ctcLink for Students

Students,

There are several upcoming dates when ctcLink will be offline. These dates are set by the State Board and affect all colleges currently using ctcLink. Refer to the schedule below and plan ahead for these outages as you consider Winter Quarter activities and registration for Spring Quarter 2022.

Note: Canvas and Starfish will still be available during these times, but you will need to access them directly rather than through ctcLink.

Planned ctcLink Outages

• Saturday, Feb. 19, 7 to 8 a.m.
• Thursday, Feb. 24, 9 p.m. to Friday, Feb. 25, 4 a.m.
• The entire weekend of Friday, Feb. 25, 3 p.m. to Monday, Feb. 28, 8 a.m.

These outages allow other colleges to be brought onto the ctcLink system and for software updates and upgrades to be made. Additional planned outages will take place in April and May. For more information, go to the ctcLink for Students web page.

Thank you for your patience.

ctcLink Project Team

ctcLink will be offline and unavailable for use over this upcoming weekend. Please plan ahead for these service interruptions as you consider Fall Quarter activities and Winter Quarter 2022 registration. Refer to the schedule below.

Planned ctcLink Outages

• Thursday, Nov. 4, from 9 p.m. until Friday, Nov. 5, at 4 a.m.
• Friday, Nov. 5, from 3 p.m. until Monday, Nov. 8, at 7 a.m.

Please note, these outages WILL NOT affect your access to course materials on Canvas or services and appointments in Starfish. Canvas and Starfish are separate systems. However, if you need to reset your Canvas password, that is done via ctcLink (since Canvas uses your ctcLink ID and password).

Planned ctcLink outages are scheduled by the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges system office in Olympia and impact all colleges currently using ctcLink. They allow other colleges to be brought onto the ctcLink system and for software updates and upgrades to be made.

These and future ctcLink outages are posted on the ctcLink for Students web page.

Thank you for your patience.

ctcLink will be offline and unavailable for use over two upcoming weekends. Please plan ahead for these service interruptions as you consider Fall Quarter activities and Winter Quarter 2022 registration. Refer to the schedule below.

Planned ctcLink Outages

• Thursday, Oct. 21, 9 p.m. until Friday, Oct. 22, 4 a.m.
• Friday, Oct. 22 at 3 p.m. until Monday, Oct. 25 at 8 a.m.
   
• Thursday, Nov. 4, 9 p.m. until Friday, Nov. 5, 4 a.m.
• Friday, Nov. 5 at 3 p.m. until Monday, Nov. 8 at 8 a.m.

  
Please note, these outages WILL NOT affect your access to course materials on Canvas or services and appointments in Starfish. Canvas and Starfish are separate systems. However, if you need to reset your Canvas password, that is done via ctcLink (since Canvas uses your ctcLink ID and password).

Planned ctcLink outages are scheduled by the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges system office in Olympia and impact all colleges currently using ctcLink. They allow other colleges to be brought onto the ctcLink system and for software updates and upgrades to be made.

These and future ctcLink outages are posted on the ctcLink for Students web page.

Thank you for your patience.

There are several upcoming dates when ctcLink will be offline and unavailable for use. Refer to the schedule below.

Planned ctcLink Outages

• Thursday, Oct. 7 at 10 p.m. to Friday, Oct. 8 at 2 a.m.
• Friday, Oct. 8 at 5 p.m. to Monday, Oct. 11 at 8 a.m.
• Friday, Oct. 22 at 5 p.m. to Monday, Oct. 25 at 8 a.m.
• Friday, Nov. 5 at 5 p.m. to Monday, Nov. 8 at 8 a.m.

Please note, these outages WILL NOT affect your access to course materials on Canvas or services and appointments in Starfish. Canvas and Starfish are separate systems. However, if you need to reset your Canvas password, that is done via ctcLink (since Canvas uses your ctcLink ID and password).

Planned ctcLink outages are scheduled by the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges system office in Olympia and impact all colleges currently using ctcLink. They allow other colleges to be brought onto the ctcLink system and for software updates and upgrades to be made.

These and future ctcLink outages are posted on the ctcLink for Students web page.

Thank you for your patience.

ctcLink project team

On July 31, the State Board made changes to the login process for ctcLink to provide better security and user-friendly password reset options. The ctcLink portal link address and basic functions have not changed, and you will continue to use your current ctcLink ID and password.

A new website, myaccount.ctclink.us, allows you to set up your login security options to require an extra step to verify your identity each time you login to ctcLink on a different device. This is called Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

Setting Up New Security and MFA Information
Note: this applies mainly to returning students. If you are a new student who activated your ctcLink account after July 31, 2021, you have already completed this as part of the activation process and do not need to complete it again.

Returning students, you will want to set up your new security options soon. You may do this at any time at myaccount.ctclink.us. You will need your ctcLink ID and password. You will want to set your account's new security settings by Friday, October 1, 2021. If you don't, on that date you will be prompted and required to complete the setup before you can login to ctcLink.

After you enter your ctcLink ID and password at myaccount.ctclink.us, you will see a list of optional security settings (see the image below). You do not need to activate all of these, but you may. We recommend you activate at least two. Click the "Setup" button to activate any of the settings listed. Watch a short video about these new options.

Once you've set up your security settings, whenever you come to myaccount.ctclink.us you will see the "Password Settings" tile, which you may click to reset any security settings, or you may click on the ctcLink tile to go directly to ctcLink. See the image below.

Additional ctcLink resources are available at seattlecolleges.edu/ctclink/ctclink-students/ctclink-resources-students.

The State Board recently made changes to the login process for ctcLink to provide better security and user-friendly password reset options.

The ctcLink portal link address and basic functions have not changed, and you will continue to use your current ctcLink ID and password.

A new website, https://myaccount.ctclink.us, allows you to set up your login security options to require an extra step to verify your identity each time you login to ctclink on a different device. This is called Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

Setting Up New Security and MFA Information  

Although you do not need to take any action immediately, you will want to set up your new security options soon. You may do this at any time at https://myaccount.ctclink.us. You will need your ctcLink ID and password.  

Once you enter your ctcLink ID and password, you will see a list of optional security settings (see the image below). You do not need to activate all of these, but you may. We recommend you activate at least two. Click the “Setup” button to activate any of the settings listed. Watch a short video about these new options.

Once you’ve set up your security settings, whenever you come to https://myaccount.ctclink.us you will see the “Password Settings” tile, which you may click to reset any security settings, or you may click on the ctcLink tile to go directly to ctcLink. See the image below.

You will need to set your account’s new security settings by Friday, October 1, 2021. If you don’t, on that date you will be prompted and required to complete the setup before you can login to ctcLink.

Additional ctcLink resources are available at www.seattlecolleges.edu/ctclink/ctclink-students/ctclink-resources-students.

At the end of this month, the ctcLink Login process will be upgraded to provide better security and user-friendly self-service password reset options. This upgrade will be made during a scheduled ctcLink downtime on Saturday, July 31, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. After the upgrade, all users—including students, faculty, and staff—will want to set up new password recovery options.

The ctcLink portal link address and basic functions will not change, and you will continue to use your current ctcLink ID and password, but the new ctcLink login portal will change the way you reset your password. These updates and related changes are being made at all colleges in Washington that are using ctcLink.

Setting Up New Security and Recovery Information
From August 1 to September 30, 2021, you will have the opportunity to set your new security and recovery options (such as email, text, voice call, security questions) any time at https://myaccount.ctclink.us/ (link not active until July 31 at 1 p.m.). You will need your ctcLink ID and password to make changes. Although you do not need to take any action immediately, you will want to set this up soon so you have it completed before the deadline date.

     Watch a short video about these new options.

You will need to set your new account recovery options by Friday, October 1, 2021. If you don’t, on that date you will be prompted and required to complete the setup before you can login again.

ctcLink's mobile app, called HighPoint, and the mobile-friendly interface used to view the class schedule will update to HighPoint Campus Experience (HCX) on Saturday, June 19.

This update offers:

• improved accessibility
• expanded class search filtering in the class schedule
• a more modern design and less cluttered interface
• standardized tiles across all ctcLink colleges

A related outage of services on ctcLink will occur that day from 6 a.m. to noon.

• ctcLink mobile app web pages and student services, including the class schedule and registration, will be unavailable during the outage period.
• Canvas and Starfish will not be affected as they are separate systems.

The functionality of the mobile app will remain mostly the same with a fresh, new look, but there will be some changes. The desktop/browser version of ctcLink will remain the same.

If you use the current HighPoint mobile app, you may receive a prompt to update to the HCX app, or you may want to go to the app store after noon on June 19 to get the updated app. Search for "ctcLink" to find the updated app.

Step-by-step help guides will be available under the "Navigating ctclink Mobile (HighPoint)" heading on the ctcLink Resources for Students web page.

We hope your quarter is going well. Following is an update about what’s new and what’s coming up this month for ctcLink.

New Registration Tips Web Page

A new web page offers important tips to help you when you register for classes in ctcLink. Keep these four tips in mind: 

• Do I really need a permission number for every class? No, not for every class.
• Make sure to select the appropriate academic term.
• Remember to include Common Course Numbered (CCN) classes in your search to see all available classes.
• Don't forget to uncheck the “See Open Classes Only” box.

Get the details at the Registration Tips for ctcLink web page.

Planned Maintenance Outage on Saturday, June 5

There will be a planned outage of ctcLink on Saturday, June 5, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. for maintenance.

• ctcLink mobile web pages and student services, including the class schedule, will be unavailable during the outage period.
• Canvas and Starfish will not be affected as they are separate systems.

ctcLink’s Update to HighPoint Mobile HCX on Saturday, June 19 

ctcLink’s mobile app and the mobile-friendly interface used to view the class schedule, HighPoint, will update to HighPoint Campus Experience (HCX) on Saturday, June 19. A related outage of services will occur that day from 6 a.m. to noon.

This update offers:

• improved accessibility
• expanded class search filtering in the class schedule
• a more modern design and less cluttered interface
• standardized tiles across all ctcLink colleges

The vast majority of functionality will remain the same with a fresh, new look, but there will be some minor changes. The desktop/browser version of ctcLink will remain the same.

If you use the current HighPoint mobile app, you may receive a prompt to update the app, or you may want to go to the app store after June 19 to get the updated app.

Staff members are working to update the step-by-step help guides under the “Navigating ctclink Mobile (HighPoint)” heading on the ctcLink Resources for Students web page by the June 19 launch date.

Registration for Summer and Fall Quarters begins for returning students on Monday, May 17. 

This will be our second registration period using ctcLink, and everyone—including staff—will have more familiarity with the process. Additionally, the issues students encountered last time have been addressed. Our hope is registration will go more smoothly for everyone. 

Do I really need a permission number for every class? 

There is some confusion about when students need to request permission numbers (formerly known as entry codes) because the Permission Number Box automatically appears on the registration page.  

You do not need a permission number for every class. We encourage you to go through the process to register for your courses, and if you need a permission number, the system will inform you after you click the Enroll Button.

Course permission numbers (formerly known as entry codes) will be available when registration opens and can be obtained at your college in the same way they were previously available. For more information, visit the registration website for your college:  

• North
• Central
• South

Additional information and registration tips are available on the ctcLink for Students web page.

Students, 

Welcome to Spring Quarter.  

Seattle Colleges is extending the tuition payment deadline to Monday, April 12. The extension is in response to issues with credit card transactions. As we make progress and resolve issues, we encourage you to review the tips below and keep trying to pay. 

Payment Tips 

• Use the main ctcLink webpage to login and pay (instead of the mobile app). 
• Use the Firefox or Safari browsers (instead of Google Chrome). 
• Turn off the pop-up blocker on your browser (instructions).
• Try clearing your browser’s cache. 

If You Need Help 

• Step-by-step guides: ctcLink Resources for Students web page 
• Find answers to common questions: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for students page 

Thank you for your patience and persistence throughout our transition to ctcLink. 

ctclink Deployment Team 

As Winter Quarter ends, everyone now is looking ahead to Spring Quarter. If you haven't yet, we encourage you to activate your ctcLink account so you can register for Spring Quarter classes and continue making progress toward your academic goals

Activate Your ctcLink Account

• Go to gateway.ctclink.us and select "First Time User" to get started.
• Watch this how-to video: youtu.be/2ksyfQM2IlY.
• See the ctcLink Resources for Students web page for step-by-step instructions. You will get your ctcLink ID during the account activation process.
• Note: you only need to activate your account once. Be sure to write down your new ctcLink ID number when you get it and keep it in a safe place. You will need it to login to ctcLink and to register for Spring Quarter classes.

If You Need Help

• Our IT HelpDesk can help you activate your account.
• Step-by-step guide: ctcLink Resources for Students web page.
• Find answers to common questions at the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for students page.
• Get your ctcLink ID at tools.seattlecolleges.edu/Initialize/mycredential_bySID if you have already activated your account.
• Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions or encounter problems. In addition to the resources above, as always, our various student services offices will do their best to assist you.

Assistance and Support at Your College

• North Seattle
• Seattle Central
• South Seattle

Thank you for your patience throughout our transition to ctcLink as our new data and student self-service system.

First, thank you for your patience. The State Board and their ctcLink technology partners are addressing tuition payment issues. If you have encountered payment issues using ctcLink, we encourage you to try and pay again. For more information, please refer to the ctcLink Resources for Students web page.

Tuition Payment Deadline Changed to Monday, April 5
To accommodate the lost time, we have changed the tuition due date from March 22 to April 5 for all students enrolled for Spring Quarter. Please make sure you have paid by that date so you are not dropped from your classes. We hope this helps you as you make plans for Spring Quarter.

NelNet Payment Plan Services Now Available for All Students
NelNet payment plan services are now available within ctcLink for students at North Seattle College and South Seattle College. This means that all students across Seattle Colleges-North, Central, and South-may now link their ctcLink and NelNet accounts to set up payment plans.

We apologize for the inconvenience and frustration these issues have caused.

Students,

We are aware that some of you are unable to pay tuition in our new ctcLink system. We are working with the State Board to fix this problem and will notify you when it has been corrected.

Additionally, the tuition payment deadline for Spring Quarter 2021 has been changed from March 15 to March 22. We hope this change makes it easier for you during this transition.

We apologize for the inconvenience.

ctcLink Deployment Team

We are still waiting for NelNet payment plan services to be made available within ctcLink for students at North Seattle College and South Seattle College.

Our goal was to have NelNet payment plan services fully integrated to ctcLink by today, but that integration is taking much longer than expected due to factors outside of our control. We hope to have the NelNet integration in place for students soon.

Because of this delay, we wanted to let you know that the deans of enrollment at North and South will allow at least three full days to set up NelNet payment plans and accounts once this service is available in ctcLink before removing students from classes for non-payment. We will notify you as soon as NelNet is available for your use.

Additionally, the tuition payment deadline for Spring Quarter 2021 has been changed from March 15 to March 22. We hope this change makes it easier for you during this transition to ctcLink.

We apologize for the inconvenience.

Thank you, again, for your patience and positive attitude during our transition to ctcLink. We hope you are feeling comfortable with the new system and that you are finding the answers to any questions you have. 

If you haven’t yet, we strongly encourage you to activate your ctcLink account. You need to activate your ctcLink account to register for Spring Quarter classes. 

If You Need Help 
Our IT HelpDesk continues to offer support addressing technical issues, answering questions, and making referrals regarding ctcLink, and, as always, our various student services offices will do their best to assist you if you have questions.  

Moving forward, we want to remind you of two ongoing reference and self-service resources: 

• For step-by-step help guides and tutorials, visit the ctcLink Resources for Students web page. 

• Find answers to common questions at the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for students page. 
   

A Mobile App Is Available
One exciting feature of ctcLink is an app you can use on your mobile devices. Search the app store (iPhone) or play store (Android) on your mobile device for “ctcLink” to download and install this free app today. After you activate your ctcLink account, you’ll be able to access ctcLink directly through your mobile device using this app. Note: You must activate your ctcLink account before using the mobile app or its web-based version. 

This email serves as a reminder of some of the resources available to you as we are making the transition to ctcLink, our new data, registration, and financial system. We appreciate your patience as we all learn to use ctcLink together.

ctcLink Help Is Available 
We encourage you to seek help if you have questions, encounter problems, or need additional information. 

• Zoom information sessions are available March 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12. These sessions are held twice a day starting at 10 am and 1 pm. Each session will cover account activation, enrollment and registration, and standard payment options using ctcLink. The sessions include a 45-minute presentation and 45 minutes for Q&A. Zoom access will be the same for each session: zoom.us/j/91827975797. 
• If you encounter problems activating your account, contact the IT HelpDesk. 
• For step-by-step help guides and tutorials, visit the ctcLink Resources for Students web page. 
• Find answers to common questions at the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for students page. 

Spring Quarter Registration Using ctcLink  
Registration for Spring Quarter is now open for all students using the new ctcLink system. Step-by-step enrollment help guides and tutorials are available at the ctcLink Resources for Students web page. And feel free to attend any of the Zoom information sessions mentioned above. Note: Continuing Education students will register as they have been, using learnatnorth.org, learnatcentral.org, and learnatsouth.org.

Tuition Due Date Changed to March 22  
The tuition payment deadline for Spring Quarter 2021 has been changed from March 15 to March 22. We hope this change makes it easier for you during this transition to ctcLink.

View Unofficial Transcripts in Legacy Systems  
You can still view your unofficial transcript in our legacy systems using your old SID and PIN.

CENTRAL: wts.seattlecolleges.edu/seacen/waci002.html
NORTH: wts.seattlecolleges.edu/seanor/waci002.html 
SOUTH: wts.seattlecolleges.edu/seasou/waci002.html   
  

Financial Aid 
Your Winter and Spring Quarter financial aid information will continue to be accessed through your college’s Financial Aid Portal.

NORTH:  northseattle.edu/financial-aid  
CENTRAL:  seattlecentral.edu/enrollment-and-funding/financial-aid-and-funding/financial-aid/financial-aid-portal  
SOUTH:  southseattle.edu/financial-aid/financial-aid-portal  

2020 1098-T Forms  
Student 1098-T forms are not available in ctcLink. You can go to our Education Tax Credit website to learn more and to access your 2020 and past 1098-T forms.

A Mobile App Is Available  
One exciting feature of ctcLink is an app you can use on your mobile devices. Search the app store (iPhone) or play store (Android) on your mobile device for “ctcLink” to download and install this free app today. After you activate your ctcLink account, you’ll be able to access ctcLink directly through your mobile device using this app. Note: You must activate your ctcLink account before using the mobile app or its web-based version.

Students,

First and foremost, thank you for your patience and positive attitude during what has been a major transition.

There has been, and continues to be, a large volume of questions and inquiries about using the new ctcLink system.
We are responding to each request as quickly as possible.

Considering some unforeseen issues with the system, we have moved the tuition deadline from March 15 to March 22.

Please note that our ability to respond over the weekend is limited, but we'll be fully engaged on Monday morning,
March 8.

We encourage you to attend our information and Q&A sessions offered on Zoom March 8-12, twice daily starting at 10 am and 1 pm. We also encourage you to continue to reference the ctcLink Resources for Students web page.

Again, thanks for your grace and understanding,

Seattle Colleges

We hope you are feeling more comfortable using the new ctcLink system. As with any new system, there are some things to refine and work out. We appreciate your patience as we address those issues and as we all learn to use ctcLink together.

Following is some additional information about our transition.

Tuition and Fee Charges Available Friday, March 5
If you enrolled in classes yesterday, March 3, or you enroll today, March 4, you will not immediately see your tuition and fees owed in the system due to an additional delay. Please check back on Friday, March 5. We are hopeful the information will be available in the system then. We apologize for the inconvenience and any confusion.

Tuition Due Date Changed to March 22 
The tuition payment deadline for Spring Quarter 2021 has been changed from March 15 to March 22. We hope this change makes it easier for you during this transition to ctcLink.

2020 1098-T Forms 
Student 1098-T forms are not in ctcLink. You can go to our Education Tax Credit website to learn more and to access your 2020 and past 1098-T forms. 

Help Is Available
We encourage you to seek help if you have questions, encounter problems, or need additional information. The following resources are available to you:

• If you have trouble activating your ctcLink account, contact the IT HelpDesk. 
   
• Zoom information sessions are available March 4-5 and March 8-12. These sessions are held twice a day starting at 10 am and 1 pm. Each session will cover account activation, enrollment and registration, and standard payment options using ctcLink. The sessions include a 45-minute presentation and 45 minutes for Q&A. Zoom access will be the same for each session: zoom.us/j/91827975797. 
   
• For step-by-step help guides and tutorials, including how to enroll in a class, visit the ctcLink Resources for Students web page. 
   
• Find answers to common questions at the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for students page. 

Seattle Colleges is currently transitioning between information systems, and we have started enrollment and registration for Spring Quarter using the new ctcLink system.

First Step: Activate Your ctcLink Account

You must activate your ctcLink account before registering for Spring Quarter classes. If you haven't yet, activate your ctcLink account now. When you receive your new ctcLink ID number, be sure to write it down and keep it in a safe place.

If you forget your ctcLink ID after you activate your account, you can retrieve your credentials by entering your SID and PIN at tools.seattlecolleges.edu/Initialize/mycredential_bySID.
 

Tuition and Fee Charges

For students who enroll today, March 3, you will not immediately see your tuition and fees owed in the system due to a statewide conversion issue. Charges for classes enrolled in today, March 3, will be updated tonight and will be available for you to pay online beginning tomorrow, March 4. We apologize for the inconvenience.
 

NelNet Payment Plans

Seattle Colleges is working on finalizing the NelNet Payment Plan process for Spring Quarter, and we are delayed in that setup. Students will be able to set up a payment plan beginning Friday, March 5.
 

Registration

Read the Browse and Search for Classes Help Guide. This will help you become more familiar with the new registration system. Tutorials and step-by-step guides about how to enroll in a class and do other things using ctcLink are available on the ctcLink Resources for Students web page.

Note: Course permission numbers (formerly known as entry codes) can be obtained at your college in the same way they were previously available.
 

Help Is Available

• If you encounter problems activating your account, contact the IT HelpDesk.
   
• Zoom information sessions are available March 1-5 and 8-12. These sessions are held twice a day starting at 10 am and 1 pm. Each session will cover account activation, enrollment and registration, and standard payment options using ctcLink. The sessions include a 45-minute presentation and 45 minutes for Q&A. Zoom access will be the same for each session: zoom.us/j/91827975797.
   
• For step-by-step help guides and tutorials, visit the ctcLink Resources for Students web page.
   
• Find answers to common questions at the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for students page.
   

ctcLink is big change for everyone. Don't hesitate to reach out for help, and we ask for your patience as we learn to use ctcLink together.

Now that ctcLink is live, we want to offer you a few tips on registering for Spring quarter and where to find financial aid information. 

Registration

• You must activate your ctcLink account before registering for Spring Quarter classes. If you haven’t yet, activate your ctcLink account now. When you receive your new ctcLink ID number, be sure to write it down and keep it in a safe place. If you forget your ctcLink ID after you activate your account, you can retrieve your credentials by entering your SID and PIN at tools.seattlecolleges.edu/Initialize/mycredential_bySID.
   
• You are encouraged to carefully read the Browse and Search for Classes Help Guide. This will help you become more familiar with the new registration system.
   
• Course permission numbers (formerly known as entry codes) will be available when registration opens and can be obtained at your college in the same way they were previously available.
   
• Tutorials and step-by-step guides about how to enroll in a class and do other things using ctcLink are available on the ctcLink Resources for Students web page. Some quick tips are below.
   

Quick Tips for Using the New Class Schedule
Following are three important things to note when using the new class schedule.

Make sure to select Spring 2021 in the term dropdown menu to see Spring Quarter classes. It defaults to our current quarter, so you may see Winter 2021. (Refer to Step 4 in the Help Guide.)

Common Course Numbered (CCN) classes are listed as a separate subject. You will want to search for classes in both subjects to see all your options. (Refer to Step 5 in the Help Guide.)

Make sure to uncheck the “See Open Classes Only” box so you can see all classes, including those that may be closed. (Refer to Step 11 in the Help Guide.)

Financial Aid
Your Winter and Spring Quarter financial aid information will continue to be accessed through your college’s Financial Aid Portal. You will use your MySeattleColleges login.

• North: northseattle.edu/financial-aid 
• Central: seattlecentral.edu/enrollment-and-funding/financial-aid-and-funding/financial-aid/financial-aid-portal 
• South: southseattle.edu/financial-aid/financial-aid-portal 
   

Help Is Available
You won’t be alone as you begin using ctcLink. IT staff will be on standby to assist with technical issues. Online help and support—both self-service tutorials and Zoom meetings will be available.

• If you encounter problems activating your account, contact the IT HelpDesk.
• Zoom information sessions are available March 1-5 and 8-12. These sessions are held twice a day starting at 10 am and 1 pm. Each session will cover account activation, enrollment and registration, and standard payment options using ctcLink. The sessions include a 45-minute presentation and 45 minutes for Q&A. Zoom access will be the same for each session: zoom.us/j/91827975797.
• For step-by-step help guides and tutorials, visit the ctcLink Resources for Students web page.
• Find answers to common questions at the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for students page.

ctcLink is big change for all of us. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help, and we ask for your patience as we learn to use ctcLink together. 

Last week faculty and staff began using ctcLink. Now it’s your turn. As of today, Monday, March 1, you have access to this new tool to help you manage your college information and business.

We know moving to ctcLink is a big change for you. Don’t hesitate to ask for help, but please be patient. There is a large amount of new information, and everyone is learning this new system—including faculty and staff.

First Step: Activate Your ctcLink Account
To activate your new ctcLink account complete the following steps.
A video and step-by-step help guide are available at the ctcLink Resources for Students web page.
 

1. Go to the Students web page for your college: North | Central | South.

2. Click on the ctcLink icon to get to the ctcLink login screen.

3. Click “First Time User?” at the lower right of the ctcLink login screen.
   Note: if you already have a ctcLink ID from another Washington community or technical college or you have activated your ctcLink account, you do not need to click “First Time User?”.

4. Enter the information as requested and click Submit.

5. Choose three security questions by clicking on the dropdown menus.

6. Answer your security questions.
   Note: Answers are not case sensitive. Write your answers down or take a screen shot to help you remember them.  

7. Create your password and confirm it. Then, click Submit. 

8. Your account is now activated. After you write down your ctcLink ID number, click OK.
   Note: You will receive your new ctcLink ID number (called an EMPLID in the system).
   Be sure to write down your new ctcLink ID number when you get it and keep it in a safe place. If you forget your new ctcLink ID number, refer to this help guide.

9. Click Close. For security purposes, make sure to close your browser before logging in to ctcLink.

10. Now you can login to ctcLink and get started.
     

You Will Have Help
You won’t be alone as you start using ctcLink. IT staff will be on standby to assist with technical issues. Online help and support—both self-service tutorials and Zoom meetings will be available.

• If you encounter problems activating your account, contact the IT HelpDesk.

• for step-by-step help guides and tutorials, visit the ctcLink Resources for Students web page.

• Find answers to common questions at the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for students page.

• Zoom information sessions are available March 1-5 and 8-12. These sessions are held twice a day starting at 10 am and 1 pm. Each session will cover account activation, enrollment and registration, and standard payment options using ctcLink. The sessions include a 45-minute presentation and 45 minutes for Q&A. Zoom access will be the same for each session: zoom.us/j/91827975797.
   

Spring Quarter Registration Begins March 3 Using ctcLink
On Wednesday, March 3, registration for Spring Quarter begins for returning students using the new ctcLink system. Step-by-step enrollment help guides and tutorials are available at the ctcLink Resources for Students web page. And feel free to attend any of the Zoom information sessions mentioned above. Note: Continuing Education students will register as they have been, using learnatnorth.org, learnatcentral.org, and learnatsouth.org.
 

A Mobile App Is Available
One exciting feature of ctcLink is an app you can use on your mobile devices. Search the app store (iPhone) or play store (Android) on your mobile device for “ctcLink” to download and install this free app today. After you activate your ctcLink account, you’ll be able to access ctcLink directly through your mobile device using this app. Note: You must activate your ctcLink account before using the mobile app or its web-based version.

This week faculty and staff in departments across Seattle Colleges are working with our new ctcLink system. They are settling in and getting ready to serve students and other employees. They are focused on becoming more familiar with ctcLink and checking to make sure information has transferred correctly. Many college offices will be closed this week to prepare to serve and support you on March 1, when you will begin using ctcLink.   

Learn More about ctcLink Now 
Now is the time to start learning more about how to use ctcLink if you haven’t already. 

• Get important information and view the key dates for the transition at the ctcLink for Students web page.  
• Visit the ctcLink Resources for Students web page for tutorials and step-by-step help guides.  
• Find answers to some common questions at the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for students page.
   

Begin Using ctcLink March 1 
On Monday, March 1, you will begin using ctcLink. Online help and support—both self-service tutorials and online zoom meetings—will be available. IT staff will be on standby to assist with technical issues. Please do not attempt to activate your account before March 1. 

• We encourage you to start with online tutorials and step-by-step help guides available at the ctcLink Resources for Students web page. 
• Online training sessions for students will include information about account activation, enrollment, and payment. Sessions will be offered twice a day March 1-5 and 8-12 starting at 10 am and 1 pm. 
• The IT HelpDesk will offer LiveChat and phone support for account activation, browser, and access issues.
   

Spring Quarter Registration Begins March 3 Using ctcLink 
On Wednesday, March 3, registration for Spring Quarter begins for returning students using the new ctcLink system.  

• Quick tips for using the new class schedule (North, Central, South): 
  • Review the help guide: How to Browse and Search for Classes.  
  • Common Course Numbered (CCN) classes are listed as a separate subject. You will want to search for classes in both subjects. (See Step 5 in the guide). 
  • Make sure to uncheck the “See Open Classes Only” box so you can see all classes, including those that may be closed. (See Step 11 in the guide).
     
• Course permission numbers (formerly known as entry codes) will be available when registration opens and can be obtained at your college in the same way they were previously available.
   
• Remember, online tutorials and step-by-step help guides on how to enroll in classes are available at the ctcLink Resources for Students web page.
   
• ctcLink Student Info sessions that cover account activation, enrollment, and payment steps will be held twice a day March 1-5 and 8-12 starting at 10 am and 1 pm. Click here for schedule and access information (scroll to ctcLink Info Sessions for Students on Zoom).
   
• Note: Continuing Education students will register as they have been using learnatnorth.org, learnatcentral.org, and learnatsouth.org.
   

A Mobile App Is Available 
One exciting feature of ctcLink is an app you can use on your mobile devices. Search the app store (iPhone) or play store (Android) on your mobile device for “ctcLink” to download and install this free app today. Note: You must activate your ctcLink account before using the mobile app or its web-based version. Please see the account activation instructions at the ctcLink Resources for Students web page and for more information about the app. After you activate your ctcLink account on March 1, you’ll be able to access ctcLink directly through your mobile device using the app.  

We know moving to ctcLink is a big change for everyone. Please be patient as we learn this new system together. 

_____ 

What to Expect During the Transition to ctcLink at Seattle Colleges 

• Many college offices will be closed or have limited hours from February 15 to March 1 to focus on the transition. This includes Admissions, Advising, Business Offices, Cashiering, Enrollment and Registration, Financial Aid Offices, and Payroll. 
   
• You still have access to your coursework in Canvas. You also have access to email and Office365, Starfish, library systems, and remote access to computer labs. 
   
• On Monday, March 1, you may begin using ctcLink.  
  • Watch a short video on how to activate your account.  
  • If you encounter problems activating your account, contact the IT HelpDesk. 
  • Please do not attempt to activate your account before March 1. 
     
• Online training sessions for students will be offered twice daily March 1-5 and 8-12 starting at 10 am and 1 pm. 
   
• Registration for Spring Quarter begins Wednesday, March 3 for returning students using ctcLink.  
  • Learn how to enroll in a class at the ctcLink Resources for Students web page. 
  • Note: Continuing Education students will register as they have been using learnatnorth.org, learnatcentral.org, and learnatsouth.org. 
     
• Registration for Spring Quarter begins Monday, March 8 for new students using ctcLink. 
   
• Learn how to use ctcLink with step-by-step guides and tutorials at the ctcLink Resources for Students web page.
   
• A mobile app is available for ctcLink. Search for “ctcLink” and download it at your mobile app store.  
  • You must activate your ctcLink account before using the mobile app or its web-based version. 

We are beginning the transition to ctcLink. Many college offices will be closed until Monday, March 1 to focus on this change. Please be aware that you will not have access to your student records until March 1. We know this is inconvenient, but it is necessary so we can make the change to ctcLink successfully. 
 
You still have access to your coursework in Canvas. You also have access to email and Office365, Starfish, library systems, and remote access to computer labs.  
 
Please Start Learning about ctcLink Now 
We encourage you to start learning more about how to use ctcLink by visiting the ctcLink Resources for Students web page. For information about important dates, refer to the Key Dates for Students section of the ctcLink for Students webpage. We also have a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for students page to help you find answers to some common questions. 
 
You Will Have Help 
On Monday, March 1, you will begin to use ctcLink. You’ll receive more information over the next few weeks to help prepare for this change. IT staff will be on standby to assist with technical issues. Online help and support—both self-service tutorials and zoom meetings will also be available. Watch your email for details. 
 
You Will Receive a New Student ID Number 
To activate your new ctcLink account in March, you will enter your existing SID to receive your new ctcLink identification number (called an EMPLID in the system). Be sure to write down your new ID number when you get it and keep it in a safe place. With this you will have one ID number to access your information across Seattle Colleges as well as across the Washington community and technical college system. Your ID and records will follow you within the community and technical college system. 
 
Look for an important email on March 1 with more details. Until then, take two minutes to watch a short video on how to activate your account. Watch it a few times to have a good starting level of preparation. 
 
Registration Begins March 3 Using ctcLink 
On Wednesday, March 3, registration for Spring Quarter will begin for returning students using the new ctcLink system. (Note: Continuing Education students will register using learnatnorth.org, learnatcentral.org, and learnatsouth.org as they have been.) We will be there to offer help and support as you get comfortable using ctcLink to register.  
 
We hope you have had a chance to begin reviewing the new class schedule as you plan for Spring Quarter: 

• North - https://wa063.ctclink.us/app/catalog/classSearch/2213  
• Central - https://wa062.ctclink.us/app/catalog/classSearch/2213  
• South - https://wa064.ctclink.us/app/catalog/classSearch/2213 

If you have questions, take advantage of our help guide: Searching and Browsing Classes. 
 
Please be patient as we work together to learn this new system. ctcLink’s new tools and features will help us better serve you. 

The process of moving from our current student data, finance, and business systems to the new ctcLink system will begin soon. To make the transition, we need to shut down our current systems and transfer the data. This means you will not have access to your records and some services for a period of time in February. We apologize for this inconvenience, but it is necessary.  

Access to Student Records Paused February 12 to March 1 
Please be aware that you will not have access to your student records online in MyNorth, MyCentral, or MySouth from Friday, February 12, to Monday, March 1. These records include information about your student accounts, financial balances, class registration, enrollment, and transcripts. If you need this information, please access it online before Thursday, February 11, at 4:30 pm. You will have access to your student records again beginning on March 1 in ctcLink. 

Other Services Paused During ctcLink Transition 
Please note the following dates when other services will be paused for the ctcLink transition. 

• Many college offices will be closed or have limited hours from February 15 to March 1 to focus on the transition. This includes Admissions, Advising, Business Offices, Cashiering, Enrollment and Registration, Financial Aid Offices, and Payroll.  
• Financial aid and scholarship disbursements will not occur between February 8 and March 1.   
• The last day for cashiering transactions in business offices at all colleges is Wednesday, February 10, before 4:30 pm.  

Services That Will Remain Open and Accessible 
Your coursework in Canvas will not be interrupted. You will also have access to email and Office365, Starfish, library systems, and remote access to computer labs. 

Changes in Login and Authentication Begin February 22 
How you login to your student portal — MyNorth, MyCentral, and MySouth — will change as we move to ctcLink. Beginning Monday, February 22, you will use your MySeattleColleges login information instead of your SID/PIN to access your student portal and many other apps.  

*Note: Your MySeattleColleges login is the same login information you use with Microsoft Office365 and Outlook email (typically firstname.lastname@seattlecolleges.edu and associated password). 

Most of the services—like the class schedule, registration, student records and personal information, and business functions—are moving to ctcLink from MyNorth, MyCentral, and MySouth, but your student portal will be available during the transition and after. 

ctcLink Opens for Student Use March 1 - Start Learning Now 

• On Monday, March 1, you will be asked to activate your new account in ctcLink. Once activated, it will provide access to your student records and information in ctcLink. Watch your email for details on how to do that.  
• Curious about how you’ll activate your ctcLink account beginning March 1? You can visit the ctcLink Resources for Students web page to start learning today about how you will use ctcLink. 

Keep watching for important announcements, especially in your email and Canvas. Please make it a priority to read messages about ctcLink and take any actions you are asked to complete. 

We are excited to bring these new tools and features to you. 

We're changing our systems and online tools to better serve you. Later this month Seattle Colleges will launch a new and improved technology and data system called ctcLink. These improvements will make the way you access your information more user-friendly with more self-service and mobile-friendly features available.

Many systems, like registration, will be changing. To learn more about these changes, refer to the ctcLink for Students website at seattlecolleges.edu/ctclink/ctclink-students.

What can you expect during the transition?

New Look for Spring Class Schedule
Start planning your next quarter with the new Spring 2021 class schedule, available on Tuesday, February 2. You'll notice a new look and some changes to how it works as you view the class schedule in ctcLink. We hope these improvements will assist you. If you have questions, take advantage of our help guide, Searching and Browsing Classes, and get ready to register starting March 3.

Pause in Services During Transition 
Preparing for ctcLink will mean a pause in many current services, and several college offices will be closed from February 15 until March 1. This is necessary to prepare for the changeover of data systems and to test and verify our new systems. We know this is inconvenient, but we ask for your patience during this time. It is extremely important to make sure the data in the new system is accurate.

Offices and services affected include:

• Admissions 
• Advising  
• Business Offices and Cashiering 
• Enrollment and Registration 
• Financial Aid  
• Payroll and Human Resources 
• You will not have access to your student accounts and information in MyCentral, MyNorth, or MySouth, during this time.

You will still have access to: 

• Coursework on Canvas 
• Email and Office365 
• Starfish 
• Remote access to computer labs 

 
Important Dates 
Following are important dates and notes about the change to ctcLink. Watch your email for details.

• From February 15 to March 1, many of our offices and data systems will be closed to prepare for this change and test and verify our new systems.
   
• If all goes well, on Monday, March 1, the new ctcLink system will open for your use. You’ll be asked to activate your new ctcLink account and receive your new student ID. Watch your email for details.
   
• On Wednesday, March 3, registration for Spring Quarter will begin using the new system. Watch your email for details. (Note: Continuing Education students will still register using learnatnorth.org, learnatcentral.org, and learnatsouth.org.)

We’re excited to bring these new tools and features to you to help make your college experience more user-friendly and serve you better.

When we move to our new data system, ctcLink, starting on Monday, February 22, the changes will make the way you access your Seattle Colleges information more user-friendly. Your experience will be more comprehensive and consistent whether you are attending Central, North, or South.

The preparation for and transition to ctcLink will affect the services you’ll be able to access. During the time we change systems, access to your current student account and a number of student services will be unavailable. We’ve made every effort to minimize the impact on students, but this is necessary to make sure everything is accurate and running smoothly as we move from the old system to the new system.

NOTE: You will still have full access to your coursework in Canvas.
Canvas will NOT be interrupted by our transition to ctcLink.

Following are important dates for you to keep in mind. Mark these on your calendars.

Funding Disbursements Paused Between February 8 and March 1
Due to the transition to ctcLink, financial aid, scholarships, Workforce and other fund disbursements will not occur between February 8 and March 1. Financial aid application processing and funding disbursements will resume after Monday, March 1.

Cashiering Transactions Paused Between February 11 and March 1
The last day for student and department cashiering transactions in business offices at all colleges is Wednesday, February 10 until 4:30 pm. Cashiering services will begin again on Monday, March 1 using the new ctcLink system.  

Access to Your Online Student Account and Records Paused from February 15 to March 1
Please be aware that you will not have access to your student account and records using our current systems, MyCentral, MyNorth, or MySouth, from Monday, February 15, until Monday, March 1. This two-week period is required to transfer our current data systems into ctcLink and ensure the information is intact and accurate. You will still have access to Canvas, Office365, Starfish, and remote access to computer labs.

Various Student Services Will Not Be Available February 22 to March 1
Several offices will be closed Monday, February 22 through Friday, February 26 to focus on the transition and ensure the data transfer was successful. They include Cashiering, Admissions, Business Offices, Enrollment & Registration, Financial Aid Offices, and Payroll at each of our colleges. These offices will reopen on Monday, March 1.

While we understand moving to a new system will limit service temporarily, we hope you will be patient with everyone as we all learn to work with ctcLink together. We will keep you informed of the things you’ll need to do as well as other important details about this transition, including resources, tutorials, and information sessions to help you navigate and use ctcLink. Please continue to watch for the important emails you receive about ctcLink and read them.

As always, if you want more information, refer to the ctcLink for Students website at www.seattlecolleges.edu/ctclink/ctclink-students. 

This quarter, Seattle Colleges – Central, North, and South – will change our student technology and data systems to ctcLink, which will replace MyCentral, MyNorth, and MySouth. While we’ve all grown accustomed to our current system, it uses outdated technology that doesn’t offer the integrated online services you need. Our new system, ctcLink, offers many services online in a mobile-friendly way.

This email is the first in a series of emails you will receive with information about our move to ctcLink. We ask you to please pay close attention to information in these emails, as this transition will affect every student attending Seattle Colleges.

Following are important upcoming dates for you to keep in mind.

• Spring Quarter Schedule Available Online Monday, February 1
  As we look ahead, be aware that the Spring Quarter class schedule will be available to preview online for your planning purposes on Monday, February 1.
   
• Funding Disbursements Will Not Occur Between February 8 and March 1
  Due to the transition to ctcLink, financial aid and scholarship disbursements will not occur between February 8 and March 1, 2021.  Financial aid applications and funding disbursements will begin processing again after Monday, March 1.
   
• Cashiering Transactions Unavailable Between February 11 and March 1
  The last day for student and department cashiering transactions in business offices at all colleges is Wednesday, February 10 until 4:30 pm. Cashiering services will begin again on Monday, March 1 using the new ctcLink system.
   
• Registration Begins for Continuing Students on Wednesday, March 3
  You will be using the new ctcLink system to register for classes beginning on Wednesday, March 3. We will have videos and other online resources to help guide you through the new registration process using ctcLink. We’ll send you information about that in mid-February as we get closer to registration.
  
  Note to Continuing Education Students: Students taking a Continuing Education class should continue to register directly with us at learnatnorth.org, learnatcentral.org, and learnatsouth.org.

Keep Watching Your Email for More Important Information
Look for regular email updates as we get closer to our “go live” date of Monday, February 22, 2021. 

We’ll work to keep you informed of the things you’ll need to do and the important dates when services may not be available due to the transition. We’ll also let you know about online information sessions we’re planning that will help answer questions and guide you through the transition to ctcLink.

While we understand moving to a new system may cause some frustration at first, we hope you will be patient with everyone as we learn this system together.

As always, if you want more information, refer to the ctcLink for Students website at www.seattlecolleges.edu/ctclink/ctclink-students.

We hope your classes are going well. As you plan ahead, we want to make you aware of a significant change coming in February. On February 22, 2021, Seattle Colleges (Central, North, and South) will move to a new system for student registration and self-service called ctcLink. 

ctcLink will provide a set of mobile-friendly tools for you to manage your college business online. It will allow you to:

• View or update your student information and manage personal contact info.
• Register for classes, add, and drop.
• Pay tuition and fees and handle financial aid processes.
• View your grades, track academic goals, and apply for graduation.
• Contact your instructors or advisor.

Staff Now Training and Testing
College staff members are now building the new system, training, verifying data, and testing to ensure it is ready to use. You may notice a slowdown in responsiveness, processing information, or day-to-day activities in some offices and services over the coming months and up to “go live.” 

We ask for your patience as our staff are working in our current system and the new ctcLink environment. We will do our best to meet your needs during the transition. 

More Details in the New Year 
In January and February, as we get closer to the go live date of February 22, you'll receive more information. For now, we simply want you to be aware of this upcoming change. If you want to learn more, go to our student ctclink webpage:
www.seattlecolleges.edu/ctclink/ctclink-students.

We’ve also developed a one-page document that has a general overview of the project and what you can expect. That document is available on the website and by following this link.

We are excited about the improvements ctcLink will bring to your experience at Seattle Colleges. All the best to you for the rest of the quarter.