Find the course you wish to study. Most colleges offer an online catalog with information about the course of study. Looking at books about the subject also gives you further insight. If there is more than one course in which you would like to enroll, then make a list in order of preference.
Look at which colleges offer your courses. Make a list of all the colleges that offer your chosen courses, and then organize them. You may also want to look at college rankings, to see which college is most highly rated for your courses, or decide based on the accommodations and extracurricular activities the college offers.
Check on how your first-choice college processes applications. Most colleges use the California Community College application system (CCCApply), but some have their own online application systems. Make a note near your top three colleges about the school application process.
Obtain your transcripts from any high schools or colleges you have previously attended. If you have any other education achievements, your transcripts for these may also be useful. Verify whether the application system requires a letter of recommendation (the CCCApply system does not).
Apply for the college online. You can apply to as many colleges as you wish for free, but your application should be completed in order of preference. Once you complete one application, the information you input will be saved to make it easier to apply to other colleges.
Wait for the colleges to contact you. This may take a few days. Check the websites regarding the timeline of the application process. If you have heard nothing on the third or fourth day, then call the colleges to check on the progress of your application.
Read carefully the enrollment information that you receive, and ensure that the colleges have your correct information. The information may give you details of an orientation, assessment or advisement in which the college would like you to participate. If the schools do not require you to do any of these, then you will be given information on how to enroll for classes.
Register for the classes you desire to take. Most colleges provide you with a username and password to do this online, but you may also wish to email the class teacher or register in-person at the college. Follow the procedures. If you receive the contact information for the class leader, then you may contact her to explain your delay in applying and request late entry into the class.
Talk to the college's student support services. The staff may be able to help you get into some classes late, even if registration for these classes has already closed. If a class has no spaces left, then support services can suggest alternatives, or advise you to enroll next semester.