Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Is there an application deadline?
    Motlow State Community College does not have an application deadline; however, the earlier your application is received, the sooner we will be able to process that application and begin your registration process.
  2. I have been a student here before. Are my records still accessible? Do I have to pay my application fee again?
    Your grades and previous classes will still be on file and included in your transcript. If you have previously paid your $10.00 application fee, you do not have to pay again - it is a one time only fee.
  3. Do I have to have the MMR immunization?
    The Tennessee Health Department requires two doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) immunization for all college students who are full-time (12 + credit hours). Students born before 1957 are exempt from this requirement, along with students less than 12 hours and students who graduated from a public Tennessee high school in or after 1999.
  4. I attended Motlow several years ago and had to drop out. What do I need to do to get back in school?
    Either visit the ADVISEMENT link on the college's web-site, or call the Advisement Center at (931) 393-1719 for assistance.
  5. My advisor won't return my calls. Whom do I discuss my course selections with when I can't contact my advisor?
    You can reach your advisor by campus email by using the first letter of his/her first name plus the entire last name @MSCC.EDU. For example: Professor John Smith can be reached at JSMITH@MSCC.EDU. Or call the Advisement Center at (931) 393-1719 for program information.
  6. How do I sign up for the COMPASS test?
    Contact the Testing office to schedule an appointment. How does one contact the Testing Office? Call 931-393-1763.
  7. How much does the COMPASS test cost?
    The first initial test is free. A retest is $10 per section or $20 for additional sections.
  8. Why should I apply to MSCC early?
    Applying early has its benefits. The Admissions Office processes our application and "clears" you to register. The benefit is that you can either be advised or register for classes without standing in long lines. And, of course, you can register online.
  9. I just decided to enroll. Am I too late?
    The beauty of the community college is open-door admission. Until the term starts, you can register for classes as long as you have completed all admissions requirements. MSCC offers you flexibility to begin your educational journey, even at the last minute.
  10. I'm not sure about a major. What should I do?
    It would be valuable for you to talk with an advisor or someone in our advisement center about choosing a major. The advisor will speak to you about the various majors that we have to offer and the transfer paths that you may want to consider.
  11. I don't have the money to pay for college. Is there someone I can talk to?
    Contact the Financial Aid Office at (931) 393-1553 or toll free at 800-654-4877 ext. 1553 or www.mscc.edu/financialaid to learn about financial aid options.
  12. Am I too old to start college?
    The average age of MSCC students is 25. Whether you're 18 and just starting your educational journey, or 45 and retraining for future opportunities, MSCC can be your springboard to success. You'll find personalized service from professionals whose primary focus is student learning. Try it today!
  13. Will my MSCC credits transfer to other institutions?
    If you are transferring to a Tennessee Board of Regents institution, then you are assured that your credits from Motlow will transfer. However, if you are transferring to an institution outside the Tennessee Board of Regents System, we advise that you check with that institution regarding the credits that you will want to transfer to them. Typically, credits that are earned at Motlow College will transfer to most institutions because of our accreditation (see note below); however, the receiving institution determines the credits that it will accept.

    Note: Motlow State Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award the Level I associate degree. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 3033-4097, telephone 404-679-4500, Web site: www.sacscoc.org, for questions about the accreditation of Motlow State Community College.

  14. How do I get my PIN number to use MyMotlow?
    Your PIN will be six digit birthdate, for example December 21, 1971 would be 122171. If you have changed your PIN, you will need to go to the Admissions office with a picture ID to retrieve your PIN. PIN numbers are never given by phone or email. You can also email the admissions and records office for assistance. Their email address is admissions@mscc.edu.
  15. Do I have to have the second MMR?
    If you are a part-time student (less than 12 hours) or an online student you are not required to have the second MMR. You will need to sign an agreement in the Admissions office before registering for classes.
  16. There seems to be several items that I need to take care of before I can be completely admitted to Motlow College? Is there a helpful guide I can follow?
    Sure. Click here for the guide.