Community colleges offer two-year associate degrees and certificates. For international students, they can be a cheaper, smaller first step into US higher education.
The 2+2 path
Study two years at a community college, then transfer to a university to finish a bachelor’s degree. Many states have agreements that guarantee transfer for students who meet certain grades.
Benefits
- Lower tuition
- Smaller classes
- Flexible admission and English support
- A chance to improve grades before transferring
Things to check
- SEVP certification, required to issue an I-20
- Transfer agreements with target universities
- Housing options; many community colleges have none
- Whether credits transfer to your intended major
