Dianne, a current student recently wrote, "Here, I find faculty that take the time to make sure I understand; they are always willing to give of themselves, showing once again how their commitment comes through to me like the sun on a cold winter day. Yes, it feels good! I have to admit that it is not easy working full time, going to college part time, being intimate with my Lord God and doing His work, maintaining a home, spending time with my family, and still trying to find time for a bubble bath. But I am fortunate to be in the right place for my education because the Evening program at Columbia College taps the best of me."

Claudia, a current student wrote, "I recently enrolled in the Evening program. I know that it will not be easy, but Columbia College and I have made  a commitment to each other. I understand that the standards are high and that I will be challenged to give 100%. I accept this challenge and look forward to being a part of the Columbia College future success story. Columiba College's commitment to excellence has taught me to put "me first".

If you have questions other than the ones addressed here, please contact Joann at 786.3191 and she will be happy to talk with you!

Can men enroll in the Evening program?

Yes, men are welcome to enroll in the Evening College and about 10% of our Evening enrollment is male. The day program at Columbia College is restricted to women, but men are an important part of our Evening program, and we welcome them to apply for admission.

Am I too old to return to college?

In 3 years, you will be 3 years older with or without a college degree, so why not apply to Columbia College and change your future? The simple answer is that you are NEVER TOO OLD to return to college! What are you waiting for?

Will I have to take math?

Of course you will be required to take math because we know it is important that you have a well rounded liberal arts education when you earn your degree from Columbia College. Maybe you had a bad experience in math previously, but this is now and that was then. Your professor understands adult students and will help you succeed. In addition, we offer free tutoring in our math labs and you CAN and WILL be able to meet your math requirement. It might not be easy, but nothing worth having ever is. Don't let Math keep you from fulfilling your dream of earning your degree!

How do I enroll in the Evening College?

You can start by requesting an information packet here, or you may call 786.3191 or 1.800.277.1301and request an information packet that will be mailed within three business days.

Once your application has been received, you will be able to track the status of your file by using our Online Admission Tracking System at https://cris.colacoll.edu/cris/status/Default.asp.

Can I apply to the Evening College online?

Yes. Go to the Evening online application to apply. When you apply, make sure you print the recommendation form, as this is an important part of your admission file.

I wasn’t a very good student in high school or in my previous college experience. Will this keep me from getting accepted into the Evening program at Columbia College?

The Evening program works with each prospective student on an individual basis to determine whether or not Columbia College is the right place for you. If your academic record in high school or college was below standard, but you are SERIOUS about returning to school, please call and talk with us about the factors that led to your past academic problems. We will give you a second chance when we are confident you can be successful in our Evening program. Go ahead and pick up the phone!

Once I apply for admission, what else do I need to do?

If you are a transfer student, you need to request official transcripts from EVERY college you ever attended. If you are a true freshman, you need to request your official high school transcript. Both transfers and true freshmen must have someone who knows your academic ability or work ethic to fill out your recommendation form. It is very important to begin the financial aid process as soon as you apply for admission so you can be awarded financial aid once you are accepted to Columbia College.

How soon will I know if I am accepted?

Transfers -- Once ALL your official academic transcripts and a recommendation have been received, your file will be sent to the registrar for evaluation. When the admissions office receives your file back from the registrar with a transfer evaluation and GPA, if your transfer GPA is a 2.1 or above, you will be notified via mail and receive a phone call of your acceptance.

First-Time Freshman -- Once your official high transcript and a recommendation have been received, your file will be evaluated for admission. If your GPA is a 2.1 or above, you will be notified via mail and receive a phone call of your acceptance.

What if my GPA isn't a 2.1?

We understand that you might not have been a successful student academically in your previous college or high school attendance. If we are not able to admit you with a regular acceptance decision based on a 2.1 or higher GPA, we will notify you if you qualify for the opportunity to appeal the decision. This involves writing a letter stating why your previous academic work was below standard and why you will be able to perform better academically if admitted to Columbia College. If this is an option for you, you will receive a call from your admission counselor requesting that you write a letter of appeal.

I earned a GED. Am I eligible for admission?

Yes, you are still eligible to apply for admission and it would be very helpful if you share that you earned a GED. Please submit the following documents to complete your admission file.

• An official high school transcript for whatever grades you attended
• A copy of your GED scores
• A statement explaining the circumstances surrounding your decision to leave high school before earning your diploma