The decision to pursue a college education in the United States is a substantial investment, especially for international students. Prospective students need to consider not only the rigorous academics but also cultural differences, language barriers, and financial commitments. While a traditional four-year university may be enticing, it may not be the best option for everyone. Fortunately, community colleges offer a unique experience for international students looking for a high-quality education at an affordable cost. Among them, Maricopa Community Colleges, with ten individually accredited colleges and thirty-one satellite locations, stands out as a top choice for those seeking a world-class education in America.
According to Open Doors, over 49,000 international students enrolled at U.S. community colleges for the 2021-22 academic year. Annually, Maricopa Community Colleges hosts an average of 550 international students on F-1 Visas and 15 J-1 Visa students from 80 countries.
Why International Students Should Consider Maricopa Community Colleges
More international students choose community colleges over a traditional four-year university because of low-cost tuition, low-class sizes, and transferable credits.
- Academic Offerings – Maricopa Community Colleges now offers seven four-year accredited bachelor’s degree programs, with more being developed and over 600 associate degrees and professional certificates.
- Lower Tuition Rates – One of the biggest concerns for any student is the cost of tuition and fees. Community colleges offer lower tuition rates than four-year public universities while still providing quality education. Maricopa Community Colleges' affordable tuition rates mean students can save money before transferring to a four-year university. Tuition for the 2023-24 academic year for international students attending Maricopa Community Colleges is $372 per credit hour or roughly $8,928 for two semesters for 12 credit full-time enrollment per semester. This cost is a fraction of what international students would pay to attend a public or private university in Arizona.
- Transfer Options – The good news is that if you want to save money on general studies courses by attending Maricopa Community Colleges before transferring to a university to finish your bachelor’s degree, your credits will transfer to over 40 university transfer partners. If you decide to transfer to a university not listed as a Maricopa Community Colleges transfer partner, you must check with that institution to see if they will accept your credits.
- Small Class Sizes – Maricopa Community Colleges offers students a more personalized learning experience through smaller class sizes. International students who may not be familiar with the American education system may find a smaller class size more beneficial to their learning style. Students receive individualized attention, and instructors can provide personalized guidance and feedback.
- Admissions Process – To get started, complete an International Application for the Maricopa Community Colleges. You will also need proof of graduation from a secondary education school, a financial guarantee, a certain level of English proficiency, and a valid passport. For students interested in attending Mesa Community College, click here and follow the “How to Apply” process. Maricopa Community Colleges admissions requirements conform with the regulations of the U.S. Government for issuing F-1 student visa documents. It is important to complete your application by the deadlines: July 1 for Fall and November 1 for Spring semesters. Learn the requirements for maintaining your F-1 visa.
Resources to Consider When Selecting a College
When attending an American community college or university, international students also need to consider the resources available to help them acclimate to their new learning environment. Maricopa Community Colleges offers a range of resources, such as free tutoring and learning centers that provide students with academic support as they navigate college. Each college offers numerous clubs and organizations, which offer international students opportunities to engage with the college community and meet new people. Service Learning programs allow students to connect and give back to the community while building and developing essential leadership skills. Finally, athletics provide international students with an opportunity to engage in American sports while also fostering a sense of camaraderie by either participating or supporting their college’s athletic teams.
Arizona-Sonora Higher Education Exchange
Through the Arizona-Sonora Higher Education Partnership, Sonora residents may apply for limited spots to study at Arizona’s colleges and universities at the in-state tuition rate. Interested students should contact the Secretaría de Educación y Cultura del Estado de Sonora.
What International Students Have to Say About Maricopa Community Colleges
If you’re curious about why international students consider Maricopa Community Colleges, their experiences speak for themselves.
“I came to Mesa Community College from Jamaica, majoring in Mechanical Engineering, and I plan on attending ASU after completing my associate degree. I genuinely believe that MCC is the best place to begin your American journey. Everyone here is always eager to help you out, and your advisors are always on call, no matter what your needs may be. My favorite thing about MCC is how small the classes are. University classes have about 100 students per class, but here at MCC, you will have about 20 students per class, so it allows for a closer relationship with your teachers. The amount of times I have emailed my teachers on the weekend and gotten a quick response always surprises me. MCC also provides free tutoring for all classes in person and online, so you never have to worry about a failing grade or doing badly in classes because there are so many resources to ensure you pass. Since joining MCC, I have become the president of the Black Student Union, played soccer with the team, am currently working as a math tutor, and have the time of my life. MCC gives you the same energy you put in if you make an effort to participate in activities and meet new people. Plus, you get to go on trips every semester. During my stay here, we have gone on camping trips, seen the Grand Canyon, and even explored California and Disneyland. They have another big trip planned for us again this semester, so I promise you will enjoy every day of your stay here. You also save so much more money coming here first because all the credits transfer over if you plan on completing your bachelor's at a university. If you see this and do attend MCC, I hope you say hi to me if you see me around campus.” – Testimonial from Raphael Chizoba, a Mesa Community College student from Jamaica.
“I am enrolled in the engineering program at Scottsdale Community College (SCC). The faculty and staff have been very helpful since the very beginning, always supporting me during hardships and answering my questions. I would recommend SCC to others because I like the level of education, the tools provided for the students, and the friendly staff, who are always willing to help. The safety that I feel on campus is important. While having a high education level, the monetary savings are significantly high; I think the courses and professors are something you can also find at universities for a higher price.” – Testimonial from Areli Palma Ruiz, a Scottsdale Community College student from Mexico.
“I am enrolled in the cybersecurity program at Glendale Community College (GCC). I chose GCC since it looked like a no-brainer since my friend's aunt lived in Surprise. Everyone here is always willing to help you, and your advisers are constantly available. I honestly think GCC is the finest place to start your American adventure. The worst part of traveling is having to say goodbye to your loved ones back home, but at GCC, your second family is already waiting for you. Since the beginning, the instructors and staff have been kind and helpful, always standing by me when I was struggling and responding to my inquiries. Because of the quality of instruction, the resources offered to students, and the helpful faculty and staff, I would, without a doubt, suggest Glendale Community College to others. It's important that I feel comfortable on the campus. Although the financial advantages of having a high education level are considerable, I believe the courses and teachers are something you can also find at universities for a more expensive price. Since enrolling at GCC, I have played soccer with the team, worked as an IT technician, and been a student success coach on campus. Overall, I am having the time of my life. If you make an effort to get involved in events and meet new people, GCC will reward you with the same enthusiasm you put in. If you intend to finish your bachelor's at a university, going here first will save you even more money because all the credits transfer.”– Testimonial from Ibrahim Sesay, a Glendale Community College student from Sierra Leone, West Africa.
Maricopa Community Colleges offers international students a unique opportunity to get an affordable education in the United States, with lower tuition rates, transferable credits, small class sizes, and a dedicated International Education Office. We invite students worldwide to come and experience the excellence and commitment to education that Maricopa Community Colleges has to offer! Learn more about International and Intercultural Education and Maricopa Community Colleges.