Frequently Asked Questions
Click on a question to go to the response.
- When does the next semester start?
- When can I register for classes?
- How much does it cost to attend Coalinga College?
- How do I start the registration process?
- Is the class schedule online?
- How can I schedule an appointment with a counselor?
- Can I get financial aid?
- What is a fee waiver?
- What can I earn at Coalinga College?
- Do I need a high school diploma to attend Coalinga College?
- I completed classes at another college. How do I receive credit for these courses at West Hills?
1. When does the next semester start?
Fall semesters run from August to December, with Spring semesters beginning in January and ending in May. Some classes are offered as “Nine Week” short-term sessions and may be available mid-semester. Summer sessions typically run from June to late July or early August. Please check your “myWestHills” portal for a complete listing by location.
2. When can I register for classes?
With our REG 365 initiative, class registration becomes available in April/May each year, allowing registrations for the following Summer, Fall, and Spring semesters, the entire academic year all at once. Priority registration is granted based upon special factors such as active military/veteran status, membership in a special group (for example, President’s Scholars and SSS TRiO), and number of college units completed. New students need to complete the application for admission, orientation, and counseling. For more information, call Student Services at any WHC location.
3. How much does it cost to attend Coalinga College?
View current information on tuition and fee waivers
Tuition rates differ based on California residency status.
4. How do I start the registration process?
Please see our Admissions page for step-by-step instructions on how to register at Coalinga College.
5. Is the class schedule online?
Yes. Begin by logging in to your myWestHills portal. Under Self Service for Students, click Registration, followed by Search & Register for Classes, to access the current schedule for West Hills College.
6. How can I schedule an appointment with a counselor?
There are several ways to book a counseling appointment: stop by or call Student Services (Coalinga 559-934-2300 / Firebaugh 559-934-2980), or use your myWestHills portal (myCounseling Services).
7. Can I get financial aid?
Grants, loans, and scholarships are available at Coalinga College. Fee waivers and book vouchers are also available for students who qualify. WHC also has work-study opportunities for eligible students.
8. What is a California College Promise Grant fee waiver?
Some California residents may be eligible for a California College Promise Grant, which waives enrollment fees. Books, course materials, supplies, and equipment are not covered by this grant. Apply with assistance from a financial aid employee. When you apply for federal financial aid, you will also be considered for the California College Promise Grant.
View current information on tuition and fee waivers
9. What can I earn at Coalinga College?
Coalinga College offers certificates of completion, Associate Degrees in Arts (AA) or Sciences (AS), as well as Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADT). Students can prepare for the workforce in a matter of months, earn a degree, find employment, or transfer to a four-year university. You can also take classes to update your skills or for personal enrichment. For more information on classes universities will accept in a specific major, consult assist.org and speak with your academic advisor or counselor.
10. Do I need a high school diploma to attend Coalinga College?
No. If you are 18 or older, you do not need a high school diploma for admission to Coalinga College. If you are under age 18 or still in high school, you will need a special admission form, which must be submitted in person to Student Services.
11. I completed classes at another college. How do I receive credit for these courses at West Hills?
The first step is to have your official transcripts sent to us from any previous colleges or universities you have attended. Currently, Coalinga College requires official copies of transcripts from any institution of higher education you attended, whether you passed classes or not, in order to grant a Coalinga College degree. To receive credit, the school you attended must be regionally accredited.
Typically, your previous school will have a link on its website or portal to request that transcripts be sent to us or directly to you. Transcripts must remain sealed to be considered official. Allow 2-3 weeks from the request date for transcripts to arrive. Then speak to your team counselor to request transcript evaluation and schedule a follow-up appointment to review the results. Evaluations may take up to 4-6 weeks from the time of request.