Welcome to the First Step Program!

First Step is a summer program for Pinal County high school students completing their sophomore, junior, or senior year of high school. This program allows high school students to enroll in college courses before graduating from high school. Students who enroll in this program may enroll in up to 7 college credits and receive a tuition waiver!

Who may participate in First Step?
Pinal County high school students who have completed their sophomore, junior or senior year of high school and meet in-state residency guidelines are eligible.

When are classes held?
Classes are held during the college summer session. They last 5 and 8 weeks long. The Summer Semester begins Tuesday May 29, 2012. Please see the Summer Semester schedule for available classes.

How do I get started?

1. Secure all signatures on the First Step Form (available from your high school guidance counselors or the CAC Recruitment Office)
2. Make an appointment to attend a Testing and Advising forum
3. Attend your Testing and Advising forum. You will start registering for classes at the forum 
4. Turn in the completed First Step form to the CAC Registration Office
5. Attend an Orientation
6. Purchase books at the Bookstore
7. Attend all classes

What else should students know?
First Step students are members of the college community and are expected to adhere to all college rules and regulations listed in the College Catalog. Students are expected to attend all classes. Students are responsible for completing the withdrawal process for any courses they do not attend.

 Testing and Advising Forums
Prior to registering for coursework at Central Arizona College, first time, First Step students are expected to complete COMPASS placement testing and attend an Advising Forum. Placement testing and Advising Forums are available by appointment only. Students must contact one of the Campus/Centers listed below to schedule an appointment for COMPASS Testing and Advising Forum. Testing will begin promptly @ 3pm and Advising Forum will begin @ 4:30pm.

In the Forum students will:
   • Take placement tests
   • See an Academic Advisor
   • Turn in the First Step form (with signatures)
   • Register for classes

Testing and Advising Forum Locations 

If you are unable to attend a registration session please contact Luis Sanchez at firststep@centralaz.edu.

Placement Testing
The results of writing, mathematics, and reading tests are indicators of a student's current skill levels and are used to help students select appropriate courses that build on present knowledge and support future success.  It is important to understand that students cannot "fail" their placement tests.  Students can take a practice test at the ACT website.

Orientations
Please check the Orientation webpage for dates and times near you.

More Information
For more information about the First Step program or if you have additional questions please contact Luis Sanchez at firststep@centralaz.edu.

Content on this page is provided by Recruitment & Retention.