Whether you are just in the information-gathering or consideration stages of beginning or restarting your education or confidently approaching the starting line, there are a few factors to keep in mind. To be successful, these five steps are crucial.

Step One: Acknowledge That You are Embarking on an Emotional Journey

Starting any new endeavor can feel incredibly scary. Dual feelings of excitement and nervousness can exist. You might worry that you must be fully prepared to begin during this time, but what exactly does that mean? No matter your life stage, a new educational beginning can feel intimidating – especially if you are branching out into a new career or life path. 

Step Two: Apply and Gain Admission

Applying for admission at Golden Gate University is pretty straightforward. First, students will create an online account to apply. Next, prospective students pay an online application fee based on their degree program or certificate choice. Finally, upon successful admission to an open program, students who meet the priority deadline may enroll in courses as soon as 15 business days before a new term.

Step Three: Begin Personalized Interactions 

For military students, GGU offers a personalized approach in various ways. Are you looking for a new community? GGU provides virtual community spaces and events for military students to connect, network, and learn how to navigate resources and services.

Could you benefit from coaching? The Helen Diller Center's coaching programs ensure that students are supported during each stage of their academic journey and beyond. From the moment you're admitted to the university, our Military Student Onboarding Coach will provide support to help you transition from service to school smoothly. Military Student Success Coaching ensures that student veterans' academic aspirations align with the education benefits they've earned through service. 

Step Four: Create a Customized Financial Plan

Golden Gate University's dedicated team of financial aid counselors will help make GGU affordable. They can help you find scholarships, grants and loans. GGU financial aid counselors also help create customized financial plans for each unique situation. Even if you think you might not qualify for financial assistance, you should still explore your options—you may be surprised.

More than half of all GGU students receive financial aid through grants, scholarships and federal aid. In addition, GGU is among the top 15 percent of universities nationwide that participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program. The goal is to help all students afford a GGU education by removing financial barriers.

Step Five: Benefit From A Variety of Student Services  

Whether attending classes remotely or in person, the university experience was never meant to be lived alone. GGU offers robust academic and career advising services for new and continuing undergraduate and graduate students. GGU student services include free online and in-person writing and math tutoring assistance and TimelyCare, a wellness resource for 24/7 virtual health and well-being support. 

Golden Gate University strives to anticipate and satisfy student needs to ensure success — in a convenient and personalized way.