Frequently Asked Questions

If you can’t find the answer to your question send an e-mail to rcchelp@rappahannock.edu. Please include your full name and student ID# in your email.

General Admission
Individuals are eligible for admission to Rappahannock Community College if they are high school graduates or the equivalent (GED), or if they are eighteen years of age or older and able to benefit academically from study at the college as demonstrated by assessment scores in reading, writing, and mathematics. Minimum scores are noted in the chart below:

MINIMUM SCORES: VPT* COMPASS ASSET
Reading ENF 1 62 35
Writing ENF 1 32 35
Math MTE 1 25 33

*Virginia Placement Test

RCC reserves the right to evaluate and document special cases and to refuse or revoke admission if the college determines that the applicant or student poses a threat, is a potential danger, is significantly disruptive to the college community, or if such refusal or revocation is considered to be in the best interest of the college. RCC also reserves the right to refuse admission for applicants that have been expelled or suspended from another college, which has determined the applicant to be a threat, potential danger, or significantly disruptive.

Disclosure of your social security number is not required but is highly recommended. However, the VCCS will only use your social security number in accordance with federal and state reporting requirements and for identification purposes within the VCCS. It shall not permit further disclosure unless required or authorized by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, 20 U.S.C. § 1232g, or pursuant to your obtained consent.

Inquiries and requests for information pertaining to admission to the College should be addressed to:

Admissions & Records Office

  • Glenns Campus 804-758-6740; 804-758-6760 TDD
  • Warsaw Campus 804-333-6740; 804-333-6760 TDD

Curricular Student Admission

Curricular students are those who wish to pursue, on a full or part-time basis, the completion of a degree or certificate offered by RCC. For curricular students, the following items are required for admission:

  • A completed online application for admission.
  • A completed Virginia Placement Test (VPT) English and math test or qualifying multiple measures for placement.
  • An official high school or GED transcript if student is pursuing the Associate Degree in Nursing or the Practical Nursing programs.
  • A graduation date and documentation of coursework if the student has completed secondary school education in a home school setting.
  • Official transcripts from any colleges/universities (other than VCCS colleges) if the student is seeking transfer credit.
  • A completed VCCS Transfer Evaluation Request Form designating any VCCS college attended if the student is seeking transfer credit.

Additional information could be required by the college for admission to specific programs.

Non-Curricular Student

Non-curricular students are those students who do not currently intend to apply credits toward completion of a program of study (degree or certificate) offered by RCC. A non-curricular student is, therefore, not formally admitted to one of the curricula. For non-curricular students a completed online application is required for admission.

Placement

RCC offers VCCS approved placement strategies that provide consistent and reliable results for students applying to enroll in associate degree programs, certificate programs, and in courses that require a reading, writing, or math prerequisite. Students enrolling in Career Studies Certificate programs may be waived from placement, unless a course in the program requires a reading, writing, or math prerequisite. Assessment will be offered through placement testing and other approved measures.

Placement Testing
RCC offers the Virginia Placement Test (VPT), a VCCS approved placement test, which provides consistent and reliable assessment results for students applying for enrollment in associate degree programs, certificate programs, and in courses that require an English or math prerequisite. The VPT-English and math test is a comprehensive test that will assess the student’s ability in reading, writing, and math. This test is designed to help place students into appropriate courses needed to ensure student success.

Dual enrolled high school students who enroll in programs or courses must meet the admissions criteria as well as any applicable course prerequisites.

Multiple Measures for Placement
RCC also uses the following means and measures to determine a student’s readiness for college-level English and math courses:

  • Any student who has earned an associate degree or higher or who has earned a C or better in college-level courses in math and/or English at a regionally accredited institution will be exempt from placement testing provided the student meets the prerequisites for the respective courses in the chosen program of study.
  • Any student who has successfully completed developmental courses at a VCCS institution will be exempt from placement testing in those areas.
  • Any student who has successfully completed developmental courses at a non-VCCS institution will have their coursework evaluated for placement.
  • A student may submit a high school/home school transcript or an approved test score for placement evaluation. Placement will be based on the tables below. Seniors who have not yet graduated may submit a transcript as of the completion of the first semester of the senior year to determine readiness for placement into college-level courses for the purpose of early admission.
  • Any student who is not placed using this criteria will take the Virginia Placement Test. A student also has the option to take the Virginia Placement Test in order to improve their placement standing after other measures are considered. Such placement test scores will not be used to place a student in a lower English or math course than indicated by other criteria, unless the student desires a lower placement.

Students who do not take the VPT and who do not meet any of the multiple measures for math and English placement, must start in MTE 1 and ENF 1. Multiple measures for placement do not apply to any students taking classes while still enrolled in high school

Measures for Math Placement

Math placement will be determined using one of the following measures listed in the table below.

Math Placement Measures# HSGPA or

Score Range

 Placement
HSGPA and Algebra II and One Algebra Intensive Course* *Algebra Intensive Courses above Algebra II:  Trigonometry, Math Analysis, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Algebra III. 3.0 or higher MTE 1-9 Satisfied
2.7-2.9 MTE 1-9 Co-Requisite Eligible
HSGPA and Algebra II 3.0 or higher MTE 1-5 Satisfied
2.7-2.9 MTE 1-5 Co-Requisite Eligible
HSGPA and Algebra I 3.0 or higher MTE 1-3 Satisfied
2.7-2.9 MTE 1-3 Co-Requisite Eligible
SAT – Math 530 or above MTE 1-9 Satisfied
510-520 range MTE 1-5 Satisfied
ACT – Subject Area Test Math 22 or above MTE 1-9 Satisfied
19-21 range MTE 1-5 Satisfied
GED – Math 165 or above MTE 1-5 Satisfied
155-164 range MTE 1-3 Satisfied
Test Minimum Score Math Minimum Score English
ACT 22 18 (English Test & Reading Test)
SAT 520 500 (critical reading and writing sections)

Measures for English Placement 

English placement will be determined using one of the following measures.

English Placement Measures HSGPA or

Score Range

 Placement
HSGPA 3.0 or higher ENG 111
2.7-2.9 ENF3/ENG 111
SAT – EWR (Evidence Based Reading and Writing) 480 or above ENG 111
460-470 range ENF3/ENG 111
ACT – Subject Area Tests English and Reading 18 or above ENG 111
15-17 range ENF3/ENG 111
GED – English 165 or above ENG 111

High school grade point average (HSGPA) is valid for five years after the date of high school graduation.  SAT, ACT and GED Test scores are valid for five years after the date of the test. Virginia Placement Test-Math or English scores are valid for five years after the date of the test. Previously taken developmental courses will be valid for five years after semester taken.
Only GED 2014 through current year scores can be used for placement with Multiple Measures. GED tests taken previous to 2014, international versions of the GED, or other high school equivalency tests cannot be used for placement.

Students who take the Virginia Placement Test – Math or English and who do not enroll in developmental math or English are allowed to take one retest within twelve months. Students who attempt a developmental mathematics or English course will be ineligible for a retest. Exceptions to this retest policy may be made on a case-by-case basis.

Placement across Colleges 

  • VPT scores taken within 5 years of initial enrollment may be used at any VCCS college.
  • Multiple Measures evaluations are not accepted from other VCCS colleges.
What is SIS?

SIS = Student Information System

Can I register online?
  • Most returning students who took credit classes in the last three (3) years are eligible to register online.
  • New students who have submitted an application for admission, taken the placement test, and been approved to register by a counselor.

Exceptions:

  • High school/dual enrollment students are required to see a college counselor for advising and to receive a registration card.

Students who have not taken a credit class in a three year period must reapply for admission to RCC. An applicant who applies for admission but does not enroll in credit classes within one year (three consecutive terms) is required to reapply.

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Can I apply for admission online?
  • Students can apply and submit their application online.
Do I need to apply for admission if I have applied in the past?
  • Returning students who have not taken a class at RCC for a period of three (3) years are required to reapply for admission.
  • An applicant who applies for admission but does not enroll in credit classes within one year (three consecutive terms) is required to reapply.
How do I login?
  • Start your Internet browser and in the address box type the web address: https://rappahannock.edu.
  • Click on the myRCC button, located in the top left corner of the webpage. The login page will be displayed.
  • Enter your username and password.
  • Click the Log In button.
Where do I find my username?
Where do I find my student ID number?

Note: Students returning from a previous term should have a student ID card with their 7-digit student ID number (emplid) on the front.

What is an emplid?
  • The emplid is a unique number that identifies each student in the Student Information System (SIS). The use of the emplid replaces the social security number as the primary student identifier. The emplid is often referred to as the student ID number.
I have multiple student ID numbers, how do I find my RCC student ID number?

Note: If you have still have trouble finding your student ID number you may send an email to rcchelp@rappahannock.edu with a subject line of SIS Help.

What is my password?
  • After completing the online application for admission, you will be given a temporary password that will be used to log in to myRCC. Within twenty-four hours of completing your application, you should be able to log in.
  • Students are required to change their password the first time they log in to myRCC. Your password is a secret phrase that you should not share with anyone; it protects the privacy and confidentiality of your personal information. Select a strong password that is easy for you to remember, but very difficult for someone else to guess. Click here for guidance on selecting a strong password.
  • After changing your password you will be required to provide a security question. When creating a security question, we strongly recommend using a question that has a one-word answer. Answers are case sensitive.
  • Change Your Password for instructions on changing your password.
How do I register for classes?

Login to myRCC and click on VCCS SIS: Student Information System.

  • Navigate by clicking on Self Service > Student Center > Academics > Add a Class.
  • Choose the term.

For step-by-step registration instructions click here.

Where do I get a copy of my class schedule?

A student may view or print a copy of their class schedule for the semester using the online SIS. Students are required to have their class schedule to purchase books and at the first class meeting.

Log in to myRCC and click on VCCS SIS: Student Information System.

  • Click on Student Center.
  • Click on My Class Schedule link.
  • Click on the desired Term, if necessary.

To print the schedule — click on the Print icon on your browser’s button bar.

What is myRCC?
  • myRCC is your access point for the Student Information System, Canvas, and Student Email. Students can access the online Student Information System (SIS) through a portal called myRCC. This portal provides single sign on access to the SIS, Canvas, and Student Email. With the self-service features students can update directory information and manage passwords.
How do I find my advisor?
  • Login to myRCC and click on VCCS SIS: Student Information System.
  • Click on Self Service > Student Center.
  • Your advisors name is located on the right side of the screen.
  • Click on Details for your advisor’s email address and phone number.
Do I have to see my advisor before registering online?
  • New students must see a College Counselor prior to registering.
  • It is strongly recommended that all returning students speak with their assigned academic advisor prior to registering for classes to be assured of taking the appropriate classes for their program.
  • Dual Enrollment students taking classes on campus are required to meet with a College Counselor and are not permitted to register online. Dual Enrollment registration must be accompanied by a high school permission form each semester. Dual Enrollment registration is processed in the Admissions and Records Office on either campus.
Can I pay tuition online by credit card?
  • Online payments may be made using the online SIS 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.
    • Full payment must be made. Partial payments are not accepted.
    • Students can make partial payments (but if not paid in full by back out time they will be dropped)
    • Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express are accepted.
How do I add/drop classes online during the registration period?

Login to myRCC and click on VCCS SIS: Student Information System.

  • Navigate by clicking on Self Service > Student Center > Academics
  • Choose “Add a Class” or “Drop a Class”
  • Choose the term
How do I make changes to my schedule during the add/drop period?
  • Students may add classes during the first week of the semester using the online SIS.
  • Students may drop classes up to the published last day of add/drop using the online SIS.
  • Students may add and/or drop classes in the Admissions and Records Office on either campus during the published add/drop period
How do I withdraw from classes during the withdraw period?
  • Students may withdraw from classes during the published withdraw period using the online SIS.
    • Students should be sure to check the published dates in the online schedule for the course they are registered for. There are no refunds during the withdraw period.
  • For additional information on withdrawing from classes, please contact the Admissions and Records Office on either campus. Glenns Campus: 804-758-6740 or Warsaw Campus: 804-333-6740.
  • How to Drop or Withdraw [PDF]
How do I find the class number?

Login to myRCC and click on VCCS SIS: Student Information System.

  • Navigate by clicking on Self Service > Student Center.
  • Click on the Search for Classes button.
  • Select Rappahannock Community College from the Institution drop down box.
  • Enter the Term code. (Click on the lookup icon to get a list of terms to choose from)
  • Click the Go button.
  • Enter the three letter course prefix in Subject box. (example: English = ENG)
  • Make sure Course Career is set to CREDIT.
  • Click the Search button.
  • Click on the Section Number link.
  • The 5-digit class number is found under Class Details.
What is the term code for the semester?
  • 2163 = Summer Sessions 2016
  • 2164 = Fall 2016
  • 2172 = Spring 2017
  • 2173 = Summer 2017
  • 2174 = Fall 2017
When is the last day to register online?
  • Students may register for classes up until the published last day to add for the session. There are multiple sessions each semester. Refer to the academic calendar for session dates.
Can I check my grades?

Login to myRCC and click on VCCS SIS: Student Information System.

  • Click on Self Service.
  • Click on Student Center.
  • Click on Grades.
  • Select the Term.
  • Click the Continue button at the bottom of the page.

How do I request an official transcript?

Login to myRCC and click on VCCS SIS: Student Information System.

  • Click on Self Service.
  • Click on Student Center.
  • Click the arrow next to the other academic… box and choose Official Transcript from the drop down list.
  • Click the Go button.
  • Select Institution.
  • Click on the Select Option drop down box and choose the appropriate option for issuing your transcript.
  • Enter the number of transcripts you wish to have sent.
  • Complete Recipient Address Information.
  • To enter college or business address click the Edit Address link.
  • Click OK.
  • Click the Submit button.

Transcript Requests with incomplete address information will not be processed.

Admissions and Records Forms
How do I change my user preferences?

Login to myRCC and click on VCCS SIS: Student Information System.

  • Click on Self Service
  • Click on Student Center
  • Scroll down to Personal Information
  • Click on User Preferences
  • Click the Institution drop down box and select Rappahannock Community College.
  • Click the Academic Career drop down box and select Credit
  • Click the Save button.
  • Click the OK button to confirm your selections.
How do I sign up for Dual Enrollment?

Please refer to the Dual Enrollment section of our site for details.