To register for a Skyline College course that has a prerequisite, students must demonstrate that they have successfully completed the prerequisite course with a grade of "C" or higher.  

How do I meet a Prerequisite?

  1. Complete the prerequisite course(s) within the SMCCD system, with a grade of “C” or better, or CR (Credit) or P (Pass); OR
  2. Complete English and Math assessments within the SMCCD system; OR
  3. Complete the prerequisite course at another regionally accredited college/university in the United States; OR
  4. Meet prerequisites through an Alternate Placement Exam (i.e. AP, IB, SAT, ACT). 

The Prerequisite Equivalency Petition

Students who have completed a prerequisite outside of the SMCCD system, as noted in options 3 and 4 above, may want to file a Prerequisite Equivalency Petition.

This Petition is only used as a request to take a course with a prerequisite IF:

  1. You have successfully completed the prerequisite course at a regionally accredited college or university outside of the SMCCCD (San Mateo County Community College District);
    OR
  2. You have successfully passed an AP (Advanced Placement) Exam with the minimum passing score that is equivalent to the prerequisite course.

How do I file a Prerequisite Equivalency Petition?

Complete the online Prerequisite Equivalency Request with supporting documents:

  1. If you completed a course outside of the SMCCD system, you must submit all pages of your unofficial transcript.
    • Partial transcripts will not be accepted.
    • The unofficial transcripts must be noted with your full name and university or college.
  2. If you completed an Alternate Placement Exam (i.e. AP, IB, SAT, ACT), submit a copy of your results.

Students do not need to schedule a Counseling appointment to clear a prerequisite.

What if I don't have an equivalent course or exam?

If you have not passed an equivalent course or exam, but you can demonstrate having met the prerequisite with other supportive documentation, you can instead consider submitting a Prerequisite Challenge Petition.

How soon will I be notified about my petition?

  • The Skyline College Counseling Division reviews this petition.  Please allow 3-5 business days for review.
  • You will be notified of the result of your petition's evaluation via email.
  • During the peak period of registration, the volume of requests increases. This may impact the response time.

What can I do if my petition is denied?

If your petition is denied, you may elect to challenge the prerequisite course.