Getting Started at MiraCosta College

CONTACT, HOURS & APPOINTMENTS

 

If you are a Military-Connected student planning to use your VA education benefits at MiraCosta College, you will need to complete the following steps: 

Step 1: Apply
Step 2: Official Transcripts

All official transcripts from previous colleges and universities must be electronically sent to MiraCosta. This includes JST, CCAF, DLPT, and AP scores.

HELPFUL TIP: Missing official transcripts is the main reason for delayed benefit payments.

Step 3: Get Priority Registration (Veterans + Active Duty Only)
This process can be completed online through your SURF account. Follow the instructions for Admissions & Records and Priority Registration Request.
Step 4: Before Priority Registration
  • Complete Online Orientation through your SURF account. This can be found under the 'Tasks' file on the Student Center home page.
  • Meet with a Military-Connected Counselor to develop an Abbreviated Education Plan. This is good for your first semester only. Contact Veterans Services to get an appointment scheduled!
NOTE: Students who have previously attended MiraCosta College are ineligible for an Abbreviated Education Plan
Step 5: Priority Registration Day
  • Register for classes online through your SURF account but make sure to only register for the classes showing on your education plan.
HELPFUL TIP: When looking at your education plan, click to the tab that says "Plans" to make sure you're registering for certifiable classes. 
  • If you're using GI Bill® benefits, make sure you complete your Letter of Intent (LOI) online through your SURF account the same day that you register for your classes. It is found on the Student Forms tile under the Veterans Education section. This begins the certification process and keeps you from getting dropped from classes.
Before Next Semester
  • Make sure all official transcripts are evaluated. Evaluations can take up to 6-8 weeks. This is not automatic and must be done before a Comprehensive Education Plan can be created. This can be done by calling the Veterans Services department -- no need to come in!
  • Meet with a Military-Connected Counselor to create a Comprehensive Education Plan.
  • Complete the Pre-Registration Survey before you can register for classes. This will show up on your To-Do List in SURF each semester before you can register.
Highly Recommended but not Required
  • Complete a FAFSA to help cover the cost of other education related expenses.
  • Connect with The Learning Centers on campus to set yourself up for success in your classes!
  • Talk to Veterans Services about all the great resources available to help you succeed!

For Post 9/11 GI Bill® and Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) recipients only

Complete your LOI the same day as enrollment to avoid courses being dropped for non-payment. Payment of tuition and fees for certifiable courses will be deferred to the VA.