Information for Parents and Families

Welcome to the NOVA Family!

Together, we can help your student thrive in college. At Northern Virginia Community College, we have built support systems across our six campuses to provide the highest caliber education, student life experiences, and career preparation for less than you would pay at a four-year school.

At NOVA, your student is more than just a number. Explore the range of services and benefits we offer to make sure that NOVA is a safe and nurturing environment that encourages academic exploration and personal growth. We will partner with you to make sure you and your student can navigate the college experience successfully.

Choosing a college is a big family decision. A student has many options, and there are several things to consider: application deadlines, financial aid, academic programs, student life and more.

If a student is thinking about applying to NOVA for an upcoming semester, please visit the section for Parents & Families of Prospective Students. You will find information to guide you through the process.

We're glad you and your student are considering NOVA!

We want to see your student thrive in their educational journey. At NOVA we have the support system in place to help all students, and all families, be successful. And it doesn't hurt that our six campuses provide the quality of a major college or university without the additional costs.

In this section, you will find a collection of resources for you and your student as you explore the possibility of a NOVA education.

Learning About NOVA

Before your student starts an application, discover why NOVA is the right choice. Learn more about NOVA and our commitment to student success.

Explore our programs of study, workforce certifications, and other resources such as our transfer programs like ADVANCE and Guaranteed Admissions.

Next Steps

Once your student decides to apply, take some time to learn more about the admissions and registration process and how to pay for a NOVA education. A four-year degree can be expensive but two years at NOVA can get you where you want to be, within your budget.

If you find that you need assistance at any point in the process, use the contact information on this page. We’re available by phone, email and LIVE chat.

Getting Started

There are resources designed to support new students through the process of getting started at NOVA.

Explore More

In our section for Parents & Families of Current Students, we’ve gathered the information you need to help the student succeed at NOVA. Find information on dates and deadlines, important contacts and a list of helpful tips for parents of current students.

Newly Admitted?

Congratulations! If your student has recently been admitted to NOVA, you probably have many questions about what happens next. You can begin with our section on New Students. 

Resources for Parents

There’s a lot to keep track of as the parent or family member of a NOVA student. We’ve collected information to help you stay on track of your student's onboarding experience:

Helping Your Student Succeed

NOVA is committed to helping our students succeed. Learn more about the support services available to students at NOVA including:

Diverse Ideas and Opportunities

NOVA is the second largest community college in the United States. Our 75,000+ students represent a diverse population from our home in the Commonwealth of Virginia, many of our neighboring Central Atlantic states, and 150+ foreign countries. Students have access to our state-of-the-art facilities, preparing them for the next step in their academic and professional lives. There is a lot more to NOVA than you might think.

We Want to Hear From You

Sending your children to college doesn't have to be complicated. We can answer any of your questions about registration, financial aid, billing, housing, and more. We encourage families to reach out at any point along your child's academic journey. What can the NOVA family do to help?

Campus Tours

Contact our campuses to schedule a tour.

Schedule a Campus Tour

Dual Enrollment

High school students can get ahead by attending college classes at NOVA

Learn About Dual Enrollment

Scholarships

Learn about what scholarships are available and how much you may be eligible for.

View Available Scholarships

Financial Aid

Let NOVA help you learn about the types of aid available to you, and how to apply for them.

Visit Financial Aid

How to Apply

A simple step-by-step guide on how to apply to NOVA.

How to Apply to NOVA