Welcome to the First Step Program!

If you are completing your sophomore, junior, or senior year of high school and want to get started on college NOW then this is the program for you!  

The  FIRST STEP program is a summer academic program that gives high school students an opportunity to get an early start into college by taking college courses during the summer session.

Who is eligible to attend FIRST STEP?

• Pinal County residents who meet in-state residency guidelines.
• Students who have completed their sophomore, junior or senior year of high school. Currently enrolled freshman are not eligible for this program.
• All First Step students must enroll and complete CPD101.

How much does it cost?

Students accepted into the FIRST STEP program receive a scholarship that pays for in-state tuition for up to 7 credits. Students are responsible for the purchase of their books and for transportation to and from campus.

What classes can I take?

All students must complete the placement test scores in reading, writing, and mathematics. The college courses students are eligible to enroll in are determined by the placement scores and advice of an Academic Advisor. Contact the Testing department at your campus for a testing appointment. Students are strongly encouraged to complete the testing before the FIRST STEP Orientation.

Will I earn high school or college credits?

You will take college courses and earn college credits. All grades will be part of your permanent college academic record. In some cases you may earn credit to apply toward high school graduation. Please check with you high school counselor for more information regarding high school credit.

When are FIRST STEP classes held?

Classes are held during Central Arizona College’s regular summer schedule of 5 and 8 week sessions. The 2009 Summer Sessions begins May 26, 2009.

Registration Dates:

Students may register for classes at any time before the first day of classes.

How do I enroll?

• Complete a Central Arizona College admission form (New students only) or click this link to apply online.
• Complete the FIRST STEP application and bring it with you to registration.
• Call a campus near you to schedule placement testing and orientation.
• Sign up for a FIRST STEP Orientation session.
• Register for CPD101 Orientation to Student Development (required for all first-time FIRST STEP students).

Students must complete the following steps to be enrolled in the FIRST STEP PROGRAM:

1. apply to the college,
2. secure all signatures on the First Step Form (available from their high school guidance counselor or our Recruitment office),
3. attend a First Step Orientation,
4. complete the placement test (contact your local CAC campus or center),
5. meet with an academic advisor,
6. register for CPD101 and other classes, CPD101 IS A REQUIRED COURSE. STUDENTS NOT COMPLETING THE COURSE WILL NOT RECEIVE THE SCHOLARSHIP
7. turn in the completed First Step form to the registration office,
8. obtain a CAC ID,
9. purchase books at the bookstore, and
10. attend class.
11. What else do I need to know?

While attending Central as a FIRST STEP student, you are a member of the college community and are expected to adhere to all college rules and regulations. You are expected to attend all classes for which you are enrolled.

REMINDER: Students are required to complete CPD101 as part of the FIRST STEP program.  Students not enrolled in the course will not receive the scholarship.  Students failing to complete the course will not be eligible for additional first step scholarships.

Second Steppers

Students who have participated previously in FIRST STEP do not need to apply for admissions or take the placement exam. You may proceed directly to walk-in registration with a completed FIRST STEP form or call a campus near you for an advising appointment.

All students must have the completed FIRST STEP form with you at the time of registration to receive the FIRST STEP scholarship!

Content on this page is provided by Recruitment & Retention.