What's Happening?
California's community college system is set to overhaul its digital application process through a partnership with ed-tech vendor Liaison. The current CCCApply system, which has been in use for two decades, will be replaced with a new interface designed
to improve accessibility and security. This initiative, known as Reimagine Apply, aims to address the outdated interface, cumbersome administrative tools, and security vulnerabilities of the existing system. The redesign process has involved input from over 200 stakeholders, including students, faculty, and IT staff, to ensure the new system meets the needs of 2.1 million students. The rollout will occur in phases, with the first wave scheduled for spring 2026, involving 12 districts selected for their diverse campus settings and technical readiness.
Why It's Important?
The revamp of the CCCApply system is significant as it aims to enhance the application experience for millions of students across California's community colleges. By improving accessibility and security, the new system is expected to streamline the application process, making it easier for prospective and returning students to navigate. This initiative supports the strategic plan, Vision 2030, which seeks to make the colleges more inclusive and efficient. The partnership with Liaison is crucial in delivering a system that provides colleges with the integrity, resilience, and insight needed to manage applications effectively, potentially increasing enrollment and retention rates.
What's Next?
The phased rollout of the new application system will begin in spring 2026, with subsequent waves planned for mid- and late-2026. Each phase will adapt based on lessons learned from previous rollouts, including testing and staff training experiences. As the new system is implemented, colleges will need to prepare for changes in administrative processes and ensure that staff are adequately trained to handle the updated platform. The success of this initiative could lead to further technological advancements within the community college system, potentially influencing other educational institutions to adopt similar improvements.
