Non-degree-seeking
International Students

Some international students living in the United States are eligible to enroll in classes other than ESL without pursuing a degree. Please note that students holding or applying for F-1 or M-1 visas are not eligible for the non-degree status. Contact the Assistant Director of Admissions and Records if you are unsure of your eligibility for non-degree status.

Step 1 - Apply for Admission

Fill out the application for admission online, send it to us by mail, or bring it to the Office of Admissions at Vol State in the Administration Building, Room 108 along with the $10 nonrefundable application fee. Students will also need to provide:

• A photocopy of both sides of the permanent residency card (also known as the Form I-551 or "green card"), visa, or other immigration authorization. (Passports are not considered immigration authorization.)

Step 2 - Take the TOFEL (not required for permanent residents)

You must achieve a minimum score of 500 on the paper-based TOEFL or a 173 on the computer version, and have the official scores sent to VSCC. These students may opt to take the MELAB instead of the TOEFL, but a minimum score of 72 is required. An applicant whose native language is not English may be exempted from the TOEFL or MELAB requirement, provided that student has satisfied all freshman English composition requirements with a grade of "C" or better at a regionally accredited college or university in the United States. A similar exemption may be made for students who graduated from high school in the United States or from secondary school in another country where the native language is English.

Step 3 - Get Vaccinations

Forms are available from the Office of Admissions & Records

• Submit a tuberculosis immunization certificate from a licensed physician or other qualified medical authority. The certification must be received by the Admissions and Records Office at least 30 days prior to registration.
• Proof of 2 Measles, Mumps, & Rubella vaccinations after your first birthday

Step 4 - Schedule Testing

You will be given the ACT Compass exam for the course(s) you wish to take unless you have previously taken college-level English and math and passed them with a grade of C or better. You may not enroll in the course(s) if you place at the developmental level or below on the ACT Compass.

See our Testing FAQ for additional information on the web.

Step 5 - See an Advisor

Volunteer State Community College strongly encourages all students see their advisor before registering for classes. Once you have applied for admission, if you missed Orientation, you can call the Advising Center and we will tell you how to contact your advisor. The Advising Center assigns each student an advisor by major or if you have not decided on a major, you may speak to an advisor in our Advising Center in W-105 or call 615-230-3237.

Step 6 - Get Registered

Once you've tested and seen your advisor, you are eligible to register for classes. You can register through the PRIDE phone registration system or through PRIDE Online. Please see How to Register or give us a call at 615-230-3688 for further information. Remember, we're here to help.