ERIC ED509577: Profiles of U.S. Community Colleges: A Guide for International Students, 2009-2010

2009·8.9 MB·English

by  ERIC

Table of Contents
Letter from Janice Jacobs, Assistant Secretary for ◗ Obtaining An F-1 Student Visa………....17-18 ◗ U.S. Map Showing How Profiles Michigan ................................................119
Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State ......................4 Are Grouped in This Guide.........................26
Eligibility..................... .............................................................17 Minnesota ......................................120-122
Visa Interview Checklist .......................................................18 Missouri .........................................123-124
About This Publication ..........................................................5
Possible Interview Visa Questions .....................................18
◗ Region A New Jersey .............................................125
Map of States............ .....................................................................................27 New York ........................................126-132
◗ The U.S. Higher Education System…….....6-8
◗ Traveling to the United States…………..19-20 Description of States ........................................................................28-29 Ohio .......................................................133
Community Colleges ..............................................................7 List of Profiles.......... .....................................................................................30
Oklahoma ..............................................134
Prior to Departure .....................................................................................19
4-Year Colleges and Universities ...........................................7
Secure Housing Arrangements ......................................19 Pennsylvania ..................................135-137
Accreditation .............................................................................8
Profiles of U.S. Community Colleges –
Schedule Your Arrival ......................................................19
Freedom of Choice ..................................................................8 South Carolina ......................................138
Make Medical Preparations ...........................................19 Region A.................................................31-83
Undergraduate Academic Year ..............................................8 Tennessee ...............................................139
Copy Important Documents .........................................19
Course Credits...........................................................................8
Arizona ...............................................31-37
Prepare For Your Flight ...................................................19 Texas ...............................................140-146
Course Grades ..........................................................................8
Secure Money Needed for the Trip and in California ...........................................38-58 Virginia ..................................................147
the United States ...........................................................20
Colorado ............................................59-60
West Virginia .........................................148
Appliances........ .................................................................20
◗ Overview of U.S. Community Colleges….....9 Arrange Transportation for Your Arrival .....................20 Nevada .....................................................61 Wisconsin ......................................149-151
Oregon ...............................................63-64
Utah ..........................................................65
◗ Glossary of Terms…………………………..152
◗ The Top 10 Benefits of Attending a ◗ Upon Arrival in the United States……….....21 Washington ........................................66-78
U.S. Community College........................10-11
Wyoming............................................79-83
U.S. Entry and Customs Requirements..............................21
◗ Internet Resources for International
U.S. Customs and Immigration Procedure........................21
Students…………………………...............154
Documents Required by U.S. Customs
◗ Selecting a U.S. Community College.….12-13 and Immigration…………………………………...21 ◗ Region B
Questions U.S. Custom Officials May Ask........................21
Determine Your Higher Education Goals .........................12 Map of States............ .....................................................................................85 ◗ Participating Colleges and Corporate
Estimate Expenses and Identify Financial Resources ....13 Description of States ........................................................................87-91 Sponsors..................................................155
Other Important Criteria to Consider ...............................13 List of Profiles.......... .....................................................................................92
Sources for Information and Assistance ............................13
◗ Maintaining F-1 Student Visa Status............22
Profiles of U.S. Community Colleges – ◗ U.S. Community Colleges Approved
Region B...............................................93-151 by SEVP………………………….........156-163
◗ Applying to a U.S. Community College...15-16
◗ Living in the United States……………..23-24 Florida ..............................................93-100
Application Form ..................................................................15 ◗ Corporate Sponsors
Test Scores................................................................................15 Housing.................. ..................................................................23 Georgia ..........................................101-103
ETS TOEFL ................................................inside front cover
Academic Transcripts and Records ....................................16 Managing Your Money ..........................................................23 Illinois ............................................104-108
IELTS ............................................................inside back cover
Statement of Financial Support...........................................16 Public Transportation ...........................................................24
Kansas ............................................109-110 Student Insurance ...............................................................164
Extracurricular Activities ......................................................16 Working in the United States ...............................................24
Proof of Immunization ..........................................................16 Experiencing U.S. Culture ....................................................24 Kentucky ........................................111-113
Letters of Recommendation ................................................16 Louisiana ...............................................114
See Electronic Guide at
Personal Essays......... ..............................................................16
Maryland................................................115 www.aaccinternational.org
Massachusetts ................................116-118
2 www.aaccinternational.org www.aaccinternational.org 3
About this Publication
Profiles of U.S. Community Colleges: A Guide for International Students contains
information about community colleges, the largest and fastest growing sector of U.S. higher education.
Designed especially for students thinking about studying abroad in America, this publication provides
information about –
College selection, application and visa
processes, traveling to the United States, living in
America as a student, and the top 10 benefits of attending
a U.S. community college.
Data on 112 U.S. community colleges
throughout the United States: costs, English test
requirements, academic programs, application deadlines,
support services and athletic opportunities. Each college
profiled in this guide on pages 26 to 151 welcomes you to
its campus to enjoy the unique experience
of living and studying in the United States.
College profiles, found on pages
26-151, are clustered by Region A
and Region B.
International students are highly valued on U.S. campuses.

Classmates and professors welcome interaction with students from diverse backgrounds and are eager
to learn about other countries, cultures, and languages. The experience of living and studying abroad in
America offers students invaluable experience in an increasingly global society. Almost every career field
needs people who understand global issues, appreciate other cultures, and have the skills to work in an
international context.
- Judy Irwin
Director of International Programs & Services - AACC
4 www.aaccinternational.org www.aaccinternational.org 5
U.S. Higher Education System U.S. Higher Education System
This diagram demonstrates: (1) how the completion of one degree leads to a higher level of Higher education institutions in the United States include both community colleges
education; and (2) international student eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT). (2-year institutions) and 4-year colleges and universities.
(See pages 10 and 24 for more information about OPT.)
◗ Community Colleges ◗ Four-Year Colleges and Universities
These 2-year institutions, also known as technical or junior Four-year institutions offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral
colleges, award associate degrees upon completion of a 2-year degrees. Most 4-year degree programs accept course credits
program of study. An associate degree enables students to: earned by community college students.
Doctoral
 Transfer to a 4-year college or university for an
Program
additional 2 years of study to obtain a bachelor’s degree
2 to 5 years
of study  Begin a career immediately in the workplace that does
Students can not require a 4-year degree
earn a PhD
Additional Optional
Practical Training (OPT)
Master’s Program
1 or 2 years of study
Degrees Awarded at Colleges and Universities
Students can earn a master’s
Approx. Years
degree (MA, MS, MBA) Undergraduate Degrees
Required
Additional year of
Awarded by Community Colleges*
Optional Practical
Training (OPT) after AA Associate of Arts 2
earning a bachelor’s degree
AS Associate of Science 2
AAS Associate of Applied Science 2
University Undergraduate Program
4 years of study
* Community colleges also award vocational certificates and licenses after successful
Students can earn a bachelor’s degree completion of a 1- or 2-year program.
(BA or BS)
Awarded by 4-Year Colleges and Universities
1 year Optional
Practical BA Bachelor of Arts 4
Training (OPT) BS Bachelor of Science 4
after earning an
associate degree
Community College Undergraduate Program Approx. Years
Graduate Degrees
First 2 years of a university education Required
Students can earn an associate degree (AA, AS, or AAS) and MA Master of Arts 1–2
transfer course credits toward a bachelor’s degree MS Master of Science 1–2
MBA Master of Business Admin 1–2
Continued on next page
PhD Doctor of Philosophy 2-5
6 www.aaccinternational.org www.aaccinternational.org 7
U.S. Higher Education System Overview of U.S.Community Colleges
(Continued)
Community colleges are higher education institutions in the United
Accreditation Undergraduate Academic Year Course Credits States that provide the first 2 years of a university education.
Regional accreditation agencies recognized The academic year is usually 9 months, Students receive a certain number Whether they are large or small, located in big cities or rural settings,
by the U.S. Department of Education divided into two semesters or three of credits for each course successfully community colleges have a common mission to promote and support
are responsible for evaluating academic quarters. A full-time student takes four or completed. The number of credits is directly learning and student success.
programs at both community colleges and five courses each semester, or three to four related to the number of hours assigned to Established over 100 years ago, community colleges offer affordable,
4-year institutions to ensure the quality and courses each quarter. the course by the institution. For example, convenient, and accessible higher education opportunities. The network
acceptability of an individual institution. During the 1st and 2nd academic years of successful completion of a course that of nearly 1,200 community colleges in all 50 states serve more than
Because community colleges and 4-year higher education (freshman and sophomore meets for 1 hour, three times a week equals 11 million students.
institutions must meet the same accreditation years) students usually focus on general a total of 3 credits. The same course with an In 2007-2008, more than 86,000 international students enrolled at U.S.
standards for the first two years of a university studies. Students at a community college are additional hour of lab work equals 4 credits. community colleges to obtain an affordable education in a supportive
education, community college students are eligible to obtain an associate degree upon and academically challenging environment. First-rate faculty, a high ratio
able to transfer their course credits to 4-year completion of their first 2 years of study. Course Grades of teacher–student dialogue and interaction, state-of-the-art facilities, and
colleges or universities. By the 3rd (junior) academic year, students Grades received at the end of a course smaller class sizes are characteristics of a community college education.
begin intensive study in their chosen majors. indicate how well the student performed. Because community colleges are accredited by the same regional agencies
Freedom of Choice The 4th (senior) year is the final academic Grades range from A to F, with A as the best and their academic courses meet the same standards as universities, students
Students choose their own courses and year toward obtaining a bachelor’s degree. possible grade. All grades received during a are able to transfer their course credits to a university degree program.
class schedules. Advisers offer advice and It is common to refer to students by course of study are combined to determine Many students who began at a community college have made notable
provide information to help students make their academic year of study: freshmen, the student’s grade point average (GPA). contributions and achieved high recognition as astronauts, doctors,
decisions and develop a plan that will meet sophomores, juniors, or seniors. business leaders, celebrated artists, government leaders, sports
their educational goals. legends, and renowned scientists.
Community college alumni include Arnold Schwarzenegger,
governor of California; George Lucas, producer/director of the “Star
Featured Alumni Wars” movie series; Tom Hanks and Clint Eastwood, film actors;
Veronica Campbell-Brown, 2008 Olympic gold medalist (women’s
200-meter race); and Calvin Klein, fashion designer.
◗ Business & Media
Nolan Archibald Rich Karlgaard Davis Mortensen
CEO, Black & Decker Corporation Publisher, Forbes, Inc. Executive Vice President
Georgia-Pacific Corporation
Andy Kindle
David Chu Kweisi Mfume 46% Almost half of all
Television Sports Director
Fashion Designer &
(NFL on FOX Game Director) President, National Association for undergraduates
CreatorNautica clothing line FOX Network and Albey Park the Advancement of Colored People
in the United States
Gerald Gordon Productions (NAACP)
President & CEO begin their higher
SunMedia Corporation Richard Leiby Jack Overacre Jr. education studies at community colleges,
Vice President, Worldwide Olympic
Reporter/Editor
Technology Operations IBM which are affordable and provide
Michael Johnson
The Washington Post
President & Managing Dir. individualized attention.
Charles Scarborough III
Walt Disney International Asia Monique Lhuillier Anchor & Correspondent
Filipino Fashion Designer NBC, Channel 4 (WNBC)
8 www.aaccinternational.org www.aaccinternational.org 9
The Top 10 Benefits of
Attending a U.S. Community Collge
International students attend community colleges as a stepping stone to 4-year colleges and 6
Use of the Latest Technologies
universities in the United States. The top 10 benefits of attending a U.S. community college are:
Community colleges, working with their local businesses
and industries, use state-of-the-art technologies in cutting-
edge fields such as biomedical engineering, biotechnology,
renewable energy technologies, robotics, laser optics,
1
Internet and computer technologies, and geographic
Lower Tuition Costs = Savings
information systems.
Community college tuition and fees are approximately
50% lower than those at 4-year colleges and universities. By
7
Hundreds of Programs to Choose From
starting at a community college, students can substantially
Nearly 1,200 regionally-accredited U.S. community
lower the total cost of obtaining their bachelor’s degree.
colleges offer a wide variety of programs in all major
fields of study, ranging from art to political science to
Average annual tuition and fees
zoology. Popular programs include accounting, business
international students can expect to pay
management, computer graphics and computer design,
2-year Community College $5,500 early childhood education, engineering, environmental
conservation, hotel and restaurant management, multimedia,
Public 4-year College or University $12,127
and psychology.
Private 4-year College or University $29,026
8
2
10
Opportunities to Experience U.S. Culture
Flexible English Proficiency Requirements
Community colleges may accept lower scores for the Community colleges offer international students a unique Course Credits Transfer to University
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and/or the opportunity to experience different aspects of life and culture Articulation agreements with 4-year universities
International English Language Testing System (IELTS). in the United States—both on and off campus. Recreational, allow credits earned at a community college to transfer
Both tests measure the ability of non-native speakers of social, and multicultural activities that enrich the lives of towards a Bachelor’s Degree. State universities often
English to use and understand English as it is spoken, written, students and local citizens include art exhibitions, concerts, guarantee junior (3rd) year standing if all course
4
and heard in college and university settings. Smaller Class Sizes community forums, health fairs, sporting events, and requirements are completed.
theatrical productions.
Some community colleges waive English proficiency
Smaller class sizes provide an atmosphere in which
requirements because of their excellent Intensive English students can easily ask questions, dialogue with their 9
Programs (IEP) and English as a Second Language (ESL) Excellent Student Support Services
instructors and classmates to grasp concepts and build
courses. They administer their own English placement test after relationships. Smaller classes also help international Community colleges offer a variety of support services
students arrive on campus and before they register for classes. students adjust to the pace of academic life and provide including tutoring, study skills workshops, academic + =
2 2
additional opportunities to practice English language skills. advising, counseling, and career planning—many of which
3
are designed specifically for international students.
Focus on Teaching
5Additional Year of Optional Practical Support services especially for
Community college faculty primarily focus on teaching
Training (OPT) students with disabilities may include
and providing personal attention to students, whereas Community University Bachelor’s
Students are eligible for 1 year of OPT in their field adapted software or assistive equipment College Degree
4-year college and university faculty mainly concentrate
of study upon completion of an associate degree and an for people with mobility, vision, learning,
on conducting research and publishing articles and/or
books. Students attending community colleges additional 1 to 2½ years after completion of a bachelor’s or hearing disabilities. Complete 2 years at a Community College plus 2 years
degree. OPT can build your resume and be advantageous at a University and receive a Bachelor’s Degree.
often gain a real-world perspective because
when seeking a job. (For more information about OPT,
faculty members usually have practical work
see pages 6 and 24.)
experience in the subjects they teach.
10 www.aaccinternational.org www.aaccinternational.org 11
Selecting a U.S. Community College Selecting a U.S. Community College
2 3
1
Determine Your Higher Where do you want to live in Estimate Expenses Other Important Criteria with the U.S. Department of State. Its
Education Goals the United States? and Identify Financial to Consider purpose is to help students find out
Consider the following questions Community colleges are in each Resources about U.S. higher education institutions.
when thinking about your overall of the 50 states, some in big cities You will be required to show that you Regional Accreditation Centers are located at U.S. embassies
goals, determining what you want to and some in smaller towns and have existing financial resources necessary You want to make sure that the college and consulates, Fulbright commissions,
achieve and identifying the type of higher rural areas. If your desired program to cover your expenses for at least 1 year of you plan to attend is regionally accredited. binational centers, nongovernmental
education institution to attend. of study is available at several study in the United States. See the Council for Higher Education organizations, libraries, and universities.
community colleges, you may Costs vary depending on college location, Accreditation (CHEA) Web site
What type of program are decide which institution to attend but, in general, you should expect to spend www.chea.org for a list of accredited EducationUSA advising centers
you seeking? based on a state or region of the between US$10,000 and US$20,000 each colleges and universities. often provide:
Community colleges offer programs in United States in which you would year. Financial resources may come from All community colleges profiled in this
♦ College catalogues from U.S. higher
nearly all fields of study. Many students like to live. any dependable source, including family guide and listed on pages 156–163 are
education institutions
in the United States spend their first 2 funds, your own finances, sponsorships, regionally-accredited institutions.
♦ Online tours of colleges
years at a college or university taking Are you a student athlete? and scholarships.
♦ Test schedules (TOEFL, IELTS)
different classes to explore interests and More than 500 U.S. community Although F-1 visa students are not SEVP-Approved Colleges
♦ Study abroad fair information
opportunities. Where a major can be colleges have excellent athletic facilities allowed to work off-campus during the International students are eligible to
♦ Workshops and seminars on studying
determined at any time, students often and offer students access to training, school year, they can take advantage of attend only U.S. colleges and universities
in the United States
wait to make a decision at the end of their coaching, and a large variety of work-study programs on campus for up to that are approved by the Student and
♦ Visa information
second year of study. playing opportunities. The National 20 hours per week. Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
♦ Publications available in PDF format
Junior College Athletic Association Students may be awarded small All community colleges profiled in this
(see the box on the next page)
Do you eventually want to earn a (NJCAA) organizes student athletic scholarships after the first year of study guide and listed on pages 156–163 are
bachelor’s degree? competitions in 17 sports: baseball, based on their academic achievements. SEVP-approved institutions. An EducationUSA adviser personally
Most community colleges have 2 + 2 basketball, bowling, cross-country, Some community colleges offer 4 assists students on how to:
transfer (articulation) agreements with diving, American football, golf, half scholarships (grant-in-aid) to outstanding Sources for Information ♦ Conduct research about different
4-year colleges and universities. You can marathon, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, student athletes. Scholarship sports for and Assistance colleges and universities
begin your higher education studies at softball, swimming, tennis, track and field, men are baseball, basketball, cross-country, In addition to this publication, ♦ Identify financial aid opportunities
a community college and then transfer volleyball, and wrestling. More than 500 U.S. golf, outdoor track and field, soccer, and reliable resources for information ♦ Understand the admissions process
your course credits to a 4-year college or The California Community College tennis. Scholarship sports for women are and assistance include:
community colleges ♦ Apply for a student visa
university to earn a bachelor’s degree. Athletic Association (CCCAA) organizes basketball, cross-country, fast-pitch softball,
competitions in the same sports plus water have excellent athletic outdoor track and field, soccer, tennis, and EducationUSA ♦ Prepare for a visa interview
Do you want to improve polo and badminton. facilities and offer students volleyball. If you are a student athlete in www.EducationUSA.state.gov ♦ Obtain specialized services (i.e.,
EducationUSA is a worldwide network essay-writing workshops or document
your English? access to training, coaching, and a one of these sports, ask your college about
of more than 450 advising centers affiliated verification)
Studying in the United States will Are you a student with a disability? large variety of playing opportunities. athletic scholarship opportunities.
provide extensive exposure to the English Community colleges offer a unique Continued on next page
language. Many community colleges offer learning environment with smaller
courses for students who need to improve classes, more individualized attention, Estimating Your Expenses
or enhance their English skills before and a supportive atmosphere. Tutoring
beginning an academic program. centers and mentoring programs are often
provided to teach students with learning time for taking tests. Adapted software When estimating your expenses, include these items:
Are you interested in U.S. culture? disabilities the study strategies needed to or assistive equipment for people with  Tuition  Books and Supplies
U.S. community colleges provide inter- succeed in college. Accommodations may mobility, vision, learning, or hearing
national students extensive opportunities be made for sign language interpreters, disabilities are usually available. However,  Room and Meals  Other Expenses (transportation,
to interact with members of the local accessible classrooms, note-takers in personal care attendants, hearing aids, and medical and dental expenses, clothing,
 Health Insurance
community and to experience U.S. culture. classes, Braille materials, and extended wheelchairs are not typically provided. toiletries, travel and recreation)
12 www.aaccinternational.org www.aaccinternational.org 13
Selecting a U.S. Community College Applying to a U.S. Community College
(Continued)
Two Web sites specifically focus on U.S. Since admission requirements vary, learn the specific requirements about the colleges you
Community Colleges:
would like to attend. You may apply for admission to a community college during your
FrEE Publications
♦ See www.aaccinternational.org for an online version of this Guide,
From EducationUSA final year of secondary school (high school).
with 112 community college profiles, plus other information for
international students who are interested in studying in the United States. www.EducationUSA.state.gov/home/publications
Items typically required for admission to a community college include the following:
♦ See www.CommunityCollegeUSA.com which features over
If You Want to Study in the United States is a
100 U.S. community colleges and provides information about
series of booklets with objective and practical advice
2-year institutions.
to prospective international students about studying ◗ Application Form ◗ Test Scores
in the United States:
College Web Sites and E-Mail
An application form to enroll as an international student can be Community colleges may require test scores from the TOEFL
College Web sites offer a wide range of information about degree found on the college Web site as well as a list of the documents (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International
1. Undergraduate Study
programs, application procedures, academic departments, facilities you are required to submit along with your application form. Some English Language Testing System). To learn when and where those
2. Graduate and Professional Study and Research
on campus, and other topics. Some institutions may also give e-mail community colleges accept applications shortly before the start of a tests are administered, visit www.EducationUSA.state.gov or
addresses for both current and international student who may be willing 3. Short-Term Study, English Language Programs, semester, while others allow students to apply at any time. contact your local EducationUSA advising center.
Distance Education, and Accreditation
to answer questions about the college and living in the United States.
4. Getting Ready to Go: Practical Information
Some community
Study Abroad Fairs for Living and Studying in the United States
colleges do not require
U.S. community college representatives may visit your country to participate
These booklets—in English, Chinese, Spanish, either the TOEFL or
in study abroad fairs or speak at specially arranged seminars. A list of upcoming
French, and Russian—can be found at the IELTS because they
study abroad fairs in your country can be found at www.EducationUSA.
EducationUSA Web site or at the advising center administer their own
state.gov or at your local EducationUSA advising center.
near your home. English placement test
Good to
after students arrive on
Additional Sources of Information know
♦ Guidance counselors campus and before they
♦ Friends, relatives, or high school alumni who studied in register for classes.
Community Colleges Students with
the United States
are flexible, and many adequate skill levels will be
accept applications allowed to immediately
Students with adequate skill
Featured Alumni shortly before the start begin an academic program.
levels will be allowed to
of semester. Others have If skill levels are below
immediately begin an
rolling admission, which English proficiency
requirements, students must academic program.
means that you can
complete an Intensive English
◗ Entertainment apply at anytime.
Program (IEP) before taking
an academic courses.
Valerio Azzoli Charles Dutton Mark Mancina
Co-Chair & Co-CEO Actor and Winner of 2002 and Composer The SAT is a standardized exam with three parts (critical
Atlantic Recording Corporation 2003 Outstanding Guest Actor reading, math and writing) that measures what students learn
Emmy Awards Jon Nakamatsu
in the classroom and how well they apply that knowledge. The
Billy Crystal Winner, Van Cliburn International
SAT also tests critical thinking skills that lead to success in
Actor Clint Eastwood Piano Competition
Actor college. Although the SAT is usually not required by community
Billy Dean Allen Weiss colleges, taking the test shows your interest in and commitment
George Lucas
Country Music Performer President, Walt Disney World to studying in the United States.
Film Director, Writer,
Resort Walt Disney World
Producer (“Star Wars”)
Continued on next page

14 www.aaccinternational.org www.aaccinternational.org 15
Applying to a U.S. Community College Obtaining an F-1 Student Visa
(Continued)
Four steps
Students with disabilities may qualify for special testing Eligibility are required to
arrangements. These may include extended time or additional F-1 student visas are granted to full-time students who have apply for an F-1 visa:
breaks during an exam, a separate testing room, special editions of been accepted to a degree-granting academic or approved
the test, or a provision for a reader or scribe. For general information language program. For information about other types of student
about services for students with disabilities, see the Mobility Good to visas, see Internet resources listed on page 155. 1 Obtain a SEVIS Form I-20
International USA Web site at www.miusa.org/ncde know Once you have been accepted by a college, you will
Students seeking an F-1 visa must be able to
be given a SEVIS Form I-20 from that institution. The
demonstrate the following:
◗ Academic Transcripts and Records Even if you are not SEVIS Form I-20 is required to apply for a visa but does not
Academic transcripts and other documents showing your previous asked specifically on ♦ Eligibility for the program of study guarantee that one will be granted. (See page 21 about U.S. Entry
and Customs requirements.)
education and grades are required. These documents are usually the application form ♦ Adequate financial resources for at least 1 year
reevqauluiraetedd i nb eEfnogreli sohff aenridn gc oaldlemgeisss imonay. have them professionally aacbtoivuitti eyso, utrr ye txotr aincculurrdiceu lar ♦ oInf tsetnutd tyoin rget iunr nth teo U yonuitre dh oSmtaete csountry after 2 Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee
that information. completing your education goals All F-1 visa students must pay a SEVIS I-901 fee
◗ Statement of Financial Support Colleges regard these applyingo ff oUr Sa$ v2is0a0. Thande fseheo mwu thste b pea pyamide natn rde cfuelilpyt pwrohceens sed
The statement of financial support is a document certifying kinds of activities highly Visa Application Process before you arrive at the U.S. embassy or consulate for a visa
that you have sufficient assets to cover the costs related to college because they show your An F-1 student visa can be issued up to 120 days before the interview. For information on how to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee,
and living expenses for at least 1 year while studying in the areas of interest and program start date as stated on your SEVIS Form I-20. Since go to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Web site at
United States. Expenses include tuition, room and meals, health
future potential. visa processing times can vary widely, apply for a visa as early as www.fmjfee.com/i901fee
insurance, books and supplies, and personal expenditures.
possible to begin the process.
Continued on next page
Financial resources may come from any
dependable source, including:
♦ Family funds
♦ Your own finances important!
♦ Sponsorships
Make sure the name written on your I-20 information & assistance
♦ Scholarships ◗ Proof of Immunization
form is spelled identically to the name with Visa Applications
Most community colleges require that you submit a record of
◗ Extracurricular Activities your immunizations, signed by a physician. U.S. customs may also on your passport. If it is not, you will be
Extracurricular activities demonstrate your areas of interest, require a record of certain immunizations before you are allowed denied entry to the United States. Go to www.EducationUSA.state.gov
ability to work with others, and potential as a future leader. These to enter the United States. or visit an EducationUSA advising center to
activities do not need to be directly related to your academic obtain information about:
◗ Letters of Recommendation
course of study or education goals. They may include:
♦ Memberships in clubs Colleges may ask for letters of recommendation from teachers,  Applying for a visa
employers, or others who can describe your talents, goals,
♦ Volunteer work
interests, aptitude, and character. Family members are not usually
 Assembling application
♦ Personal interests
allowed to write these letters.
materials
♦ Hobbies
♦ Playing a musical instrument in a band ◗ Personal Essays
 Preparing for an interview
Let the college know about your extracurricular activities, as Colleges may require that you write an essay, either on a specific
well as any prizes, awards, certificates, or medals you have won in topic or on a topic of your choice.
competitions.
16 www.aaccinternational.org www.aaccinternational.org 17