Getting Started

The thought of going back to school, or taking classes for the first time, can often be overwhelming. While every person and their situation is different, take a look at the checklist we’ve provided to make it all a little less “puzzling”.

Steps to Get Started

Step 1: Select a Major/Program of Study

Step 2: Submit an Application at each school

Complete the online CSM Admissions Application form.

*If you are under 18 years of age, you are required to print a copy of this form and mail it back to CSM with a signature of a parent or guardian to the Admissions Office address below.

Complete the online UMUC Admissions Application form

Step 3: Complete Financial Assistance Applications

Free Application for Federal Student Aid - FAFSA

CSM FAFSA School Code - 002064

UMUC FAFSA School Code - 011644

Further options for financial aid can be found on each school's web sites:

CSM -Financial Assistance

UMUC - Financial Assistance

Step 3: Send Official Transcripts

Obtain and submit an "official" copy of your military transcripts and/or college transcripts. Alliance students should send transcripts to both CSM and UMUC.

Send transcripts to:

College of Southern Maryland
Attn: Admissions (AOD)
8730 Mitchell Road, Box 910
La Plata, MD 20646-0910

University of Maryland University College
Registrar's office/Transcripts
3501 University Blvd. East
Adelphi, MD 20783-8075

Step 4: Take the CSM or UMUC Placement Test

Call 301-632-2900 to schedule placement test appointment at the Waldorf Center.

Placement Test Schedule

Step 5: Attend an Information/Orientation Session

For CSM:

SOAR - Student orientation and registration
Call to register 301-934-7765

-or-

Online orientation - Once you have your seven digit student ID number

-or-

Attend "Waldorf Wednesday"

For UMUC:

Semester Start-up Sessions

Step 6: Register for Classes

Review the Schedule of classes and select your classes.

Register online

CSM Web site

UMUC Web site

-or-

Register in-person

Register at the Waldorf Center for Higher Education

Step 7: Meet with an Advisor

If you need to meet with an advisor call 301-632-2900.