International Students Most Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions and answers to help you learn more about our Community College system. For more general information directed towards new or prospective students, please check here for questions and answers compiled by our main district office.
1. Where will I live?
The Maricopa College Community District does not have any dormitories with the exception of Chandler-Gilbert Community College, therefore you must find housing in the area. We can assist you with lists of apartments. 2. Why should I come to a community college instead of going to a four year college or university?
The two year community college offers more individualized attention, smaller classes and you can get the general studies requirements completed before transferring. 3. What is a semester credit hour?
A semester credit is usually equivalent to one clock hour of class each week for the length of the semester Example:
COM 100 Introduction to Human Communication - 3
Introduction to Human Communication is a 3 credit course. A student could enroll in an introduction to Human Communication class that meets:
a) for an hour each day on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
b) for an hour and a half on Tuesday and Thursday
c) for three hours on Wednesday night
All three examples total three (3) hours in class each week for a 16 week semester,
therefore, 3 semester credits. Most classes are three (3) semester credit courses, except for laboratory courses.
4. How many classes do I have to take?
Students on F-1 student visas must maintain enrollment in at least 12 semester credit hours each semester. That is usually 4 or 5 classes. 5. How many students are in a class?
Classes have between 20-35 students. 6. Can I work?
F-1 visa students are allowed to work on campus only up to 20 hours per week. Scottsdale asks that you wait till after your first semester to work. This is so you can get adjusted and concentrate on your studies. 7. Will my credits transfer to a four year college or university?
Courses 100 level or above generally transfer. However you must keep three things in mind: Grades, total number of hours, and similarity of courses.
Grades - must be c's or better.
Total Number of Hours to be Transferred - 60-64 semester hours is the usual maximum number for lower division credits (freshman, sophomore course work) that can be transferred to a four year college or university.
Similarity of Courses - Courses taken at the community college must be similar to lower division courses at the four year college or university.
When in doubt, the student should bring the catalog from the four year college or university he/she wishes to transfer to as ask a faculty advisor: "How much of this specific four year program from this college's or university's catalog can I take at Scottsdale Community College?" Or the student can ask the four year college or
university; "What can I take at the community college level."
8. Is there financial aid for international students?
At the present time there is no financial aid or scholarships for F-1 international students. 9. What is the quality of instruction?
All our faculty are certified instructors. 40% have doctorate degrees.
10. I'm not good in Math or English can I get help?
Yes, we have free tutoring services available in our Math and Writing Centers. There is also ESL tutoring available. 11. What occupational programs does MCCD offer?
The Maricopa Community College District offers a wide variety of occupational programs and
certificates, among them are: Hotel Management, Restaurant Management, Equine Science, Culinary Arts, Interior Design, Motion Picture/Television Production, Nursing, Computer Information Systems, Architectural Technology/Computer Aided Drafting, Administration of Justice Studies, and International Business. More programs are added as the demand increases. Please check the website of the college you are interested in attending for a list of their occupational programs.
(Thanks to Scottsdale Community College for allowing us to adapt their FAQ) | 
