International Students FAQs

Roary with students holding a globe

We have answers

Review the FAQs below. If you have further questions reach out to us at International [at] ccp.edu

How do I know if I am an international student?

We define an international student as someone either seeking or already holding an F-1 student visa. If you hold a different visa type or are a Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), you are not considered an international student at the College.

What is the application process?

All new international students should apply online and then submit the remaining application requirements electronically to //international [at] ccp.edu (international[at]ccp[dot]edu).

Once I apply, how long before I hear from Community College of Philadelphia?

Once you submit your online application, you will receive an email confirming receipt of your application. In 3-5 business days, you'll receive another email with your Student ID number and the application checklist, detailing the additional requirements needed to process your application.

What does a completed application consist of?

New applicants must submit an online application, official academic records (with English translation), financial documents and immigration information. Please refer to the checklist to ensure you have all the documents for a completed application.

What makes my documents official?

Official documents must be issued directly from the authorizing institution, such as a bank, school or testing agency. Official/certified copies are acceptable. This means a photocopy of the original has been made, and then stamped/signed/sealed by an official, such as a notary or magistrate. All official documents must have a stamp, seal or be printed on official letterhead paper from the authorizing institution.

What financial documents must I submit?

The financial documents required for the application process include the Affidavit of Support form, which must be completed by you and all sponsors financially supporting you, as well as proof of available funds.

You must submit either a recent bank statement or letter on bank letterhead (translated into English) for each person listed as a sponsor. A total of $28,114 must be available. The bank statement must be less than six months old. Bank statements are accepted in all currencies but must be written or translated into English.

Other acceptable evidence of financial support includes bank loans for educational purposes, scholarship letters, investment statements indicating liquid assets and/or government funding.

Do I need to take the TOEFL, IELTS or SAT test?

While we do not require these tests, students must satisfy placement as part of the application process. If you have taken the TOEFL, IELTS, SAT or ACT, you may be waived from a portion of the placement test if you have received one of the scores below:

  • TOEFL: 77 iBT (20 in Writing)
  • IELTS: 6.0 Overall (6.0 in Writing)
  • SAT: 510 Critical Reading, 470 Math
  • ACT: 21 English, 17 Math

If you have not taken one of the above-mentioned tests or have not met the minimum score, you will be required to take the College's ACCUPLACER test. The test is offered on-campus (for those already in the U.S.) and remotely. Placement is required before an acceptance letter or I-20 can be issued and must be done prior to arriving in the United States.

May I transfer college credit to Community College of Philadelphia?

If you have credit from institutions within the United States, you must submit an official transcript, as well as a Transcript Evaluation Form, which should then be submitted to the Transfer Credit and Placement Evaluation Office via MyCCP.

If you have credit from institutions outside of the United States, you must first have your transcript evaluated by a NACES approved evaluation service (World Education Services, Educational Credential Evaluators, etc). Please request a course-by-course evaluation. The evaluation should then be submitted to the Transfer Credit and Placement Evaluation Office, along with a Transcript Evaluation Request Form.

How can I check the status of my application?

If you have questions about your application, please email the International Student Services Office at //ISSAssistant [at] ccp.edu (International[at]ccp[dot]edu).

Do I have to declare a major or a program of study?

You must select a major on your application; however, it is possible to change your selection at a later time by meeting with your Academic Advisor or Counselor.

Can I just study English as a Second Language?

We do not have a separate, stand-alone ESL program. Students must apply to the College and choose a full-time, degree-seeking program, but may be required to take additional ESL courses along with their academic courses.

What is the cost to study at Community College of Philadelphia?

The estimated cost for tuition and fees is about $12,900 per academic year; however, students are required to show at least $28,114 in their financial documents (tuition, fees, living expenses).

Is financial aid available to international students?

No. International students do not qualify for state or federal financial aid programs. Students can search for non-CCP-related funding.

Can I work while in the United States?

While you hold F-1 visa status, you are only allowed to work at the College. While classes are in session, you are not allowed to work more than 20 hours a week. Any other employment is considered unauthorized and is a violation of your visa status. Please note that on-campus jobs are not guaranteed, nor will they cover your yearly expenses.

What is the deadline for submitting an application?

Applications must be received by July 1 for the fall (September) semester and Nov. 1 for the spring (January) semester.

How do I get a student visa?

After you are accepted by the College and receive the Form I-20 from the College, you must apply for your nonimmigrant “student” (F-1) visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate nearest your home. You must bring the necessary supporting documentation to your visa appointment, including your college acceptance letter, proof of payment of SEVIS fee, passport, your I-20 Form and appropriate financial documentation. Required documents depend on the country, so it is recommended that you check with the U.S. Consulate or embassy to determine what you need before your appointment.

Must I hold an F-1 visa to study at Community College of Philadelphia?

Not always. Students on other visa types might be eligible to study at the College, but they are not considered international students. Please contact the office for questions about your visa type and whether or not you can register for courses.

If I am currently in the United States and hold a non-student visa (B1/B2 Tourist, J-1, H-4, etc), may I still study at Community College of Philadelphia?

Yes and No. While the College does not base an admission decision on your immigration status, please be aware that certain immigration statuses do not allow you to enroll in school. Attending classes may actually be a violation of your status.

If you are attempting to change your immigration status while in the U.S., please contact the ISS office BEFORE applying to the College.

How do I apply for a change of status?

Not everyone is eligible to change their status while in the United States. Please read our COS handout first and then make an appointment with the ISS Office BEFORE submitting an online application to the College.

Please note that the following visa holders may not apply for a change of status within the United States: M-1, C, D, or K nonimmigrants, J nonimmigrants subject to the 212(e) two-year foreign residency requirement, and WT and WB visitors admitted under the visa waiver program.

Are there other international students attending Community College of Philadelphia? Where are they from?

Yes, international students from all over the world, including Europe, Africa, South America, and Asia, study at the College.

What is the weather like in Philadelphia?

When you arrive in August, temperatures will likely range from 70–90 degrees Fahrenheit (21–32 degrees Celsius). In November and December, temperatures can drop to 17–40 degrees Fahrenheit (-8–4 degrees Celsius) and are usually accompanied by snow and ice. These temperatures sometimes last until February. As springtime approaches in March, temperatures begin to rise again to about 45–60 degrees Fahrenheit (7–15 degrees Celsius) and can last throughout spring semester.

What housing options are available in Philadelphia?

CCP does not have a residence hall or on-campus housing but the preferred option nearby is The Hamilton, located just one block from campus. Students may live wherever they wish and are provided with additional housing information during Pre-Departure Orientation. The preferred housing option near Community College of Philadelphia:   The Hamilton, 1520 Hamilton Street, Philadelphia, PA 19130, 1(888) 749-3968 

Does Community College of Philadelphia partner with any third-party agencies on international student recruitment?

Yes, we currently partner with Wellspring (formerly American Honors) and M Square Media (MSM).