Why International Students Choose Us

Cost Effective, Quality Education

Community College of Philadelphia provides an affordable education and will prepare you for a career or for transfer to a four-year college or university. Many international students choose to earn an associate's degree before transferring to a four-year college, to allow time to get used to college life, earn college credits and save money.

Small Class Sizes

The College's average class size is 22 people, which means more time that faculty can spend with you. Our instructors care about you and take an active role in helping develop your strengths and goals.

Individualized Attention

Each student is a special part of our College community. We will help you understand how to register for classes and find your way around campus. The College's Main Campus is manageable in size, and it is conveniently accessible via public transportation. Our experienced staff will help make your transition to the United States, Philadelphia and the College a successful one.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Program

It may be beneficial for you to complete some English classes in order to become more comfortable with the language. After taking a placement test and discussing your results with a counselor, we will help you pick classes that best fit your needs. Our ESL program will improve your English skills and allow you to get the most out of your experience in the United States.

Intensive English Language Program (IELP)

Learn English at a faster pace with the Intensive English Language Program, which allows you to learn the same English reading, writing, listening and speaking skills in just half the time as a traditional-length class. With courses available to match your level of English proficiency, now you can study English at the pace you need.

Our International Community

Community College of Philadelphia has a diverse and culturally rich student population, with more than 150 international students from more than 50 different countries, as well as regional students who represent many ethnic backgrounds. You may join the International Student Organization, which plans day trips and other activities around the College. To celebrate diversity, an annual International Festival exposes the College community to other cultures. Film festivals and events featuring specific nationalities also take place throughout the year.

Something is always happening on campus. Do you like to play sports, or are student clubs more your style?

There are dozens of ways to get involved and meet new people at the College. We offer a variety of sports for men and women, in addition to more than 40 student clubs and organizations.

Ideal Location

Situated near the heart of the city and close to Philadelphia's Museum district, our Main Campus is easily accessible by train, bus or automobile, and you can easily walk between its buildings. The College also has three Regional Centers in Northeast, Northwest and West Philadelphia, in addition to several neighborhood sites, to best serve our students.

Philadelphia, located between New York and Washington, D.C., is one of the most historic cities, and the fifth largest, in the United States. Here in the second largest city on the East Coast, both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States were written. Besides its rich array of cultural activities, Philadelphia also offers world-class cuisine, an exceptional theater and arts district, and a vibrant nightlife. Whether you are interested in exploring the past, experiencing the outdoors or attending a professional sporting event, this exciting region has much to offer you.