New Student Orientation:Guide to Success

New to College?

Here's How You'll StartSmart!

Step 1: Complete the Student Information Form

Get admitted to Paradise Valley Community College by completing this form. Pick up this form at and submit it to: Admissions and Records, Kranitz Student Center, KSC-111, 602-787-7000. IMPORTANT --- When admitted, you will receive a Student ID number. You will need this number as you proceed through the steps for new students and beyond.

Step 2: Placement Testing/Assessment

It’s not an admissions test, but a way to assess what Reading, English, and Math courses are right for you as you begin college. A photo ID is required for all testing. Study guides are online at www.pvc.maricopa.edu/assessment/. The Testing Center is located on the 2nd floor of KSC building, KSC-226, (602) 787-7050.

Step 3: Set up your MEID (Maricopa Enterprise ID) at my.maricopa.edu

The MEID is your username for online services. Go to www.my.maricopa.edu and click the red box that says “FIRST TIME USERS START HERE.” If you need assistance, go to the Computer Commons located in E Building. The Computer Commons staff is available to assist you.

Step 4: Academic Advising and Registration

New students are required to see an academic advisor prior to registering for classes. Advisement is located on the 1st floor of the KSC Building. Call 602-787-7060 for available dates and times.

Step 5: New Student Orientation

New Student Orientation is designed to help you: navigate the college system including all the things you need to be successful in college, meet other students as well as faculty and staff, and participate in a campus tour. Register for an Orientation at Admissions & Records - KSC-111 or during your Academic Advising session.

Orientation is REQUIRED for all new to college students who are either (1) full-time or (2) degree-seeking students taking 6 or more credit hours who test into a English, Math, or Reading course under 100 level.

Step 6: Enroll in a College Success Course

You’ll learn strategies for achieving your goals in college and in life including: preparation for college work, increasing motivation and self confidence, decreasing procrastination and stress, and note taking and time management. Register for your College Success Course at www.my.maricopa.edu, at Admissions & Records - KSC-111, or during your Academic Advising session.

The 6 steps of iStartSmart are required for the following students:

New-to-college, degree or transfer seeking students taking 12 or more credits
New-to-college, degree or transfer seeking students taking 6 or more credit hours who test into a developmental (below 100 level) course in Math, English, or Reading. Students seeking an Associate in Applied Science or Certificate of Completion may be exempt from taking the College Success Course and should consult an Academic Advisor for verification.