How can I study in the United States?

You must first apply for a document called an I-20 or a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status. The college that you are applying to, after you have been accepted to the institution, issues this form. In order to receive this form you must apply to the college.

How does the college/university system work in the United States (U.S.)?

There are a series of degrees that an individual can receive. The most common of which is a bachelor’s degree that requires approximately 4-5 years of educational training. South Mountain Community College (SMCC) is a 2-year college that offers Associate degrees and Occupational training. Most students pursuing a bachelor's degree complete general education requirements during their first two years of college after which they transfer to a university to continue their bachelor’s degree in the classes designed for their specific program of study.

What is occupational training?

SMCC offers a variety of degrees for students seeking vocational/technical education. These programs are called occupational training because they allow the students to enter the workforce upon completion of their program.

Will my college classes from another country count toward my SMCC degree?

This depends mostly upon the accreditation of the institution, the class, the grade you received, and the requirements for your designated program of study at SMCC. Students need to have their official transcript evaluated from an outside agency then submit the information from the evaluations agency to SMCC Registration & Records Office. Please contact the International Admissions Assistant in the Registration & Records Office for a list of recommended transcript evaluation companies.

What is an assessment test?

All students who want to enroll in an academic program of study classes are required to take either the ASSET or the COMPASS English, Reading and Math assessment test prior to registering for the class. Those students applying for the Intensive English Program will be required to take the CELSA assessment test. Please note that the test does not appear on a student's transcripts; it is simply a placement tool to help register the student into the appropriate level of study.

How do I register (sign up) for classes?

Students should visit with an academic advisor before their first semester begins. The advisor can inform the student about the many different programs of study available at the college for those students who are uncertain and work on a checklist of appropriate classes for those students who have a major declared. It is highly recommended that students visit with an advisor each semester so that they make certain that they are taking the correct transferable classes. It is okay if the student is not sure exactly which course of study to pursue, he/she can change majors after studies commence.

What is a semester credit hour?

Each credit is usually equivalent to one clock hour of class for each week you are in class.

For example if a student enrolls in a 3-credit class they can attend classes:

• for an hour each day on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
• for an hour and a half on Tuesday and Thursday
• for three hours on Wednesday night

All three examples total three (3) hours in class time each week. Most classes at SMCC are three (3) credit courses, except for science courses (usually 4 credits) and math courses (usually 5).

How many credits must I take?

F-1 students must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 semester credit hours each fall and spring semester. Summer is an optional enrollment period.

Can I transfer to a 4-year university after I complete my studies at South Mountain Community College?

Yes. Most college-level classes will transfer to a university, however, students are encouraged to meet with an academic advisor to map out an appropriate combination of classes that suit the student's academic goals and apply toward a transfer degree. SMCC has articulation agreements with the three main Arizona universities but not all universities. Students should communicate carefully with the admissions office of universities outside of the state of Arizona to determine what classes they are eligible to take at the community college level. The classes taken at SMCC are the same caliber of classes taken during the first two years. When selecting classes students should take into consideration both their program of study and the requirements of the institution in which they are transferring.

Do I need to pay the $17,800 directly to South Mountain Community College?

No. You will pay SMCC for tuition, fees, and the student health insurance. You will also purchase your books and supplies at the college. Therefore, you will need to have sufficient funds to pay for these costs when you arrive.

Is it required that I purchase health insurance?

Yes, all F-1 students are required to purchase the Maricopa Community Colleges’ International Student Health insurance.

Will I be able to pay tuition and fees as an Arizona resident?

During your entire enrollment period on F-1 status you will be considered a nonresident for tuition purposes. F-1 status indicates a temporary status in the United States, which makes you ineligible to establish Arizona residency.

Can I work while I am on F-1 status?

Although employment is not recommended in your first semester of study, you are eligible for employment on-campus. Students on an F-1 visa may work on campus 20 hours per week or less. Employment is limited to work on SMCC's campus and the pay is minimal; therefore, students should not rely on any monies from on-campus employment for living expenses or tuition. Students should visit Career Services to find out if any jobs are available to them. You may not engage in off-campus employment without proper authorization from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS or CIS, formerly known as Immigration & Naturalization Services or INS).

Are scholarships available for International Students?

SMCC does not have assistance programs or scholarship funds available to international students. Unfortunately international students do not qualify for U.S. financial aid. See financial aid page for more information on useful financial aid resources.

Does South Mountain Community College have dormitories or other student housing?

No. SMCC does not offer on-campus housing. Please see housing page for more information on helpful resources.

Do I have to take the TOEFL test?

Yes this is a requirement for admission for those students who are from countries where English is not the primary language.

I'm not good in Math or English. Can I get help?

Yes, SMCC offers free tutoring services Tutoring services are also available for students in the ESL Intensive English Program.