How to Apply:
Returning Student
Welcome back to Polk State! Returning students must reapply if they have not enrolled in classes at the College for three semesters, or one academic year.
How to Return to Polk State
Returning students follow the same general admission steps as students applying for the first time, but you do not need to start over. Previous coursework completed at Polk State remains on your record.
Step 1
Complete a Free Application
Polk State’s application is always open and takes approximately 15 minutes to complete online. Admission typically takes two to three business days. Applicants can save their progress and log in to complete their application later if needed.
There is no application fee and no additional documentation is required simply because you are a returning student.
Check your acceptance email for next steps, including information about transcripts, orientation, residency, and other admission requirements.
Step 2
Complete Online Orientation
Online orientation introduces students to the College and familiarizes them with student email and accounts, including the Polk Portal, Canvas and Etrieve. It also provides information about residency, financial aid, submitting transcripts, registering for classes and preparing for College life.
Step 3
Get to Know Student Accounts
Students activate their MyPolk emails, access the Polk Portal and learn about Canvas in orientation. Once logged in, students should explore their accounts and ensure that they are checking them on a regular basis for important updates about the admission process, financial services and registering for classes.
Step 4
Establish Residency
Residency is the process of determining status as a Florida resident for tuition purposes. Out-of-state tuition is nearly four times the cost of in-state tuition, so it is important for students to complete this step. Declare residency in Etrieve.
Step 5
Apply for Financial Aid
All students are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Polk State’s code is 001514.
Step 6
Submit Official Transcripts
Previous coursework completed at Polk State remains on your student record.
If you completed coursework at another college or university since you were last enrolled at Polk State, you will need to submit an updated official transcript. You can review your unofficial transcript and previous coursework in the Polk Portal.
All official transcripts should be sent to transcripts@polk.edu or by mail to the Winter Haven Campus with the attention of the Registrar’s Office: 999 Ave. H N.E. Winter Haven, FL 33881.
Step 7
Visit Advising and Register for Classes
Students can meet with an advisor at any point during the admission and registration process, but returning students are not required to meet with an advisor before reapplying to Polk State.
Advisors are available on the Winter Haven and Lakeland campuses, or online by emailing based on the first letter of the student’s last name (A-M: onlineadvising@polk.edu and N-Z: onlineadvisingz@polk.edu).
Step 8
Buy Books, Get Your Student ID and Go to Class!
Once registered for classes, students should check their schedules for textbook information and visit the bookstore. Students should also email salo@polk.edu to schedule their student ID.