Whether you’re a first-generation student starting your college journey, a returning adult learner, or a parent supporting a loved one, enrolling in the right math and English courses is a crucial first step. At TecoGuide, we’re here to make that step clear and manageable. In this blog, based on insights from our Transfer Basics Series podcast, Professor G explains how placement works at Los Rios Colleges—and what you need to know to register successfully and confidently.

Step 1: Start with the Application – CCCApply.org

The first step to taking math and English at any of the Los Rios Colleges is completing your application through cccapply.org.

As you fill it out, you won’t be solving math problems or writing essays. Instead, the application will ask about your past experience with math and English in high school—such as what courses you took and how you did in them.

Key Tip: Be honest and detailed in your responses. Your answers help the college determine the best starting point for your coursework.]

Step 2: Understanding Your Placement

Based on your application, the Los Rios system will automatically assign a placement in math and English. Most students will receive this placement immediately after submitting their application.

📌 English Language Learners: If English is your second language, you may be asked to take an additional language assessment to determine your appropriate placement.

If you don’t receive a placement right away, don’t worry! Simply:

-Visit your college’s website

-Search for the “placements” section

-Fill out a follow-up form or answer confidence-based questions about your comfort level with math and English

Step 3: Know That Your Major Matters

Your major affects where you’ll start in math and English.

STEM Majors (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math):
You may be placed into different courses than someone majoring in Business, Education, or Liberal Arts.

Example Placement:

-Math: Statistics 300

-English: ENGWR 300 (English Writing 300)

If you place directly into these courses, you can move forward by selecting them from the class schedule and adding them to your course list.

Step 4: Understand Support Classes (If Applicable)

If your placement includes additional support, don’t be discouraged. Many students—especially those returning after a break or who struggled with math or English—will be placed into combo classes that include a support course.

For Math:

-Standard Course: Statistics 300

-Support Course: Statistics 10
You’ll need to register for both courses together.

For English:

-Standard Course: ENGWR 300

-Support Course: ENGWR 80
Same rule applies—register both at the same time.

Registration Tip: Add both courses into your eServices shopping cart at the same time and process them together. If you don’t, the system won’t allow you to register properly.

Step 5: Be Ready for Course Number Changes in Fall 2025

Big update coming: Starting Fall 2025, several course numbers across all 115 California community colleges will change. This is part of a statewide effort to standardize course names and make transfers easier.

Example:

-Current: Statistics 300

-New: STAT C1000

These changes will affect math, English, and some general education courses. Stay informed by checking your campus’s updates and speaking with a counselor.

Step 6: Meet with a Counselor—Early and Often

Don’t wait until the last minute! Making an appointment with a counselor is essential for:

-Understanding your placement

-Choosing the right courses

-Preparing for the Fall 2025 changes

-Ensuring your schedule aligns with your academic goals

Professor G asks: “What’s your experience been in getting a counseling appointment?” Let us know—your feedback helps improve the process for all students.

Enrolling in the right math and English classes is a vital part of your college success, especially for first-gen and transfer-bound students. With the right tools and guidance, you can take control of your educational journey.

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