8 best international colleges in Los Angeles, California 2024

There is a great opportunity for the foreign students to obtain high quality international education in multicultural and dynamic environment in Los Angeles, the city of Angels. The foreign students can get internships at leading companies that are part of the vibrant economy of Los Angeles, fall in love with sunny beaches, stroll along Sunset Boulevard, visit Disneyland and chat with representatives of different cultures from around the world.

Community colleges are municipal colleges, where studying is conducted according to a two-year program. Graduates of such colleges are awarded an associate degree, allowing to work in junior positions or to continue studying at the university.

Did you know that 35% of all students in the USA opt for community colleges? Across the nation, there are approximately 1,050 community colleges, with the majority receiving state funding, although some private institutions offer two-year programs. These community colleges come in various types, including Junior, Technical, and City colleges.

What sets community colleges apart from universities is their primary focus on practical skills development, enabling students to quickly integrate into the workforce. The academic workload at two-year colleges in Los Angeles is typically lower than at universities. Graduates who successfully complete their studies at community colleges often use it as a stepping stone to continue their education at a 4-year college or university.

Community colleges in Los Angeles offer a range of programs, including associate degree programs and intensive English language courses. The best colleges in Los Angeles also provide 1-year programs in various fields, leading to a certificate upon completion.

Kevin McDonnell

Specialist in International Students of the University of Sussex

What advice would you give to potential students before applying to a university?

Be proactive and start your application early, ideally almost a year in advance. Seek recommendations from your teachers and academic advisors. The earlier you apply, the more time universities have to consider your application, and the more time you have to explore your options and make an informed decision.

• Studying at community colleges in Los Angeles comes with several benefits:

• Cost Savings: Tuition fees are two to three times lower compared to universities, potentially saving up to $40,000 over two years.

• Smooth Transition: Community colleges offer a gentler academic transition compared to universities, making it easier for international students to adapt to their new environment. Additionally, students may find time for part-time work or language courses.

• Seamless Progression: Graduates of community colleges can seamlessly transfer to the second or third year of a university, with half of all American bachelor's degree holders initially attending a two-year college.

• Lower Entry Requirements: Requirements at community colleges are generally less stringent than at universities, and in some cases, standardized tests like SAT or ACT may not be required. The lower level of competition can provide access to those with varying levels of preparation.

• Early Enrollment: Community colleges admit foreign students as young as 16 years old, whereas most universities require students to be at least 18.

Requirements for 2-year colleges are generally more accessible than those for universities. Three main documents are usually required:

• High School Certificate: Proof of completing secondary education along with an academic transcript.

• TOEFL or IELTS Scores: Evidence of English language proficiency.

• SAT Score: Although some colleges may accept a high school graduation certificate instead of SAT scores.

In many cases, SAT exams may not be necessary, and some colleges admit 100% of their applicants. Students as young as 16 can apply for college enrollment, and the application process is often completed online through the institution's website.

Graduates of 2-year colleges with associate degrees can pursue enrollment in any U.S. university as third-year students, including Ivy League institutions. While transferring to prestigious universities like Harvard can be challenging, it is more attainable for universities with lower rankings.

Many colleges and universities have established Articulation Agreements, which typically involve one college having agreements with several U.S. universities. For instance, the American Academy of Dramatic Art offers associate's degrees, and graduates can transfer to universities and colleges to complete their studies and earn a bachelor's degree. The Academy collaborates with institutions like St. John's University, Antioch University, Hunter College, and Oklahoma City University.

It's advisable to select a university for transfer early in your community college journey, ensuring that you fulfill the necessary requirements:

• Maintain a good GPA, typically around 3.5 for prestigious universities.

• Align your coursework with your future bachelor's program; matching academic subjects is crucial.

• Demonstrate English proficiency, often at a B2 level with scores of 65 or higher on TOEFL.

• SAT or ACT scores, which may be waived by universities with partner programs.

Overall, prestigious universities tend to have more stringent requirements. To get detailed information about specific requirements, consult the official university websites.The academic year typically begins in September and concludes in June, divided into two 15-week semesters, each followed by tests and exams. Students generally enjoy summer vacations.

To earn an associate degree, students need to accumulate 60 credits, equivalent to two years of study. One credit represents one academic hour of lessons per week during one semester.

Many colleges in Los Angeles offer on-campus housing options, including hostels, host families, or rented apartments. On-campus facilities often include academic buildings, libraries, art centers, museums, cafeterias, shops, shopping centers, gyms, sports grounds, and stadiums. Colleges with a technical focus are also equipped with laboratories.

The cost of attending colleges in Los Angeles for foreign students can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of college, the level of study, and whether the institution is public or private. Los Angeles is home to a diverse range of colleges and universities, offering various programs and degrees.

Public colleges and universities in California, such as those within the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems, typically have lower tuition rates for in-state residents compared to out-of-state and international students. Tuition for foreign students at public institutions can range from approximately $15,000 to $30,000 per year, depending on the specific school and program. Private colleges and universities in Los Angeles, such as the University of Southern California (USC) and Occidental College, often have higher tuition fees, and the cost can vary widely, ranging from $40,000 to $60,000 or more per year.

In addition to tuition, international students should consider other expenses like housing, textbooks, living costs, and health insurance when estimating the total cost of their education in Los Angeles. It's essential to research specific institutions, explore scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities for international students, and carefully plan your finances to make studying in Los Angeles an achievable and rewarding experience. Many colleges and universities in Los Angeles offer scholarships and financial aid to help offset the expenses for international students, so be sure to inquire about these options during the application process.