Get Started and Apply

Welcome to American River College – we are so glad you are here!

What Type of Student Are You?

Choose from the following to learn how to apply and start taking classes at American River College!

First-Time College Student

Is it your first time taking college classes? Begin your educational journey at ARC.

Undocumented Student

We welcome undocumented students who live in the US regardless of DACA status.

Returning Student

If it's been more than one semester since you've taken classes at a Los Rios college, then you need to re-apply.

Transfer Student

If you've attended college outside of Los Rios, then you're a transfer student.

ESL Student

Find specific application instructions for students who are learning English.

International Student

Learn how to apply as an international student on an F-1 visa.

High School or Adult School Student

Take up to 11 units at ARC each semester while you are in high school or adult school.

Veteran, Reservist, or Dependent

Learn how to apply if you are a veteran, reservist, or dependent of a veteran.

One- or Two-Term Student

Follow these steps if you just want to take a few classes at ARC.

Welcome Future ARC Beavers!

Request Info

Schedule a 1:1 appointment to get your questions answered!

Outreach for High School Counselors

Our Outreach and Recruitment team is happy to send representatives to talk to your group. We cover topics such as:

Already Taking Classes at ARC?

Current Student Enrollment Steps

Current Student Enrollment Steps

You are considered a continuing (or current) student if you were enrolled in classes at a Los Rios college during the most recent semester.

HomeBases

Arts Homebase Logo

Arts HomeBase

Cultivate your creativity! Explore the arts and find a career aligned with your innate creative fire.

ARC Business Homebse Logo

Business HomeBase

Are you a go-getter? Do you aspire to be your own boss, or lead others? Are you innovative and seeking to influence change? Explore the Business HomeBase!

Health and Well Being HomeBase Logo

Health and Education HomeBase

Interested in what fuels our body and how it works? Every stage of life brings different needs. Explore the variety of programs and career options in the health and well being fields.

Language and Communication HomeBase Logo

Language & Communication HomeBase

Calling all writers, aspiring journalists, and those interested in languages! Explore careers in the field of language and communication.

Manufacturing, Construction, and Transportation HomeBase Logo

Manufacturing, Construction, and Transportation HomeBase

Do you like to use strategic planning and problem solving to bring a project to life? The MCT HomeBase will provide you with the training and hands-on skills for in-demand careers across the manufacturing and construction fields.

People, Culture, and Society HomeBase Logo

People, Culture & Society HomeBase

Feel the human connection, experience history and culture, and explore and embrace our differences in the People Culture and Society HomeBase.

Public Service HomeBase Logo

Public Service HomeBase

Are you passionate about creating safe and caring communities? A career in public service can present opportunities to build relationships, problem solve, and provide critical response to the community.

STEM HomeBase Logo

STEM HomeBase

With STEM, you can! Learn, create, and explore the career and degree options in science, technology, engineering and math.

Get Connected

Admissions Office

Admissions Office

We provide assistance to complete the college application, verify California residency, register for classes, interpret policies pertaining to enrollment, send and receive college transcripts, maintain student admissions and records, and process petitions to graduate. Find Office Hours and more.

First Year Experience at ARC

First Year Experience at ARC

ARC is committed to ensuring new students have a smooth transition to the college and successfully complete their first year.

PathwayU Career Exploration

PathwayU Career Exploration

PathwayU is a free tool for current and prospective students to explore where their interests, values, personality, and workplace preferences intersect with career fields and programs of study at American River College.

Orientation

Orientation

Orientation gives you important information to help you succeed at ARC. All new students must complete orientation online or in person.