STOCKTON -- With many universities planning to stay mostly or partially online this fall, Delta College remains an affordable option for those who prefer to stay home and stay on track academically.

Ranked the No. 1 community college in California last year, Delta offers students an opportunity to take the same online classes that they would take from a university, while saving thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. Registration for fall semester is now open to all students, and applications are being accepted.

First-time, full-time Delta College students are now eligible for two full years of free tuition, regardless of income level. That means students who take a full load of classes can ideally complete a career training program or transfer to a university without paying a nickel in tuition.

Altogether, more than two-thirds of Delta students pay no tuition. Additional financial aid and scholarships are available to help defray the cost of books and other expenses.

"We definitely sympathize with high school graduates and their parents who are making difficult decisions right now about college this fall," said Delta College Superintendent/President Dr. Omid Pourzanjani.

"We at Delta College would just like to remind these students and their families that they have an affordable, high-quality option right here at home. We stand ready to serve these students and are happy to answer any questions that families might have about a Delta education."

Most Delta College classes will be online in the fall, though some hands-on courses will be offered as "hybrids" -- partially in person and partially online. The College is making laptops available for students who have technology needs, and counselors and employees known as Resource Specialsit will help guide students through their online experience.

The quality of a Delta education is also worth considering. Graduates of the College's career education programs gain the expert skills they need to get jobs right out of Delta, in some cases doubling or even tripling their wages.

Other graduates choose to continue their studies by transferring to four-year universities across the country. Students from Delta's graduating Class of 2020 are headed to UC Berkeley, UC Davis, Stanford, Johns Hopkins and Howard University, among many other institutions near and far.

"These are such trying times in our own communities and across the nation," Dr. Pourzanjani said. "Now more than ever we want to remind families that Delta College is here for them and eager to help them reach their goals."