Under 18 Admissions

Yakima Valley College does not desire to replace or duplicate the functions of the local public schools in regards to providing instruction to students under the age of eighteen. For applicants under the age of 16, academic as well as emotional maturity is of particular concern. However, the college does recognize there are certain circumstances when an underage applicant would benefit from college level course work. To respond to the needs of those students the college has established a special admissions policy.

Applicants not qualifying for admission through regular admissions procedures or qualifying for an established program must request consideration of admittance under the special admissions procedure. The two tracks for special admissions are audition and academic.

Special Admissions Process

Audition Based Special Admissions

For students interested in enrolling in music ensemble, drama productions, salsa band, and choir.

  1. After an audition, complete Underage Student Admissions Application
  2. Complete Walk-in Registration Form
  3. Complete Supplemental Application/Registration Form (for first time only)
  4. Attach instructor permission/entry code (usually provided in an email)
  5. Send all documents together to:

Yakima Valley College
Attn: Underage Special Admissions
PO Box 22520
Yakima, WA 98907
or
Drop them off at the Registration & Records Office in the Deccio Building, Building 8, 1000 S. 12th Ave, Yakima, WA

Academic Based Special Admissions

For students interested in enrolling in college level courses such as History, Science, Math, English, etc.

  1. Complete Underage Special Admissions Application no later than two weeks before the start of the quarter.
  2. Complete Walk-in Registration Form
  3. Complete Supplemental Application/Registration Form (for first time only)
  4. Submit a signed release from a school or school district official (if the student will be leaving high school during the regular school day).
  5. Submit a letter of recommendation from a school representative (teacher, counselor, etc.) addressing the student’s ability to participate in an adult learning environment.
  6. Send all documents together to:
    • Yakima Valley College
      Attn: Underage Special Admissions
      PO Box 22520
      Yakima, WA 98907
      or
      Drop them off at the Registration & Records Office in the Deccio Building, Building 8, 1000 S. 12th Ave, Yakima, WA
  7. Dependent upon the course requested, the student may be required to complete the YVC placement examination to demonstrate competency and the ability to benefit from college level coursework.

What to do if you do not qualify

  1.  Any applicant not qualifying for admission through regular admissions procedures or qualifying for an established program must request consideration of admittance under the special admissions procedure.
  2. Before students can attend class the request for admittance must be reviewed and approved by the Admissions Committee.
  3. If the student is accepted they will receive a welcome letter/email with instructions on how to proceed with the registration process.
  4. A personal interview with the Admissions Committee may be requested at the discretion of the committee.
  5. Students admitted under the special admissions procedure:
    • Will be admitted on a course by course basis
    • Will be allowed to register for class if space is available after the class has met at least once or the third day of the quarter, whichever is later.
    • Must have the Special Admissions Advisor approval signature before registering, adding or dropping a course.
  6. Any student who has received probation, suspension or dismissal status on YVC transcripts will not be admitted under special admissions.
  7. Students are responsible for tuition, class fees, books and supplies.