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Student FAQs

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Student IT FAQs

If your issue is not addressed below, please visit the IT Support Knowledge Base for a database of student IT support.

Why can I not access the MiraCosta website?
Learn more about users with old MAC devices who are unable to access the MiraCosta website.
Why is my MCC login not working?

Error message: "Invalid username provided"
Solution: Avoid using the Auto-fill, Copy & Paste, and/or web browser cache features because these features usually add a blank space after the last character creating an invalid username and/or password. Instead, we suggest to type out each character.

Need to Know about your MCC login credentials:

  • Your password expires every 360 days from the time you set up or reset your password.
  • Due to security reasons, after five failed attempts, our password system will automatically lock your account.
    • To unlock your account, you may wait 15 minutes and try again or you may contact the Student HelpDesk for assistance.
  • Your SURF ID (W#######) can not be modified.
What is the difference between my SURF ID and Student ID?
At MiraCosta College students are issued both a SURF ID and Student ID. The SURF ID is used to log into our online systems to include Wi-Fi, and the Student ID is used for Administration purposes such as students' transcripts, etc. Currently students' ID Cards are labeled with Student ID numbers only. To convert the Student ID number to a SURF ID, replace the first zero with a "W". For example, the assigned Student ID: 07211234 converts to SURF ID: W7211234.
When do I register for Spring, Summer, and Fall classes?

Don't get left out...registration has begun!!! If you haven't already registered, please submit your Spring, Summer, and/or Fall application so you can start enrolling in classes soon.

If you are experiencing difficulties in submitting your application online, please contact: OpenCCC Tech Support at 877-247-4836 and/or via support@openccc.net.

How do I enroll and drop classes?

If you are having difficulties adding classes, please review our tutorials listed below:

Note: To prevent your class(es) from being DROPPED, please make the payment by the due deadline available on the Payment Deadlines Schedule (select the respective term).

Why is my payment for a class not going through?
If you are experiencing difficulties paying your class(es) with our payment system, we strongly suggest that you either disable your Pop-Up Blocker or add our surf.miracosta.edu website as an exception to accept pop-ups.
How can I enroll in classes with zero or low cost textbooks?

MiraCosta College now offers designated classes with Zero or Low Cost textbook. Learn how to search for these designated classes by clicking the link below:

Why can I not access Canvas after enrolling in my class?
Normally when a student adds a class, it takes approximately two hours from the time the class was added to see it in Canvas. The updates to access your class in Canvas are done between 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Monday - Saturday. Thus, if you add and pay for a class after 7:00 PM, please wait for the next morning to see your class in Canvas. Note: no updates are done on Sundays. Thank you for your patience and understanding.


Why am I getting this error message at the Canvas login prompt?
Not able to log in error message
The message above indicates that you do not have access to Canvas because currently you are not enrolled in classes per respective semester. If you just added and paid for classes, Canvas will update your enrollments every two hours, except for Sunday enrollments which are added to Canvas on Monday mornings. If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact the IT Helpdesk.
Am I prepared for ONLINE classes?

Online courses available to you via the Internet. Course content, credit, and quality are equal to that of the traditional classroom! Explore the following to find out if online courses are right for you.

I have an issue with Canvas. Who can I contact?
If you have issues with Canvas after working hours and/or during peak periods, and need immediate assistance, please contact Canvas Support 24/7 Hotline directly at 877.884.1673 or from your Canvas account, click Tech Help > Report a Problem.