Pasadena City College: A Comprehensive Guide to International Student Application Requirements

For international students aspiring to pursue higher education in the United States, Pasadena City College (PCC) offers a diverse range of academic programs and a supportive environment. This article provides a detailed overview of the application requirements, processes, and essential information for prospective international students seeking admission to PCC.

Application Essentials

The initial step towards joining PCC as an international student involves completing the online application. This process requires meticulous attention to detail and adherence to specific guidelines. Along with the application form, several supporting documents are crucial for a comprehensive evaluation.

Your application will be evaluated and an admission decision will be made when you submit the application with the supporting documents listed in the checklist.

Required Supporting Documents

A complete application package includes several essential documents that provide a holistic view of the applicant's academic background, financial stability, and English language proficiency.

Academic Transcripts

Submitting official academic transcripts is paramount. These transcripts should reflect the applicant's complete academic history, including secondary and post-secondary education. If the transcripts are not in English, certified English translations must accompany the original documents. PCC has its own evaluators who evaluate foreign transcripts.

You may be able to use your credits from another country at PCC. PCC evaluators will complete a second evaluation for graduation credits. Therefore, before applying for your transcript to be evaluated, make sure it is accurate and complete.

Proof of high school completion has to be submitted. Applicants must have graduated high school at the start of classes and at the time of applying to the college.

English Proficiency

Demonstrating English language proficiency is a prerequisite for international students whose native language is not English. PCC accepts several standardized tests, including the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The acceptable TOEFL score is the Internet-Based Test (IBT) version.

Financial Documentation

International students must provide evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover their tuition, fees, and living expenses while studying at PCC. This typically involves submitting official bank statements, each accompanied by a sponsor affidavit form. Each official bank statement must have a sponsor affidavit form attached.

Passport and Visa Information

A clear copy of the applicant's passport is required to verify their identity and citizenship. Additionally, international students must apply for a student F-1 visa promptly.

Post-Acceptance Procedures

Upon acceptance, international students must complete several crucial steps to ensure a smooth transition to PCC.

I-20 Form

Accepted students will receive an I-20 form, which is essential for obtaining an F-1 student visa. It is crucial to download your PCC I-20 and check it carefully for errors. If any discrepancies are found, it is important to address them promptly.

In certain situations, a replacement I-20 may be necessary (e.g. caused by unforeseen circumstances beyond the student’s control).

Orientation

PCC requires all new international students to complete an online orientation program. This orientation provides valuable information about academic policies, campus resources, and student life.

The online orientation consists of two parts: 1. Complete Online Orientation and 2. Want to earn an even earlier Priority Registration date?

After completing the New Student Orientation, this text will appear on your screen: "Congratulations, you've completed the New Student Orientation. To prepare you for registration, view the Pre-Registration Workshop on how to select and register for your classes correctly."

Health Insurance

International students are typically required to enroll in the International Student Health Insurance Plan (ISHIP), which provides comprehensive medical coverage during their studies. Tuition and fees, which includes the International Student Health Insurance Plan (ISHIP), can be paid online through LancerPoint or in person at Student Business Services in B-203. PCC does not require immunizations.

Change of Status

If you are applying for a Change of Status, notify PCC one week before classes start on the status of your Change of Status application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Important Considerations

Navigating the international student application process can be complex. Keeping the following points in mind can help ensure a successful application.

Application Deadlines

Adhering to application deadlines is critical. International students should submit their applications well in advance of the start of the semester to allow sufficient time for processing and visa acquisition.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

International students do not qualify for financial aid. However, they may be eligible for scholarships. The average scholarship awarded is between $250 to $500 dollars. These scholarships are typically awarded prior to the beginning of the semester they have been admitted to.

Credit Transfer

Students with prior college or university coursework from other countries may be able to transfer their credits to PCC. If you have attended a college/university next semester, you may be able to use those credits.

Housing

PCC does not offer on-campus housing. International students are responsible for finding their own housing. Many students choose to live in apartments or shared housing within the local community, often with a roommate or two.

Payment

Pasadena City College does not offer a payment plan. Payment is due at time of registration.

Online Courses

If you want to take an online class during Fall and Spring semesters, you still need to submit the Online Course Clearance Request.

Add Codes

If you want to join a class that is currently full, the process is through obtaining an add code from the instructor of the course. The next student on the waitlist is notified they have 48 hours to add it. Registration ends on the first day of class. To obtain an add code from the instructor of the course, reach out to the instructor and wait for a reply.

Priority Registration

If you have completed a number of university courses, you may not earn priority registration through JAM.

International Student Office

PCC's International Student Center (ISC) provides a range of services and support to international students, including assistance with immigration matters, academic advising, and cultural adjustment. You can request an official letter from the ISC if you are leaving Pasadena City College, are not going to study at PCC any more, or need to replace your I-20.

Traveling

If you are traveling outside the United States for break/vacation, check your I-20 (2nd page).

Course Drops

You cannot drop a course after the 11th week of a semester (Week 12 - 16).

Concurrent Enrollment

You cannot study at PCC at the same time as studying at another college/university next semester?

Out of Status

If you are out of status, or your I-20 has been terminated, it is important to seek guidance from the International Student Office.

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