College Connection
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College Is Possible. And You Belong Here.College may feel like a big step, but you belong here and we’re ready to help you succeed.
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A Path for Every Student
Explore Careers
Discover programs connected to real careers and future opportunities.
Flexible Learning Options
Choose from in-person, online, and hybrid classes that fit your schedule.
Save Money and Stay Close to Home
Start your college journey with affordable options and local support.
Transfer or Start Your Career
Prepare to transfer to a university or enter the workforce with valuable skills.
“I was nervous about starting college, but I found people who genuinely wanted me to succeed.”
Student Support
You’re Not Doing This Alone
Starting college can feel overwhelming, but support is all around you at Alamo Colleges. Advisors, instructors, tutors, and success coaches are here to help you stay on track and reach your goals.
No matter where you come from or where you want to go, there’s a place for you here.
Academic Advising
Get help planning classes and reaching your goals.
Tutoring & Support
Access resources designed to help you succeed in class.
College Expectations
College Looks Different Than High School
College gives you more independence and flexibility. Understanding what to expect can help you feel more confident as you prepare for your first semester.
You Build Your Schedule
Students choose their classes and create schedules that fit their goals, work, and personal responsibilities.
More Independence
There are no bells between classes, so managing your time and staying organized become important skills.
Different Ways to Learn
Some classes meet in person, some online, and others combine both formats for added flexibility.
Asking Questions Matters
College is a place to speak up, ask for help, and build relationships with instructors and classmates.
Class Schedules
Understanding Your Schedule
College classes may meet in different ways depending on the course format. Knowing how your classes work can help you choose a schedule that fits your life and learning style.
Face-to-Face Classes
Attend class on campus at scheduled times during the week. This format offers in-person interaction with instructors and classmates.
Live Online Classes
Meet online with your instructor at scheduled times using Zoom or other virtual tools while learning from home or another location.
Hybrid Classes
A mix of in-person meetings and online coursework that gives students added flexibility throughout the semester.
Online on Your Own Time
Complete coursework weekly with flexible access to assignments and course materials without scheduled class meetings.
Different Semester Lengths
Some college courses move at a faster pace than others depending on the session length.
- 16-Week Classes: Traditional semester-length courses
- 8-Week Classes: Faster-paced courses completed in half the time
- 5-Week Accelerated Classes: Intensive courses completed in a condensed timeframe
Student Success
Skills That Help You Succeed
College is more than attending classes. It’s also about building habits that help you grow academically, personally, and professionally.
The good news? You don’t have to be perfect to succeed. Asking questions, staying connected, and using available resources can make a big difference.
Ask Questions
Speaking up and asking for help are important parts of the college experience.
Stay Organized
Managing your schedule and keeping track of assignments can help reduce stress and build confidence.
Build Relationships
Connecting with instructors, classmates, and support staff can help you feel more confident and supported.
Invest in Yourself
Every class, conversation, and experience is a step toward your future goals.
For Parents & Guardians
Your Support Makes a Difference
Starting college is a big step, and family support can make a meaningful difference in student success.
Alamo Colleges offers advising, academic support, financial aid resources, and flexible learning options to help students succeed.

Next Steps![]()
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re exploring programs, preparing for your first semester, or getting ready to apply, Alamo Colleges is here to help you move forward with confidence.
Your future doesn’t have to wait. Start building it today.
Apply Now
Apply
Apply and get accepted to college!Applying is free and easy. Visit applytexas.org to complete your application.
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Next Steps
Access Student Portal
The Alamo Colleges District uses ACES as the online student portal for all of your information and can be accessed at aces.alamo.edu.
Submit Documents
You’ll need to gather and submit several important documents, including:
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Get Registered
Orientation and Registration
Celebrate your transition to college! You'll learn more about your college programs and services at New Student Orientation (NSO), which is required for all new and transfer students. Once you attend NSO, you'll be able to meet with an advisor and register for classes. Make Payment
After you’ve registered, you’ll need to make sure your tuition has been covered by financial aid or your payments have been made to avoid having your classes dropped. View Registration and Payment Calendar Questions about paying for college? |
Once You Apply:
After you apply and submit your transcript, you’ll receive your ACES login to access your student account.
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Personalized Enrollment StepsOnce in ACES, you can activate AlamoNAVIGATE and access your personalized enrollment steps, including upcoming tasks, overdue deadlines, and steps you’ve already completed. |
Helpful Links
Academics |
Admissions & Aid |
Student Support |
Contact Us
How can College Connection help me?
Our enrollment coaches are here to help you through the admissions process at the Alamo Colleges. They can answer your questions or connect you with the right person. Contact us today!
Looking for the Welcome Center at Your Chosen College?
Head to a College Welcome Center for the same great assistance.
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Northeast Lakeview College Brazos Student Union (STCM 114) |
Northwest Vista College Desert Willow Welcome Center (DWWC 102) |
Palo Alto College Rio Grande Building (RGB 105A) |
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San Antonio College Fletcher Administration Building (FAB 2nd Floor) |
St. Philip's College Welcome Center (WEC 202) |
ACCESS Welcome Center |










