Adult Learner FAQ
Oftentimes, as an adult coming back to school, you have lots of questions. Please check below to see a list of frequently asked questions.
Do I still need to fill out a FAFSA?
Yes, if you are applying for any kind of aid or scholarships, you will need to do this. Even if you don’t think you will get any kind of aid, you are encouraged to fill out the FAFSA.
Do you need my high school transcript if I graduated 20 years ago?
Yes, no matter if you graduated this year, 5 years ago, or 25 years ago, the College needs your final high school transcript or GED/HiSET. Proof of high school completion is required to attend Jefferson College, and is also required for financial aid. Also, if you graduated less than 5 years ago, the College may also be able to use your high school transcript for placement purposes.
I have taken some college courses. Will those count?
Possibly. Depending on the courses you took and where they were completed, the College may be able to transfer those credits in to help you complete a degree. Staff in our Registrar's Office would be happy to review your prior college coursework to let you know what classes may transfer in. You should have your official college transcript(s) sent to admissions@jeffco.edu.
I have certificates or an apprenticeship. Does that count for anything?
Possibly. Staff in our Registrar's Office can review certifications or apprenticeships to see if the College could use them to apply some credit. Learn more about our Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) process. If you have finished an apprenticeship at a Department of Labor recognized apprenticeship you may be able to earn up to 45 credits for that apprenticeship; for more information you can go here.
Can I do my program online/at night?
Maybe. The College does offer night classes, hybrid classes, and online classes. Course offerings are determined on a program by program and even class by class basis. Most of your general education classes can be completed online. To know if a specific class is available online or at night, you can reach out to your advisor or check the course schedule to look up the particular class.
I have kids. Do you have childcare available?
The College has an Early Childhood Center located on our Hillsboro campus. The Center is accredited and state licensed and provides a comprehensive, high quality child development program for preschool and school age children, ages 2 through 12. The center is open to students, faculty, and the community. Learn more!
What is the placement test, and why do I have to take it?
The Accuplacer placement test covers math and reading, is not timed, and can be taken on a walk-in basis at our Testing Center. The College receives those scores immediately, which allows your advisor to put you in the appropriate classes. View the testing center hours, location, and study materials.
If you graduated from high school more than 5 years ago or if you graduated within the last 5 years but your cumulative GPA was less than a 3.0 GPA, the College uses a placement test to place you in classes. You can follow up with Admissions to see if taking the placement test is necessary, because there are other circumstances where it may not be required.
Can I take just one class?
You can take one class, go part-time, or full-time. The choice is completely up to you. If you are choosing to take just one class, you still need to fulfill all of the same requirements as if you were going to be attending full-time.
Do you offer continuing education classes for fun like cooking, beekeeping, painting, etc.?
The College does not have those types of classes. However, like stated above, you can take just an art class or one of our credit classes, for fun. The College also offers short-term programs and training classes through our Workforce Development & Employment Services office. View the course offerings.
Are there resources for adults?
Yes, the College has a lot of available resources for our adult students. The College has an Academic Success Center, tutoring, and more! Read all about these resources.
Are there ways to see the College?
Yes, visit our campus by booking a tour now online! Tours are offered year-round and the College also hosts specific program tours for the Nursing and Vet Tech programs.
Preview Day, typically held the first or second Saturday in March, invites students to campus take a tour, learn about available resources, and meet faculty members.
Another event, Come Back to School Night, is held in September. This family-friendly event is geared towards adults coming back to school. Visitors learn about programs offered and the resources for adult learns to help maximize their academic success.
