Noncredit courses are FREE classes that build student confidence, provide valuable preparation for future careers and educational opportunities, and increase equitable access to career development, education and vocational training.
Frequently Asked Questions for Students
Why should a student take noncredit courses or complete a noncredit certificate program?
Noncredit classes assist students seeking to improve math or English proficiency, increase literacy and job skills, prepare for college-level courses and career pathways.
What is the difference between credit and noncredit courses?
Credit courses are designed for students who are interested in earning college units towards a degree or certificate. Students who take credit courses receive a letter grade (A, B, C, D or F) at the end of the semester.
Noncredit courses are intended for students who want to gain general knowledge, learn a new skill, upgrade existing skills, enrich their understanding about a wide range of topics, or develop personal interests. Noncredit classes are NOT applicable toward a degree and no units are earned. Upon completion of a series of required classes, students can earn a noncredit certificate of completion.
Who can take noncredit courses?
Anyone 18 years of age or older.
Is financial aid available for noncredit courses?
No. Federal Financial Aid is not available for noncredit classes. Noncredit classes are tuition free. Students are responsible for the purchase of books and supplies. Financial aid is not available for these materials.
Are there grades in noncredit courses?
Yes. Grading options for noncredit classes include:
Pass (P) = Satisfactory completion of course
No Pass (NP) = Did not complete course satisfactorily
Satisfactory Progress (SP) = Satisfactory progress towards completion
Can noncredit courses be repeated?
Yes. There are no repeatability limits for noncredit courses.
Is there a noncredit transcript?
Yes. Students who take noncredit courses can order a noncredit transcript.
Can noncredit classes be transferred to another college?
No units are earned in noncredit courses and therefore are not designed for transfer to secondary institutions and do not apply toward degree.
Do students have to purchase textbooks for noncredit classes?
If a textbook is required, yes, students are responsible for purchasing the textbook for the noncredit class. However, many noncredit courses use zero-cost materials or have books available for student use. The AVC Library Reserve collections (Lancaster and Palmdale) may also provide access to course textbooks.
What is a student ID# and why do I need it?
Once you apply and are admitted to AVC, you will receive an email containing your unique, AVC student ID#. You will need this ID# to be able to access your account, school records, AVC transcripts, student services, registration for classes, and other important information.
