FAQ
1. Do I have to apply to the college if I only want to take one course?
No, you may take up to two courses (excluding English or Math) without applying to the college and/or having taken the assessment placement test. However, we strongly encourage you to apply to the college and take the assessment placement test if you want to work toward the completion of an associate’s degree or certificate. Please note: You must be in a degree or certificate program to apply for Financial Aid.
2. If I apply, do I still have to register?
Yes, the term ‘register’ is used when you enroll in your courses each semester.
3. How many credits make up one course?
Most courses are three credits; however, some courses with labs are four credits.
4. How many credits do I have to be enrolled in to be a full-time student?
Twelve credits or more
5. Am I eligible for financial aid if I only take one course?
Most students must be enrolled in six credits or more. There are, however, some students who may only take only one course and still be eligible for financial aid. Please check with your financial aid counselor.
6. How will I know which courses to register for?
Most students are required to take an assessment placement which will help determine what level courses you should begin with. You will meet with a counselor from our Career Planning and Advising Center (CPAC) to help you select courses.
7. What is a program or major?
A program or major is the field of study in which you choose to complete your associate’s degree or certificate. All programs are outlined in NECC’s Academic Advising handbook.
8. Can I transfer credit from another college?
Yes, you must submit an official college transcript from an accredited college or university for a credit evaluation. Transfer credit may be awarded for college level courses with a grade of “C” or better. A minimum of 24 credit hours of course work must be completed at NECC in order to qualify for an associate’s degree and a minimum of 12 credits to qualify for a certificate.
9. What is the address for the NECC Web site, and will I have a school email account?
NECC’s Web site address is www.necc.mass.edu. You will be given access to an NECC email account when you register for classes.
10. Why do I need to purchase health insurance if I am registered in 9 or more credits?
It is a state law that every student enrolled in 9 or more credits must show proof of being covered by health insurance by filling out the Online Insurance Waiver available on the College’s Website. The student invoice contains instructions on how to waive the insurance charge (2009-2010: $823 for an academic year; $564 for Spring only). If the student does not have health insurance coverage, it must be purchased from the College. For financial aid students, the deadline for completing this waiver in order to deduct the premium charge on your bill is no later than one week before the semester begins. Students who are not using financial aid to pay their tuition, must complete the waiver before paying their bill. The Online Health Insurance Waiver is the only way you can waive the insurance premium.