Who can enroll in the program?

To enter the FIRST program, a student must be a new CSI student who has passed or been exempt from all three CUNY basic skills assessment tests.


What is the purpose of the FIRST program?

The purpose is to assist academically qualified students with their
transition into a new school environment from high school to college by enabling them to build relationships with college faculty, staff, and other students.


I took College Now/Advanced Placement (AP) courses in high school. Am I still eligible for FIRST?

You may be eligible, depending upon the courses for which you will receive college credit. An academic advisor will review this information with you when you register.


I want to take a certain learning community  but there is one course in the block that I am certain I will not like. May I switch it for another course?

No. Communities are set and course substitutions are not permitted.


Does choosing a learning community commit me to a particular major?

No. You will be satisfying general education requirements by participating in the FIRST program.


Will I be taking all my classes with other new CSI students?

The classes in the learning community will be with other FIRST students
only. However, all additional classes you select will be taken with students outside of the learning community.


What steps must I take before I am able to register for a FIRST learning community?

1. Your Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Immunization Certification and Meningococcal Meningitis Vaccination Response Form must be submitted to the Health Center, Building 1C, Room 112, (Fax:  718.982.2966). Both forms were included in the welcome folder you received in the mail with your letter of acceptance from the Office of Recruitment and Admissions.
2. You must take the placement examination in mathematics. For further information regarding this examination, contact the Office of College Testing, Building 1A, Room 104 (telephone 718.982.2390)

Please note: you must submit your high school diploma to the Office
of Recruitment and Admission in Building 2A, Room 103 as soon as it is available. Although you may be registered for classes prior to receiving
your diploma, you will not be able to change your schedule using the on-line registration system until proof of graduation is recorded.