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Get Started as a New Student

Welcome to Calhoun!

Now that you have completed the admissions process and are getting ready to start your journey at Calhoun, we have gathered new student resources for you that will walk you through your next steps. Below you will find essential information and links for new and returning students. These resources will guide you through the admissions process, academic planning, and beyond.

Your A# and myCalhoun Experience

When you applied to Calhoun, you were assigned an A-Number as your student ID # and this number was emailed to you. Your A-Number (A#) is required for logging into myCalhoun and accessing college services.

myCalhoun Experience is the one-stop student portal for all the resources you need. Login to access your new student dashboard featuring access to Canvas, Outlook Student Email, and your student account. Be sure to log in using your A#@alabama.edu credentials.

If you don’t know your A#, contact Advising at 256-260-4330. If you have forgotten your password… follow the link below, enter your username and look for the Forgot Password link on the password entry window. If you need help, please reach out to our I.T. HelpDesk.

Schedule Your First Advising Session

All first-time students are required to meet with an advisor. For your convenience, we currently offer in-person, phone or virtual appointments. It is recommended that you meet with an advisor at least 2 weeks before registration begins to ensure you are in the correct program of study and are making the correct course selections for their programs. Your advisor can provide additional guidance on all information listed on this page.

To schedule an appointment with advising, click the button below. For additional assistance, please email advising@calhoun.edu or call the Advising Center at 256-306-2648.

Schedule Your Placement Test, if You Haven’t Already

Before registering for classes, you will need to take a Placement Test to determine if you are ready for college-level classes. Some students may be exempt from this. Talk to your advisor to determine which portions of the Accuplacer Placement Test you need to take.

Sign up for Calhoun CONNECT

Calhoun CONNECT is our official new student orientation. It’s designed to introduce you to campus life, services, and resources, ensuring a smooth transition into college.

Register for Freshman Seminar

If you are a First Time Freshman or non-traditional student, you will be required to take the Freshman Seminar during your first semester. This credit-based Orientation course is offered in two different formats. A “First-Time Freshman” is a student who has not previously attended any college after high school graduation or completion of a GED.

Register for Classes

After you have talked to your Advisor and completed your Placement Test, you are ready to register for classes. Explore the classes available in your program of study, then login to myCalhoun Experience to register.

Pay Your Tuition

Tuition is paid online through MyCalhoun. If you have questions about tuition or fees, payment options, scholarships, or financial aid, use the buttons below to get help.

Get Your Student ID and Campus Parking Permit

You are required to have a valid Campus ID card in your possession when you are on campus for general identification purposes. This ID card must be presented to school officials, upon request. You will also need a parking permit to park on campus. This permit enables you to park on any Calhoun campus.

Get Your Books

Calhoun Bookstores are located on both Decatur and Huntsville-Research Park Site campuses. If you are receiving financial aid, please see appropriate semester book charge dates/times.

Get Technical Assistance

Calhoun has an IT Helpdesk that provides technical assistance to students. If you are unable to log in to your online student accounts, contact the IT Helpdesk at 256-306-2700 or email hdit@calhoun.edufor assistance. Please have your student number (A-Number) available. StudentTechnology Support information is also available.