About the International Student Center

Welcome to Cerritos College
The International Student Center thanks you for your interest in attending Cerritos College . Cerritos College is a public two-year California educational institution accredited by the Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and welcomes students from around the world. Cerritos College is authorized by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as an approved SEVIS institution to admit F-1 students.

Why attend Cerritos College ?
Cerritos College , located near the beautiful Pacific Ocean and the majestic San Gabriel Mountains , offers the excitement of city life while maintaining a small town environment. The weather is mild throughout the year and outdoor activities can be enjoyed all year around. Cerritos College , the most technologically advanced and diverse community college in California , provides you with an advanced educational program with faculty of the highest quality. The International Student Center at Cerritos College will assist you in achieving you academic goals, whether it is transferring to a university or seeking your Associate in Arts Degree.

Academic Programs
Cerritos College offers Associate of Art and Transferring major degrees in 150 areas of study in eight divisions. Many international students successfully complete their courses of study each year and transfer to top universities in California , and elsewhere in the United States or in their home countries. An International Student Counselor will be available to assist you in choosing your curriculum.

Mandatory Medical Insurance
Medical expenses in the United States are very expensive, therefore, Cerritos College requires all international students to purchase medical insurance. Medical Insurance can be purchased upon arrival to Cerritos College through the International Student Center . Outside medical insurance plans will not be accepted by Cerritos College .

Orientation and Welcome Reception
All new students must take the Cerritos College placement exams after arrival and meet with an Academic counselor/advisor for an Educational Plan before being allowed to enroll in classes. There will be an International Student Counselor available who will assist you with your class schedule. An International Student Orientation is held at the beginning of each semester and is mandatory for new students.

Employment
International students are NOT permitted to work off-campus without permission from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. There are limited opportunities for on-campus employment for students in F- status and only after successfully completing the first semester at Cerritos College .

Living Accommodations
The International Student Center is ready to assist you in finding housing. A list of housing options in the surrounding areas are available in the International Student Center. Home Stay programs are available. One of the best ways to know Americans and American customs is to live with an American Family while studying here at Cerritos College. Are you interested in meeting an American family while studying at Cerritos College ? International Students will have an opportunity to meet an American family who will host you for informal dinners, holidays and other social events. An application to participate in this program will be available at orientation.

Cerritos College

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