Community colleges are two-year institutions that are very popular with international students. Almost all of them offer open access admission, which means that almost all eligible students can attend them.
What are the general application requirements for community colleges?
- Institution’s online application form (including personal information, educational history, etc.).
- Transcripts. This is usually a high school diploma and transcript, translated into English. National test scores (such as PAES) are optional at community colleges.
- Standardized test scores. TOEFL, ACT/SAT and other test scores may be accepted to evaluate your academic ability and English proficiency. However, these tests are not usually required for admission to community colleges. Upon arrival, you will most likely take placement tests in English language as well as in your area of study.
- Depending on the institution, other forms such as financial information, proof of health insurance, immunization records, passport and visa information may also be required.
Because community colleges often have rolling or periodic admissions deadlines throughout the year, the application calendar is more fluid than that of a four-year college or university.
You should be aware of your expected start date and check the deadlines on the website of the institution to which you are applying. Filling out application forms, requesting and translating transcripts, requesting copies of test scores, and registering for classes can be time-consuming, so we suggest that you plan ahead.
