More and more international students are attending community colleges, where they can complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree program. For them the community college becomes the first step toward a four-year degree or toward graduate study at a U.S. university. The first two years are in the general academic curriculum, and only after that do students have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of study.
Many university academic advisers (academic advisers) often recommend that students complete their first two years of study at community colleges that offer transfer programs and then transfer to a university for their final two years. Courses taken at community colleges count toward many 4-year bachelor’s degree programs. In addition to transfer programs, U.S. community colleges offer a variety of vocational (apprenticeship-oriented) programs of study. They include training in such occupations as business, computer programming, nursing, fashion design, hotel and restaurant management, secretarial programs, commercial photography, engineering, or advertising. Students who complete these programs earn a degree or certificate.
Community colleges offer programs that meet the educational needs and demands of the local community. These colleges are usually administered by state governments. Because of their open-door policy, low tuition, and minimal admissions requirements, these colleges have provided many U.S. citizens with the opportunity to obtain a college degree.
How is community college different from a four-year college or university program?
It’s easier to get in.
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and academic requirements are usually not as demanding as those of the universities and colleges offering four-year programs. Many community colleges offer ESL programs for students with low TOEFL scores.
More affordable tuition.
Community colleges charge an average of 20% to 80% less than 4-year colleges and universities, especially if the latter are private.
Fewer students.
Teachers and advisers are able to give more individual attention to students. Many U.S. and international students find that attending smaller colleges during their first two years helped them adjust to the larger institutions during the next two years.
A friendlier atmosphere.
In the U.S. education system, students compete with each other for grades. International students who are not fluent in English have a harder time. They often feel more comfortable in smaller classes where there is less competition.
Easier adjustment.
Two years of community college can help international students improve their English and adjust to the U.S. education system and culture.