MOSES LAKE - Students who want to apply for winter quarter at Big Bend Community College, but are new to the process, are being invited to a workshop from noon to 1:30 p.m. Sept. 10 at the college library, 7662 Chanute St.

"We're trying to prepare them (prospective students) if they're thinking about starting school," Rita Ramirez, the college's recruitment and student outreach coordinator, said.

Ramirez said she's encountered prospective students who don't know what's required for the enrollment process, and end up spending a lot of time bouncing between offices. The workshop will provide some information about the process so prospective students have a better idea what to expect, she said.

The college has open admission, so anyone who applies will be admitted, Ramirez said. But prospective students must fill out an application, and enrollment comes with a $30 fee.

Enrolling students also must take English and math placement tests, she said. "Those are only offered on certain days." The workshop will include registration information for them, she said.

Then there's student financial aid; the workshop will provide information on the application process. "But we're encouraging students to go online and try to fill it (the application) out," Ramirez said.

A code from the school where the student is applying is required; the code is 003770 for BBCC.

"That (the financial aid form) is where a lot of students get held up," she said. Students who need help filling out the form can get it at the workshop, she said. Students should bring their Social Security number or alien registration number, federal income tax return if one was filed, statement of any untaxed income and investment or saving statement. Prospective students younger than age 24, unmarried or without children, must bring the same information for their parents or guardians, Ramirez said.

In addition, "we have some grants on campus for certain students," she said, and qualifications will be discussed at the workshop.

Ramirez said she would review the classes and courses of study available at BBCC. Enrollment for winter quarter begins in November, and Ramirez said students have a better chance of getting the classes they want if they enroll at a registration session rather than waiting for open enrollment.

People who can't attend the class can contact Ramirez at BBCC, ritar@bigbend.edu or 509-793-2072.