official copies of the scores to the Transfer Credit Evaluator in the Registrar’s Office.

Credit for Studies Completed while Serving in the Military: Students who have engaged in a course of study while serving in the military may be eligible to receive college credit at Westchester Community College

The coursework completed in the military must be applicable to the program of study (degree) in which the student wishes to enroll (or is enrolled) at Westchester Community College.
Students must submit the following documents to the Transcript Evaluator in the Admissions Office: AARTS1 transcript, or a SMART2, or a CCAF3 transcript AND An ACE4 recommendation/transcript OR the DD214 (for Physical Education transfer credit).
Students may earn generic credit identified by discipline or type of degree requirement OR credit for a specific, parallel course.
Transfer credit may fulfill core, program or elective requirements.
AARTS - Army/American Council on Education Registry Transcript System
SMARTS - Sailor/Marine American Council of Education Registry Transcript System
CCAF - Community College of the Air Force
ACE – American Council on Education

Credit for Studies Completed while attending Police Academies:

WCC has articulation agreements with the Westchester County Police Academy, the Westchester County Department of Corrections Academy and the New York City Police Department to accept transfer courses applicable to the student’s program of study at the discretion of the curriculum chair of the Criminal Justice-Police AAS and Criminal Justice-Corrections AAS degrees.

For further information contact: Transfer Credit Evaluator, Registrar’s Office, Westchester Community College

1.7 Maximum Credit Load

Students enrolling during the Fall and Spring semesters may not register for more than 19 credits without obtaining special permission from both their Curriculum Chair and the appropriate School Dean.

Students entering or continuing at the college who are required to take ENG 91 - Writing for College 1 or ENG 92 - Writing for College 2 along with a non-credit mathematics course (Computational Skills or Beginning Algebra) or College Reading and Study Skills may take no more than 14 charged credits.

Students may not register for more than two courses in any single Summer Session by the School Dean.

1.8 Online Courses

Students with a GPA below 2.0 at Westchester Community College require special permission from a counselor to register for a fully online course.

1.9 Developmental Education Courses

All first-time matriculated students must be advised by an Academic Counselor prior to registration. For students placing in any number of developmental courses, specific course selection will be decided upon in consultation with either an Academic Counselor or a Curriculum Chair.

Below are the minimum course requirements for full-time matriculated students:

Full-time matriculated students placed into one or two developmental courses must take those courses within their first semester at the College.
Full-time matriculated students placed into three developmental courses must enroll in at least two of those courses within their first semester at the College; these students must take the third developmental course in the following semester. These students are strongly advised to enroll in all three developmental courses within their first semester.

Below are the minimum course requirements for part-time matriculated students:

Part-time matriculated students placed into one or two developmental courses must take those courses prior to enrolling in a third credit-bearing course. These students are strongly advised to enroll in their developmental courses within their first semester at the College.
Part-time matriculated students placed into three developmental courses must enroll in all those courses prior to enrolling in a third credit-bearing course. These students are strongly advised to enroll in their developmental courses within their first year at the College.

Westchester Community College provides students with further assistance through the Academic Support Center, which provides free tutoring in developmental and college-level courses. Students in developmental courses are strongly advised to take advantage of these services to expedite their skill development.

Registration in College-level Courses

Students placing into developmental courses may be able to enroll in a number of credit-bearing courses, but should check the specific course pre-requisites and/or co-requisites. These students are encouraged to consult with an Academic Counselor when registering for courses.

There are two types of Developmental Courses, those that are prerequisite to a credit course and those that are co-requisite/support classes to a credit course.

Prerequisite developmental courses, which do not satisfy a degree such as: ENG 91, ENG 92, ESL 94, READ 93, MATH 92, MATH 93, MATH 93R and MATH 94, are graded as follows:
- Grades of A - D indicate successful completion of the course but are not used in grade point average calculations.
- Grade of F indicates the course was not successfully completed and is not used in grade point average calculations. Student will be required to repeat this course.
Co-requisite/support classes are taken concurrently with credit bearing courses to support course content. Co-requisite/support classes such as: ENG 99, MATH 88, MATH 89, MATH 95, and MATH 99 are graded as follows:
- The grading for these co-requisite/support classes will be Pass/Fail
- Grades for co-requisite/support classes are not used in grade point average calculations.
- Student must pass BOTH the credit course and the co-requisite/support class; if they fail either, they fail both, and must repeat both.

Approved by SUNY WCC Cabinet March 29, 2021

1.10 Changing Curriculum (Program of Study)

Policy

Matriculated students should select their major/program plan to best suit their educational and career goals and aspirations. If a student’s goals and aspirations alter and students feel they must change their major/program plan, students must meet with their respective advisor to consult about the potential impact this change may have toward their degree completion. Major/program plan changes will be processed only by the Registrar’s Office and are subject to advisor approval.

Procedure

Requests to change curriculum should be made prior to the selection of courses for the next semester.
Students must secure a Curriculum Change Request Form
After having consulted with their counselors, students must receive approval from the Curriculum Chair of the curriculum they wish to enter.
After obtaining the approval signature from the curriculum chair of the curriculum being entered, students must take the Curriculum Change Request Form to the Registrar’s Office for processing.

1.11 Withdrawal

1.11.1 Withdrawal from a Course

Deadlines

Withdrawal Type	Deadline
Student-initiated withdrawal from a course	Last day of ninth week of semester
Faculty-assigned course-withdrawal grade of WP/WF	After ninth week of semester
Student-initiated withdrawal from the college	Last day of classes before final exams
For semesters shorter than 15 weeks	See academic calendar for the withdrawal deadline

Student-Initiated Withdrawal from a Course

The deadline for withdrawal from a course with a grade of “W” is the last day of the ninth week of the semester. A grade of “W” does not affect a student’s GPA. However, it is important to use withdrawals wisely. If unsure, it is best to consult with the instructor or academic counselor. Prior to withdrawal, financial aid recipients are urged to consult with a financial aid counselor to determine if current or future financial aid maybe negatively affected.

While it is the right of a student to withdraw from a course, withdrawal without following the procedure listed below may result in the student’s failure of the course.

Procedure to withdraw from credit-bearing courses

Students may withdraw from credit-bearing courses by logging in to My WCC and following the instructions for “How to Drop Course(s) Online.”

Procedure to withdraw from zero-credit courses

Student meets with a Counselor, Curriculum Chair, Department Chair or School Dean.
The Counselor, Curriculum Chair, Department Chair or School Dean will release the hold that is placed on these zero-credit courses and withdraw the student.

Faculty-Assigned Course-Withdrawal Grade of WP/WF

After the ninth week of the semester, the course instructor may allow a student with extenuating circumstances to withdraw from the course by assigning a grade of WP (withdrawal-passing: student is passing at the time of withdrawal) or WF (withdrawal-failing: student is failing at the time of withdrawal). A grade of WP or WF does not affect a student’s GPA, however a grade of WP or WF can negatively affect a student’s current or future financial aid eligibility.

This is not a student right, and it is reserved only for unusual and extenuating circumstances beyond the student’s control. The reasons for withdrawing must be serious and compelling (not merely poor attendance or grades). The student must be able to, upon request, provide clear and complete documentation of the situation from a qualified professional such as a physician.

The following are sample guidelines for acceptable serious and compelling reasons:

Medical: Serious illness or injury of the student or of his/her immediate family, which has resulted in the inability to make up course material missed.
Financial: A student’s financial situation has become so critical that it has resulted in the inability to make up course material missed.
Personal: Serious family crisis or death in a family, which has resulted in the inability to make up course material missed.

Student- Initiated Complete Withdrawal from College - All Courses

Students may withdraw from all courses at the College up until the last day of classes before final examinations. A grade of “W” will be assigned for all classes. A grade of “W” does not affect a student’s GPA. The reasons for withdrawing should be serious and compelling, not merely poor attendance or grades.

1.11.2 Withdrawal from College

Procedure to withdraw from College

The student should:

Obtain a withdrawal form from the Counseling Office or the Registrar’s Office.
Allow enough time to complete the form and obtain all required signatures,
Notify all instructors of the withdrawal,
Check with the Library, the Financial Aid Office, and the Bursar’s Office to ensure if there are no outstanding obligations,
Meet with the counselor for final approval, and
Submit the form to the registrar before the deadline date.

If a student is not physically able to follow this process, the student may designate anyone with proper identification and written consent from the student, to fulfil these obligations. Withdrawal from the College can negatively affect a student’s current or future financial aid eligibility. Students who withdraw from the College and wish to register for the next semester may do so.

1.12 Involuntary Leave of Absence for Students

Approved by SUNY WCC Board of Trustees, 12/10/2025

Policy

Westchester Community College (the College) prohibits discrimination in educational programs and activities based on disability or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. The College provides a range of resources, support services, and accommodations for otherwise-qualified students experiencing medical, emotional, or mental health concerns with the goal of promoting their safe participation in the College’s educational program. The College will provide reasonable accommodations when properly requested and with appropriate documentation if the accommodations do not require a fundamental alteration of the living or learning environment.

However, there may be situations that require a level of care that exceeds what would be considered a reasonable accommodation or support for the College to provide. The College will utilize an individualized, objective assessment to determine the need for an Involuntary Leave of Absence. Requiring a student to take a leave of absence is rare and only happens when current medical knowledge and/or the best available objective evidence (not speculation, stereotypes, or generalizations) indicates that there is a significant risk to the student’s health or safety, or the health or safety of others at the College, or the student’s behavior severely disrupts the College environment, and no reasonable accommodations can adequately reduce that risk or disruption. The Vice President of Student Affairs has the authority to place a student on an Involuntary Leave of Absence, after appropriate due process has occurred per this policy.

Before placing any student on an Involuntary Leave of Absence, the College will conduct an individualized assessment, consulting with Office of Accessibility Services to determine if there are reasonable accommodations that would permit the student to continue to participate in the College environment without taking a leave of absence.

The Vice President of Student Affairs may be notified about a student who may meet the criteria for an Involuntary Leave of Absence from a variety of sources, including, but not limited to, the student, the Community Assessment & Risk Evaluation (CARE) Team, the student’s academic advisor, or an academic department. If the Vice President of Student Affairs deems it appropriate, the procedures under this policy can be initiated.

This policy is not used in lieu of disciplinary actions to address violations of College policies. A student may be subject to the College’s disciplinary process while simultaneously being assessed for an Involuntary Leave of Absence. A student who has engaged in behavior that violates policies of the College may be subject to the procedures identified in the Student Code of Conduct. Students who are placed on an Involuntary Leave of Absence and have been found to have violated the Student Code of Conduct may be subject to sanctions imposed by the College.

Definitions

Advisor: an individual of the Student’s choice who can accompany the Student at any meeting with the College pursuant to this Policy for the limited purpose of providing support, advisement, and guidance. A Support Person or Advisor may not directly advocate on behalf of the Student to College officials or otherwise actively participate in the process, but may speak privately with the Student.
Campus or College Property: all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of or owned, used, or controlled by the College, either solely or in conjunction with another entity.
Community Assessment and Risk Evaluation (CARE) Team: a cross-functional committee of faculty, staff, and administrators, which identifies, assesses, and monitors students exhibiting concerning behavior or thoughts.
Involuntary Leave of Absence: a specified period of time when a student is not permitted to (a) register for and/or attend classes; (b) participate in any College activities; and (c) be present on College Property. Specific conditions or requirements may be imposed and must be satisfied in order for the student to be eligible to return. A student who is on leave is still considered to be enrolled and is subject to pertinent College policies and procedures.
Interim Administrative Actions: temporary measures that may be taken against a student pending resolution of the procedures described in this document, up to and including the conclusion of the appeals process.
Student: any person registered for courses, either full-time or part-time, pursuing undergraduate studies as well as non-degree seeking students; individuals who are term active but are between academic terms or not enrolled at the College; individuals taking online classes; individuals auditing classes; and individuals that were enrolled at the College on the date of an incident that gave rise to the Involuntary Leave of Absence.
Written Notification: written documentation transmitted to the Student using at least one of the following methods: (i) hand-delivery to the Student by a College employee, (ii) electronic message to the Student’s assigned College e-mail account, and/or (iii) delivery by the U.S. Post Office to the Student’s last-known off- Campus address that is on-file with the College. Students shall be held responsible for the contents of any written documentation for which they have refused receipt.
Provost & Vice President of Academic Affairs or VPAA: The College’s Chief Academic Officer or their designee.
Vice President of Student Affairs or VPSA: The College’s Chief Student Affairs Officer or their designee.

Implications of an Involuntary Leave of Absence

A Student who is placed on an Involuntary Leave of Absence shall:

Be unable to:
1. register for and attend classes;
2. participate in any College activities;
3. be present on College Property;

Receive a grade of “W” for courses in which they are enrolled. A “W” does not affect a student’s GPA.
Have a hold placed on their account preventing any registration or enrollment activity until the Involuntary Leave of Absence is completed, the conditions for return are satisfied, and the student has received Written Notification that they are approved to return to the College. (NOTE: this does not prevent a student from requesting and accessing their official College transcript.)
Be eligible to appeal to receive refunds of portions of their tuition. See the SUNY WCC Tuition Refund Policy.
Based on the College’s enrollment policies, may be disenrolled after a period of inactivity.

Procedures

Throughout the process, the Vice President of Student Affairs (VPSA) may confer, as feasible and when appropriate depending upon the matter, with individuals regarding the need for an Involuntary Leave of Absence. Each case may vary, but conferring individuals may include the following:

Members of the Community Assessment & Risk Evaluation (CARE) Team;
Representatives from the Health Services Office (with appropriate authorization for any providers who have provided services to the Student);
Representatives from the Department of Mental Health & Counseling Services (with appropriate authorization for any providers who have provided services to the Student);
The student’s treatment providers or other health care professionals (with appropriate authorization for any providers who have provided services to the student);
Faculty members;
Academic advisors; and
Other individuals who may be appropriate in an individual matter.

The following steps may be taken when evaluating the need for an Involuntary Leave of Absence:

1. Emergency Removal

In emergency situations involving an imminent threat of harm to the Student or any other member of the College community, the VPSA, in the exercise of their reasonable judgment, may require a Student to be immediately prohibited from entering College Property while such individualized assessment and review under this policy is taking place.
Such Students shall receive Written Notification to this effect as quickly as possible and/or practicable.
While the individualized assessment and review is being conducted, every effort shall be made by the VPSA to reach a decision within seven (7) calendar days, provided that the Student responds in a timely manner to requests for information, and if appropriate, evaluation. If there are delays, the College shall document the reason for such delays in writing.

2. Notification to Student

A Student will receive Written Notification that an Involuntary Leave of Absence is under consideration. This Written Notification shall include: (a) the reason(s) why the Student is being considered for an Involuntary Leave of Absence; (b) the contact information for the Office of Accessibility Services, including information regarding the Student’s right to request reasonable accommodations through that Office; (c) possible outcomes from the assessment, including the possibility of an Involuntary Leave of Absence; (d) information about the Student’s right to have an Advisor accompany them to any meeting; and (e) a copy of this policy.

3. Student-Provided Information

The College will encourage the Student to provide additional information that the Student believes is relevant to the determination. The College may ask the Student to execute an Exchange of Confidential Information Consent Form providing certain College personnel with temporary authority to obtain information from the Student’s health care provider(s) regarding issues relevant and appropriate to the consideration of an Involuntary Leave of Absence. The College will respect the Student’s privacy, and only expects the Student to provide a release for access to the Student’s medical and mental health records as reasonably necessary to complete this individualized assessment. If a Student refuses to execute such a release or to respond within a reasonable timeframe set by the College, the VPSA may proceed with the individualized assessment based on the information in their possession.

Any direct communication with a Student’s medical provider shall be done through the appropriate College office, which will relay that information to the VPSA who is responsible for assessing all information regarding a potential Involuntary Leave of Absence.

4. Mandated Psychological, Threat, and/or Violence Risk Assessments

In certain circumstances, the VPSA may mandate a psychological, threat, and/or violence risk assessment conducted by a trained professional designated by the College, if the VPSA believes it will facilitate a more informed decision.

Self-Harm
In cases where the Student is unable or unwilling to carry out substantial self-care obligations (e.g. necessary steps recommended by their mental or medical health care provider to address known concern, not willing to utilize accommodations offered by the college to mitigate a known concern, etc.) and/or appears to pose a significant risk to their own safety, a licensed mental health professional (licensed psychiatrist, licensed psychologist, licensed professional counselor, licensed clinical social worker, etc.) or another professional trained in conducting risk assessments will conduct an assessment.

This assessment will be used to make a determination that relies on objective evidence, and not speculation, stereotypes, or generalizations, about whether the Student poses a legitimate safety risk to themselves based on the severity and likelihood of the potential harm.
Harm to Others
In cases where the Student appears to pose a substantial potential threat to the College community, an employee of the College or an affiliate organization who is trained in conducting risk assessments will conduct an objective violence risk assessment (using tools like the Structured Interview for Violence Risk Assessment - SIVRA). This assessment will be used to help determine the risk and protective factors related to a Student’s likelihood of engaging in violence and whether a direct threat of harm to others exists.

The College will provide an assessor to conduct the required assessment; however, the College may allow the Student to choose an alternative assessor who meets the criteria established in the Written Notification sent to a student.
Students will be notified in writing regarding the requirements for the mandated assessment. This Written Notification will include the: (1) required credentials for the assessor; (2) the required type of assessment; (3) the expected documents to be submitted as a result of the assessment; and (4) the timeline for completing the assessment. All steps in the process must be completed per the direction of the referral letter including meeting the deadlines set forth and submitting the appropriate paperwork, unless the Vice President of Student Affairs grants an exception.
Additionally, as part of the assessment, the Student may be asked to sign a mutual release of information allowing the exchange of information between the College and the assessor. This release will allow the College to share pertinent information from the Student’s education record that would enhance the assessor’s ability to conduct a thorough assessment (incident reports, behavioral intervention team referrals and notes, etc.). The release will also allow the assessor to provide the results of the assessment to the College.
A student will be referred for disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct if they fail to complete a mandated assessment(s) in accordance with standards, procedures and reasonable timelines set by the College.

5. Determining the Need for an Involuntary Leave

When evaluating whether an Involuntary Leave of Absence is appropriate, the VPSA will consider specific criteria, such as:

Whether current knowledge about the Student’s medical condition and/or the best available objective evidence indicates that a student poses a significant risk to the health or safety of a member of the College community;
Whether a Student is unable or unwilling to carry out carry out substantial self-care obligations (e.g. follow steps recommended by their mental or medical health care provider to address known concern, not willing to utilize accommodations offered by the college to mitigate a known concern, etc.) and/or appears to pose a significant risk to their own safety, not based on mere speculation, stereotypes, or generalizations; and/or
Whether a Student’s behavior severely disrupts the College environment.

The individualized assessment for each factor, based on reasonable judgment that relies on current medical knowledge to the extent that information is available, or the best available objective evidence, should capture:

the nature, duration, and severity of the risk or disruption;
the probability that the risk or disruption will actually occur; and
whether reasonable modifications of policies, practices, or procedures will appropriately mitigate risk or disruption, thereby eliminating the need for an involuntary leave of absence. Reasonable modifications do not include changes that would fundamentally alter the academic program or unduly burden College resources or staffing capabilities, or that would exceed the standard of care or monitoring that a College can be expected to provide.

The VPSA will give significant weight to the opinion of the Student’s treatment provider(s) identified by the Student (with appropriate authorization) regarding the Student’s ability to function academically and safely at the College with or without reasonable accommodations. If the VPSA determines that the information provided by the treatment provider(s) is incomplete, requires further explanation or clarification, or is inconsistent with the other information in the Student’s record, the VPSA (with appropriate authorization) may contact the treatment provider(s) to obtain additional information.

6. Outcome

Following the VPSA’s consultations and review of the relevant documentation and information available, the VPSA shall make a decision regarding whether the Student should be placed on an Involuntary Leave of Absence. The VPSA shall determine that either:
1. Reasonable accommodations can adequately reduce the risk, as applicable: (A) to the Student’s health or safety; (B) to the health or safety of others in the College community; and/or (C) that the Student’s behavior would severely disrupt the College environment. The VPSA may, in consultation with the Office of Accessibility Services, determine conditions and/or requirements under which the Student is allowed to remain at the College using the least restrictive appropriate means possible. A student shall be referred for disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct if they fail to comply with the applicable conditions and/or requirements after they are imposed by the VPSA.
2. Reasonable accommodations cannot adequately reduce the significant risk, as applicable: (A) to the Student’s health or safety; (B) to the health or safety of others in the College community; and/or (C) that the Student’s behavior would severely disrupt the College environment. The VPSA may impose an Involuntary Leave of Absence. The VPSA will consult with the Office of Accessibility Services prior to making a decision to impose an involuntary leave of absence.
This VPSA’s decision shall be sent in writing to the Student. This Written Notification of the decision shall include: (1) the rationale for the decision; (2) the required length of the leave, which will be determined on an individualized basis (if applicable); (3) any conditions and/or requirements that the Student must satisfy to be eligible for return (if applicable); (4) information about the Student’s right to appeal the decision; and (5) information about reasonable accommodations available during the appeal process. The Student shall be sent Written Notification of the outcome in a reasonable and timely manner.

7. Appeal

Within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the written notice of the decision, the Student may submit an appeal of the decision in writing by using the Involuntary Leave of Absence Appeal Form.
The written request for appeal must specify the particular substantive and/or procedural basis for the appeal and must be made on grounds other than general dissatisfaction with the decision.
The appeal will be reviewed by the Provost & Vice President of Academic Affairs (VPAA). The original decision will remain in place during the pendency of the appeal.
The criteria for appeal will be limited to the following:

Disproportionate Findings or New Information: if there is any information not previously considered that would allow the Student to remain with or without a reasonable accommodation, or if there is any new information not previously available to the Student or the VPSA that may change the outcome of the decision-making process;
Procedural Irregularities: if there were any procedural irregularities or errors that materially affected the outcome of the matter to the detriment of the student who appealed the decision.

After reviewing the matter fully, the VPAA shall issue a written decision affirming, modifying, or reversing the decision to place the Student on an Involuntary Leave of Absence. Written Notification of the appeal decision will be sent within ten (10) calendar days of the Student’s appeal. The decision of the VPAA shall be final; no other internal appeals or grievance procedures at the College are available.

Procedures for Returning to the College

A Student must make a written request to the VPSA to return to the College following an Involuntary Leave of Absence. A Student shall not be allowed to return until the leave period in the Involuntary Leave of Absence decision has elapsed, and all conditions and/or requirements have been met. Students requesting to return from an Involuntary Leave of Absence must submit a Request to Return from a Involuntary Leave of Absence Form found on the SUNY WCC website.
In addition to any conditions for return from an involuntary leave of absence imposed, Students seeking to return from an Involuntary Leave of Absence may be required to submit additional documentation as part of an individualized assessment. The Student may be required to provide evidence that the Student, with or without reasonable accommodations, has sufficiently addressed the issues that previously established the criteria for imposing an Involuntary Leave of Absence. The VPSA may also ask, confer with, or seek information from others to assist in making this determination. The information sought may include:

At the Student’s discretion, documentation of efforts by the Student to address the issues that led to the leave;
Release of academic records to inform treating clinicians (with appropriate authorization);
Release of treatment information to the extent necessary to determine if the Student has sufficiently reduced the risk or disruption that led to the leave (with appropriate authorization);
Completion of a violence risk assessment or self-harm assessment conducted by an employee of the College or an affiliate organization who is trained in conducting the respective assessments;
Consultation with the Health Services Office and/or Department of Mental Health & Counseling Services to the extent necessary to determine if the student has sufficiently reduced the risk or disruption that led to the leave (with appropriate authorization);
Consultation with member(s) of the Community Assessment & Risk Evaluation (CARE) Team; and/or
Consultation with the Office of Accessibility Services to review any requests, eligibility and/or need for reasonable accommodations to support the Student’s return.

If a return to the College is denied by the VPSA, Written Notification of the decision will be transmitted to the Student and will include the rationale for the decision, a date when the student is eligible to re-apply for return, and any additional conditions or requirements, in addition to those already established in the original decision, for the Student’s return. Written notification will be sent within a reasonable time after the student has submitted a request for return and required documentation per this policy.

A Student not permitted to return may appeal the decision under this policy, following the procedures for appeal established in Procedure Section 7 (Appeal) of this Policy.

If the VPSA determines that the Student is ready to return to the College, Written Notification of the decision will be transmitted to the Student and shall include the rationale for the decision, the date when the Student is eligible to return, and any additional conditions or requirements that will be imposed upon the Student’s return. Written Notification will be sent within a reasonable time after the student has submitted a request for return and any required documentation per this policy.

Scope of the Policy and Relationship to Other College Policies

A leave of absence is an administrative process; it is not a disciplinary process. This policy is not intended to be punitive and does not take the place of disciplinary actions that are in response to violations of the Student Code of Conduct, or other policies and directives, nor does it preclude the removal or dismissal of students from the College or College- related programs as a result of violations of other College policies.

This policy does not limit the College’s ability to place enrollment holds on students for reasons beyond the scope of this policy.

This policy does not relieve a Student of any financial obligations to the College that were incurred prior to the time the Involuntary Leave of Absence was imposed.

Nothing in this policy limits the power of the College to take administrative action to ensure the safety of the College community in accordance with all appropriate laws and policies.

Nothing in this policy prevents the College from engaging in a temporary suspension under its policies if necessary, under the circumstances. Any such cases shall be appropriately reviewed per College policy.

Requests for Reasonable Accomodations

Students with disabilities may seek reasonable accommodations during, and/or for, any stage of the process. Any Student requesting accommodations will be referred to the Office of Accessibility Services to request and obtain an accommodation letter. The Student must then submit the accommodation letter and their written accommodation request to the VPSA.

1.13 Readmittance

Returning student who attended SUNY WCC less than seven years ago or graduated from SUNY WCC and want to take additional courses, are reactivated in the Registrar’s Office. However, students who attended SUNY WCC seven (7) years ago or more, must submit a new admission application and transcripts.

1.14 Courses By Senior Citizens Legislation

In 1974 two (2) bills were approved (S9595-C and S10782) by the Legislature related to auditing of courses by persons sixty years of age or over. The basic bill (S9595-C) amends the Education Law to add to the specification of powers and duties of the Board of Trustees the authority to promulgate regulations for the State-operated campuses which “permit persons sixty years of age or over to audit courses given therein without tuition, examination, grading or credit upon a space available basis, as determined by the Presidents of each such institution, provided that such audit attendance does not deny course attendance at a state-operated institution for an individual who is otherwise qualified.”

A closely similar provision authorizes community colleges to permit identical audit opportunities, except that the companion bill (S10782) states that the provisions of the basic amendment “shall not affect any state aid to community colleges.”

This legislation is in keeping with commitments that were made to the concept of lifelong learning. The only requirements for registration are as follows:

1.15 Registration

New Matriculating Students

Continuing/Returning Students

A second Associate degree for a specific concentration in a discipline which a student has already completed a degree is not academically recognized nor allowable.

Registration services are available online through self-service at MyWCC using a student ID and password.

Visiting Students (Non-Matriculated)

Email: Summerregistration@sunywcc.edu

As a non-matriculated student, they are considered College Math and College English ready and have met the ‘readiness’ prerequisite. They can register for any class that requires them to be ENG 101 ready or College Level Math ready. Students who would like to register for a course that has a different prerequisite must show that they have met the prerequisite in order to register for the course. All other prerequisites must be met before any student may register based on course requirements. They can submit an unofficial college transcript demonstrating that they have completed the prerequisite course for classes which they’d would like to enroll. Unofficial college transcripts may be emailed to the Registrar’s Office at visitingstudentregistration@sunywcc.edu. Students should include their SUNY WCC ID number and the exact course and section they would like to take. Permissions are added and students are notified that they can register.

For more information visit the website

For a course description, please visit the College’s catalog and select “Course Descriptions” from the menu.

Registration services are available online through self-service with MyWCC and the College Scheduler using a student ID and password.

1.16 Reverse Transfer

Students who transferred from SUNY WCC without completing a degree have the opportunity to complete.

Reverse Transfer credits back to SUNY WCC by having official college transcripts sent from their new school for review by a SUNY WCC transfer evaluator and a counselor.

For more information email Registrar@sunywcc.edu or Counseling@sunywcc.edu

1.17 SUNY Cross Registration

Degree seeking SUNY WCC students wishing to enroll at SUNY WCC and another SUNY school in the same semester should complete a Cross Registration Request/Application.

This form is not for SUNY WCC students planning to transfer to another SUNY college after they graduate from SUNY WCC.

This Application is not for students wishing to take courses at non-SUNY schools or CUNY schools. Students from other SUNY schools wishing to take classes at SUNY WCC should contact their home advising office about the cross-registration process.

Disproportionate Findings or New Information: if there is any information not previously considered that would allow the Student to remain with or without a reasonable accommodation, or if there is any new information not previously available to the Student or the VPSA that may change the outcome of the decision-making process;

Procedural Irregularities: if there were any procedural irregularities or errors that materially affected the outcome of the matter to the detriment of the student who appealed the decision.

After reviewing the matter fully, the VPAA shall issue a written decision affirming, modifying, or reversingthedecisiontoplacetheStudentonanInvoluntaryLeaveofAbsence.WrittenNotificationof the appeal decision will be sent within ten (10) calendar days of the Student’s appeal.The decision of the VPAAshall be final; noother internal appeals or grievance procedures at the College are available.

A thirty-seven dollar senior audit fee and a thirteen-dollar student fee, per semester.
Proof of age and Westchester County residency.
Senior citizens may take up to two courses per semester for this fee.
Classes not available under this program include courses with labs, hands-on and foreign language courses.
Senior citizen auditors shall not be included on class rosters, and they will not receive a grade. They will be registered in a non-credit class entitled Senior Audit.
Must see an academic counselor for advisement.
Submit immunization records to our Health Office.
Take our Placement test, or when applicable provide ACT/SAT/Regents scores or have transfer credit which waives the placement exam.
Must activate their MyWCC account and set up a password for MyWCC enrollment access.
Registration services are available online through self-service at MyWCC using a student ID and password.
Continuing /Returning students (those who have taken at least 1 credit at the College in the past) are able to register online through MyWCC if they have attended the College within the last 2 years.
If it has been more than 2 years but less than 7, students should contact the Registrar’s Office in order to be reactivated. Reactivation can also be done in-person at extension sites including (Mt. Vernon, Yonkers Cross County, Ossining and Peekskill).
If it has been more than 7 years, students must fill out a new application in the Admissions Office.
New students who filled out an application in the past but never took classes will have to contact the Admissions Office to have their account activated for the desired semester.
Alumni who graduated from SUNY Westchester Community College and wish to continue to study must complete the 2nd Degree Form with the Registrar’s Office to have enrollment access restored for the desired semester.