Planning to enroll at Great Bay Community College?
Applying is straightforward – whether you are a first time college student, a transfer student, or someone who just wants to take a course or two. This guide walks you through the full process, what you need to do, and the next key steps.
1. Choose your Program
Before applying, explore our programs and decide where you would like to start. GBCC offers more than 50 certificate and associate degrees across diverse fields.
Not sure which program fits you best? Contact Admissions or visit campus for a tour or information session.
2. Submit Your Application – General Admission Steps
- Complete the GBCC application
- Apply online through the GBCC admissions portal. If you encounter a problem submitting your online application, contact Admissions for help.
- Review any program-specific requirements before submitting.
- Submit Transcripts
- Request your high school transcripts or GED/HiSET scores. Call your high school or visit their website for more information on ordering a transcript.
- If you have completed college coursework, send official college transcripts (except from the seven Community College System of NH institutions).
- Mail or Email Transcripts to:
Great Bay Community College
320 Corporate Drive
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Email: [email protected]
3. Course Placement (if required)
- All associate degree and some certificate programs require English, Math, and in some cases Computer Skills placement before course registration.
- You may be waived from course placement based on previous coursework or test scores.
- For more information about course placement requirements and waivers, please visit our Next Steps for Accepted Students page.
4. Meet with an Academic Advisor
- Once accepted, schedule an advising appointment to choose your classes.
5. Apply for Financial Aid
- If you want to use financial aid, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Use GBCC’s School Code: 002583.
Even if you are unsure about your eligibility for financial aid, applying can present scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
6. Non-Degree Students (Taking a course or two)
You do not need to apply for admission if you only want to take individual courses as a non-degree student.
- This is ideal for exploring subjects or completing transfer coursework.
- Note: Non-degree students are not eligible for financial aid.
For details, contact the Advising & Transfer Center at (603) 427-7728 | [email protected]; they will help you register for the classes you would like to take.
7. Military & Veteran Applicants
Active, veteran, retired service members, and military family members are welcome at GBCC. The Admissions team will help you navigate application steps and benefits available to you.
Learn more about Military/Veterans Education Programs.
8. International Students
International applicants follow the standard admissions steps plus additional requirements, such as:
- Paying a non-refundable international application fee
- Providing official foreign transcripts in English
- Demonstrating English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS or placement options)
- Showing financial documentation to support one year of study
Visit the International Admissions page for more details.
9. After You Apply – What Happens Next?
Once your application and transcripts are received:
- You will receive an admission decision by email.
- If course placement in any area is required, follow the instructions in your acceptance email.
- After placement is complete, you will meet with an advisor and register for classes.
Need help with placement or advising? Contact the Advising & Transfer Center.
10. Additional Support & Resources
Attend an info session, open house, or Express Admissions Day to get help with your application, meet advisors, and register for classes – sometimes in a single day.
11. Welcome Center
Stop by for help with admissions questions, payments, financial aid and more at the Welcome Center.
FAQS
Yes. You must have a high school diploma or be a senior with a projected graduation date, GED, or equivalent to apply for degree or certificate programs.
Yes – you can (and should) complete the FAFSA any time after October 1st prior to the academic year you plan to enroll.
You’ll receive an admission decision by email once your application and required documents are processes. Times can vary by program.
