Check to see if you are admitted directly into a set program. Many institutions have a general first year and then students are admitted to specific programs or areas of study. Other institutions admit students directly into specific programs or majors.
Each institution sets its own admission policies. So check directly with the institution!
Once admitted, you will need to register for a specific program or specific courses. Typically, you register for new courses prior to each semester. Courses are offered at various times throughout the year. Each institution provides a timetable with the course listings and schedule. Use this to select the courses you would like to take, and when and where you would like to take them.
Make an appointment with an academic advisor when you are first starting off. They can help you select the courses you need, and make sure you are taking them in the order that provides you with the most opportunities. Course selection takes some planning, especially if you have specific program and degree requirements. Always have a "Plan B" in case your first choice of courses do not work out.
Not all courses are offered each semester or even each year. If there is a course you require that is not offered in one semester, it may be offered in a future semester.
You will receive a registration time and instructions on how to register. Registration is mainly done online, but some institutions have telephone and in person registration as well.
It is very important you register during your set registration time.
Leaving registration until the last minute may prevent you from getting the courses you want because they are full.
Sometimes an institution will accept you into a program, but there may not be enough space for you to begin right away and so you will be put on a waitlist for the next available opportunity. What does this mean?
Wait lists are fairly common, particularly in ongoing career or trade related programs. Most of these programs have continuous intakes or don't work on a semester basis. As a result, they admit students into the program and the student begins when a space becomes available.
If you are under a tight timeline, contact the program directly. Most programs have coordinators that manage the wait lists. If you can be flexible and responsive, sometimes there are last minute openings that you can take advantage of. On the other hand if you need advanced notice so that you can be available to attend class, program coordinators can usually provide you with a solid estimate of when you will get in.