Frequently Asked Questions - Faqs

What do I need to do to come to school on a student visa (F-1 status)?
You must first apply for a document called an I-20 which is the Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant (F-1) Student Status. This is done by applying to the college. Go to Step 1 for Prospective Students.

What are the costs?
The following represents estimated costs for a 12 month period:

• Tuition and fees -$ 6,800
• Living Expenses (off-campus)- $ 8,700
• Textbooks and supplies- $ 800
• Health Insurance - $ 1000 (approximately)
• TOTAL: $17,300
• Read more about costs

Do I need to pay the $17,300 directly to Mesa Community College?
No. You will pay Mesa Community College for tuition, fees, and the student health insurance. You will also purchase your books and supplies at the college. Therefore, you will need to have sufficient funds to pay for these costs when you arrive. If you will be living in an apartment, you will also need enough money to move into your apartment (rent, electric bill, telephone).

How does the college/university system work in the United States (U.S.)?
Most students pursuing a Bachelor's degree complete general education requirements during their first two years of college and concentrate heavily on their major classes during the last two years of college. This means during the first two years of college a student takes a variety of classes including, but not limited to, English written composition, mathematics, science, arts & humanities, social science, computer literacy and electives.

What is the difference between Mesa Community College (MCC) and a university?
Mesa Community College is an accredited two-year academic institution that offers a variety of certificates and Associate degree programs. MCC awards degrees for students who transfer to universities, and degrees for students seeking vocational/technical education who plan to enter the workforce upon completion of their program. An accredited university is an academic institution that awards Bachelor's degrees. Many universities also award Master's and Doctorate degrees. Read more about Community Colleges

Will my college classes from another country count toward my MCC degree?
Most classes from another academic institution may apply toward a MCC degree; it depends upon accreditation of the institution, the class, the grade you received, and the program of study at MCC. Students working toward transferring to a university first need to have their official transcript evaluated from an outside agency (outside MCC), then submit the information from the evaluations agency to MCC Admissions Office. See more information on foreign transcript evaluation.

Are scholarships available for International Students?
MCC's International Education Office does not have funds available to international students. International students do not qualify for U.S. Financial Aid. You may check with other possible sources of funding located here.

How do I register (sign up) for classes?
Students will receive a letter indicating they need to meet with their advisor. Students should come into the International Education Office and meet with an advisor before their first semester begins. The advisor can inform the student about the many different areas of study available at the college. The student will select a program of study, and the advisor will help him/her select appropriate classes for that program. It is okay if the student is not sure exactly which course of study to pursue, he/she can change majors after studies commence.

What is an assessment test?
All students who want to enroll in classes are required to take an English, Reading and Math assessment test prior to registering for the class. The test does not appear on a student's transcripts; it is simply a placement tool to help register the student into the appropriate level of study.

Can I use my native language for college credit?
No credits will be added to students' transcripts for knowledge of their native language. However, students who are fluent in a language other than English will not be required to complete a foreign language requirement at universities who require it. The student will be required to test for level of competency in order not to take the foreign language requirement courses.

What are the benefits to earning an Associate degree from MCC before transferring to a university?
You may find a significant cost savings by obtaining your Associate degree at MCC instead of attending a four-year college or university during your first two years of college in the U.S. Many students will satisfy their general education requirements after completing an Associate degree at MCC and transfer to a university in junior standing (3rd year student). We have articulation agreements with all three state universities so that don't lose course credits when you transfer. MCC offers small class sizes and free assistance with writing, math, and computers. Because the class sizes are small at MCC, students are encouraged to ask questions in class and can meet individually with instructors.

Do I have to take the TOEFL test?
Yes, since this is a requirement for admission for those students who are from countries where English is not the primary language. The TOEFL code for Mesa Community College is 4513.

What score is needed on the TOEFL?

• 500 for the paper-based test
• 173 for the computer-based test

Must I purchase the health insurance?
Yes, the Maricopa Community Colleges' International Student Health insurance for the Maricopa Community Colleges is a mandatory requirement. Go to FirstHealth.

What are the deadline dates for applying?
July 1 - Fall semester enrollment
November 1 - Spring semester enrollment

Can I work while I am on F-1 status?
Although employment is not recommended in your first semester of study, you are eligible for employment on-campus. Students on an F-1 visa who are in-status may work on campus 20 hours per week or less. Employment is limited on MCC's campus and the pay is minimal; therefore, students should not rely on any monies from on-campus employment for living expenses or tuition. Students are responsible to visit the Career/Re-Entry Center or visit various departments on campus to see if there are any jobs available for them. You may not engage in off-campus employment without proper authorization from Immigration and Naturalization Services. Learn more about visas.

Does Mesa Community College have dormitories or other student housing?
No. Mesa Community College is a two-year college with no dormitories. Mesa Community College does provide an apartment guide to its students. There are a number of apartment complexes within easy walking distance of the MCC campus. Homestay options are also available. Download the Housing Guide.

Will I be able to pay tuition and fees as an Arizona resident?
During your entire enrollment period on F-1 status you will be considered a nonresident for tuition purposes. F-1 status indicates a temporary status in the United States which makes you ineligible to establish Arizona residency. Read more about Resident & Non-Resident Tuition.

How long is the I-20 valid?
Mesa Community College is a two year college. INS allows the I-20 to be issued for the length of study for the program.

How many credits must I take?
F-1 students must be enrolled in and complete a minimum of 12 semester credit hours each fall and spring semester. Summer is an optional enrollment period at Mesa Community College.

How long is a semester?
Each fall and spring semester is a 16-week enrollment period.

Can I transfer to a 4-year university after I complete my studies at Mesa Community College?
Yes. Mesa Community College is a fully accredited college that offers the first two years of university instruction. Most college-level classes will transfer to a university, however, students are encouraged to meet with an academic advisor to map out an appropriate combination of classes that suit the student's academic goals and apply toward a transfer degree. The classes taken at MCC are the same caliber of classes taken during the first two years at a university. Selection of classes is very important, taking into consideration the student's major and the requirements of the transferring academic institution. Read more about Transfer Opportunities.