Frequently Asked Questions

How do I "Crash" a class?
"Crashing" means trying to add a class after it has already been closed due to full enrollment and the wait list is also full. To "crash" an in-person class, you need to show up to the first day of the class that you want to add. Inform the professor that you are hoping to add the class and they will provide you with next steps. For online classes that you can't physically show up to and "crash", please e-mail the professor instead. You can search for the professor's e-mail by using the "People Search" tool on the top right hand corner of this page or find it on the class schedule. 

Do I need to attend a New Student Counseling Group?
All students who are new to Pierce College need to attend a New Student Counseling Group (NSCG). NSCGs are led by Counselors and will answer all your questions about what courses you need to take, how to plan your schedule and what requirements you need to complete in order to meet your educational goal. At the end of the NSCG, you will complete your abbreviated student educational plan (with the help of a counselor). The abbreviated plan will help you identify which courses you should take in your first 1-2 semesters. Completing the abbreviated educational plan will meet the "counseling" requirement for matriculation. To schedule your NSCG, please visit our Online Appointment System.

I attended a New Student Counseling Group but it's still on my to do list. Why?
In order to clear the counseling requirement, you must complete an abbreviated educational plan as part of attending the NSCG. If you completed the educational plan and submitted it to the counselor but it still indicates that you need Counseling, please connect with us through Express Counseling. A copy of your abbreviated student educational plan will be requested in order to clear the Counseling requirement.

Do I need to complete online orientation?
All students new to Pierce need to complete the online orientation. Log in to the Student Portal and click "Student Status" then "Orientation". Be sure to watch the entire video and answer the questions at the end. 

I completed the Online Orientation but it's still on my to do list. Why?
It can take up to two weeks from the time that you complete the orientation for it to be reflected in your portal. If you completed the online orientation more than two weeks ago and the system still says that you need orientation, please provide a copy of your completion page to a counselor through Express Counseling.

How do I access my Pierce College email account?
You can access your Pierce College/LACCD email account through the Student Portal. Once you sign in click on "Mail" from the homepage. We recommend that you forward your LACCD email to your personal email account so that you don't miss any important emails.

How do I transfer classes from other colleges to Pierce College?
If you have attended other colleges or universities, you will need to have your coursework evaluated by a counselor to determine the transferability of your courses. To get your transcript evaluated, make an appointment with a counselor.

How can I make an appointment with a counselor?
Due to COVID-19, we are providing online services. Use our Online Appointment System to make an appointment. We do also offer limited in-person services.